Psalms in an Age of Distraction: Experiencing the Restorative Power of Biblical Poetry

"Filled with wisdom for embracing a Scripture-shaped life" Ethan Jones shows that in an era of dimly lit faces and multitasking, the poetry of the Psalms remains ready to train our ears, steady our hearts, and teach us to pray so that we might flourish in Christ. "Jones invites the reader to be alert to the rich resources of the Psalter. Readers can expect to find in these pages suggestive connections between the imaginative claims of faith and the day-to-day reality of our common life." -- Walter Brueggemann , Columbia Theological Seminary "Jones's excellent book pays scrupulous attention to juxtaposition, paradox, and metaphor and the way these poetic devices work to enhance meaning. His reading of the psalms is refreshing, prophetic, and strikingly relevant to the age we live in." -- Malcolm Guite , Girton College, Cambridge "What biblical poetry offers us is not relaxation into 'pampered self-care' but 'a better life': one marked by the habits of attention and studiousness. Designed for nonspecialists, this book will prove edifying and instructive for a wide range of readers--from beginners to seasoned experts." -- Brent A. Strawn , Duke University "A fascinating reclamation of ancient biblical poetry for a contemporary setting." -- Susan Gillingham , Worcester College, University of Oxford (emeritus) "A faith-infused and timely encounter with the Psalms, filled with wisdom for embracing a Scripture-shaped life in the present cultural moment. Jones's book compellingly presents the poetics of the Psalms as positively soul shaping." -- Katie M. Heffelfinger , Church of Ireland Theological Institute "Jones's book draws attention to the psalms' poetic features in the service of deepening our understanding and appreciation of the beauty of the Bible's best-known poetic book." -- Aaron D. Hornkohl , University of Cambridge