Lent with the Beloved Disciple
By Michael Marshall
Bloomsbury Continuum, 208 pages, $15
In the gospel that bears his name, John the Beloved Disciple takes us on a journey with Jesus that includes the calling of early followers, the Last Supper, Christ’s death on Calvary, and multiple resurrection appearances. John’s version of Jesus’ story is characterized by an intimacy and insight that helps us appreciate the character of the entire New Testament.
Bishop Michael Marshall’s commentary on the Beloved Disciple’s witness will enrich the insight of both veteran and neophyte students of the Fourth Gospel. The brief and accessible reading Marshall offers is informed by decades of deep encounter with both the text and its surrounding scholarly questions.
This is a useful resource for individuals and groups during Lent, but it is much more than that, and can be used profitably during any time of the year. Its divisions are not intended for daily reading so much as for weekly reflection. This volume, the 2024 Bloomsbury Book for Lent, would be an appropriate gift for many people, including adult candidates for baptism and confirmation.
Ordained a Church of England bishop in 1975, Marshall is well known for his extensive ministry on both sides of the Atlantic. The author of many books, he is also an accomplished pianist who has performed with orchestras in the United Kingdom and the United States.
The Rev. Charles Hoffacker is an Episcopal priest who lives in Greenbelt, Maryland.
