WOF 011: Into the Desert of Lent

Josef Pieper's "Leisure: The Basis of Culture" is a profound exploration of the nature of leisure and its importance for human flourishing. Pieper argues that leisure, understood as a state of freedom from necessity, is essential for contemplation and the development of culture. He contrasts leisure with mere idleness or entertainment, emphasizing its role in fostering creativity, intellectual growth, and spiritual development. "Leisure" has had a significant impact on philosophical and theological thought. Pieper's work challenges readers to reconsider the value of contemplation and the importance of creating a society that fosters leisure. The book is a classic of philosophical and theological reflection.

The Seven Storey Mountain is Thomas Merton's autobiography, written while he was a monk at the Abbey of Gethsemani. The book chronicles Merton's early life, his conversion to Roman Catholicism at age 23, and his decision to join the Trappist order at the age of 26. It is a unique spiritual autobiography that mirrors Dante's journey from hell through purgatory to paradise, reflecting Merton's transition from a worldly life to monastic life. The book has been highly influential and has touched millions of lives, translated into more than twenty languages and recognized as one of the most influential religious works of our time.

Written by Frederic W. Farrar in 1874, this book is a detailed and tender portrayal of the life of Jesus Christ. It combines the accounts from the four Gospels with extensive historical and geographical research, including sources from Jewish writers, philosophers, and poets. Farrar's work is enriched by his personal visits to the Holy Land and his expertise in Biblical languages. The book is structured to be read alongside the Gospels and provides a feasible timeline and narrative of Christ's life, addressing various historical and theological aspects.

In 'The New Map: Energy, Climate, and the Clash of Nations', Daniel Yergin explores the significant changes in the global energy landscape, including the shale revolution in the United States, the rise of China, and the geopolitical tensions involving Russia. The book delves into the impact of climate change on energy policies and the ongoing transition towards a low-carbon future. Yergin also examines the geopolitical rivalries, particularly between the United States, China, and Russia, and how these dynamics are reshaping the world's energy map and global politics.

In 'The Lord', Romano Guardini provides a detailed and spiritual exploration of the life and person of Jesus Christ. The book avoids a chronological or logical sequence of Jesus' life, instead selecting key teachings, events, traits, and miracles to meditate upon and offer commentary. Guardini places Jesus' life in historical context while emphasizing the mystery of God that underlies his mission. The work is praised for its depth and has remained a significant contribution to Catholic scholarship and liturgical understanding.

The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis, is a classic work of Christian devotion that explores the spiritual life and the pursuit of Christ-likeness. It emphasizes themes of humility, self-denial, and the importance of inner transformation. The book is divided into four books, each focusing on different aspects of the spiritual journey. It offers practical advice and guidance on how to live a life of faith and devotion, emphasizing the importance of prayer, meditation, and self-examination. The Imitation of Christ has been a source of inspiration and guidance for countless Christians throughout history, offering timeless wisdom on the path to spiritual maturity.

Written in Latin between AD 397 and 400, 'Confessions' is a blend of autobiography, philosophy, theology, and critical exegesis of the Christian Bible. The first nine books are autobiographical, tracing Augustine's life from his birth to his conversion to Catholicism. He recounts his sinful youth, his involvement with Manicheism and Neoplatonism, and his eventual conversion in a Milanese garden. The last four books focus on philosophical and theological issues, including memory, time, eternity, and the interpretation of the Book of Genesis. The work is structured as a series of prayers to God, reflecting Augustine's journey of redemption and his understanding of God's grace and providence.