Mudhouse Sabbath

The author describes a lot of Jewish traditions and ways Jews have followed God's commandments throughout the ages. While some are just man-made traditions, it's interesting to know the “why” behind them even though Christians aren't supposed to follow them. Throughout the book, I came across good reminders of slowing down and really rest on the Sabbath day.

Peaceful little book - perfect for reading in snippets before bed. The author grew up Jewish and later converted to Christianity, and this book reflected on 11 practices of spirituality and how the traditions of one faith can impact and provide a framework for other faith practices. (Included mourning, Sabbath, doorposts, weddings, and more.) I found this a very accessible read, and really appreciated its notes on both religions, as my relationship to Judaism is complicated. (Dad's side of the family is Jewish, but he's an atheist, so I was not raised on religion until my Protestant mother decided we needed to get churched, and I didn't meet my small extended Jewish family until I was an adult. I would like to say I wish I had been able to experience more of my grandparents' faith for myself, but I'm not even confident Judaism was more than just tradition for them, rather than a true experience of faith. I'm having an existential crisis writing this review! Nothing I'm writing about my own life is is sounding right!)