The Paradise Puzzle by Ed Jones

Keys to Living a Balanced Spiritual Life"The Paradise Puzzle" is the story of a spiritual journey. Ed Jones describes the steps along the way in finding his way out of a maze of ritual, confusion, and misunderstanding to a life of hope, balance, and fulfillment in his spiritual walk.Jones uses the four themes to help the reader understand the spiritual life. He begins with the pieces, as they relate to the puzzle, the picture, and a perspective.This technique allows the reader to see the picture as a whole without losing sight of the smaller individual pieces which together reveal the creator's vision of completion.Jones summarizes the Bible from the Garden of Eden, in Genesis, through the law, the crucifixion, and from the book of Revelation to build the basis for each part of the puzzle.The premise of acceptance is shown to be the overriding principle in the picture as it relates to self, others, and God. Each of these elements is essential in the acceptance cycle. Other pi
eces of the puzzle Jones addresses include temptation, forgiveness, and eternal life.As he expands these themes around the larger picture Jones included further insights into understanding of the relationships, with God, with self, and with others and how these relational concepts include responsibility and acceptance.The last section of the book submits to the reader numerous perspectives which allow them to exercise a rationale that will provide a stronger spiritual foundation and a produce a more fulfilled and better balanced spiritual life.Jones also addresses the ramifications of the tragedy of September 11 and how occurrences like this influence our faith. He explores a common thread shared by Christians, Jews, and Muslims and how this unity can impact world peace.The questions for reflection and contemplation provide stimulating insights into the quandaries faced by individuals today and provide an interactive facet to the book. This aspect enhanced my total reading a
dventure and provided me with personal ownership in applying the basic premise of Jones' writing.Jones writes with transparency and fervor in an easy to read style. It is his hope that the reader will be encouraged to discover the meaning...not just the words found in the Bible, and to incorporate these principles into the practice of their daily living.Outskirts Press, 978-14232728793As Reviewed for Midwest Book Review

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