Scripture

The importance of reading and reflecting on Scripture will be discussed soon at a synod of the Church. Pope Benedict XVI wants to continue the spirit of Vatican Council II and encourage all people to pick up the Bible. Before Vatican Council II, the bible was not encouraged to be read by the ordinary person. Now the Church wants all people to be familiar with Scripture. Scripture gives us a story of the dynamic relationship between God and Humankind. Its lessons are timeless. Further study of Scripture through bible studies, personal reading, and faith sharing reveal a world much different than our own. However, the meaning of the stories apply to us because they are about life. Deeper study of the Scripture can really make a difference in how you listen to the Sunday Scripture readings. Father's homilies make more sense and you even begin to gain personal enlightenment. Truly, God's Word meets us right where we are in the journey of life. I recommend beginning with the New Testament. Perhaps one of the gospels or epistles of Paul. In the Old Testament, a prayerful reading of the Psalms reveals a book that can be useful in your personal spirituality. The Little Rock Bible Study, Loyola Press Bible Study, Paulist Press Bible Study are all good resources for research and information. Many times there are footnotes and commentary in your Scriptures that are good to look at. Read a chapter, then read the footnotes, then go back and read the same chapter. You might be surprised how differently you read it and what strikes you.