Contemplative Vision
A Guide to Christian Art and Prayer
- Prayer & Spiritual Formation
- Publisher: IVP Formatio (InterVarsity Press)
- Published: 2010
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Publisher's Description
While working as a docent in an art gallery, Juliet Benner began showing people how to meditate on Christian art treasures that are rooted in a passage of Scripture. She taught a way of encountering the Word behind both the words of Scripture andthe artist's meditation on Scripture. This became a way of seeing art as an aid to contemplative prayer. This process resulted in her much-beloved "O Taste and See" columns that appeared in the spiritual formation journal Conversations, now expanded into this book. In each chapter you'll encounter a passage of Scripture and a corresponding piece of art. You'll be guided into deeper levels of meaning and reflection through the text and the questions at the end of each chapter. Inthe process you'll find yourself entering into a new experience of prayer and meditation in God's presence.
Endorsements (7)
“It is hard not to say 'I told you so.' The first time I read Juliet Benner's 'Oh Taste See' column for Conversations journal I knew she had a rare gift for seeing--what others may miss--and describing--in a way that touches the soul--and I was pretty sure a wonderful book would follow. Here it is! A blending of biblical passages and the visual representation of the stories; lectio on contemplative steroids.”
“In this creative guide to prayer and meditation, Juliet Benner draws from the deep wells of Scripture and art appreciation, guiding us toward spiritual transformation. Benner has shaped an important resource for Christians, especially those interested in contemplative living.”
“When as a novice I first began not many years ago to sketch and paint, I discovered not only an avocation--but a calling to see in a whole new way. That is what Juliet Benner's beautiful book does--helps us to see God's story with freshly cleansed eyes. Contemplative Vision is a guide that deeply engages the mind and heart and imagination. It takes us into the transforming presence of the God who unveils himself in Scripture as seen through the eyes and hands of gifted artists. Do read--and gaze--and see for yourself!”
“This is a beautiful and inspiring work that will help you reflect and respond to God not just with your mind but also with your heart and soul.”
“This book is a unique gift for those involved in spiritual direction and biblical reflection. Juliet's delightful insights and thoughtful meditations bring the gospel stories to life. Her understanding of the artwork gives new perspectives as well as invites the reader into sacred space.”
“Where there is no vision people perish. In Contemplative Vision Juliet Benner enlivens us to see in the visible those things that are invisible. Her icon-mediations left me with a lingering sense of wonder, awe and reverence.”
“Juliet Benner's Contemplative Vision is a feast! Using her impressive scholarship gently and graciously, she invites the reader to see our familiar story with new eyes. This is a book to be read slowly and savored, a book to be kept close at hand to be picked up again and again. Her suggestions and questions for reflection make it ideal as a theme for small groups or as the focus for retreats. "A delightful and lavish feast, it left me hungry for more!”
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