On my latest plane flight for work, I pulled out Robert Benson’s “In Constant Prayer.”  It was a book that initially caught my eye because of its part in Thomas Nelson’s “Ancient Practices Series.” Being somewhat of an ancient church history student, I was excited about the possibilities the book could bring.

This book addresses the ancient practice of the “daily office.”  Simply put, the daily office involves praying at set times throughout the day.  There are seven periods defined, but the most common periods observed today by are morning, noon, and evening.  Benson advocates the daily office as a means for ordinary people to cultivate a life of ceaseless prayer. Set times serve as reminders throughout the day that we live in the light of Someone greater than ourselves.

Benson writes with humility and honesty. His style of writing kept me reading at a fast pace while still holding my attention. I finished his book within and hour and left feeling informed and challenged to consider incorporating the daily office into my own routine.

This is one of those book that will not remain on my shelf for reference, but instead leave a lasting imprint on my heart and an open invitation to experience God through planned times during my day. With a life as busy as mine I feel that this practice will really help me slow down and realign my focus.

Additional Resources on the Daily Office:

• “Daily Prayer” by Robert Benson – www.dailyprayerlife.com
• “Venite” by Robert Benson – www.amazon.com
• “Book of Common Prayer” – www.churchpublishing.org
• “Celebrating Common Prayer” by George Carey – www.continuumbooks.com
• “The Little Bok of Hours” by The Jesus Community – www.paracletepress.com
• “The Daily Office Book” – www.churchpublishing.org
• “The Divine Hours” by Phyllis Tickle – www.amazon.com
• “Hour by Hour” – www.forwardmovement.org