Book Review: Habits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Daily Family Life by Justin Earley
When I first stumbled across Justin Earley’s The Common Rule, I was struck by how deeply his insights resonated with the rhythms and routines of daily life. So, when I heard about his latest offering, Habits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Daily Family Life, I was eager to dive in. Earley has a knack for presenting practical ideas that feel both grounded and relatable, which is precisely what many of us need when navigating the complexities of family life.
At its core, Habits of the Household is about weaving daily spiritual practices into the fabric of family life. Earley tackles the endless dance of parenting with an impressive blend of honesty and humility. He explores the foundational habits that can help families practice their faith in tangible ways. The book avoids the lofty, high-minded expectations often found in parenting guides, instead opting for down-to-earth advice that speaks directly to those of us in the trenches.
One of the elements I appreciated most was the book’s structure. Each chapter culminates in a quick-reference section, which serves as a digestible summary of the key takeaways. It’s a thoughtful touch that made it easy for me to revisit essential concepts without sifting through pages of text—perfect for parents juggling myriad responsibilities. This emphasis on concrete, actionable habits—and the sincerity with which Earley shares his own experiences—creates an engaging atmosphere. It genuinely feels like you’re part of an ongoing conversation rather than being lectured.
That said, I did find some of Earley’s reflections on “mess signaling” a bit repetitive. He emphasizes the messiness of family life (both literally and metaphorically) with a frequency that might comfort some, but for me, it felt like overkill. Having grown up in a home that valued etiquette and order, I could have done with fewer reassurances about the chaos.
While these reflections are part and parcel of his narrative, I also felt a couple of limitations in the book. Notably, it doesn’t address the teenage years—an understandable gap given that the Earleys haven’t yet walked through this phase themselves. However, there’s a realization that many of the rhythms discussed can deepen and adapt as children grow. Additionally, I noticed a lack of exploration regarding how the church intertwines with household rhythms. As someone from a liturgical background, I found this omission somewhat disheartening. The connection between church life and family life is vital, yet it felt underaddressed. In my eyes, a truly holistic approach would necessitate this integration.
I may not be a parent, nor do I anticipate becoming one anytime soon, but Habits of the Household has sparked contemplative thoughts around the essence of family life and what it means to create a nurturing spiritual environment. While the book has its limitations, it’s a rich resource for parents, especially those who yearn to cultivate spiritual formation alongside their children.
In essence, I would recommend Habits of the Household to parents looking for practical tools steeped in faith. My reading experience was both enlightening and encouraging, prompting me to reflect on the rhythms of life, even if I’m not a parent myself. Earley’s honest and heartfelt approach is a warm invitation to unpack everyday moments, allowing faith to weave seamlessly through the tapestry of family life. If you’re looking to rethink how you engage with those daily tasks, this book might just be the companion you didn’t know you needed.
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