You can read this book in a couple of evenings, and it will be a very uplifting experience. Keating offers new insight into the Gospel story of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus--with each character representing a different stage of spiritual development. This book will be a source of encouragement for those readers already familiar with Keating's teachings on centering prayer. Those not already familiar with the practice might do better to start with Keating's "Open Mind, Open Heart," although any spiritual seeker will benefit from reading this book.