There will be celebrating

Americans take the Bible for granted, pretty much.

Most anybody who wants to can buy, borrow, or read a Bible, not only in King James English, but in any of dozens of translations that take advantage of recent scholarship and research to add insight and accuracy.

And, yes, these translations are also in English. And with what reverence and enthusiasm do we (you and I) read the Word?

The Kimyals in West Papua, Indonesia, are thrilled to be receiving translations of the Bible in their own language. They raise the bar for joy in being able to read their BIbles.

I found their celebration very humbling.

Bible Seminars

I was listening to a CD by Dick Davenport today. Dick is a former Air Force Chaplain who now conducts convention-shattering Bible seminars. He describes himself as an educator on spirituality, the Bible, Christianity, Relationships, and Faith Community.

One of the first questions Dick raised is how do we view God? Is He just a heavy-lifter? A 911 God? Somebody we don't have time to associate with -- unless there's an emergency? In which case we're glad to be able to call for some extra help?

He also pointed out that the Bible is filled with people who are flawed. Yet there was something in each that was willing to let God use them for good. This gives me great joy! Flawed does not equal hopeless.

He added that it is difficult for many people today to wrap their arms around the concept of "Thy will be done." Why, they wonder, would anyone who is comfortable, who can make choices to live a good life, surrender these choices to serve God?

If these ideas peak your interest, you can find more at this link. Click here.