In Practicing the Way, John Mark Comer hits on one of life’s biggest questions: Who’s your rabbi? And no, he’s not talking about joining a synagogue—he’s asking what or who is really shaping your life. Whether it’s our culture, social media, or our personal habits, Comer argues that we’re all disciples of someone or something. The key is choosing to apprentice under Jesus as our Rabbi, letting His life, teachings, and rhythms shape every part of our daily lives.
Here’s how Comer breaks it down with his three big goals:
1. Be with Jesus
First up, Comer tells us the most important thing is simply being with Jesus. It’s all about developing a real, personal connection. Just like Jesus called His disciples to be with Him first before sending them out to preach (Mark 3:13-14), Comer emphasizes that intimacy with Christ is the foundation. Think of it like staying plugged into the source—John 15-style, “abide in me, and I in you.”
Comer’s got a point—life today is nuts. We’re always so busy and distracted. He says we need to slow down and make space to notice God’s presence. He brings in Brother Lawrence (a monk from the 1600s) as an example of practicing God’s presence in even the smallest, most mundane moments—whether you’re scrubbing dishes or stuck in traffic. The key? Slowing down, ditching the hurry, and making space for prayer and mindfulness. It’s not about being a monk—it’s about being present with Jesus wherever we are.
2. Become Like Jesus
Once we’re hanging out with Jesus regularly, the natural next step is becoming like Him. Comer describes this as the process of transformation, or what Christians often call sanctification. But it’s more than just learning rules or doing religious stuff—it’s about being reshaped from the inside out. Our culture, our habits, and our daily routines are already forming us into certain kinds of people. Comer’s challenge: Let’s make sure we’re becoming more like Jesus!
Comer talks about spiritual disciplines—prayer, Scripture reading, fasting, etc.—as ways to open ourselves up to God’s transforming grace. It’s not just about changing behavior; it’s about letting God shape our hearts and minds to look more like Christ. Neuroscience even backs this up! Our brains can actually change through repeated habits, making Christlike love, patience, and kindness our new default settings. And the hallmark of Christlikeness? Love, especially for those hard-to-love people.
3. Do as Jesus Did
The final goal? Do what Jesus did. Comer calls us to carry on the work of Jesus in the world—whether it’s sharing the gospel, caring for the poor, practicing hospitality, or showing radical love. Comer encourages us to reframe the classic “What would Jesus do?” question. Instead, ask, “What would Jesus do if He were me?” It’s about living out Jesus’ mission in our unique lives and contexts.
And don’t worry—it’s not about doing it on our own strength. Comer reminds us that Jesus did what He did through the power of the Holy Spirit, and that same Spirit empowers us today. Whether we’re hosting a meal for neighbors, standing up for justice, or serving those in need, we’re called to continue Jesus’ mission in everyday ways.
Catholic Review: Why Comer’s Practically Catholic
So, can Catholics read Comer’s book? Absolutely! Here’s 3 reasons why:
1. A Sacramental Worldview: Okay, so Comer doesn’t dive deep into sacraments like a Catholic would, but his idea of being with Jesus all the time lines up with the Catholic belief that the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, bring us into a real, living connection with Christ. A Catholic reader might want to see more emphasis on this, but Comer’s heart for experiencing Christ’s presence definitely has a sacramental vibe. Additionally, Comer’s focus on seeing Jesus in every moment of daily life is right up the Catholic alley. It echoes Catholic ideas like St. Ignatius of Loyola’s “finding God in all things” and Brother Lawrence’s practice of the presence of God. Catholics have always believed that every part of life can be sacred—and Comer’s on board with that.
2. An Imitation of Christ: Comer’s big push for becoming more like Jesus fits hand-in-glove with the Catholic call to imitatio Christi (imitation of Christ). This is seen in saints like St. Francis of Assisi and St. Teresa of Ávila, who lived lives shaped by Jesus’ teachings of love and service. Comer’s emphasis on loving others, serving the poor, and working for justice mirrors Catholic social teaching too.
3. A Rule of Life: When Comer talks about creating a “Rule of Life,” he’s basically echoing St. Benedict’s Rule for monastic living. His approach is more tailored for everyday life, but the idea of structuring our lives around rhythms of prayer and community is a long-standing Catholic practice. And let’s not forget the Liturgy of the Hours and regular examinations of conscience—classic Catholic tools for living a life rooted in Christ.
Final Thoughts
Practicing the Way offers a fresh, practical take on discipleship that’s right at home in Catholic thought. Comer’s focus on being with Jesus, becoming like Him, and living out His mission is beautifully aligned with Catholic spirituality. While some Catholics might wish for more talk about sacraments, Comer’s call to deeper discipleship and transformation through love, prayer, and community is something Catholics can wholeheartedly embrace.
So, whether you’re Catholic or not, Comer’s got plenty to offer if you’re serious about following Jesus in today’s fast-paced, distracted world.
Prodigal Catholic 
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