Happy hour

By Paul Young

Dear Men,

What a thrill it is that God has chosen to send us a letter – the bible! Why not begin a program of reading sacred Scripture? As you begin the journey of reading the entire Bible it will change your life. Here are some helpful tips:

Always begin your bible reading with prayer. You may want to pray what King David prayed in Psalm 119:18, “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things from your word.”

Remember too that our Blessed Mother was unusually attentive in storing some of the events we find in Scripture in her heart. She spent time in contemplation on various words that were said as well as events that had happened. Ask her to pray to Jesus that you might have that same spirit which she had.

As you read each day ask yourself these questions:

1. Is there a KEY VERSE that stands out that I should underline and remember?
2. Is there a PROMISE for me to claim?
3. Is there a COMMAND for me to obey?
4. Is there a SIN I should avoid?
5. Is there some INSTRUCTION that I should follow?

Jesus said in John 5:39-40 that the Old Testament is about HIM. Be a detective. See if you can find what it says about Jesus as you read the Old Testament. He may be pictured as an animal, another person, an event or even as an inanimate object. Seek and you will find!

Don’t be afraid to write in your bible. You may want to underline some key verses that speak to you. You may also want to write in the margin a thought God gives you while you read the text.

When you read the bible you will find some parts that are difficult to understand. Many, as they read the Old Testament, struggle with those sections where it appears that God asks his people to kill other people. There are those who have said that they like the God of the New Testament but not the God of the Old Testament. Please realize that the God of the Old Testament is also the God of the New Testament. He is always a God of mercy, grace and love even though we many not understand certain historical events. The events you read are inspired by God and are recorded because he wants them there. Don’t try to figure it all out or try to understand God’s methods or purposes. You won’t be able to. When you come to sections that may confuse you, remember what Saint Paul said:

Oh, what a wonderful God we have! How great are his riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his methods! For who can know what the Lord is thinking? Who knows enough to be his counselor? Romans 11:33-34

Why not start this exciting journey! Keep at it. And when you reach the end you could very well be saying that it was the greatest spiritual experience you have ever had.

Enjoy the journey!

. Paul Young