"The Book"

  What is this writing we call the Bible? What does the term Bible mean? Do you know? The word "Bible" in our English comes from a Latin word 'biblia' which means the books or scrolls. It is a collection of individual scrolls that make up the whole we call the Bible!

  What is so unique about this? These writings that were "inspired by God" or "God-breathed" writings are life changing. Within these scrolls we find a treasure so great  that most never realize what they have. I have personally wondered if those preaching/teaching realize what they hold and read. For thousands of reasons people ignore it or use it only as a reference and not the answer to our individual lives.

  Why do these "scrolls" matter so much? It has been the most influential book in the history of the world. Down through the ages people have enslaved those who read it and follow it. There have been times of mass burnings of the "scrolls" and in some instances it was outlawed to be read. Why? What is so unique about these "books"?  Why did governments use the "scrolls" to lay a foundation for the future of a nation? Why did governments go to the trouble to suppress it? Why do people react so violently when it is used on their behavior? Why do countless thousands upon thousands in every age ask that portions of these "scrolls" be read at their marriages and funerals?

  This heavenly treasure has been the center of man's world and battles. It gives direction and changes the very life of individuals. What kind of world would we have if everyone joyously accepted it as supreme in their lives? This book continues to have a profound effect upon all, even those who hate it and deny it. It has become a source of pain for many and a source of life for many.

  Within these "scrolls" we are confronted with our lives of sadness and narrowness only to reveal the possibility beyond what we ask or think. For our eternal benefit it exposes our awful sinfulness and profound need for God who wants so save us and bless us with life, His life! It tells of a treasure that is amazing of a God who bears His own judgment against sin that He might offer eternal friendship to the feeble human. It speaks of a God who shares our suffering until the day when suffering will end. It gives meaning to our lives and a hope within our lives. It calls us to join with Jesus Christ in the most fantastic of all adventures, the rescuing of the world. It speaks to us how to fail without despair and how to trust in spite of appearances. It brings us God's approval when we act nobly and God's forgiveness when we try and fail. It calls us to God, our eternal Creator, Sustainer and Power. Where does it really fit in your life? On the table? Or a part of your everyday sustenance? We look over at the table or shelf and "ouch" it sits there waiting for you. Why does that sting?