The Heart in Pilgrimage

“Having already opened the eyes of the body of Christ to its treasury of devotional poetry in The Soul in Paraphrase, Leland Ryken now widens our vision to take in the depth and breadth of two millennia of devotional prose. Running the gamut from the giants of the genre (Augustine, John Donne, Jonathan Edwards, Martin Luther, Brother Lawrence, Blaise Pascal, Julian of Norwich, Bernard of Clairvaux) to writers we do not usually identify with devotional writing (Florence Nightingale, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, George MacDonald, Jane Austen, George Washington Carver), The Heart in Pilgrimage conducts its readers on a spiritual journey that is well worth taking.”

—Louis Markos, Professor in English and Scholar in Residence, Houston Baptist University; author, The Myth Made Fact: Reading Greek and Roman Mythology through Christian Eyes

“This collection gives the gift of informed access to a great mixed chorus of voices with often surprising words that prick our imaginations and our hearts of faith. Even as we read and celebrate a glorious heritage of devotional expression, we are drawn ultimately to worship the glorious Lord God of the Scriptures who created us human beings and redeemed us through his Son.”

—Kathleen Nielson, author; speaker

“This is an edifying volume of diverse devotional texts skillfully excerpted and each followed by a brief overview. The texts span centuries, and Ryken’s editing makes them very accessible. The texts are marked by artful and clear expression, and all invite readers to open their hearts to God and experience his grace.”

—James C. Wilhoit, Professor of Christian Education Emeritus, Wheaton College

“Whenever I am asked to recommend a volume that combines literary study with sound Christian teaching, I recommend Leland Ryken. His new collection of rich devotional literature will move to the top of my list of recommended works. The Heart in Pilgrimage is a treasury of wisdom and beauty to which readers will return again and again.”

—Karen Swallow Prior, author, On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life through Great Books

“Like cool water to a parched throat, Leland Ryken has produced a soul-quenching gift with this collection of devotionals. Filled with beautiful writing devoted to an even more beautiful subject, The Heart in Pilgrimage delivers the truths of the Christian faith through masterful expression, promising to awaken fresh affections for the Lord among believers of every stripe.”

—Collin Huber, Senior Editor, Fathom Magazine