Intentional Reading

One of the inspirations I've gotten is to encourage as many as possible in our congregation to commit to reading the whole of the New Testament over the summer. The goal is to have it done by August 31. There are 260 chapters in the 27 books of the New Testament. One book is only 1 chapter (Philemon) (pronounced Fi-LEE-mun)and some are only 5 or 6 chapters. If you read just three chapters a day from June 1 you'll be finished before August 31. So if you miss a day that's okay. There are 92 days in the three summer months, and at three chapters a day, you'll be done in 87 days. So there is some grace along the way.
All of us have read some of the New Testament. Many have read one of the gospels, or one of the letters, but not many of us have actually read the whole thing from front to back in a continuous pattern. Now I know several have told me that they have already read the whole of the New Testament, but then they usually tell me that was some years ago. So, it's probably time again anyway.
This whole thing started when I challenged my daughter to read the whole New Testament this summer. She's an avid reader, and a deeply committed Christian, but between schoolwork and fun summer reading, I wanted to squeeze in a little head knowledge of the Bible, and give her some inspiration. So to make it a challenge, I agreed that I too would read the whole New Testament this summer, if she would. She agreed. So we are both on the hook.
Then I thought, well, that's actually not a bad thing for all of us to do. And I said to myself, "I wonder how many people in the church would be willing to try it with us?" So I put the challenge out there, and I am so pleased at how many are deciding to take up the challenge. For many, this may be the first time they read much of the core documents of our faith. I pray that the Holy Spirit will work on all of us as we read or re-read the sacred story of who we are as Christians.
So, will you join us? Over 30 people signed up on the first Sunday I invited people to read along. You may start at any time. The goal is to be finished by or on August 31. Let us know that you are reading along with us. On Sunday, September 5 we will celebrate everyone's accomplishments. Enjoy!