The Catholic Briefcase - Book Review

I just finished Randy Hain's The Catholic Briefcase: Tools for Integrating Faith and Work and I have to say, it exceeded my (already high) expectations.  I came to the book expecting solid, practical tips on how to maintain my focus upon God throughout the work day, but what I came away with was a renewed desire to make my life one seamless offering to God - as well as solid, practical advice for how to do that in the work setting.

Randy Hain challenged me to look at my job with a fresh pair of eyes and to begin identifying how I can use my time there to serve the Lord Jesus. I try to show kindness and respect to my co-workers and the public we interact with, but what talents am I sitting on that could be put to use in making our organization even better?  What can I and my co-workers do for the community around us; how can we serve the Lord by improving the larger community in which we live?

Each of Mr. Hain's twelve chapters is devoted to a particular aspect of developing our relationship with God through work - Stewardship, Better Decision-Making, and Making Time for Prayer to name a few.  Hain then introduces us, chapter by chapter, through interviews and stories, to the the Catholic professionals who exemplified these virtues to him.  I was impressed by the action points he provides to start growing these habits in our own lives and work places.  The "Reflection and Discussion" points that conclude each chapter are both pointed and helpful (in contrast to the touchy-feely reflection questions that are almost mandatory today).

This book is incredibly practical, theologically and spiritually solid, and written in a style  accessible to any one from the young man or woman at their first job to the retiree picking up a few hours in retail.  Oh, and don't forget to check out the appendices - helpful websites, an on-the-job prayer regimen, how we can help friends seeking employment, a plan for building a Catholic professionals group, and a beautiful final word on the power and comfort we can receive through Eucharistic adoration.  The Catholic Briefcase  delivers, from start to finish.