Monday’s class was very interesting. I have never done anything quite like what we did. Who would have thought that reading to a bunch of plants, water, birds and cars would be so invigorating? I felt somewhat freed after reading the book of Joel aloud. Despite the fact that a large part of the book of Joel is about the judgment of God...I was reminded of how awesome God really is. While looking out onto the water, I was reminded of how beautifully intricate and amazing the earth really is. It truly testifies to his authorship, creativeness and power.
The section of Joel that really got my attention was the section titled "Deliverance Promised". In the middle of all of this judgment, drought, famine and death, God promises deliverance. He talks about the vastness and power of His army....and how he will repay the people for their vindication. He promises an abundance of all of the good things one would desire. It was through Joel’s use of similes and imagery that the stories really came to life. As you read throughout the entire book, there is a picture that is painted for you.
The most important thing that impacted me from this reading is that no matter what happens in this world, no matter what the enemy throws your way, there is hope in Christ. Whether we realize it or not, Christ is coming back. We must keep our minds and hearts pure...He is coming back for a spotless bride, a bride who is patiently yet eagerly awaiting his return. We must keep our eyes fixed upon his face. I do not want to miss out on all that God has for me in this day and age. Do you? It is time not to prepare for the return of Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Yes it was nice being still and reading his word. The imagery in Joel is purely amazing. You can literally see the pictures in your mind. I love how we can get great pieces of literature in the bible even of apocolyptic things!
ReplyDeletei agree with you heather. whenever i watch "planet earth" i'm always blown away by creation. from the largest elephant to the small single cell organism, everything reminds me of just how amazing our God is.
ReplyDeletesometimes i think God created things just to blow our minds. like sharks and waterfalls.
Heather, I completely agree with everything you said here. And yes, to continue the thought above me, Creation is stunning. I love that He's made it all for us--I especially love sunsets and clouds and such. They remind me to keep looking up, waiting for Him. :]
ReplyDeleteDeliverance Promised... thats what I read too. I share your invigoration, because it was somewhat of a novel experience. I cant say that i'll do this regularly, but it certainly stretched my faith. We should always be proclaiming the words of the Lord. Be that as it may,I think reading aloud or in small conversations certainly helps the kingdom
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