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Balaam's Donkey is the work of a creative genius. Who else but Michael Casey could take the leftovers of 50 years of homilies, and serve up a splendid meal? The table of contents is comprised of 366 words, giving us one word leading into a reflection for each day of the year. Who else but Michael Casey could take words such as `and' or `cold water' and let them lead us into a meaningful meditation for the day?
"As these words find an echo in your heart you begin to feel, more than see, the interconnectedness of the book. Casey calls it `random ruminations' but I noticed after reading the meditation for the day and putting the book down, I felt better about the coming day. Hope and encouragement is the golden string binding these reflections together like the bundle of myrrh' so dear to the lover in the Song of Songs 1:13."
Abbot Brendan Freeman, Mellifont Abbey, Ireland"Casey's `repurposed' homilies are the best fruit of
lectio divina. Wherever you stick your thumb in, you pull out a spiritually wise and theologically thought-provoking plumb. Engaging turns of phrase and energetic prose promote reflection that is both sweet and sustaining."
Bonnie Thurston, Author of Maverick Mark: The Untamed First Gospel"In this eclectic collection of short homilies for each day of the year, Michael Casey brings surprise, challenge, comfort, and encouragement to the reader who wonders at the workings of God in everyday life. His usual sharp wit and profound insight into the very heart of the human condition and the scriptural text, along with his uncanny ability to make the quirkiest of connections with all manner of sources, make this work an apt companion to one who desires a word of wisdom as they journey through a year of seeking God."
Carmel Posa, SGS, Co-editor of Tjurunga: An Australasian Benedictine Review"Michael Casey is one of the best spiritual guides for our times, or for any time. There is truly gold here."
Catholic Books Review"This is one of the most delightful, eclectic, and useful books that I have ever read. His content is substantive, written in an easy style, and spattered with Casey's bits of humor. The only downside I found in the book was that, if purchased by the monastic library, you might have to wait years to read it!"
American Benedictine Review