My 2008 Scripture reading goal is to read the Bible from the Message translation. I have only read the Bible cover to cover in the New International Version. I use different versions to check and read up on but never from cover to cover. I am thoroughly enjoying it. Currently, I am reading the Book of Acts. Everytime I read it - I am amazed at the faith of those written about. I desire that strong, bold faith. I know that what keeps me from type of faith isn't the church, or the Holy Spirit's lack of power (there is no lack!), but the problem all lies within me. Boy I hate even typing that - let alone thinking about it. I must trust whole-heartedly that HIS Power (Holy Spirit's) lives in me. It is not just in me, but it is available to me in every moment of my day.
My favorite time of the day is the mornings at my home while I have a cup (or two) of coffee and spend time enjoying the pages of the great adventures of men and women of God. At this point in my reading - I am really blown away by Ananias' obedience (Ananias from Acts 9, not Acts 5!) It was to him a matter of physical life and death. He went inspite of the risks to obey the Father! Then very quickly in the same chapter (9), we see Barnabas going to bat for Paul and trying to get the other disciples (and Apostles) to accept Paul as a forgiven, changed-by-the-Holy Spirit man.
Can you imagine what our churches could accomplish if we were like Barnabas and Ananias? Can you imagine how welcome other sinners would feel in our churches? I believe this is a call for us all to live the gospel out - the full message of the gospel! I invite you, no I dare you to be a part of this type of adventure! Strong, bold faith living!
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