Bits of Heaven: A Summer Companion

by Russell J. Levenson Jr.

Overview

Short, accessible meditations and photography to guide you through the season

Author Russ Levenson invites readers to slow down, “toward that stillness that, in a particular way, reveals not only the nature of God but our own nature and God’s calling to us.” These and other thoughtful insights seem most appropriate during the summer season. Bits of Heaven provides devotional readings that are companions to the sunlight, opportunities for relaxation, and growth that surround us during the summer.

Forty meditations, reflections for contemplation, and prayers fill this volume designed to accompany and encourage readers throughout the season. This thoughtful book is part of a series by this well-known author.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781640652729
Publisher:	Church Publishing
Publication date:	03/17/2020
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	176
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Russell J. Levenson Jr. has been an ordained Episcopal priest for over thirty years. Having served in various roles at churches in Alabama, Virginia, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Florida, he and his wife Laura live in Houston, Texas, where he has been the rector of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church since 2007.

Table of Contents

Preface Meditations 1 • Idling 2 • You Look Just Like Your Daddy 3 • Fruit Stands 4 • He Did, You Should 5 • Watch Your Step 6 • The Gift of Shame 7 • Truth Hiding 8 • Divine Layover 9 • The Birthplace of Righteousness 10 • Sometimes It Takes Two 11 • Which Way to Go 12 • Delighting in Rules 13 • Crying, Laying, Waiting 14 • A Refugium for Your Troubles 15 • Healing the Hidden 16 • Forsaken, But Not Forgotten 17 • Holding Fast to the Shepherd 18 • Seek and Hide 19 • Meeting Your Desires 20 • An Undivided Heart 21 • Deserted Times 22 • Hungering for Something More 23 • “It’s Not What You Know . . .” 24 • “And When You Pray . . .” 25 • Doling It Out 26 • Doing the Right Thing 27 • Listen Up! 28 • Kid Stuff 29 • No Darkness at All 30 • Good Wine 31 • Missing the Mark and Hitting the Bullseye 32 • Everyone? 33 • Have Love 34 • Be Reconciled 35 • What Do You Do with the Thorns? 36 • Drawing Circles 37 • Imitation of a Life 38 • Press On 39 • Serious Business 40 • Putting Your Gift to Work

Afterword The Safest of All Places Acknowledgments Scriptural Index Index of Authors Cited

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

"The traditional Anglican term for the days and weeks of summer is 'Ordinary Time,' but this small but potent book is anything but. It is an extraordinary gift to all of us from Russ Levenson, priest and pastor."—Jon Meacham

"In this wonderful, refreshing, and powerful book, an experienced Rector holds your hand and take you through the eternal truths that cane shape and enhance a life. With humor and anecdote, he helps you understand the gift of faith. As you plan your summer, this is a 'must read' addition. With this book, Russ Levenson is becoming the finest writer of devotional texts in the Episcopal Church today."
—The Very Reverend Ian S. Markham, Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary

“Dr. Russ Levenson’s fine reputation as teacher and preacher rests on his deep spirituality. In Bits of Heaven, we are given an anthology of down-to-earth meditations that are accessible, interesting, and relevant. I commend Bits of Heaven!”
—The Most Reverend and Right Honorable Dr. George L. Carey, 103rd Archbishop of Canterbury

“My friend Russ Levenson invites us to pause and ponder the gladness of God. His words are like his heart: winsome and gracious. Let him lead you into a quiet place where you will receive a gentle touch from your heavenly Father.” —Max Lucado, author

Editorial Reviews

"The traditional Anglican term for the days and weeks of summer is 'Ordinary Time,' but this small but potent book is anything but. It is an extraordinary gift to all of us from Russ Levenson, priest and pastor."—Jon Meacham

"In this wonderful, refreshing, and powerful book, an experienced Rector holds your hand and take you through the eternal truths that cane shape and enhance a life. With humor and anecdote, he helps you understand the gift of faith. As you plan your summer, this is a 'must read' addition. With this book, Russ Levenson is becoming the finest writer of devotional texts in the Episcopal Church today."
—The Very Reverend Ian S. Markham, Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary

“Dr. Russ Levenson’s fine reputation as teacher and preacher rests on his deep spirituality. In Bits of Heaven, we are given an anthology of down-to-earth meditations that are accessible, interesting, and relevant. I commend Bits of Heaven!”
—The Most Reverend and Right Honorable Dr. George L. Carey, 103rd Archbishop of Canterbury

“My friend Russ Levenson invites us to pause and ponder the gladness of God. His words are like his heart: winsome and gracious. Let him lead you into a quiet place where you will receive a gentle touch from your heavenly Father.” —Max Lucado, author

From the Publisher