A Year of the Bible

Kristos Anesti!

2010-04-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Or, in English, Christ is Risen!

The correct response is Alitos Anesti! Or, Truly He has risen!

I wish you and you family a fabulous, blessed, Pascha day!

Oh, and congratulations to our regular reader/contributor who you know as Michael Mary who was baptized yesterday. I am so happy for you!

Talk amongst yourselves

2010-02-17T03:00:00.000-08:00

I am so sorry it's been so long. We are in the process of moving (if you didn't hear) which is taking up a lot of my evenings. I am also in the process of planning a 4 hour training for this Saturday. Anyone want to crawl into my brain and take out this creative idea that I KNOW is stuck in there that I just can't fish out?

Unfortunately, that means I haven't been updating the Bible readings here. I have been reading, but I haven't gotten a chance to post on them. So, who wants to start with a recap and some thoughts? Anyone? Please, talk amongst yourselves.

Deuteronomy 3:18-6

2010-02-12T03:00:00.000-08:00

Deuteronomy 3:18-6

About the Reading:

We first learn that Moses is not to cross the Jordan.

We also hear more rules of obedience and laws as well as we hear the 10 commandments.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Deuteronomy 4:9 states:

“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.”

That speaks to me. It is, in a way, a reminder to myself to remember all that we have read so far and to never forget, never let our children forget.

Imagine, these words have been passed from generation to generation for so many years. It’s really absolutely awesome, isn’t it?

What spoke to you today?

Deuteronomy 1-3:17

2010-02-11T07:40:00.001-08:00

Deuteronomy 1-3:17

About the Book:

The last of the books in the Pentateuch, Deuteronomy is a second version of the Law.

About the Reading:

We start out by hearing the final instructions from Moses to the people. We also read of the ending of their long journey

My Thoughts and Notes:

How frustrating it must have been for all these people to have been traveling for 40 years in the desert. God had a purpose in this journey and lessons were learned throughout this time as the people multiplied and became great in number.

I wonder if any of them thought, as they were ending this journey, “yeah, He says it’s the end…but is it really? Where will be go next?”

What are your thoughts on the reading?

Numbers 33-36

2010-02-10T03:00:00.000-08:00

Numbers 33-36

About the Reading:

Today we read the end of Numbers. We find out the stages of the travels, town lines, and final inheritances.

My Thoughts and Notes:

While reading today’s passage, I find myself thinking that it’s just tying up some loose ends from the rest of the book. I’m sure there is something more important in there; I just didn’t find it.

Anyone want to enlighten me? Anyone want to leave some final thoughts on Numbers before we move on to the next book?

Numbers 30-32

2010-02-09T03:00:00.000-08:00

Numbers 30-32

About the Reading:

We begin the reading learning about taking vows, both men and women, and the rules about them.

Then we read about the vengeance on the Midianites and divvying up the spoils.

My Thoughts and Notes:

I can’t help but to think, “be a man of your word” when I read today’s reading. This shows how vital it is to mean what you say and to follow through with what you say you are going to do.

I know, at times, I struggle with this. I don’t struggle intentionally; but at times, with good intentions, I say I am going to do something and then I drop the ball and forget to follow through. I’m working on it.

Are you good about keeping you word? What stood out to you today?

Numbers 26-29

2010-02-08T03:00:00.000-08:00

Numbers 26-29

About the Reading:

We start out with another census. We then learn of a new rule that is made for a man who has no sons. That man's daughters is to get his inheritance. If no daughters, then go down a specific line in the family. We also learn more about offerings.

My Thoughts and Notes:

The part that stood out to me today was the inheritance...once I got through all the census stuff (still not any easier to get through). I would have thought, however, that this issue of a man's inheritance if he has no sons would have come up sooner. Maybe it was an issue before, but this is the first time that it was brought up to God. A fair and just ruling, give it to the daughters! It makes sense, right?

What stood out to you today?

Numbers 22:2-25

2010-02-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

Numbers 22:2-25

About the Reading:

Most of the reading today is about Balaam.

My Thoughts and Notes:

I have to add a silly note, I LOVE donkeys. I am very glad they get such a prominent roll in the Bible. I’m just saying! It makes me smile every time I read about a donkey in the Bible.

That is my comment on today’s reading. I’m sure you all have something much more and better to contribute…I’m counting on you!

Numbers 18:25-22:1

2010-02-06T13:44:00.001-08:00

Numbers 18:25-22:1

About the Reading:

We continue to read about the journey of God’s chosen people. Today we read about the water coming from the rock and God’s disappointment in them that they did not fully trust in Him.

In today’s reading, we also learn the passing of Aaron.

My Thoughts and Notes:

I remember as a child reading the passage of the water coming from the rock. I also remember being totally fascinated by this and trying so hard to get the water from any rock I saw…it never worked.

I have even, in the past, tried to justify it and come up with some reason as to why it had happened, some scientific explanation. Why I never, at that time, realized that I would never get it is beyond me.

I have since given up on finding an explanation and love the mystery of it all. We have been having a lot of rain around here lately. There is a mountain that I drive through every day to get to work. On one side, there is a rocky area that, after the rains, seems to be seeping out water. I know this isn’t the mystery revealed; but I can’t help but to reflect on this particular passage every time I pass it. It’s God’s way of reminding me of His awesome mysteries and power!

I don’t know why I was surprised, I just don’t recall ever having read before of the passing of Aaron. Just a little footnote.

What did you think of today’s reading?

Numbers 15-18:24

2010-02-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Numbers 15-18:24

About the Reading:

Today we read more about offerings and punishments. We learn that a man is stoned to death for not honoring the Sabbath.

We also see the wrath of God again as He punishes those who wrong Him.

My Thoughts and Notes:

I have one thought: Don’t tick off the Man Upstairs!

Okay, I say that with all the sarcasm that you can’t read from written words; but if you could hear me say it you would realize it.

That’s not to say go ahead and tick Him off; it’s only to say that this reading is a very clear reminder of His power! We should respect and fear it!

Numbers 11-14

2010-02-04T20:35:00.001-08:00

Numbers 11-14

Okay, I should have asked for a guest poster today but life moved way too fast. Sorry, this was actually a planned skipped day on my part; but should not have been on your part. Next time I will be way more with it and ask for a guest post…anyone interested for next time?

Oh, and please, discuss the reading amongst yourselves as I roll into bed or, just rest my head here on my keyboard…it looks so comfy and cozzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz….

Numbers 8-10

2010-02-03T03:00:00.000-08:00

Numbers 8-10

About the Reading:

We read a bit more about the Levites and some specific items that God wants made and placed for him.

We also learn about the first anniversary of Passover.

My Thoughts and Notes:

The one thing that really stood out to me was the Passover and how specific, and really how MUCH of the reading it took, to talk about celebrating Passover.

This is clearly a very important event to remember, celebrate, and never forget. Through all these innumerable years, we still remember. For us in our Church or Orthodox Christians, we celebrate it as part of Holy Pascha.

Jesus’ last supper was a Passover feast which lead to his crucifixion. We do not celebrate Holy Pascha on “Easter Sunday”, we celebrate it according to the Jewish calendar. It coincides with Passover every year. (just a note that this year, that happens to be the exact same Sunday as “Easter Sunday”; typically it’s not).

I’m not saying our Church is better because of it; for me, it’s meaningful because of it. Personally, I don’t care WHEN any person celebrates Christ’s ultimate gift to us; I care THAT a person celebrates it. It is what makes us Christians.

That being said, I still remember Passover as well.

Numbers 5-7

2010-02-02T03:00:00.000-08:00

Numbers 5-7

About the Reading:

We learn today about some more punishments for wrong doings. Namely restitutions for wrongdoings and unfaithfulness of a wife.

We also read about the Dedication of the Tabernacle

My Thoughts and Notes:

Is it any surprise that I honed in on today's reading with the test for an unfaithful wife? I mean, it's not because I am unfaithful, but I am a wife! For me, it's an interesting "test" to see if the wife has been unfaithful. I can just imagine the fear a woman would have going through this process back then.

What part got your most interest today?

Numbers 3-4

2010-02-01T03:00:00.000-08:00

Numbers 3-4

About the Reading:

Today we read about the Levites. This is the clan that, from yesterday’s reading, it was apparent that they were to be held in a higher esteem. The Levites are chosen by God.

My Thoughts and Notes:

First, I would like to point out that I have updated the sidebar to show this month’s calendar.

Is everyone still with me? Is there anyone hiding in the back ground there lurking and reading but not participating? That’s okay. I want you to be comfortable being here. You don’t need to comment on the posts, but it’s be great if you would just pop up and say hi!

Now, onto my thoughts on today’s reading:

God chose the Levites to stand out among the other clans. Why? Has it been made apparent to us? Or is this just another of the mysteries that is held for God’s knowledge?

I have found myself, while reading these books of the Pentateuch, somewhat bored and somewhat fascinated as we learn about the early beginning. Reading the ancestral lines…boring? Yes, but also somewhat fascinating at the same time.

The same goes for the laws in setting up the Traditions of the Church and the other laws put into place.

I find myself somewhat struggling through the readings, but at the same time intrigued as my mind tries to picture and imagine what times were like back then.

Anyone else have the same thoughts?

Numbers 1-2

2010-01-31T15:41:00.001-08:00

Numbers 1-2

About the Book:

Here we are in the fourth book of the Pentateuch. Can we guess that there is more reading that will be laws, rules, and really the foundations to our beliefs?

About the Reading:

Today we read about the census, numbers of people (hm, see a connection to the title of this book?), and how God arranges them to camp.

My Thoughts and Notes:

First, let me say that I am getting back on track. I have somewhat caught up on the reading, where somewhat means I have skimmed it over and gotten the general idea and I haven’t updated the past posts to reflect it.

I don’t know that I will get to that part of it; I hope my lack of reading did not result in your lack of reading.

Now, onto a new book!

I know there is nothing in here but coincidence, but did you find it funny that we are reading (Numbers 1:18):

and on the first day of the second month they mustered the whole community. The Israelites established their pedigrees by clans and families, and one by one the names of all men of twenty years and over were recoded.

Here we are just the day before the second month reading this passage. Not only that, but we are looking at the US census beginning as well. The coincidence has not been lost on me.

Interesting to me, again, that people were joined and yet separated by God. Certain clans were to be camped in specific order. For lack of other words (and really a bad term) separate but equal comes to mind.

Through many of the training workshops I present, I have iterated to so many preschool teachers that it’s okay for children to not all be friends. They must all be respectful and friendly to each other. However, it’s only natural that we split into our own groups. This reading, to me, verifies it.

Am I reading something wrong? Is that not what this is saying?

Leviticus 19-22

2010-01-29T03:00:00.000-08:00

Leviticus 19-22

About the Reading:

Okay, if you have fallen behind like me, you may have to go back a few days to catch up. I’ll go back and fix the posts I missed this weekend. For today, however, let’s look at the reading.

Mostly, today, we read more rules, these highlight relationships and sexual relationships.

My Thoughts and Notes:

How is it that I come back to this reading? It amazes me, however, how so many of the things that our society now has just accepted to be the norm, are spelled out here to be sins.

When I read these things, I see how for our society has strayed. It’s sad, isn’t it?

And it makes our struggle so much more. Sometimes I wonder if/when we have children how I will make sure that they grow in the way God wants them to grow and protect them from the sins around.

Leviticus 15-18

2010-01-27T03:00:00.000-08:00

Leviticus 15-18

I will update later but I don’t want to leave you all like I did yesterday with nothing here to write on. Leave your comments and thoughts and, as soon as I get home tonight, I will be catching up on my reading and posting…well, as soon as I make dinner and feed my husband that is.

Please, start the conversation without me!

Leviticus 12-14

2010-01-26T22:19:00.001-08:00

Leviticus 12-14

Did you read today? I have to confess that I didn’t. I’m sorry. Things are crazy around here…what did you think? Do you have a summary?

Leviticus 8-11

2010-01-25T03:00:00.000-08:00

Leviticus 8-11

About the Reading:

We start the reading by learning the rules for the priests.

Then we learn about clean and unclean animals.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Wow! I actually learned a lot about clean and unclean animals…does that mean that lobster is out? And shrimp? Please tell me the rules have changed…they have, haven’t they?

What did you think?

Leviticus 5-7

2010-01-24T21:01:00.001-08:00

Leviticus 5-7

About the Reading:

We continue with the rules for sins and reparations of those since with offerings.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Sorry guys, it’s 9 at night and I have JUST finished the reading, been a bit crazy. What are your thoughts?

Leviticus 1-4

2010-01-23T13:58:00.001-08:00

Leviticus 1-4

About the Book:

We are starting the third book in the Bible, the third book in the Pentateuch. My time flies.

Leviticus draws together laws and rituals. Topics covered in this book include: the ritual of sacrifice; the investiture of the priests, rules of cleanliness; and laws of Holiness.

About the Reading:

We begin with the ritual of sacrifice. We are introduced to burnt offerings, cereal offerings, and communion sacrifice. We read about the sacrifices for sin.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Seems to me that God loves the smell of burning meat, doesn’t it? I don’t mean that in the negative tone it seems to read.

I find it of particular interest that there is so much to sacrificing the animals.

Something that I had known, but was reminded of while reading this, was the fact that the Priest, the leader of the Church, should he sin, dooms his followers to the guilt. Reading this reminds me of the weight that our Priests must live with.

They do so much for us, yet are held so highly accountable.

Haven’t forgotten

2010-01-22T20:16:00.001-08:00

I haven’t forgotten, I have just been really busy. If you have anything to say about today’s reading (Exodus 35-40) please leave a comment and let me know.

Me? I’m going to bed…I can’t keep my eyes open. I write tomorrow.

Exodus 35-40

2010-01-22T03:00:00.000-08:00

Exodus 35-40

About the Reading:

Simply put, this reading is about the Israelites completing the building of the sanctuary as God ordered.

My thoughts and notes:

Simply put, it is interesting, this reading, as there are so many things that I can relate my experiences in our Church.

How about you?

Exodus 31-34

2010-01-21T03:00:00.000-08:00

Exodus 31-34

About the Reading:

Today we read how the Israelites were very quick to turn from God and begin worshiping the golden calf.

This action leads to a lot of actions and discussions between God and Moses.

My Thoughts and Notes:

To be honest, I am still absorbing the reading so, today, I want to hear YOUR thoughts and notes on this reading. What did you think?

Exodus 28-30

2010-01-20T03:00:00.000-08:00

Exodus 28-30

About the Reading:

We continue today’s reading with instructions on the garments that the priests are to wear and further instructions as to offering sacrifices and incense to God.

My Thoughts and Notes:

The first time that I attempted to read the Bible in a year, I remember coming to these passages and thinking, “wow, this is why we do these things in the Orthodox Church.”

This is a picture I found on line of a good front view of our priest in full vestments that you would see at any of our services.

We use a lot of incense in our services and, as one priest reminded us, we no longer offer up a living sacrifice because Christ gave the ultimate sacrifice; therefore, the Holy Eucharist, which is the Body and Blood of Christ, is our living sacrifice that we offer up to God every week.

Reading these chapters reminds me of how pure, Holy, and longstanding our services have been.

Exodus 24-27

2010-01-19T17:54:00.001-08:00

Exodus 24-27

About the Reading:

Today we read about the instructions for building the Sanctuary and the Ark. God is very specific in his instructions as to how to build these things.

My Thoughts and Notes:

As I read today’s reading, I was reminded of the specificity that God gave to Noah as he was building the Ark for the animals.

I am also reminded of our Church buildings. There are similarities to the structures of our Church’s in the Eastern Orthodox religion to the instructions found here in Exodus. I am working on collecting some pictures to be able to share with all of you.

Exodus 20-23

2010-01-18T18:09:00.001-08:00

Exodus 20-23

About the Reading:

We start off today with the 10 commandments. I don’t think there is a person alive, Christian or not, who isn’t at least familiar with these.

We also learn of the fear the people have of God saying that they will die should God speak to them directly.

God lays down the laws of murder, beatings, injury to others (physical or financial), and any offences.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Not because I am late in getting this post up, but really because I only have few words to say in this:

Does anyone else see our justice system, or it’s intention, in here?

Cute Video

2010-01-17T15:30:00.001-08:00

Since we are talking about Moses, I thought you all might appreciate this cartoon.

Exodus 15:22-19

2010-01-17T03:00:00.000-08:00

Exodus 15:22-19

About the Reading:

We read about God’s people’s journey in the desert; it was a definite strain on them, and their faith. God provides them with their needs; the people question Moses who proves to them, again and again, that God is with them.

We also learn of the first appointment of judges, as suggested by Moses’ father-in-law.

Then, probably most important, God comes down to Moses and the people on Mount Sinai.

My Thoughts and Notes:

There is one verse that stands out to me, Exodus 16:2-3

And the whole community of Israelites began complaining about Moses and Aaron in the desert and said to them, ‘Why did we not die at Yahweh’s hand in Egypt, where we used to sit round the flesh pots and could eat to our heart’s content! As it is, you have led us into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death!’

This is meaningful to me in that I read it to mean that the people feel like they had a bit of an easier time before leaving. This was NOT an easy trip; it had a lot of turn around and, intentional by God, mis-directions.

Life isn’t meant to be easy; it is meant to be challenging. Nothing great comes to us easily. Often times, I know, I have had to fight for those things that are the most meaningful.

When I am on the path that God wants me to be on, things fall into place; but that doesn’t mean that it’s easy.

They were definitely challenged; but God proved to them over and over that He would take care of them, even though they questioned Him continually.

Exodus 12-15:21

2010-01-16T11:44:00.001-08:00

Exodus 12-15:21

About the Reading:

Today we read about the start of the journey out of Egypt. We also learn about Passover and the traditions, set by God, in remembering this Holy event.

Once out of Egypt, we learn how God gets His people free and then, the infamous story of Moses and how God parted the waters, allowing his people to cross the river on dry land; only to have Pharaoh and his people to be covered by that same water.

My Thoughts and Notes:

I have always found this story a bit fascinating. Imagine crossing the river with a wall of water next to you! Imagine turning back, safely across, and seeing your enemies engulfed in the water.

Yes, they sing and dance and rejoice!

Years ago, so long I don’t remember the details, I was watching a documentary that was pretty much trying to debunk this story. The scientists talked about how all these events could have been explained.

I remember them giving scientific explanation to all the plagues. The water turning red, the locusts, all of it. They even tried to explain the splitting of the water, allowing God’s people to walk on dry land.

I recall one of them saying that there is a part that, at time, the water runs thin enough to walk across, but can suddenly come up in a flash flood. This, he said, would explain it all.

That, I say, WOULD explain it all…all the POWER of GOD and, in reality, the PROOF that these events did happen…with the power of God behind them.

So what if there is an explanation. The explanation can always come back to, “It is caused by the hand of God.”

What are you thoughts?

Exodus 7:8-11

2010-01-15T03:00:00.000-08:00

Exodus 7:8-11

About the Reading:

Put simply, today’s reading is about all the things that God did when Pharaoh refused, again and again, to let His people out of Egypt to worship in the desert.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Throughout the reading, it is mentions that God made Pharaoh obstinate. So, was this a test to Moses to see how many times he would come back?

Was this to show His people how much he would work to free them?

Or am I looking into this in the wrong direction? Pharaoh does have free will, does he not, like any of us? So is it just that God knows that Pharaoh will be obstinate?

What do you think?

I also find it interesting that most of the plagues God brings are really nuisances. Now, the river turning to blood is something that could have lead to the death of the people, but for the most part, frogs? flies? boils? mosquitoes? While I wouldn’t want to live through those (especially the boils) they really are just a nuisance, aren’t they?

No, I’m not forgetting about the death of their animals nor the promise of the death of all their first born sons. The death of their sons was really God’s breaking point, wasn’t it?

Then I reflect on Exodus 9:16

But I have let you survive for this reason: to display my power to you and to have my name talked of throughout the world.

I guess that explains it all, doesn’t it? No need for an explanation because, really, God needs not to explain any of His actions to us; but it is explained.

What are your thoughts on the plagues?

Exodus 4-7:7

2010-01-14T03:00:00.000-08:00

Exodus 4-7:7

About the Reading:

We continue with the calling of Moses to do God’s work. God assigns Aaron to be Moses’ mouthpiece.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Yes, that is pretty much what today’s reading is about…twice over. Did you catch that? It’s like the story winds back and tells us the same thing.

Moses tells God that he doesn’t want to speak to Pharaoh because he speaks slow. I have often wondered if this means that he had a speech impediment like stuttering. What do you think?

What did you notice in today’s reading?

Exodus 1-3

2010-01-13T03:00:00.000-08:00

Exodus 1-3

About the Book:

Well, we are in a new book of the Bible. One down, 65 more to go. How’s everyone doing?

Let’s look at this new book: Exodus

The second book of the Pentateuch, this is about God’s people escaping Egypt. Let’s get stated, shall we?

About the Reading:

The book of Exodus begins with a review of where the ancestry sits from Jacob and Joseph and reminding us how they came to this land.

It quickly goes on to talk about the Hebrews and their fear of the Israelites who were many in the land. The Hebrews worked them hard and, the leader, instructs the midwives to kill any male children born.

When the midwives fail to do so, they are then instructed to throw all the boys in the river.

We are told about Moses’ beginning of life; how his mother hid him and protected him then set him afloat in a basket in the river. Pharaoh’s daughter found him and has, at Moses’ aunt’s suggestion, Moses’ mother nurse him.

Moses then flees from the land after killing and Egyptian. Upon his fleeing, he finds himself a wife.

Finally in today’s reading we learn of how God called Moses to his duty through a burning bush.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Moses’ story is one that I can’t imagine anyone not knowing. Maybe it’s because I was raised in a Catholic home, but I know people who have absolutely no religious background who are familiar with the story of Moses.

I have to believe that God had a hand in making sure that it was the Pharaoh’s daughter who found him in the stream; and it was awesome to see that the aunt made sure that his mother was the one chosen to nurse him.

I am sure I had read it, but I had never remembered that he had killed an Egyptian; even reading it tonight I hadn’t remembered it.

My last thoughts is this: how FREAKY would it be to be walking in the desert, see a burning bush that was not burning, and then hear your name being called from it!

I mean, seriously, I might have flipped a switch or something had it been me.

Years ago my brother once told me that he believed that God only comes to you the way He knows you can handle. He told me that he hears God’s voice as a different male voice when God speaks to him. “Those thoughts that you think are in your head, aren’t really that; it’s God talking to you.”

I remember contemplating that for a bit and realized that my brother just might be right. I would freak out if I heard a strange voice, in my head or out, and so God chooses to speak to me in my own voice.

When I have “ah-ha” moments with those thoughts, I know that it’s God talking to me and telling me which direction I should go. I can say that, with 100% certainty, when I go AGAINST what that voice tells me to do, things go completely wrong.

What did you think of today’s reading? How do you hear God’s voice? DO you hear God’s voice?

Genesis 48-50

2010-01-12T03:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 48-50

About the Reading:

We finish up Genesis with the death of Jacob/Israel and the death of Joseph.

My Thoughts and Notes:

It was a quick reading today, but interesting. Does anyone else notice that, earlier, God changed Abram’s name to Abraham and he is referred to as suck throughout; however Jacob’s name is changed to Israel and the readings seem to bounce back and forth between calling him Jacob and Israel?

It threw me off a bit.

The ending of Genesis seemed a bit anti-climatic. I may be missing something important. I have a strange feeling I am missing something. Anyone have any insight?

Genesis 44-47

2010-01-11T03:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 44-47

About the Reading:

Again we continue with the story of Joseph. The first thing that happens is that Joseph reveals himself to his brothers; then he tells them to go back and bring his father and their families back with them. Pharaoh offers them the best land in Egypt.

The family moves and we continue on the story of those times and how Pharaoh acquires all the land.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Is it just me, or is this one of the easier readings that we have had so far? Or is it that I am just getting into the swing and rhythm? Or maybe it’s because I really know this story well and that’s why it is so easy to read.

I don’t have any specific thoughts on what is going on, I just find it easy to read.

What are your thoughts on the reading?

Genesis 41-43

2010-01-10T09:25:00.001-08:00

Genesis 41-43

About the Reading:

We continue in reading Joseph’s life. First is the story of Pharaoh’s dream in which, after many others cannot do it, Joseph is summoned and interprets the dream for him. As a result, Pharaoh honors Joseph by making him governor of the land saying that only the throne would put Pharaoh above him.

We learn of Joseph’s brothers coming to him and, as he dreamed years ago, bowing down to him. Joseph put them through quite a bit to get food and come back with the youngest brother, Benjamin, whom Jacob had kept at home with him.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Joseph does not take credit for interpreting dreams. He knows that he is only a vessel through which God speaks to interpret these dreams for others. Genesis 41:16

‘Not I,’ Joseph replied to Pharaoh, ‘God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer.’

Is anyone else reading a bit of affection from Joseph to his brothers? I almost see a bit of a smirk on his face as he is pulling one over on them, but it seems to be a boys-will-be-boys, but there seems to be a bit of affection and, most definitely, a need to know that his family is okay.

Maybe it’s just me. I’m sure there is a bit of resentment to his brothers for the way they treated him. What do you think?

Coming soon

2010-01-10T03:00:00.000-08:00

A post will be coming soon however we didn’t get home until 11:45 last night and I didn’t get a chance to post. I will post first thing in when I wake up…well, after I get us breakfast that is.

Please, discuss amongst yourselves if you get here first!

Genesis 37-40

2010-01-09T03:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 37-40

About the Reading:

Today we start with the story of Joseph. Joseph was a son of Jacob. Joseph was Jacob’s favorite child and his other son’s were jealous. They plotted to kill Joseph but, in the end, sold him to the Ishmaelites. They sent his colorful tunic back to their father, dipped in goats blood. Jacob mourned his son.

We learn how God blesses and protects Joseph. Joseph is wrongly accused of wrongdoings by his master’s wife. As a result he ends up in the dungeon. We end today’s reading with Joseph interpreting the dreams of two prisoners and the dreams come true.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Joseph is one of my favorite people in the Bible. He is truly blessed by God. He comes from a family where there is much jealousy in a long ling (his father, Jacob, his grandfather, Isaac). It is amazing to me that, he seems, to not be corrupt by this, but blessed by God.

He does use his gifts from God in a good way. We have just begin to learn of Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams. We first hear of him interpreting his own dreams which fuels the jealousy of his brothers and even enrages his father.

Chapter 38, to me, seems a bit misplaced as it is in the middle of the story of Joseph. Does anyone have any insight as to why this might be placed here?

What do you think of the story, so far, of Joseph?

A week later

2010-01-08T15:00:00.000-08:00

It’s been a week. How’s everyone been doing? What do you think of everything that’s been going on over here? Do you like the format? Are there things that you would like to see added or changed?

I really want to make this a blog that represents, not just me but, everyone who visits and participates here. The best way to make sure it does just that is to participate and let me know the ideas you may have to make it better!

Leave me a comment or, if you would rather, email me or leave me a message on Facebook.

Genesis 33-36

2010-01-08T03:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 33-36

About the Reading:

Today’s reading takes us to Jacob and Esau meeting again after many years. It touches on the rape of Dinah, Jacob’s daughter.

We also learn of Esau’s family tree.

My Thoughts and Notes:

I really don’t have many thoughts on today’s reading. I think partly because the last chapter really was a list of names, again. Does anyone else find it difficult to get through all of those?

Nothing really stood out to me. I mean, you would think that the rape of Jacob’s daughter might get some mention from me, right? But it doesn’t for some reason.

The revenge her brother’s took on the city should mean something to me, too. I think it does to some point. Maybe I’m just not in the right mindset as I am reading today’s passage.

I know that tomorrow’s reading will really get me going, though. We are going to be learning about Joseph. This is a story that I am very familiar with.

Since I failed miserably on commenting on this reading, I’m going to request lots of comments from all of you! What do you think?

Genesis 29-32

2010-01-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 29-32

About the Reading:

Today we learn a lot about the life of Jacob. We learn the life that he has led himself into with his tricking Isaac…a life of being tricked and trying to outwit his uncle Laban.

We learn how Jacob is married to Leah and then Rachel. The numerous children they have and how that comes about.

At the end of today’s reading, we learn of Jacob returning to Esau and also of him being renamed by God to Israel.

My Thoughts and Notes:

Genesis 29:14

and Laban said to him, ‘You are indeed my bone and flesh!’

Does this mean that Laban, too, would easily lie and scheme?

Can we say, “what goes around comes around” about things in the Bible. Would that be appropriate? Jacob tricked his father and now, Jacob was tricked.

It seems, to me, that Jacob and Laban are constantly trying to outwit each other in trying to see who could trick the other more. It’s sad really, isn’t it? That all this tricking/lying/decieving has really caused so much more turmoil than on the surface. Because of tricking Jacob to marrying Leah first, both sisters live their life in competition with each other. Laban’s sons grow more and more hatred.

How often have we tricked/lied/decieved and what are the consequences. The smallest lie can build into the biggest mountain that we really didn’t intend. It really isn’t worth all the trouble, is it?

What stood out to you in the reading today?

Genesis 25:19-28

2010-01-06T03:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 25:19-28

I must apologize to you right now because I have not done the reading yet. I would typically do the reading the night before so that, at 3 am my time, the post is ready to go. Unfortunately I have quickly learned this week that I should plan a little bit more ahead for my Tuesday nights.

I WILL get the post up tonight, but it will be more like 6 my time. I don’t want that to stop the conversations, though. Please, do the reading, leave a comment, discuss amongst yourselves!

(Yeah! I got it up now!)

About the Reading:

Since I am late in posting this, I will only be writing my thoughts and notes tonight.

My Thoughts and Notes:

I find it interesting that Rebekah, as was Sarah, was barren. It’s an interesting note to me. I’m not sure that it means much, but it’s interesting.

I learned that Esau literally means red hairy and Jacob means heel.

There is a definite pattern to Isaac’s life from Abraham, isn’t there? Abraham’s wife is barren; Isaac’s wife is barren. Abraham’s tells everyone his wife is his sister; Isaac tells everyone his wife is his sister. Eventually, in both cases, the truth is discovered and orders are made to leave the men alone.

I read lessons that will say that Jacob took advantage of Esau in a time of weakness to get his birthright. I don’t know that I read it like that (Genesis 25:34):

Then Jacob gave him some bread and lentil stew; he ate, drank, got up and went away. That was all Esau cared about his birthright."

That verse, to me, shows that Esau was willing to give up his birthright. Maybe he even was a bit relieved? I don’t know. What do you think?

Jacob tricks Isaac into giving him a blessing meant for his brother. Rebekah not only encouraged it, but came up with the scheme herself! I am, somewhat, surprised at these actions. Not surprised because I knew what was coming from previous readings; surprised because I can’t imagine coming up with a scheme like this. I can’t imagine favoring one child over another.

Closer to one child? Yes. But to sabotage one child over another? No.

There were consequences from their actions. Jacob had to run for a good remainder of his life.

I know that my writing in this is a bit choppy. I apologize for that today. However, it does show my dedication to reading this year and to enjoying it with all of you. Things have been a bit busy and I have still made time to complete this task.

I’m not going to promise tomorrow’s will be better; but I will promise that tomorrow’s will be up bright and early in the morning!

Genesis 21-25:18

2010-01-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 21-25:18

About the Reading:

We first read about the birth of Isaac, the son promised to him by God. We quickly learn again of Sarah’s jealousy towards Hagar and Ishmael as she tells Abraham to drive them away; yet, again, God protects them.

We learn of the oath made between Abraham and Abimelech which Abraham swears to not act treacherously towards him or his family.

In chapter 22 we start off with the story of God calling Abraham and telling him to take Isaac, his long awaited son, to an alter in Moriah and offer him as a burnt offering to God. Abraham, without question, does as God asks of him.

God stops Abraham at the last minute, before he kills Isaac, and then Abraham gets a ram who is stuck in a nearby bush to sacrifice and offer to God.

In chapter 23, we begin with the death of Sarah. Abraham mourns her and asks for a tomb to bury her. He ends up wanting a cave from Ephron. Abraham pays him for the land and thus buries Sarah there.

Abraham sends his senior servant to go back to his native land to get a wife for Isaac. He has the servant swear that the woman will come from that land but he is to never bring Isaac to that land. There, he asks God to give him a specific sign that he will know the right girl. He finds Rebekah.

She goes with him back to his master and, upon seeing Isaac, covers herself. Isaac marries her.

At the end of the reading, we learn of the death of Abraham and his burial in the same field as Sarah. Then we learn of the death of Ishmael.

My Thoughts and Notes:

I love the verses Genesis 21:6-7

Sarah said: God has given me cause to laugh! all who hear about this will laugh with me!

She added: Whoever would have told Abraham that Sarah would nurse children! Yet I have borne a son in his old age.

I want to do exactly what she says and just laugh! Don’t you? You can hear they joy in what she says.

One of my favorite stories in the Old Testament is the one of Abraham willing to offer Isaac to God as a burnt offering. I’m not sure what about it resonates with me, but it does. I have very clear memories of sitting in fourth grade as we read this story for the first time. Even then I knew what an amazing gift this was.

Abraham waited for a very long time for Isaac and then God tells him to offer him as a sacrifice to Him. More amazing than that, Abraham was very willing to do it! He gets up there, he has Isaac on the alter, he is seconds away from sacrificing him!

That is sacrificing for our God. That is amazing. How many of us would do that? I’d like to say I would; but I know that I am human and sometimes struggle with this.

I also love the story of Rebekah and how the servant finds her. It makes me think of a sappy love story. Do you know what I mean? I just love that she so willingly goes with the servant and, upon seeing Isaac, just seems to know and gets off her camel to cover herself for him. Am I a hopeless romantic, or is that as mushy and romantic as it plays out in my head?

What do you think of today’s readings? What would be the most difficult thing for you to sacrifice for God?

Genesis 16-20

2010-01-04T10:02:00.000-08:00

Genesis 16-20

About the Reading:

The first thing we read about is the birth of Ishmael, Abram’s child with one of Sarai’s slave-girls. It showed how Sarai’s feelings changed towards Hagar once she was pregnant as well as how Hagar responded. God basically says that Ishmael will be an outcast, “living his life in defiance of all his kinsmen.”

We then hear of God renaming Abram to Abraham as He will make him the father of many and many nations. We are also introduced to circumcision and God’s instruction that all males are to be circumcised as a mark as a covenant to God.

God also renames Sarai to Sarah. He promises that Sarah will bear a son. In response to this, Abraham laughs while offering God Ishmael in place of a son that Sarah may have. He promises Abraham that Ishmael will, too, be blessed with many children as will Isaac (the future son to Abraham and Sarah).

We also learn of Sarah’s doubt of bearing a child when God appears to them explaining that she will have a child by this time next year. God reprimands them saying, “Nothing is impossible for Yahweh. I shall come back to you at the same time next year and Sarah will have a son.”

A bit later in Chapter 18, we find Abraham interceding for Sodom convincing God to not destroy the city. He finds a very philosophical argument to talk God out of destroying the city.

We quickly learn that the city of Sodom will be destroyed because of the people in it. God, honoring Abraham, makes sure that Lot and his family are sent to safety before destroying the city. Lot, his wife and two daughters are to go to the next city and not look back. Lot’s wife does not heed the warning and looks back, thus turning her into a pillar of salt.

It is explained where the Moabites and Ammonites begin their heritage through Lot and his daughters.

Lastly, today, we learn about the travels once again of Abraham and how he and Sarah told the king that they were sibling, and not that she was his wife. This again brings trouble from God and Sarah is returned. God spares the king as he did not touch Sarah and Abraham intercedes for the king for God to give him children.

My Thoughts and Notes:

When I first began reading today’s assignment I first thought, “I recall reading this before, but it never really stuck with me.” Then I began to realize that, although Abram was such a true follower of God, he still did not fully trust. In yesterday’s reading we read (Genesis 15:4):

The Yahweh’s word came to him in reply, ‘Such a one will not be your heir; no, your heir will be the issue of your won body.’

In other words, God promised that he would father his own child. I guess, one could argue, that God hadn’t said that he would father a child through Sarai, however I wonder about Abram’s thinking. Did his faith in God’s word falter, or did he really think that God had wanted him to find a way to father a child?

We do learn that both Abram (now Abraham) and Sarai (now Sarah) have doubts about God’s promise of bearing a child. Abraham laughs when God tells him that he will have a child through Sarah.

Sarah herself laughs when she hears God, Himself, say that within a year’s time she will have a child. After all, she has been well past the childbearing age. I can understand their hesitancy. She then has the audacity to lie to God by denying that she laughed. God was simple in his response (18:15)

Sarah said, ‘I did not laugh,’ lying because she was afraid. But he replied, ‘Oh yes, you did laugh.’

As a preschool teacher, I come across this quite a bit. I like to think that I see it a bit like Him. Usually a child “lies” when they think they are in trouble. It’s a defense mechanism in our brains. Sarah had the same response. When a child tells me, “I didn’t hit him!” with that wide-eyed look, I can say I respond the same as God, “Yes, you did hit him.” It’s that simple. Often times, when faced with someone lying to us, the best response is the simple truth.

I find Genesis 18:16-33 very intriguing. God allows Himself to be talked out of destroying the city of Sodom. Well, does God really “allow” Himself to be talked out of it? I don’t think so. I know that God knows all and knew that Abraham would debate the point. In my opinion, this was a lesson from God to Abraham. It’s a lesson to all of us. At what number to we say a person shouldn’t be saved from destruction?

It’s a tough question to answer. Do we bomb a city because it is the home of terrorist who are training to destroy us when we know that there is just one person there who is not a terrorist?

When we get to the origin of the Moabites and the Ammonites, I struggle. I struggle for many reasons, mainly being that it is not made clear that this turned out badly…until you know the history of these two places in which the nations of Moab and Ammon fought for centuries with Israel. I mean, I know what the daughters did was completely wrong, but I don’t find it made clear until I look at the information.

Today’s reading was an interesting one for me with all the history and information, yet I didn’t find much that really stood out to me.

How about you? Did anything stand out for you? What did you learn?

Genesis 9:18-15

2010-01-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 9:18-15

About the Reading:

We first learn of Noah and his sons, and his grandson. As a result of the actions of Ham, Noah curses his grandson (Canaan) to a life of slavery in service to his brothers all while praising God and lifting his other sons to Him.

We again learn more ancestry of these historical people. Through these lists of families, we first learn that there are different languages, clans, and nations.

We also learn the story of Babel in which God came down and, upon seeing the town and the tower to Heaven, made everyone speak different languages so they would no longer be a single people but be scattered across the world.

Here we are introduced to Abram. We learn of God’s promise to him to bless him and make him famous. We learn of his travels with his wife and nephew, Lot, across the land. We learn of God’s great promise to give Abram descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky! We also learn of the land that He gives to Abram as well.

My Thoughts and Notes:

I found today’s reading a bit interesting, a bit not so interesting, and a bit intriguing.

I still can’t seem to get into the who list of ancestry. I think because I am a very visual person and, as I read it, my mind just keeps wanting to turn to look at a family tree type chart as I read it. There are so many descendants, and brothers and sisters and this and that and him and hers that my mind just can’t wrap itself around it all.

I also always struggle with time frames while reading these passages. It is difficult for me to imagine all of these things that happened so long ago as well as to imagine how long some of these time frames are.

I love the story of Abram. It has always been one that interests me. I’m not sure why, but I do find myself very interested every time I read or hear it.

Let’s go back, however, to the story of Babel first. This has always been a story that really wasn’t of much interest to me until I was reading it today. The reason it suddenly became of interest to me was because of the version I went to read.

I am reading from The New Jerusalem Bible as my daily reading; however I keep a copy of the Student Bible New international Version next to me as well. I do this because it is better at clarifying some things for me as I need. I kind of look at the Student Bible a bit as my “dictionary” to the New Jerusalem Bible. Does that make sense?

Anyway, while reading the story of Babel, I began thinking, “Huh, so God didn’t like us working all together so He split us up? That can’t be all, can it?”

I turned to the Student Bible and found this:

11:6 Human Ambition

People are ambitious-they want to succeed. Genesis portrays humans as so ambitious that they try to compete with, rather than serve, God. This was Adam and Eve’s sin (3:5,22), and at Babel people were at it again, in a citywide effort. God frustrated their plans by confusing their language

Now I get it! It wasn’t the fact that the people were working together. It was the fact that people were working together and forgetting to praise God and serve Him in their work.

That really makes me think. I have talked, in the past, about my job feeling more like a vocation than really a job or career. I feel like I have been called to do what I do, to make the lives of children better, to influence those who work with children. I do bring a bit of God with me to work…okay, I bring a LOT of God with me to work.

The struggle, however, comes when others don’t do the same. I guess it would be so much easier to serve God if I were working in a Christian preschool; however, I am not. Therefore, I know that the work I do is to serve God, but it is not in a unifying front.

Now let’s look at the verse that really intrigued me the most today (Genesis 14:21-24):

The king of Sodom said to Abram, ‘give me the people and take the possessions for yourself.’ But Abram replied to the king of Sodom, ‘I swear by God most High, Creator of heaven and earth; not one thread, not one sandal strap, will I take of what is yours, for you to be able to say, “I made Abram rich.” For myself, nothing-except what the troops have used up, and the share due to the men who came with me, Eshcol, Aner and Mamre; let them take their share.’

I read this and I think, “Yes, isn’t that what really should be?” Abram says he will serve God not for the monetary reasons. He will only take what he needs to survive. He will not do his work in order to live a life of luxury. I think this is what we should all strive for, isn’t it?

That’s all I got thoughts-wise on this reading. What do you have? What are your thoughts? What was your most thought-provoking verse today?

Genesis 4-9:17

2010-01-02T03:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 4-9:17

About the Reading:

In today’s reading we learn about Cain and Able, two brothers borne to Eve. Cain, out of jealousy, kills Able and tries to hide that fact from God. Of course, God knows what has happened and punishes Cain, banishing him from society. He also marks Cain so that he will not be killed by others.

We also learn a bit about the ancestral lines of Cain and Seth (another brother to Cain) as well as the fact that these first people of God lived to be very old and that God realized that the length of life had to be shortened (Genesis 6:3).

And finally, we begin the story of Noah’s ark where Noah is instructed by God to build large vessel with specific measurements made of specific woods so that the world could be destroyed while saving species and Noah’s family. We end our reading today just as the storm begins (I wonder what will happen as we continue tomorrow :) )

(edited: Okay, I just picked up my trusty Bible to continue my reading and realized that I stopped at Genesis 7:17, not 9:17 so ignore my whole “I wonder how it will end thing”. Oh, and add to the discussion about the rest of the passage, grr don’t know how I did this, I may be adding more to my thoughts and notes in a bit after I read the rest of today’s reading…oops, is all I can say.)

My thoughts and notes:

Okay, I KNOW how the story continues tomorrow. What I find interesting is that, again, this is a story made familiar to me in childhood. I know that as we continue to read this year, there will be parts of the Bible that I will be very familiar with, parts that I will be vaguely familiar with, and parts that I will not recall ever having read before in my life (although I am sure that I have, at one point or another, read all the parts of the Bible, just not as intentional as this).

On thing I do know about this passage, and future one’s we will be reading, is that, although I am intrigued, I have never really put together the connections of all the people in the ancestry that is introduced at such great lengths. I know there is importance in this, otherwise it wouldn’t be in here. I know that it would probably be pretty easy to find it mapped out in today’s information age where you can find almost anything on line. It is just one of those things that I have never found the time to truly dedicate in educating myself. It has eaten at me for quite a while now, so I know that one day I will actually take care of it. Have any of you ever studied the ancestry? I would love to hear more if you have!

Let’s look at the story of Cain and Able. I can almost empathize with Cain in his jealousy. Have you ever done something at work/school/home and wanted more recognition than you have ended up getting? I know I have. I know there are times, even now, in my job in which I don’t always feel completely appreciated.

Does that mean I am going to kill someone because I am jealous of them? NO! Talk about going against the commandments (reference Michael Mary’s comment in yesterday’s post). It doesn’t mean that I agree with his actions; I’m just saying I can sort of understand.

However, God once again shows us the kind of parent he is (4:11-15). He will punish when punishment is warranted…and it is warranted here! Yet, in He again shows his compassion as well when he marks Cain so that no one will do him harm.

My last thoughts on the Cain and Able story is on Genesis 4:7,

‘If you are doing right, surely you ought to hold your head high! But if you are not doing right, Sin is crouching at the door hungry to get you. You can still master him.’

I love this verse. I can think of several situations in the recent past at work in which I have had to consider if I should hold my head high or reevaluate because I was wrong. I am a sinner, as we all are. However, I have made a very conscious effort lately to make sure that I do my best to do right. My life philosophy is “I will be a better person today than I was yesterday and a better person tomorrow than I am today.”

What I mean by that is that there are things that I did wrong yesterday that do not make me proud, aka sins. If I am aware of those transgressions, I make sure not to make that same transgression again. I can’t go back and change it; I can do my best to right my wrongs, and, maybe even better, I can make sure that I don’t do the same thing again. In all of that, I hold my head high.

No onto the story of Noah. I attempted about 4 years ago to read the Bible in a year. I failed miserably and don’t think I made it past January; something I am not planning on repeating. This time we will all make it through together. Anyway, I remember when I began reading then how I was shocked to see how specific the story is in telling Noah exactly how to build the ark. I mean, God give him the measurements, the types of woods to use, He gives him a verbal blueprint!

If we listen, doesn’t He give us the blue print as well? I know when I listen to Him things come much easier to me. Could you imagine if Noah had said, “Um, no, I think that’s a bit crazy. I don’t think it needs to be three levels, I’m going to make just two.”

I can just imagine the people around Noah and what they were thinking. I mean, what would you think? Crazy, right? Can you also imagine the work that Noah had to go through to get all these animals on that ark? I mean, talk about an organization nightmare! Lions and tigers have to be on an entirely different level than the zebra; food needs to be stored for all; and so much more! I couldn’t imagine! I can barely keep myself organized for a day!

I am disappointed, however, to see that those darn unicorns just don’t make it on that ark :)

On a serious note, this is a story that teaches us how powerful and almighty God truly is. I mean, who else do you know that can destroy the world whenever He chooses. I only know of one!

(edited to add: okay, now that I’ve read the entire reading, I do want to add a few things. First, a funny story. I remember reading this story as a child and I remember the part about the dove flying around and brining an olive branch. However, it wasn’t until I was about10 that I truly understood why the dove had to go out and what the significance of the branch was. I mean, I really didn’t understand that it meant that the water was drying up. Yeah, I wasn’t a very quick child when it came to getting ideas like that.

in 9:3-4 it states

Every living thing that moves will be yours to eat, no less than the foliage of the plants. I give you everything, with this exception: you must not eat flesh with life, that is to say blood, in it.

Just before this God, once again, gives to us the earth and all that is in it. We are to use these items and be responsible for them. Just as he instructed Adam, he again instructs Noah.

Now He is also telling Noah in very specifics that we are to eat the items of the land. We are to eat the vegetation AND the animals! I had always heard of a Kosher diet and am somewhat familiar of the idea through Jewish friends and coworkers who I have known. I see now exactly where it comes from. This passage sums it up, doesn’t it?

Finally, God sums it up by promising to never again destroy all living things again. He makes this promise by putting out a rainbow. You know, every single time I see a rainbow two thoughts go through my mind:

One is that there is ALWAYS a twin, sometimes you have to look really hard, but there is always a mirror image of the rainbow in front of you slightly dimmer than the other. When there is a very light rainbow, it is often difficult to catch the other one, but it’s there.

My other thought, and always really my first thought, is of God and this story. Every time I see a rainbow in the sky I can’t help but to cross myself and say a silent prayer to God in thanks for giving us this world in which to live and for the knowledge that He will never destroy us again.

Alright, those are really my final thoughts on this reading, now that I have read it all. Add one more question to the list below:

What do you think of when you see a rainbow? )

What are your thoughts on today’s reading? Have you ever researched the ancestry?

Genesis 1-3

2010-01-01T03:00:00.000-08:00

Genesis 1-3

I’ve put a link to the reading if you do not have a Bible at home to read from. Today we read Genesis 1-3 (remember that means the book Genesis chapters one through three).

First, welcome to everyone who is here today and will be coming in the future.

About the Book:

Now I want to start with just a very quick and short introduction to the book of Genesis. Genesis actually means “an origin, beginning, or creation.” It is the first book in the Bible (obviously or we wouldn’t be reading it today) and is part of what is called the Pentateuch, or five fold scroll. You can gather from that it means that it is one of five books; the first five books in the Bible.

The Pentateuch is the memorial of the beginnings of God’s people. The book of Genesis really plays a very important part; it sets the scene for the entirety of the Bible. It sets the tone. It shows us that God is the all powerful creator of the universe.

About the Reading:

We begin the year by reading about, well, the beginning! These first 3 chapters in Genesis are all about God creating the World and everything in and about it. He created night and day. He split the land from the water. He created the life of everything! The plants, the animals, all of it! It is all here because of God.

God created a man in His likeness to be the master of this creation.

When he created Adam he notices that, even with all the animals around, he is lonely. God puts him into a deep sleep, takes part of his rib, and creates a female counterpart. Adam, himself, is given the opportunity to name her. She is woman because she is made from him.

This is also were we are first introduced to free will and our human ability to use that free will to go against Him. It is in chapter 3 that we learn about God’s instruction to not eat from one tree and the serpent’s temptation given to Eve who, in turn, tempts Adam.

God then doles out punishment for this decision.

My thoughts and notes:

Maybe because it’s the first book in the Bible, maybe it’s because I went to Catholic schools, maybe it’s because I grew up in a very religious home, but no matter the reason, I am very familiar with this passage.

I can clearly recollect a time in elementary school when we were having a Friday service. The fourth grade class had been responsibly for the readings that day and chose to act this story out. It was then that I realized that the serpent had actually had legs until he was punished because of his behavior.

There were a few verses that stood out to me. First was Genesis 1:12, 24-25 which reads,

“The earth produced vegetation: the various kinds of seed-bearing plants and the fruit trees with seed inside, each corresponding to its own species. God saw that it was good...God said, ‘Let the earth produce every kind of living creature in its own species: cattle, creeping things and wild animals of all kinds.’ And so it was. God made wild animals in their own species, and cattle in theirs and every creature that crawl along the earth in its own species. God saw that it was good.”

A few months ago I was confronted on another blog in my beliefs that God created us and my belief that we didn’t come from a single cell organism. As I was reading these words I realized (wish I had realized back then during my debate) that it says right in there. It’s not an accident through mutation that we are human and pigs are pigs and apple trees are apple trees. God created these things in “their own species”. It’s that simple!

The next verse that struck out to me was Genesis 1:26 that reads,

“God said, ‘Let us make man in our own image, in the likeness of ourselves, and let them be masters of the fish of the sea, the birds of heaven, the cattle, all the wild animals and all the creatures that creep along the ground.’”

This verse struck me because, the way I read it, God has given us a great responsibility to be masters of the living animals on this earth. I have struggled lately in my personal life with decisions on how “green” to go. The way I see it, we are also living on this planet and we shouldn’t care more for the animals than for ourselves; however, I do know and understand that we have been given a big responsibility from God: to care for his creation.

I have come to this conclusion: I can do my part in caring for the animals put into our care. I do not go out of my way to intentionally hurt the animals in our care. It is my responsibility to not trash or destroy the habitats of animals. I recycle, I do my part. However, God also gave us the earth to live off of. We are to use His gift to live. Therefore, farming and using the animals to live is quite alright with me. That’s the way I read it. (okay, please note that I did NOT write that as clearly as it is in my head; but no matter how much editing and rewriting, I just couldn’t get it to sound as good as it is in my head. So, if you want to know what I really mean, I invite you to crawl right inside my brain and pull that information out).

I was also intrigued by Genesis 2:23-24,

“And the man said: This one at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh! She is to be called Woman, because she was taken from Man. This is why a man leaves his father and mother and becomes attached to his wife, and they become one flesh.”

I love these verses for very personal reasons. Personal reasons that I know those of you who are married share with me. It is a powerful thing to think about, isn’t it? In our marriage ceremony it was emphasized a great deal how we were now becoming one. We were no longer two people but one unit. This verse is the root of that belief. This verse is very powerful for me, as it is my husband.

On a personal note that fits right into this verse, my husband and I have a running interaction with each other that really gets to the heart of this. I must admit that he started it, but I love it. Often times when I tell him, “I love you” he will say, “I love me, too…which means I love you, because we are one.” He started this on our wedding night. It’s a bit goofy, but it is one thing that truly keeps us grounded in remembering that we are no longer two entities, but one. This truly is one of my favorite verses.

Chapter 3 in it’s entirety stuck out for me. I think it is here that I see how much God is truly a parent to us. I also see here that through all these years, from the beginning of time, our nature has been to point fingers and, really, not take responsibility for our actions. Do you get that?

I mean, sure the serpent told Eve to eat of the fruit, but he didn’t say “eat it or I’ll kill you.” She still had a choice to make. She chose to eat the fruit even though she knew it was wrong. Her weakness as a human showed right there. As did Adam’s when he, too, ate of the fruit.

What I love, however, is that God listened and then he doled out the punishment. Sure, everyone had their excuses, but none of them were free of their punishment, were they? There was a consequence to their actions and He didn’t falter in His punishment. Heck, he still hasn’t, has he? Here we are how many millions of years later and we still have pain in child birth, serpents still crawl on their bellies and are still not loved by Eve’s children, and man still must sweat through thorns to get fruit from the earth.

However, through it all, it shows God’s great love for us, doesn’t it?

What did you notice about the readings? What did you remember from the past? What are your thoughts on the readings? What was your favorite verse or which verse really stuck out the most to you?

Come, let’s discuss!

One more day

2009-12-31T03:00:00.000-08:00

Are you ready? Do you, like me, have your Bibles sitting next to your bed/computer table/chair ready to be read? Just so you know I have one in EACH of those spots.

Did you spread the word about this? Did you send people this way? I would love to make this a great community this year! The more the merrier!

I am planning on doing another announcement on facebook and twitter later today as well as getting ready with my reading for tomorrow as well.

My plan is to have a post ready first thing in the morning so that we have a full day to discuss each reading. I can’t wait!

I am so excited about this. I just know that this is going to a great adventure for all of us and is going to open so much, especially in the way of knowledge and connections to the Holy Trinity.

How do I know what to read?

2009-12-30T03:00:00.000-08:00

With just two more days until we all begin this great journey of 2010 in reading the entire Bible from cover to cover, some of you may be wondering, "Just how do I know where I am supposed to begin and end my reading every day?"

Sure, I've given you the passages for each day, but what does it mean when it is written, "Genesis 1-3"? Or the even more difficult to understand, "Genesis 4-9:17"? Let me explain a bit for those of you who may not know or need a refresher. For those of you well versed in Bible reading, please add any information you see appropriate to add or clarify if I muddle things up.

First, let me explain that the Bible itself is not just one book. It is a culmination of SEVERAL books put together. Sixty-Six to be exact. The books are put together in roughly a chronological order, meaning that it starts at the beginning with Genesis and ends with the "end of time as we know it" in Revelation. Everything in between falls chronologically as it was written and the time it represents. Four of the books overlap each other significantly (that would be the Holy Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John).

In order to make it easier to reference and understand, each of these books (in relatively recent times) has been broken up into chapters. Each of these chapters have been broken up into verses. Typically, the number of the chapter is written largely at the beginning of each chapter (like any other book you might read). However, those tiny numbers at the beginning or certain sentences (and sometimes in the middle of those sentences) mark the verses.

The verse numbers are strategically placed to complete specific thoughts or passageways; but they can be confusing to someone who has not read the Bible before. You don't actually read these numbers as part of the passageway; these are only to reference specific verses.

Think of it this way, if you have ever had a document typed up for court, you will notice that it is on a paper that, when you get into the body of the document, has a column of numbers down the left side of the page. This way, when a lawyer or judge wants to refer to a specific line in the document they can say something to the effect of, "Evidence 12B line 10" and everyone in the room can quickly read exactly what is being refered.

It is the same way in the Bible, only instead of the numbers being on the left side on the page, they are interspersed throughout.

So, how do you use these numbers so everyone knows which verse you are referencing? And, again, how will you know what to read? Let's break it down:

Genesis 1
This means you are going to go to the book Genesis and read all of chapter one (1)

Genesis 1-3
This means you are going to go to the book Genesis and read chapter one (1) all the way through to the end of chapter three (3).

Genesis 9:17
This one is a bit tricker. Anytime you see a number, a colon sign, then another number, you are looking at the chapter and then the verse. So, in this example the 9:17 means you will go to the book Genesis and read chapter nine (9) verse seventeen (17). You will only be reading this one verse.

Genesis 4-9:17
Are you ready for a trickier one? Here we are looking at the book Genesis and then go to chapter four (4) and read all the way through to chapter nine (9) verse seventeen (17).

Think of it this way:
Book chapter : verse - chapter : verse

If there is no verse listed, that means you are to read the entire chapter.

If there is a verse listed you start at the beginning of that verse.

Okay, one more tricky one:

Genesis 9:17-9:19
This one means that you will be reading in the book Genesis chapter nine (9) verse seventeen (17) through verse nineteen (19); only 2 verses.

Any questions? Did I thoroughly confuse you?
Does anyone have anything to add or clarify?

On Line Resources

2009-12-29T03:00:00.000-08:00

Ida had mentioned and, seeing as how I was getting ready to write this post as I was looking at her comments, I completely agree that we should also have some resources for those who may not have a Bible at home. This would, of course, be some on-line options.

This way, anyone can join us on any given day.

When contemplating this at first I considered just copying each reading into a blog post; however, I am thinking that it might be too much on this blog. What do you think?

So, I have added a section on the sidebar that are links to four different sites I have found that you can read the full Bible on-line.

http://www.biblegateway.com/ This is probably my favorite of the four because it seems to have the most options in the various translations and is somewhat easy to navigate through the different passages. The font is easy to read as well.

http://www.readbibleonline.new/ This is easily my second favorite, pretty close to my first, because it is very easy to jump between the various books and the chapters. It's as easy as clicking on the book name and the chapter. Where it falls from the favorites is only one thing: It is only ONE translations; although it is the Standard American Translation so it is up there in preferences.

www.bibleontheweb.com/Bible.asp This one feels like you are reading a book because of the look to it. It only has three translations, but it is worth checking out. The three translations are: King James, Revised Standard (I'm assuming, but don't know for sure, that this is the American Standard), and Darby (one that I am completely unfamiliar with). It's charm is that it truly looks like a book and, if you are familiar with eReaders, you will enjoy the look and feel of this version.

bibleresources.bible.com/passagesearch.php This one has inumerable options to choose from the various translations and even has some translations in different languages. It isn't quite as easy to navigate, but it is still a great place to be able to read Bible passages.

Those are the best four that I have found, does anyone else have any on-line resources?
What do you think about having the selected reading posted daily? Would it be too much or does it make sense?

Which Version

2009-12-28T03:00:00.000-08:00

Walk into any book store or Christian shop and you will be faced with an inumeral amount of Bibles to choose from.

Do you choose a “student” edition? Is that a bible for a school age child? A college student? Or even an adult who is just getting into reading the Bible and their Religious journey?

How about a “family” Bible? Does this mean that this Bible will not be of any use to a single person? Does this mean you have to have children, or is a married couple considered in this family?

Then there is the Bibles “for men”, “for women”, “for children”? So is there a different message for different people?

The answer is simple…but a bit complex. All these Bibles really do is ADD to the original book. Often times there are inserts that will summarize, give life examples, or just comment on various passages. Many times these may be helpful to others, but all the time they are not necessary.

What is necessary is to look at the versions. There are many, but a better way to look at these is using the word translation rather than version. These all have the message and are only different translations from the original transcripts from different old languages. Some of the most common are:

The King James Version

The New King James Version

The New International Version

The New American Standard Version

The American Standard Version

All of these versions, verse for verse, word for word, have the exact same meaning; however they may be written in a different way. For example, The King James Version is written in an older dialect that fits the time that it was written.

The New International Version is found to be somewhat easier to read by students.

My research has told me that the best at this time would be the New American Standard Version. The reason is that this was a 10 year study from 45 different scholars and, as it is the most recent translation, is written in the most recent and most comment English language known today.

Being a religious couple, we have several Bibles and several different versions. One of the first gifts my husband-then-boyfriend ever gave me was an Orthodox Study Bible of the New Testament. I cherish that gift. It gave me a great introduction into the Eastern Orthodox religion and helped me as I made the transition from Catholisism into Orthodoxy.

I hope throughout this year I will be sharing some of my experiences as well from my Catholic home as a child, to my transition and explorations through college and early adulthood, to my settling in to the Eastern Orthodox religion, to being married and living in an Orthodox home.

I also hope that you will also share some of your experiences as well.

If you were to come to our home, you would find an entire bookcase dedicated to religious books. ONE of those shelves alone hold many different publications of the Bible. This is said not to boast of our dedication because, goodness knows, just OWNING the Bible doesn’t make us good people. This is said to explain to you that I have several options to choose from in starting this journey.

I spent the day Sunday looking through these versions to determine which of our Bibles I would be using to read in the year 2010. I have narrowed it down to 3:

The New Jerusalem Bible Reader’s Edition -This Bible is a direct translation of the Hebrew, Armaic, and Greek. The way it shows the introductions and breaks down the books is helpful and interesting to me. This will most likely be the one I use for the majority of my readings this year.

The New Oxford Annotated Bible-This Bible looks to have the most notes on the text which may come in handy when looking to understand better the text. It seems to be closer in original text that some of our other versions. This will most likely be my third choice of the three I will be using and may only be used just for clarification purposes as I really like The New Jerusalem Bible and find myself drawn more to that one.

The Student Bible New International Version-This Bible is one that I have had since my late college years. I find it a bit easier to read and look up specific passages. I plan to use this as my secondary Bible for this year and my “travel” Bible as it is definitely lighter than an of the other Bibles. It does have some of those extra stories and scenarios added to it, but I rarely read these. I do find this is my go-to Bible when looking things up. Although this may just be because I took the time to add permanent tabs to the pages to make it easier to flip through.

So, there you have it, those will be my go-to Bibles in the year 2010. Which Bibles will you be using?

The Entire Year

2009-12-27T13:40:00.000-08:00

January
1 Genesis 1-3
2 Genesis 4-9:17
3 Genesis 9:18-15
4 Genesis 16-20
5 Genesis 21-25:18
6 Genesis 25:19-28
7 Genesis 29-32
8 Genesis 33-36
9 Genesis 37-40
10 Genesis 41-43
11 Genesis 44-47
12 Genesis 48-50
13 Exodus 1-3
14 Exodus 4-7:7
15 Exodus 7:8-11
16 Exodus 12-15:21
17 Exodus 15:22-19
18 Exodus 20-23
19 Exodus 24-27
20 Exodus 28-30
21 Exodus 31-34
22 Exodus 35-40
23 Leviticus 1-4
24 Leviticus 5-7
25 Leviticus 8-11
26 Leviticus 12-14
27 Leviticus 15-18
28 Leviticus 19-22
29 Leviticus 23-25
30 Leviticus 26-27
31 Number 1-2

February
1 Numbers 3-4
2 Numbers 5-7
3 Numbers 8-10
4 Numbers 11-14
5 Numbers 15-18:24
6 Numbers 18:25-22:1
7 Numbers 22:2-25
8 Numbers 26-29
9 Numbers 30-32
10 Numbers 33-36
11 Deuteronomy 1-3:17
12 Deuteronomy 3:18-6
13 Deuteronomy 7-11
14 Deuteronomy 12-15
15 Deuteronomy 16-20
16 Deuteronomy 21-25:10
17 Deuteronomy 25:11-28
18 Deuteronomy 29-31:29
19 Deuteronomy 31:30-34
20 Joshua 1-2
21 Joshua 3-6
22 Joshua 7-9
23 Joshua 10-12
24 Joshua 13-17
25 Joshua 18-21
26 Joshua 22-24
27 Judges 1-3:6
28 Judges 3:7-5

March
1 Judges 6-8
2 Judges 9-11
3 Judges 12-16
4 Judges 17-21
5 Ruth
6 1 Samuel 1-2
7 1 Samuel 3-8
8 1 Samuel 9-12
9 1 Samuel 13-15
10 1 Samuel 16-19:7
11 1 Samuel19:8-22
12 1 Samuel 23-26
13 1 Samuel 27-31
14 2 Samuel 1-3
15 2 Samuel 4-9
16 2 Samuel 10-13
17 2 Samuel 14-17:16
18 2 Samuel 17:17-20
19 2 Samuel 21-24
20 1 Kings 1-2
21 1 Kings 3-6
22 1 Kings 7-8
23 1 Kings 9-11
24 1 Kings 12-15:24
25 1 Kings 15:25-18
26 1 Kings 19-20
27 1 Kings 21-22
28 2 Kings 1-3
29 2 Kings 4-7
30 2 Kings 8-10
31 2 Kings 11-14

April
1 2 Kings 15-17
2 2 Kings 18-21
3 2 Kings 22-25
4 1 Chronicles 1-4
5 1 Chronicles 5-7
6 1 Chronicles 8-11
7 1 Chronicles 12-16
8 1 Chronicles 17-22
9 1 Chronicles 23-26
10 1 Chronicles 27-29
11 2 Chronicles 1-5
12 2 Chronicles 6-9
13 2 Chronicles 10-16
14 2 Chronicles 17-21:1
15 2 Chronicles 21:2-25
16 2 Chronicles 26-29
17 2 Chronicles 30-33
18 2 Chronicles 34-36
19 Ezra 1-5
20 Ezra 6-6-10
21 Nehemiah 1-5
22 Nehemiah 6-8
23 Nehemiah 9-13
24 Tobit 1-4
25 Tobit 5-8
26 Tobit 9-14
27 Judith 1-6
28 Judith 7-10
29 Judith 11-16
30 Esther 1-3:6

May
1 Esther 3:7-5
2 Esther 6-10
3 1 Maccabees 1-2
4 1 Maccabees 3-4
5 1 Maccabees 5- 6
6 1 Maccabees 7-9:22
7 1 Maccabees 9:23-10
8 1 Maccabees 11-12
9 1 Maccabees 13-16
10 2 Maccabees 1-3
11 2 Maccabees 4-6
12 2 Maccabees 7-10:8
13 2 Maccabees 10:9-12
14 2 Maccabees 13-15
15 3 Maccabees 1-3
16 3 Maccabees 4-7
17 4 Maccabees 1-4
18 4 Maccabees 5-9
19 4 Maccabees 10-14
20 4 Maccabees 15-18
21 Job 1-5
22 Job 6-10
23 Job 11-14
24 Job 15-18
25 Job 19-21
26 Job 22-27
27 Job 28-31
28 Job 32-37
29 Job 38-42
30 Psalms 1-8
31 Psalms 9-17

June
1 Psalms 18-22
2 Psalms 23-29
3 Psalms 30-34
4 Psalms 35-38
5 Psalms 39-43
6 Psalms 44-50
7 Psalms 51-57
8 Psalms 58-64
9 Psalms 65-69
10 Psalms 70-74
11 Psalms 75-78
12 Psalms 79-87
13 Psalms 88-92
14 Psalms 93-101
15 Psalms 102-105
16 Psalms 106-109
17 Psalms 110-118
18 Psalms 119
19 Psalms 120-129
20 Psalms 130-138
21 Psalms 139-145
22 Psalms 146-151
23 Proverbs 1-3
24 Proverbs 4-9
25 Proverbs 10-13
26 Proverbs 14-17
27 Proverbs 18-22:16
28 Proverbs 22:17-24
29 Proverbs 25-29
30 Proverbs 30-31

July
1 Ecclesiastes 1-6
2 Ecclesiastes 7-12
3 Song of Songs 1-4
4 Song of Songs 5- 8
5 Wisdom 1-5
6 Wisdom 6-9
7 Wisdom 10-14
8 Wisdom 15-19
9 Ecclesiasticus 1-4
10 Ecclesiasticus 5-9
11 Ecclesiasticus 10-14:19
12 Ecclesiasticus 14:20-19
13 Ecclesiasticus 20-23
14 Ecclesiasticus 24-28
15 Ecclesiasticus 29-33
16 Ecclesiasticus 34-38
17 Ecclesiasticus 39-42:14
18 Ecclesiasticus 42:15-46
19 Ecclesiasticus 47-51
20 Isaiah 1-5
21 Isaiah 6-12
22 Isaiah 13-20
23 Isaiah 21-27
24 Isaiah 28-33
25 Isaiah 34-39
26 Isaiah 40-44
27 Isaiah 45-50
28 Isaiah 51-55
29 Isaiah 56-62
30 Isaiah 63-66
31 Jeremiah 1-2

August
1 Jeremiah 3-6
2 Jeremiah 7-11
3 Jeremiah 12-17
4 Jeremiah 18-24
5 Jeremiah 25-29
6 Jeremiah 30-35
7 Jeremiah 36-43
8 Jeremiah 44-49
9 Jeremiah 50-52
10 Lamentations 1-2
11 Lamentation 3-5
12 Baruch
13 Ezekiel 1-7:14
14 Ezekiel 7:15-14
15 Ezekiel 15-19
16 Ezekiel 20-24
17 Ezekiel 25-32
18 Ezekiel 33-39
19 Ezekiel 40-44
20 Ezekiel 45-48
21 Daniel 1-2
22 Daniel 3-4
23 Daniel 5-8
24 Daniel 9-12
25 Daniel 13-14
26 Hosea 1-5
27 Hosea 6-14
28 Joel
29 Amos 1-4
30 Amos 5-9
31 Obadiah

September
1 Jonah
2 Micah 1-3
3 Micah 4-7
4 Nahum
5 Habakkuk
6 Zephaniah
7 Haggai
8 Zechariah 1-7
9 Zechariah 8-14
10 Malachi
11 Matthew 1-2
12 Matthew 3-7
13 Matthew 8-10
14 Matthew 11-13:52
15 Matthew 13:53-18
16 Matthew 19-21
17 Matthew 22-25
18 Matthew 26-28
19 Mark 1-3
20 Mark 4-7:23
21 Mark 7:24-10
22 Mark 11-13
23 Mark 14-16
24 Luke 1-2
25 Luke 3-4
26 Luke 5-6
27 Luke 7-8
28 Luke 9-10
29 Luke 11-12
30 Luke 13-15

October
1 Luke 16-18
2 Luke 19-21
3 Luke 22-24
4 John 1-2
5 John 3-4
6 John 5-6
7 John 7-8
8 John 9-10
9 John 11-12
10 John 13-14
11 John 15-17
12 John 18-19
13 John 20-21
14 Acts 1-2
15 Acts 3-5
16 Acts 6-8:3
17 Acts 8:4-9:31
18 Acts 9:32-12
19 Acts 13-14
20 Acts 15-16
21 Acts 17-19:20
22 Acts 19:21-21
23 Acts 21-23
24 Acts 24-26
25 Acts 27-28
26 Romans 1-2
27 Romans 3-4
28 Romans 5-7
29 Romans 8-9
30 Romans 10-11
31 Romans 12-13

November
1 Romans 14-16
2 1 Corinthian 1-3:17
3 1 Corinthian 3:18-6
4 1 Corinthian 7-9
5 1 Corinthian 10-11
6 1 Corinthian 12-13
7 1 Corinthian 14-16
8 2 Corinthian 1-2:11
9 2 Corinthian 2:12-7
10 2 Corinthian 8-9
11 2 Corinthian 10-13
12 Galatians 1-2
13 Galatians 3-4:11
14 Galatians 4:12-6
15 Ephesians 1-3
16 Ephesians 4-6
17 Philippians 1-2
18 Philippians 3-4
19 Colossians 1-2
20 Colossians 3-4
21 1 Thessalonians 1-2
22 1 Thessalonians 3-5
23 2 Thessalonians
24 1 Timothy 1-2
25 1 Timothy 3-4
26 1 Timothy 5-6
27 2 Timothy 1-2
28 2 Timothy 3-4
29 Titus
30 Philemon

December
1 Hebrews 1-2
2 Hebrews 3-4
3 Hebrews 5-6
4 Hebrews 7-8
5 Hebrews 9-10:18
6 Hebrews 10:19-11
7 Hebrews 12-13
8 James 1-2
9 James 3-5
10 1 Peter 1-2
11 1 Peter 3-5
12 2 Peter 1
13 2 Peter 2-3
14 1 John 1-2
15 1 John 3-4:6
16 1 John 4:7-5
17 2 John
18 3 John
19 Jude
20 Revelation 1
21 Revelation 2-3
22 Revelation 4-5
23 Revelation 6-7
24 Revelation 8-9
25 Revelation 10-11
26 Revelation 12-13
27 Revelation 14-15:4
28 Revelation 15:5-16
29 Revelation 17-18
30 Revelation 19-20
31 Revelation 21-22

December 2010

2009-12-27T12:52:00.001-08:00

1 Hebrews 1-2
2 Hebrews 3-4
3 Hebrews 5-6
4 Hebrews 7-8
5 Hebrews 9-10:18
6 Hebrews 10:19-11
7 Hebrews 12-13
8 James 1-2
9 James 3-5
10 1 Peter 1-2
11 1 Peter 3-5
12 2 Peter 1
13 2 Peter 2-3
14 1 John 1-2
15 1 John 3-4:6
16 1 John 4:7-5
17 2 John
18 3 John
19 Jude
20 Revelation 1
21 Revelation 2-3
22 Revelation 4-5
23 Revelation 6-7
24 Revelation 8-9
25 Revelation 10-11
26 Revelation 12-13
27 Revelation 14-15:4
28 Revelation 15:5-16
29 Revelation 17-18
30 Revelation 19-20
31 Revelation 21-22

November 2010

2009-12-27T12:48:00.001-08:00

1 Romans 14-16
2 1 Corinthian 1-3:17
3 1 Corinthian 3:18-6
4 1 Corinthian 7-9
5 1 Corinthian 10-11
6 1 Corinthian 12-13
7 1 Corinthian 14-16
8 2 Corinthian 1-2:11
9 2 Corinthian 2:12-7
10 2 Corinthian 8-9
11 2 Corinthian 10-13
12 Galatians 1-2
13 Galatians 3-4:11
14 Galatians 4:12-6
15 Ephesians 1-3
16 Ephesians 4-6
17 Philippians 1-2
18 Philippians 3-4
19 Colossians 1-2
20 Colossians 3-4
21 1 Thessalonians 1-2
22 1 Thessalonians 3-5
23 2 Thessalonians
24 1 Timothy 1-2
25 1 Timothy 3-4
26 1 Timothy 5-6
27 2 Timothy 1-2
28 2 Timothy 3-4
29 Titus
30 Philemon

October 2010

2009-12-27T12:43:00.001-08:00

1 Luke 16-18
2 Luke 19-21
3 Luke 22-24
4 John 1-2
5 John 3-4
6 John 5-6
7 John 7-8
8 John 9-10
9 John 11-12
10 John 13-14
11 John 15-17
12 John 18-19
13 John 20-21
14 Acts 1-2
15 Acts 3-5
16 Acts 6-8:3
17 Acts 8:4-9:31
18 Acts 9:32-12
19 Acts 13-14
20 Acts 15-16
21 Acts 17-19:20
22 Acts 19:21-21
23 Acts 21-23
24 Acts 24-26
25 Acts 27-28
26 Romans 1-2
27 Romans 3-4
28 Romans 5-7
29 Romans 8-9
30 Romans 10-11
31 Romans 12-13

September 2010

2009-12-27T12:36:00.001-08:00

1 Jonah
2 Micah 1-3
3 Micah 4-7
4 Nahum
5 Habakkuk
6 Zephaniah
7 Haggai
8 Zechariah 1-7
9 Zechariah 8-14
10 Malachi
11 Matthew 1-2
12 Matthew 3-7
13 Matthew 8-10
14 Matthew 11-13:52
15 Matthew 13:53-18
16 Matthew 19-21
17 Matthew 22-25
18 Matthew 26-28
19 Mark 1-3
20 Mark 4-7:23
21 Mark 7:24-10
22 Mark 11-13
23 Mark 14-16
24 Luke 1-2
25 Luke 3-4
26 Luke 5-6
27 Luke 7-8
28 Luke 9-10
29 Luke 11-12
30 Luke 13-15

August 2010

2009-12-27T12:32:00.001-08:00

1 Jeremiah 3-6
2 Jeremiah 7-11
3 Jeremiah 12-17
4 Jeremiah 18-24
5 Jeremiah 25-29
6 Jeremiah 30-35
7 Jeremiah 36-43
8 Jeremiah 44-49
9 Jeremiah 50-52
10 Lamentations 1-2
11 Lamentation 3-5
12 Baruch
13 Ezekiel 1-7:14
14 Ezekiel 7:15-14
15 Ezekiel 15-19
16 Ezekiel 20-24
17 Ezekiel 25-32
18 Ezekiel 33-39
19 Ezekiel 40-44
20 Ezekiel 45-48
21 Daniel 1-2
22 Daniel 3-4
23 Daniel 5-8
24 Daniel 9-12
25 Daniel 13-14
26 Hosea 1-5
27 Hosea 6-14
28 Joel
29 Amos 1-4
30 Amos 5-9
31 Obadiah

July 2010

2009-12-27T12:28:00.001-08:00

1 Ecclesiastes 1-6
2 Ecclesiastes 7-12
3 Song of Songs 1-4
4 Song of Songs 5- 8
5 Wisdom 1-5
6 Wisdom 6-9
7 Wisdom 10-14
8 Wisdom 15-19
9 Ecclesiasticus 1-4
10 Ecclesiasticus 5-9
11 Ecclesiasticus 10-14:19
12 Ecclesiasticus 14:20-19
13 Ecclesiasticus 20-23
14 Ecclesiasticus 24-28
15 Ecclesiasticus 29-33
16 Ecclesiasticus 34-38
17 Ecclesiasticus 39-42:14
18 Ecclesiasticus 42:15-46
19 Ecclesiasticus 47-51
20 Isaiah 1-5
21 Isaiah 6-12
22 Isaiah 13-20
23 Isaiah 21-27
24 Isaiah 28-33
25 Isaiah 34-39
26 Isaiah 40-44
27 Isaiah 45-50
28 Isaiah 51-55
29 Isaiah 56-62
30 Isaiah 63-66
31 Jeremiah 1-2

June 2010

2009-12-27T12:15:00.001-08:00

1 Psalms 18-22
2 Psalms 23-29
3 Psalms 30-34
4 Psalms 35-38
5 Psalms 39-43
6 Psalms 44-50
7 Psalms 51-57
8 Psalms 58-64
9 Psalms 65-69
10 Psalms 70-74
11 Psalms 75-78
12 Psalms 79-87
13 Psalms 88-92
14 Psalms 93-101
15 Psalms 102-105
16 Psalms 106-109
17 Psalms 110-118
18 Psalms 119
19 Psalms 120-129
20 Psalms 130-138
21 Psalms 139-145
22 Psalms 146-151
23 Proverbs 1-3
24 Proverbs 4-9
25 Proverbs 10-13
26 Proverbs 14-17
27 Proverbs 18-22:16
28 Proverbs 22:17-24
29 Proverbs 25-29
30 Proverbs 30-31

May 2010

2009-12-27T12:07:00.001-08:00

1 Esther 3:7-5
2 Esther 6-10
3 1 Maccabees 1-2
4 1 Maccabees 3-4
5 1 Maccabees 5- 6
6 1 Maccabees 7-9:22
7 1 Maccabees 9:23-10
8 1 Maccabees 11-12
9 1 Maccabees 13-16
10 2 Maccabees 1-3
11 2 Maccabees 4-6
12 2 Maccabees 7-10:8
13 2 Maccabees 10:9-12
14 2 Maccabees 13-15
15 3 Maccabees 1-3
16 3 Maccabees 4-7
17 4 Maccabees 1-4
18 4 Maccabees 5-9
19 4 Maccabees 10-14
20 4 Maccabees 15-18
21 Job 1-5
22 Job 6-10
23 Job 11-14
24 Job 15-18
25 Job 19-21
26 Job 22-27
27 Job 28-31
28 Job 32-37
29 Job 38-42
30 Psalms 1-8
31 Psalms 9-17

April 2010

2009-12-27T12:00:00.001-08:00

1 2 Kings 15-17
2 2 Kings 18-21
3 2 Kings 22-25
4 1 Chronicles 1-4
5 1 Chronicles 5-7
6 1 Chronicles 8-11
7 1 Chronicles 12-16
8 1 Chronicles 17-22
9 1 Chronicles 23-26
10 1 Chronicles 27-29
11 2 Chronicles 1-5
12 2 Chronicles 6-9
13 2 Chronicles 10-16
14 2 Chronicles 17-21:1
15 2 Chronicles 21:2-25
16 2 Chronicles 26-29
17 2 Chronicles 30-33
18 2 Chronicles 34-36
19 Ezra 1-5
20 Ezra 6-6-10
21 Nehemiah 1-5
22 Nehemiah 6-8
23 Nehemiah 9-13
24 Tobit 1-4
25 Tobit 5-8
26 Tobit 9-14
27 Judith 1-6
28 Judith 7-10
29 Judith 11-16
30 Esther 1-3:6

March 2010

2009-12-27T11:51:00.001-08:00

1 Judges 6-8
2 Judges 9-11
3 Judges 12-16
4 Judges 17-21
5 Ruth
6 1 Samuel 1-2
7 1 Samuel 3-8
8 1 Samuel 9-12
9 1 Samuel 13-15
10 1 Samuel 16-19:7
11 1 Samuel19:8-22
12 1 Samuel 23-26
13 1 Samuel 27-31
14 2 Samuel 1-3
15 2 Samuel 4-9
16 2 Samuel 10-13
17 2 Samuel 14-17:16
18 2 Samuel 17:17-20
19 2 Samuel 21-24
20 1 Kings 1-2
21 1 Kings 3-6
22 1 Kings 7-8
23 1 Kings 9-11
24 1 Kings 12-15:24
25 1 Kings 15:25-18
26 1 Kings 19-20
27 1 Kings 21-22
28 2 Kings 1-3
29 2 Kings 4-7
30 2 Kings 8-10
31 2 Kings 11-14

February 2010

2009-12-27T11:42:00.001-08:00

1 Numbers 3-4
2 Numbers 5-7
3 Numbers 8-10
4 Numbers 11-14
5 Numbers 15-18:24
6 Numbers 18:25-22:1
7 Numbers 22:2-25
8 Numbers 26-29
9 Numbers 30-32
10 Numbers 33-36
11 Deuteronomy 1-3:17
12 Deuteronomy 3:18-6
13 Deuteronomy 7-11
14 Deuteronomy 12-15
15 Deuteronomy 16-20
16 Deuteronomy 21-25:10
17 Deuteronomy 25:11-28
18 Deuteronomy 29-31:29
19 Deuteronomy 31:30-34
20 Joshua 1-2
21 Joshua 3-6
22 Joshua 7-9
23 Joshua 10-12
24 Joshua 13-17
25 Joshua 18-21
26 Joshua 22-24
27 Judges 1-3:6
28 Judges 3:7-5

January 2010

2009-12-27T11:27:00.001-08:00

1 Genesis 1-3
2 Genesis 4-9:17
3 Genesis 9:18-15
4 Genesis 16-20
5 Genesis 21-25:18
6 Genesis 25:19-28
7 Genesis 29-32
8 Genesis 33-36
9 Genesis 37-40
10 Genesis 41-43
11 Genesis 44-47
12 Genesis 48-50
13 Exodus 1-3
14 Exodus 4-7:7
15 Exodus 7:8-11
16 Exodus 12-15:21
17 Exodus 15:22-19
18 Exodus 20-23
19 Exodus 24-27
20 Exodus 28-30
21 Exodus 31-34
22 Exodus 35-40
23 Leviticus 1-4
24 Leviticus 5-7
25 Leviticus 8-11
26 Leviticus 12-14
27 Leviticus 15-18
28 Leviticus 19-22
29 Leviticus 23-25
30 Leviticus 26-27
31 Number 1-2

Posted Schedules

2009-12-27T11:26:00.001-08:00

I was going to post the entire list on the side bar for the year, but it was way too much. So, I posted just January 2010. I will be posting a few different posts, however, that breaks down each month and then one that will be the entire year’s schedule. The next 12 posts will be each month’s post and then an additional post for the entire schedule. I will then post a bunch of links on the side so that you can hop ahead or back easily.

This is the year

2009-12-27T10:52:00.000-08:00

This is the year that I will read the Bible from cover to cover. I have a chart that I will be posting so that you can read along with me! Starting January 1, 2010 I will read the first "assigned reading". by December 31, 2010 I will have read every word.

Will you join me? Will you dedicate you year to reading alongside me? It will only take a few minutes every day. What's a few minutes dedicated to reading the Good Book compared to what God and Jesus have done for us?

If you would like to be included, please leave a comment below and let me know. I will list you on the sidebar here. If you want, I'll even link to you blog as well.

I do want this to be an interactive blog so make sure to come by and leave comments every day!

Before January 1st I will be making some adjustments here as well as posting our calendar for the year. It should be a lot of fun!