I’ve been wanting to read something classic, something written by a saint or something. Strength in Darkness is an excellent book that fits the bill. It is a compilation of various excerpts from the writings of St. John of the Cross. The book chronicles the journey and struggles of the soul as it seeks the Beloved and despairs over its disatisfaction with both worldy and spiritual things.

Sometimes we find ourselves in that exact position, finding no joy in the worldly things we do, yet finding no joy in our spiritual exercises as well. St. John of the Cross explains how this is the work of God, to purify and strengthen our souls. He encourages us not to despair, but to realize that this is normal and is actually a great sign of the love that Christ has for his sheep. The most important lesson is that our soul does not reach union with God through the myriad of things that we do, but only in imitating Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

If you’re looking a for a good book then this compilation work would be a great selection. It’s only 98 pages and is a quick read, or can be read in short snippets to be done prayerfully and contemplatively. You can find the book at the Catholic Company (also a good place to find a Catechism or a Bible).