Surprised by God: Teaching Reflection through the Parables

by Christina R. Zaker

Publisher:

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

, 2020

Overview

“Our God is a God of surprises... Am I open to the God of surprises?”—Pope Francis, 2014

Responding to this challenge, Surprised by God explores what it means to reflect on life and our journey of faith. Theological reflection has been primarily used in academic training for ministry preparation, but it is an essential tool for any person pondering Pope Francis’ questions.

Christina Zaker provides an in-depth look at the foundational elements of theological reflection including definitions and guidance through various methods. Offering a lens for reflection based on the unique way Jesus’ parables surprise and invite listeners to collaborate in the reign of God, the book foregrounds the importance of reflection as a spiritual practice committed to justice.

Reveling in the many ways God surprises us, we learn how to respond to the invitation of faith with open minds and hearts.

Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1: Breathing Deeply: Noticing God in the Midst of Life

Chapter 2: Cultivating the Heart: Carving out the Space for Reflective Practice

Chapter 3: Developing Ears that Can Hear and Eyes that Can See

Chapter 4: Exploring Parables as a Lens for Reflection: Key Frameworks for Reflective Practice

Chapter 5: Connecting: Reflective Practice, Solidarity and the Spiritual Life

Chapter 6: Practicing Reflection: Reflective Practice through the Lens of Parable

Epilogue: Finding Hope in Family During COVID-19

Appendix A – Theological Reflection in Parabolic Mode Quick Reference

Appendix B – High School Service Journal

Praise for Surprised by God

With the wisdom of an experienced parent, the instincts of a theological educator, and the heart of a practical theologian, Christina Zaker inventively reminds us why the art of reflection is an indispensable spiritual practice. Be prepared to be surprised, be prepared to be “parabled.” This is certainly the most accessible introduction to theological reflection available today. Bravo!

Christina Zaker shows that everyone searching for meaning in life engages in some form of reflection. Her study is grounded in solid theology, sensitive to the dynamics of human psychology, and creative in the way she weaves all these insights together. It is an excellent text for theology classes and those interested in reflective living.

Christina Zaker expertly equips and encourages readers on the journey of a reflective life. Theological field educators and their students will appreciate her adaptable framework for reflection and the many helpful examples. The reflective practice she commends alerts us to be attentive to the movement of God at work and joyfully join in.

Product Details

• Title: Surprised by God: Teaching Reflection through the Parables
• Author: Christina R. Zaker
• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
• Print Publication Date: 2020
• Logos Release Date: 2021
• Pages: 160
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Ebook
• ISBNs: 9781538143926, 9781538143902, 1538143909, 1538143925
• Resource ID: LLS:9781538143926
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2025-04-22T22:13:19Z

About the Author

Christina R. Zaker is director of field education at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, Illinois. Her past experiences in Campus Ministry, as the Executive Director of Amate House for the Archdiocese of Chicago, and in parish ministry lend to her ability to journey with students in their field education experiences. She is a practical theologian with a focus on spirituality and justice. She is the chair of the Research and Publications committee for the Association of Theological Field Education and is a member of the National Association for Lay Ministers.