Bible Challenge Week 39 September 30th-October 6th

In the Old Testament this week, we will finish reading the Book of Lamentations and we will take on the Book of Ezekiel. Additionally, we will read Psalms 69 through 74. In the New Testament we will finish reading 2 Peter and will begin 1 John.

I wonder…

– Psalm 71 may sound familiar, as its first four lines are virtually identical to Psalm 31, which we’ve now read twice through in our Bible Challenge (and which is used as a Canticle in our Episcopal Church liturgies.) Have you noticed other repetitions in the Book of Psalms or elsewhere as you’ve read along these many months? Do you suppose it’s fair to say that when the Bible says it more than once, we’re invited to take special notice?

– The Book of Ezekiel includes some of the richest – and most inscrutable – imagery in the entire Bible. The one page commentary on Ezekiel on Wikipedia is a good place to get some introduction to this amazing read. Click here if you’d like some background before you begin our latest: Book of Ezekiel

– In 1 John we’re reading again from a letter addressed to a particular Christian community and written by a leader removed to some great distance from the community he loves. Imagine you are removed from your current church home and tasked with writing your community a letter of encouragement. What would you say to your church?

  Please consider inviting a friend to join us in our read.

May each and everyone one of us be blessed by the Word this week!

In love and Faith –

+ Bishop Barker

This week’s readings: