ONE and Three – March’s Numbers

ONE. In last month’s article, I encouraged you to add one person to your daily prayers. This month I encourage you to read one book of the Bible. Yes, you heard me correctly. I invite you – I challenge you – I ask you to read one whole book (!) of the Bible during the 31 days of March. And, yes, you can do it.

Instead of giving something up for the season of Lent, why not add something to Lent? You can read any one book of the Bible you wish, Old or New Testament. I suggest the following possibilities:

Genesis – God’s covenant with Abraham and his descendents;
Psalms – prayers, praises, and laments, all frank and honest communication with God;
Isaiah – words of both judgment and hope addressed to God’s people; Gospel according to John – a favorite of mine, containing the great “I am …” statements of Jesus;
Acts – the acts and witness of the Holy Spirit in the early years of the Church;
Romans – another of my favorites, strong words about grace and faith.
(For this encounter with Holy Scripture you may wish to avoid Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, as
well as the Revelation with all of its symbolism.)

One chapter a day or maybe two will get you through almost any book of Scripture in a month. Pick a time of day and a location to sit and read God’s Word. Try for consistency. Hopefully, it will be a time and location that minimizes interruption by the phone or other people. Underline those verses that speak to you. Put a question mark by those which are unclear or confusing. (You can explore them more later on.) If you miss a day, don’t give up. Just read a little extra the next couple of days.

I plan to reread the book of Romans. I know that I’ll find something new and meaning-ful with each reading.

A sign-up sheet will be on the bulletin board so that you can share which book of the Bible you are committed to reading during March.

THREE. I am extremely grateful to the church council for granting me a three month sabbatical, beginning on March 1.   I will use this time for personal and spiritual renewal, for study and reflection, for professional and spiritual growth. I will not be present at worship or available for other pastoral duties, but you will be well cared for by Pastor Roy Moore, Pastor Peter Muschinske and others.  The easiest thing to do if you have a question is to speak to Cheryl Hick in the church office. If she cannot assist you, she will contact someone who can. I will see you at the beginning of June. I will pray for you daily and ask that you do the same for me.

Pastor Jim