Title: Through a Mirror, Darkly: A Collection of Inspirational Digests for Contemplation
Author: Jullet Simpson
Publisher: AuthorHouseUK
ISBN: 979-8823091978
Pages: 132
Genre: Religion & Spirituality
Reviewer: Barbara Bamberger Scott
Pacific Book Review
Author Jullet Simpson has delved deeply into the subtleties of the Holy Bible’s text, creating unique and memorable themes by which readers may understand its meanings more clearly. Her thematic journey begins with an examination of the girdle (gird, or girth), a piece of clothing not commonly given attention in scriptural study. Yet it is mentioned numerous times, as a belt, a sash, a clean, protective covering, representing God’s chosen people of Israel. But the girdle may become filthy and disgraceful when ignored through sinful actions. It is God’s task, Simpson avers, to restore it to a covering of cleanliness and salvation.
Such metaphorical constructions flourish in Simpson’s highly detailed thesis. Jesus, in the Book of Matthew, speaks of “good seeds” while warning against tares, or weeds – common, but destructive plants that can, if left unchecked, ruin a crop of positive plants such as wheat. And so it is within reason that Christians must avoid, or weed out, those who are determined to “manipulate, coerce, destroy, control, disable, or harm others.” Harlots are characterized in biblical terms as the embodiment of Deception, whose flattering words may lead one to sin and self-destruction. Three prominent places are noted often in the Bible as serving vital roles in one’s spiritual journey: Egypt embodies sins such as idolatry and witchcraft; traversing the Wilderness can lead one to reformation, spiritual solutions and solidity; and the reward for one’s exertions is characterized by Canaan, the Land of Blessing, where deeper “communion with God” becomes a reality. Some examples have been gleaned from Simpson’s personal experiences, as when she observed a moth being attacked by a spider. The moth hastily spun a web around itself, from which it soon freed itself and flew away. The author offers this as a metaphor alerting religious seekers that “we’ve got to fight to live.”
Simpson describes herself as a born-again believer who, throughout her life in the United Kingdom, has expressed her religious convictions through music, teaching, and various leadership positions. It is clear from this volume that she is not only a practiced reader but a highly talented wordsmith and logical, rational thinker, able to draw weighty lessons from biblical lore. It is her intention to share her well-honed findings with readers who wish to discuss her wise conclusions in group formats and utilize them in individual contemplation, as an aid to opening new spiritual pathways. Each reflection invites quiet contemplation, gently illuminating life’s mysteries while drawing the heart closer to God. A soothing companion for daily devotion and spiritual growth.
