The precious gift of scripture

All scripture is inspired by God

And profitable for teaching, for reproof,

For correction, for training in righteousness.

2Timothy 3:16

What is the difference between the word of God in scripture and the Word of God in the flesh as Jesus Christ?  Jesus is the Word became flesh.  He is the King.  He took the form of a man to walk among us and to save us from ourselves.  He is the crucified and risen Lord who sits at the right hand of the Father.  He is God.

Holy Scripture is the inspired word of God written by human hands.  It is written by people during their lifetimes and based on their understanding and experiences. For me scripture is the very breathe of God.  When reading scripture there are times the page becomes alive as though His breathe blew across the page ruffling the edges.  It is a mystical experience to read words on a page and feel the ancient wisdom still alive and breathing. To know the Living Word is as close and significant today as it was 2000 or 4000 years ago.

The Psalms are people talking to God about God.  Telling God how they feel about him and what they think of His deeds.  Through words the ancient writer’s praise the glorious God, call to question His unfathomable deeds, and bow down prostrate before His magnificence. These writers call God to action against wicked neighbors, cursing those who rebel against the ways of the Almighty, and pledging their eternal obedience to His rule.  What a privilege to read words spoken, prayed, cried, and memorized by millions of souls, each seeking respite from an all too often cruel world.

The Bible contains many stories of people called out by God:  Moses, Joshua, Diana, David, Elijah, Jeremiah, Mary, Paul, Peter, Timothy and many more with and without names.  Each person has a unique story when God called and began leading in a different direction.  Moses a privileged murderer called to lead a million slaves to freedom.  David a cunning commando called to rule as King. Elijah called to proclaim even when he ran and hid in fear. Mary a youthful virgin called to an unexpected pregnancy. Paul a murderous zealot called as a missionary and church builder. Each life was full of pain, hard work, and unexpected successes.  What is it to follow God’s direction not knowing your life story will be retold to millions of children for a thousand years.

When we read  scripture we hold ancient history in our hands.  We explore the Creator’s willingness to walk among us and share himself with every living person.  It is a great honor and privilege to possess such a gift.