A popular misconception about prayer, writes Jones, is that its worth is “measured in how many of our prayers God answers just as we want.” He suggests that prayer’s real value is the “treasure of talking with God,” who gives us “unfettered access and open invitation.” After an introductory chapter that provides a broad overview of prayer, including how it is defined in the Bible and examples of the various forms it can take (from songs and rote liturgical recitations to unique, individual, and even silent prayers), the bulk of the book pinpoints 10 specific “treasures” that an active prayer life offers. These include the fostering of virtues like persistence, honesty, and forgiveness, as well as lessons about embracing limitations and appreciating simplicity. Each chapter follows a similar format that makes the work an ideal daily devotional, beginning with a brief story from the author’s life; Jones reminisces about discovering his grandfather’s baseball card collection, growing up on his family’s farm, and his and his wife’s struggles with infertility. From there, the chapters reflect on how each treasure is reflected in the examples of Jesus and other figures found throughout both testaments of the Bible. Designed to encourage personal meditation, each chapter concludes with reflection questions, Scripture passages, and lined pages with prompts for “Prayer Practice.” While the work reflects the author’s theological underpinnings as a Lutheran parish pastor (Martin Luther is frequently cited throughout), it is broadly ecumenical; the author cautions against placing singular trust in “our nation, political parties, [or] denominations” and promotes a welcoming brand of Christianity that respects differences in belief. The third volume in a trilogy about applying spiritual lessons to everyday life, this book targets lay readers with a thoughtful, accessible approach that blends nuanced spiritual analysis with straightforward explanations and relevant anecdotes. The engaging text is accompanied by ample illustrations and other visual elements.
