Live Deeply: A Study in the
Parables of Jesus
Lenya Heitzig and
Penny Rose
Reviewed by Teresa Konopka
“Live Deeply: A Study in the Parables of Jesus” by Lenya Heitzig and
Penny Rose is a devotional study book. Second in a four-part series,
readers do not have to read the first to understand this one. The way
the book is structured, there are ten lessons. Each lesson is marked
off with days (around five per lesson). However, after the five or so
from one lesson is up, the next lesson’s days begin back at one. So, if
readers mess up or skip a weekend, they will not find it hard to get
back into the book.
The book is organized quite excellently. In the front, there are tips
for readers, depending on whether they are in a study group, leading a
study group, or just reading this for leisure. Then, in the text
itself, the lessons are introduced with a story that explains /
compares what will be taught. Then, each daily reading starts with a
quick prayer, followed by a anecdote / journal-like page from the
authors. Next, the main bible quotation follows with questions that
make sure the reader was paying attention. Later, there is a section
where readers apply what they have learned to real life, whether that
be self-evaluation or volunteering. Lastly, the authors provide prompts
for more biblical quotations if the reader is up to it, followed by a
personal story and a quote from a famous person. To top it all off, the
margins are used and have everything from little pearls of wisdom to
explanations to definitions to relevant biblical quotations.
The lessons here focus on what Jesus said in parables. His stories and
hidden meanings are decoded and explained in a way that makes sense
today. From betrayal too preparation to honesty to retribution, this
book expounds on Jesus’ stories. While some stories can be frightful
and speak of damnation and wolves in sheep’s clothing, the authors spin
it for a positive message of Christ’s power and redeeming forgiveness.
Although this book is aimed at women, men will find the parables of
Jesus to be interesting and worth the time. At the end of the book,
readers will feel a sense of self-satisfaction.