This morning as I wait to travel to Israel, I'm incredibly excited about being able to walk where Jesus walked. I have been asked to lead a devotional for my group at the Mount of Beatitudes, the place where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount (read Matthew 5-8). Every time I begin reading to prepare I become overwhelmed by the beauty and authority of Jesus' sermon. To think of delivering a message in that spot where Jesus taught and spoke seems overwhelming. But then, I remember that isn't that what we as Christians are called to do in every way, every day? We walk where Jesus would walk. We speak what Jesus would speak. In a world full of hurt and broken lives we are called to walk and speak int the situations that Jesus calls us through our baptism to care about. As I journey on this pilgrimage, my prayer is that God will continue to lead me and challenge me to grow in my awareness of God.
For people who are unfamiliar with the Bible, studying Holy Scripture can seem an intimidating experience. There are so many things about the people, places, and situations described in the Bible that it can seem as though one has to be an expert in biblical studies to be able to grow through Bible study. This is not so. Let me encourage you in your study of Holy Scripture. If you seek to learn about God through the study of scripture, God will meet you in that endeavor. No matter how brilliant or simple you consider yourself, studying the word of God will vitally shape your daily walk in faith. The word of God is accessible to you, at any level of reading comprehension, historical understanding, etc.. Because, when we read Holy Scripture, we do not read it alone. As Christians, when we read the Bible we ask God to allow the Holy Spirit to inspire our reading so that the words from the text become real in our current lives and life situ...
I know this experience will have strong impact on the emotions and thoughts you will have the rest of your life! Many blessings as you "walk where Jesus walked". Can't wait to see pictures and hear your stories.
ReplyDeleteHolt family is praying for you!
Sarah