Today, in our spiritual formation class, we begin a slow and sacred journey.

We’re reading one chapter a day from Pause with Jesus: Encountering His Story in Everyday Life.

Yes, it’s a reading assignment.

Yes, there will be reflections and questions.

But this is not about racing to the finish line. It’s not about checking off another task on your to-do list.

This is an invitation. A practice. A pause.

Why One Chapter? Why One Day at a Time?

Because spiritual formation doesn’t happen in a hurry.

Our world pushes us to move fast, finish quickly, and keep going. But Jesus walked. He listened. He lingered. He noticed people. He paused.

This book is not just about studying the life of Jesus—it’s about encountering Him. It’s about stepping into His story and letting His story step into ours.

Imagine This

What if you were there?

What if you were standing in the crowd when Jesus spoke those words? What if you were the one He turned to and touched? What if His silence was speaking directly to you?

Read slowly. Let each paragraph become a place to sit for a moment. Let each chapter be a doorway into the presence of Christ.

Ask yourself:

·         What do I see?

·         What do I feel?

·         Which person in the story reminds me of me?

·         What is Jesus saying—not just in general, but to me?

Pause. Just Pause.

Don’t rush. Don’t scan. Don’t just read about Jesus.

Pause with Jesus.

Think about Him. Be with Him. Invite Him to be with you.

Right now.

Today.

How to Use This Book Practically

Here are a few guidelines to help you make the most of this experience:

🕊 One Chapter a Day

Stick to the rhythm. Don’t skip ahead. Let today’s chapter be enough for today.

✍️ Journal Honestly

Use a notebook or digital journal to respond to the reflection questions. Be honest, not polished. This is your space with God.

📖 Read Slowly

Don’t skim. Don’t rush. Read each chapter like it’s a conversation with Jesus.

🙏 Pray Simply

Let the reading lead you into prayer. Talk with Jesus about what you’re reading, what you’re feeling, what you’re learning.

🤔 Reflect Deeply

After each chapter, take 3–5 minutes to reflect:

·         What stood out?

·         What challenged me?

·         What comforted me?

·         What will I carry with me today?

🤝 Share Together

In class or with a spiritual friend, share what you’re discovering. Sometimes Jesus speaks most clearly when we’re listening together.

This Is Not Just a Book. It’s a Practice.

A practice of being present. A practice of paying attention. A practice of pausing—with Jesus.

Let this journey reshape your pace, your priorities, your prayer life. Let each chapter become more than a reading. Let it become a meeting—with Jesus.

Today, begin.

One chapter. One pause. One encounter at a time.