The Scriptural Record as Psychological Data Psychologists and others in the mental health field can relate to the findings on a professional basis because it is a valid research approach to view the scriptural record as psychological data. Thus the story of Mary found in scripture speaks to us in powerful ways. Each age must take the ancient words and make them the nourishing food needed for its generation without distorting the truth. Speaking to Contemporary Life Examining the scriptural record of Mary's life, the author brings to light various traits of Mary, often from a new perspective. She then discusses these traits, relating them to psychological principles relevant to our lives.
Contemporary examples help relate the traits and principles to our own lives and dilemmas.
When relevant, Jones touches on where we as a culture may have gotten off track in our thinking about traits such as intelligence in women. This is an impressive work. Barbara Jones has lifted Mary's feet from the crescent moon where an artist of old painted them, and planted them firmly on solid earth. The first part of Empowered with Mary deals with Mary as an individual, and the second goes into her relationships with others, especially Joseph and Jesus. Study-discussion groups biting into this book would have plenty to chew on for a long time.