Slow Reading

Dallas Willard (1935 - 2013) the Christian philosopher and author writes; "Once the life of Christ has entered into us, there are many things that we may do to increase the extent and depth of our union with Him. But the proper use of the written Word is most central to our cooperative efforts with God toward full conformity with Christ. The written Word may come to us in many ways. It may come through sermons, through art, casual conversation, dramatic performances, literature or song. All of these are important. He then goes on to ask which of these avenues of the written Word have you paid least attention to?

The written Word of God is an expression of God's mind just as surely, though in a different manner, as are creation and Jesus, the living Word. As we read and study it intelligently, humbly and openly, we come increasingly to share God's mind.. This use of the Bible is not superstitious or magical, because a natural connection exists between a proper use of the Bible and its ideal result: union with Christ. The Bible expresses the mind of God, since God speaks to us through its pages. Thus, we in understanding the Bible, come to share God's thoughts and attitudes and even come to share God's life through God's Word. Scripture is a communication that establishes communion and opens the way to union, all in a way that is perfectly understandable once we begin to experience it."

William Law (1686 - 1761), Anglican priest; "The scriptures should only be read in an attitude of prayer, trusting to the inward working of the Holy Spirit to make their truths a living reality within us."

Reading the Word of God should be done slowly. Do not hurry your reading as I too often do. Do not try to cover a certain number of verses or to get the requires chapters checked on some type of schedule. Such reading will probably profit you little. Give time for Holy Spirit to touch your life with the truth you need for the moment.

Prayer of the day for October 13; "Merciful God, bend my heart to Your law. Deliver me from my evil desires. Let me run after what is true and holy. May I hunger after Your justice. Help me, most holy God. Amen."

Lectionary passages for week of October 7-13 and a word for reflection from each:

Jeremiah 29:1-7  exile

Psalm 66  tested

2 Kings 5:1-15  wash

Psalm 111  mindful

2 Timothy 2:8-15  suffer

Luke 17:11-19  thanks

Revelation 13:11-18  marked

"Glorious their life who sing, with glad thanksgiving,

true hymns to Christ the King in all their living;

all who confess his name, come then with hearts aflame;

the God of peace acclaim as Lord and Savior."

Clement of Alexandria,  died 215

It is significant to do what God says as well as to say what God does!