Commitment to Christ - Bible Reading

:: 15 ::  The word of Christ must live in you richly. (Colossians 3:16a)
My identity as a disciple of Jesus is dependent upon stories, culture, and practices. The best stories we are given are found in Scripture. The word of Christ is contained within the Bible, a text that points beyond itself to our Triune God. Therefore, the Bible must be read, experienced, and understood. And the best place for that to happen is within the culture and practices of the church, the people of God.

As you make Bible reading a daily practice, you will obtain a deeper understanding of the story of all of God's children and the words and work of Jesus. In this way, the “word of Christ” will come to “live in you richly” - it will take root deep within you. You will grasp more fully the hope that hope we find in Jesus Christ and the Word will shape and transform you. And if you read prayerfully, by the assistance of the Holy Spirit your reading of the Bible should result in a deepening love for God and neighbor.

And here is what makes scripture , "alive, active and sharper than a two edged sword, that penetrates our soul" (Hebrews 4.12) as you read the Bible it will shape your identity as reflection of Christ, and the Jesus who has taken root within you will point you to others, to serve, to share, and to witness.

Lord, let your Word take root in me as living, active force so that I might be renewed and radically different. Then, let Christ in me lead others to himself. Amen.