Book Review: The Intentional Year

This book, The Intentional Year, by Glenn and Holly Packiam, argues that fruitfulness comes from intentionality. The Packiams take retreats to plan how they want to live in the various spheres of their lives (prayer, rest, renewal, relationships, and work) in the coming days. They take time away to connect and process, to reflect and plan, to inventory what they’ve been given and what they feel called to do, and to shape a vision together. 

This idea appeals to me. However, my husband doesn’t share my enthusiasm. I proposed it and could tell it wasn’t something he desired. Sad. Of course, I can be intentional myself. This is what I do when I plan a project each year.

In the reflection section (unintentional rhyme - ha), they speak of St. Ignatius’ Prayer of Examen. It begins by sitting in silence for 3 minutes, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak. Next, reflect on the past year (mountains, valleys, joys, issues). They recommend finding something to express gratitude for in each month of the previous year. This is like setting up memorial stones for how God has carried you. Another part of the process of reflection is repentance. I’m sure I would benefit from reflecting on what God may have been trying to teach me through the struggles of our past year and in what areas God wishes me to grow.

In a section on praying, they suggest an acronym I had not heard before: PRAY, pause, rejoice, ask, yield. They also recommended the Lectio 365 app, something other friends have suggested to me. In a section on rest, they remind that “if you want the land to be fruitful, you have to let it rest.” In the section on work, they offer an insight that reminded me of a Frederick Buechner quote about finding your purpose. Your mission lies at the intersection of God’s glory, the world’s good, and your joy.

As they challenge readers to live intentionally, they offer these questions to ask the Lord: “Who are you calling me to be? What season am I in?” and “What rhythms do you want for me?” Another question to ask at the end of each day is, “Lord, where did I fail to engage with you today?” Each question aids in creating a big-picture vision for your life. I read this book in December, a prime time for approaching a new year, new season, and new opportunity to carve out space for God’s plans for my life with intentionality.