I had never read the Bible
in its entirety before.
I grew up learning Bible
stories. I'd memorized verses, read chapters, and whole pieces. But never,
had I ever, sat down and just, read the book. Not for any particular
reason? I don't know. The Bible doesn't read like a novel. Or does it? Where does
one start? How will I understand it? I’ve probably been told everything I need
already, right? Is it really necessary?
One thing was certain.
Books hit the NY Times bestseller list and we have them snatched up in
a New York minute. Just thought - maybe, just maybe? I should check out the
best selling book of all time.
I was no longer content
depending on others to break down the Bible for me. I was embarrassed at my
fact deficiency. And in addition, I'd become weary of hearing people's take on
Jesus as if he is some subjective character to be. I knew better. Jesus has
solid attributes just like you and I. Physical and mental attributes, character
traits, a platform, stance(s), and a claim of who He was clearly spelled out. A
definition of a man, unable to be cherry picked by a single passage but
requiring each verse - 7,956 (NT) in all - put together to for accuracy. I
needed to learn His attributes for myself.
So, I set out on a journey.
Read the Bible – cover to cover - in chronological order. Study bible out! First
4 hours of every morning dedicated whether at home, on a plane, or in a
hospital bed. Set to take 365 days start to finish.
“In the
beginning…”
The vital Old Testament
reveals God's nature, character, and attributes. Each day was like watching a
new movie with different story, period, plot, and characters in each. Love,
life, joy, hurt, hope, suspense, fight scenes, miracles, drama, comedy, shock,
gore, it's all in there. It became abundantly clear very quickly, however, that
this was much more than just a movie or history book.
I was captivated. A clear
path and direction of the book began to emerge – a crystal clear, fascinating, overwhelming
theme. The stories came alive such that I couldn't wait to relay each account to
my mom and best friend each day. My brain could barely handle the influx.
In June 2011 I moved to
New York City from Colorado. The not-so-compact book went mobile, hitching a
ride everywhere I went in a less-than chic backpack. During summer months I
explored NYC’s outdoor destinations and read. Strangers tapped me on the
shoulder everyday without fail to inquire about my book. So many
encounters in fact, that I began keeping a photo journal of each person so that
I would never forget them. These moments were the highlight of each day.
When it came time to
embark on the New Testament and the life of Jesus I couldn't get enough. I
found myself tortured to read the events leading up to his crucifixion. I could
hardly bear it. I'll never forget. I sat in a coffee shoppe. As I read, my
heart broke and silent teardrops fell, wrinkling the delicate pages. Thankfully
the account of his horrible death wasn’t where the story ended.
It had just begun.
Each page was better than
the last. Reading comprehension tests administered by the Author were common. ;)
My knowledge was expanding, understanding sharpening, faith, developing. Day
after day, looking perhaps deceivingly sedentary, I was accomplishing more than
I ever had prior. All of a sudden one day I flipped the page. It read,
…"The grace of the
Lord Jesus be with God's people." Amen.
And just like that, the
book was finished.
12 months, 4 seasons, a
job layoff, numerous flights, and finally a cross-country move, and in an
instant, the book was done. Time froze. I stared at the page then looked up at
the lively coffee shoppe abuzz around me. The sound was muted. Everything in
slow motion. Luther Vandross crooning over the speakers. I got up, closed book,
tipped waitress, and walked home.
***
A few days later I conversed
with a friend who had also read the entire Bible (twice over). Since he had
been at this place before I asked him, “What do I do now? ” He smiled. “Take a
short break, a deep breath, and,
…….start it over again.”
***************************************************
This book has changed my
life. And it will change yours.
But don't take my word for
it.
Love and Light,
E
