The Circle of Life is an invitation to step into a way of living that brings lasting joy, peace, and purpose—no matter who you are or where you come from. Drawing from the timeless wisdom of Jesus Christ and the Sacred Scriptures, this book explores a set of life-giving principles that speak to the deepest needs of the human heart.
At the center of the Circle is one simple but powerful truth: Love one another. Flowing from that center are essential ways of living—practicing forgiveness, sowing what will bless others, letting go of vengeance, choosing mercy over judgment, and walking humbly with God.
Each chapter combines storytelling, thoughtful reflection, and practical application, making these teachings accessible to anyone—whether you see them as spiritual truths, moral wisdom, or simply a better way to be human. These are not rules meant to restrict, but pathways that free us from bitterness, restore our relationships, and awaken us to a deeper sense of purpose.
The Circle of Life is more than a concept—it’s a rhythm you can live in. As you embrace its truths, you’ll find they point toward a life marked by compassion, integrity, and hope. This is a journey for anyone longing to live fully, love deeply, and leave the world a little better than they found it.
Preface to the Book
If the center of life is the flow of God’s love, within and through us, then this is a book about Love. Sacrificial love. Universal love. Compassionate love. Merciful love. Healing love. Love in Christ.
We live in perilous times.
In truth, we are the hands and feet of Jesus; we are called to carry out this love in action, through the strength of Christ within us. Here, we reach into the Sacred Scriptures for guidance on HOW to live out this love, and to be transformed in our capacity to do so.
There is a hermeneutic principle that says, “Let scripture define scripture.” Throughout this book, practicing this principle will show us how to make practical sense of what we read in scripture; this principle will help us to understand how God’s plan for us is a plan grounded in love.
Unintentionally, we may quote or follow a passage of scripture without understanding that its foundation is always in the context of God’s love. Our desire in writing this book is to help you interpret Scripture through the eyes of merciful love, to view this world and its people through the lens of our Circle of Life. To become increasingly able to follow in the loving and compassionate footsteps of Jesus, our Lord.
As you read each chapter, allow the Holy Spirit’s wisdom to guide you, opening your heart and mind to more deeply understand the words of Jesus: “Love one another as I have loved you.”
About the Authors:
Ed Jansen
Ed Jansen is a retired clergyman who has dedicated the second half of his life to serving the poor, inspired by the call of Jesus to care for “the least of these.” Over the past forty years, his understanding of the Sacred Scriptures has deepened through prayer, meditation, and putting faith into practice in daily life. With a Master’s degree in Ministry and three decades in the priesthood, Ed continues to live out his vocation alongside his wife, Trish Gaffney, as a volunteer at a homeless resource center, offering compassion and hope to those most in need.
Trish Gaffney
Trish Gaffney is a psychotherapist with more than forty years of experience in private practice, where she has guided individuals and families toward healing, resilience, and personal growth. She was ordained in 2007, holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and a Doctorate in Ministry, blending clinical expertise with spiritual insight. Trish shares her husband’s passion for service, volunteering at the same homeless resource center, where together they work to restore dignity and encouragement to those facing hardship.
Cost
The cost of the book is $12.99, including shipping in the U.S. To place your order, please send an email to lifetogether7@gmail.com with your name and shipping address, specifying this book. We will send you an invoice linking you to a secure website for payment. The book will be shipped within 2 business days after payment is received. All profits go to support our work with people in need at Arundel House of Hope (a homeless resource center in Glen Burnie, MD).
