Many years ago in the late 1980s, the first year Disciple Bible Study was in existence, I was encouraging a couple of folks to participate in the class that was forming. I urged a certain youngish man to sign up, and with a mischievous grin, he said that if there were Cliff’s Notes on the Bible, he’d do it. He thought the discussion was over. I went to the local bookstore, and guess what I found? I presented it to him the following Sunday, and, true to his word, he signed up and became part of the first Disciple Class I ever did. He also talked a couple of his buddies into joining him.

People have all sorts of motivations for Bible study. On Sunday, we’ll hear a little bit of the stories of three of our folks who did Disciple this year. Everyone’s story is different. The one thing that is that same for all of us is that God speaks to us through scripture if we’re ready to listen. It’s also true that it helps to do it together. Scripture can be tough to understand. I’ve often wondered why God didn’t make it clearer, easier, more readily accessible for average folks like me. Just so you know, if you ask any pastor you know, they’ll tell you that they, too, struggle with parts of the Bible.

Again, it’s a big help and a huge blessing to do it together. I’ve done Disciple 1 at least a dozen times over the years, and every week, in every class, someone says something that makes me think “I’ve never thought about it that way before.” What a gift that is to me! Hearing the inspired questions and thoughts of real people I know is worth more than a shelf full of commentaries, though I count on them too.

I hope I’ll see you on Sunday as some of this year’s class members share about their experiences. I hope you’ll also consider joining the Disciple 2 class this year. It’s a similar format but focuses on Genesis/Exodus and Luke/Acts. You don’t have to be a Disciple 1 grad to take part, and all youth and adults are welcome. Just be ready for God to address you just exactly where you are, because that’s what God does.

A friend of mine, who recently went home to God, always began his day with this prayer. “Good morning, God. How are you going to blow my mind today?” He was never disappointed, because God is always active. Get ready for some amazing surprises!

See you in church!
Pastor Gayle