So I’m lying here in my Brazilian
hammock, outside on a beautiful night. And I’m starting to reflect on what God
has taught me in Brazil. And of course He has taught me much about being
flexible, which was one of two themes. The other was everything is harder in
the jungle. So here are some things I have learned…
The thing that impacted me the most was
probably a man (who I won’t tell you much about him for the protection of all
involved.) But I will tell you that he had been a Christian for 3 weeks and had
been to about 3 bible studies. What amazed me the most was his bible, it was
filled front to back with highlights. We almost started a game, ‘see what
scripture he doesn’t have marked.’ Needless to say the game amazed us more than
helped him. I can’t explain to you how much this man, who again, was a
Christian for only three weeks, knew about the bible. He amazed us. Less than a
month with only the Holy Spirit about equaled my 5+ years of academically
studying the bible. I never have seen the Holy Spirit more. I’ve been to camps
where the worship was amazing, but to see the Holy Spirit teach someone is more
powerful than seeing Him in musical worship.
So I can’t
help but thinking… what if we could have both? What if we had the Holy Spirit
and academic scholars too? What if we knew the bible like this man did, and we
were able to pull scripture for every situation just like he was able too. What
if we actually took the time to study the scripture ourselves, and not just
quickly read someone else’s work. This man didn’t have time to dive
theologically into each scripture. He read the bible just like a really good
book. He hung onto every word realizing it was vital for the next. Maybe we
could enjoy the Bible the same way we enjoy our favorite book, or favorite
move, or show.
But why
can’t we enjoy it?
Because
honestly, you have to want to love it, just like friends and family. Love is
not always easy; ask anyone married for more than a few years. Remember, the
best things in life are not handed out. (well … THE best thing was, but someone
paid their life for that)
Acts 1:8
