As we continue our reading of Genesis, I am finding interesting new insights with our old friends the patriarchs and their families. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and their wives and concubines and children are certainly not without sin, and often are anything but models of the faith. The wonder of it all is that God continues to love and protect them, dispite their frailty and failures. This week we will delve deeper into the story of Joseph and his brothers and Joseph's rise to power in Egypt. There will be intrigue, betrayal, and ultimately restoration. We will come to the end of Genesis and move into the book of Exodus and the story of Moses. He too will face many challenges. If you haven't read his story in a while, get ready for episodes in Exodus!
I am enjoying reading the psalms as well, particularly those that begin with instructions to the musician or choir director. I wonder if our choir master Paul Hudgins is prepared to sing one to us on an 8 stringed lyre! I'd like to read some of your comments on the content of these psalms - they can be pretty brutal!
Finally, as we deepen our journey with Matthew's gospel, I am reminded just how difficult Jesus' teachings are. In our Thursday morning Bible Study last week, one of our participants said "I
don't want to do that! It's too hard." What are you finding about Jesus' teachings on disicipleship? Do you find them to be particularly challenging? If so, which ones?
I hope that you are enjoying our Bible Challenge. If you are having trouble keeping up with your reading, don't dismay! God's grace is with us, encouraging, not condemning, each step (page) of the way. Our purpose is to grow closer to our Lord and better know our story in this Epic Adventure of faith.
Peace & Blessings,
Lottie+
I, too, have enjoyed reading the old stories and learning new things about them (mostly little tidbits that I forgot or maybe didn't even know to begin with). I look forward to each day's readings to see what the next message will be.
ReplyDeleteI'm using the Life Application Study Bible NIV (large print!!). This particular edition provides a theme at the beginning of each Psalm. It's been particularly helpful by putting me in the right frame of mind before I begin reading.
In Matthew I've been overwhelmed with all the different aspects of being a disciple! I haven't given up the battle, but I certainly am challenged by the prospect of working toward being a follower of Christ.