The Mystical Way in Everyday Life

Karl Rahner was one of the great Jesuit theologians of the 20th century. This book is designed as an accessible reflection on the Christian year and its inplications for life, beginning with Advent. The contrast between the religious and commercial Christmas is quite striking, although in either case, we tend to continue our lives as before. The book is best read a few pages at a time at the appropriate season. There are some profound observations about Thomas Aquinas and the founder of the Jesuit order, Ignatius of Loyola, whose exercises Rahner continued to practice throughout his life. There are also sections on the mysteries of everyday life and a theology of everyday life including such aspects as work, walking, seeing, eating, sleeping and even sitting down - many things we take for granted. However, Rilke reminds us ' if your everyday life seems poor to you, don't accuse it; accuse yourself because you have not been strong enough to call up its riches.'