Twentieth-century theologian Karl Barth was quoted as saying: “Take your Bible and take your newspaper and read both. But interpret newspapers from your Bible.”
In 2017, each of us might hold a Bible in one hand while scrolling through social media with the other. But the point is the same: our task as followers of Jesus is to figure how God would have us live in our (God’s) world today.
This is the really the only reason I’ll be hosting two Bible studies at St. John’s beginning this fall. Beginning September 10, we’ll meet in the Guild Room between the 8 am and 10:30 am to hold the four Gospel accounts next to each other. Beginning September 12 at 10:30 am, we’ll work from The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His People.
As I change windows on my laptop, the news headlines are Levee Breaches South of Houston, North Korea Launches Projectile over Japan, US Exchanges Fire with Turkish-Backed Rebels in Syria.
How are we to make sense of all that’s taking place in our communities, state, nation, and the world? What might our response to human suffering be? Barth’s advice is to read Scripture. Read the little stories from the Bible which are woven into one grand story which provides perspective, wisdom, hope, and inspiration.
Please consider your participation in one of these Bible studies. The communities we serve need assistance. As Episcopal Christians in 21st Century, Old Town Saginaw, Michigan, USA, God has a unique call on our lives.
How might you, as part of the St. John’s family, seek first the Kingdom of God in this day?