Beloved storyteller and theologian John Shea provides a unique commentary that’s ideal for preaching, teaching, or simply meditating on the Gospels. His writing is poignant and conversational, making this book a valuable tool for professional ministers, as well as for Christians who reflect on the Gospels for personal spiritual growth. Shea draws readers into the people and situations for Jesus encountered in ways that are evocative and inspirational. This resource is based on Catholic and Revised Common Lectionaries, making it accessible across Christian denominations.

John (Jack) Shea is a theologian and storyteller who lectures nationally and internationally on storytelling in world religions, faith-based health care, contemporary spirituality, and the spirit at work movement. Formerly, he was a professor of systematic theology and the Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at the University of St. Mary of the Lake, a research professor at the Institute of Pastoral Studies at Loyola University of Chicago, and the Advocate Healthcare Senior Scholar in Residence at the Park Ridge Center for the Study of Health, Faith and Ethics. He has also taught at the University of Notre Dame and Boston College.

He has published thirteen books of theology and spirituality and two books of poetry. His latest three books are Gospel Light: Jesus Stories for Spiritual Consciousness (Crossroad, 1997), Elijah at the Wedding Feast and Other Tales (ACTA, 1999), and Spirituality and Health Care: Reaching Toward a Holistic Future (Park Ridge Center, 2000). He is presently at work on a four volume series that will provide literary/spiritual interpretations of the Sunday gospels. These interpretations — The Spiritual Wisdom of the Gospels for Christian Preachers and Teachers — will be a resource for lectionary based preaching and teaching.