I'm trying to make Scripture more a part of my everyday life. I decided recently I should acquire a little pocket Gideon New Testament, so I could browse it at odd moments. I've had several of these down the years but couldn't find any. Thankfully, the Christian Union in UCD gave me one.
I find the introduction to the book extremely moving and poetic, whether or not the theology is entirely correct (and I personally don't see anything amiss with it). I can never get on the Protestant-bashing train that is sadly so popular among many conservative Catholics, liberal Catholics, and snooty secularists. If you don't find the following passages beautiful, there's something wrong:
"The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christian's charter. Here paradise is restored, Heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed.
"Christ is its grand subject, our good the design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents."
No comments:
Post a Comment