"All scripture is inspired by God and can profitably be used for teaching, for refuting error, for guiding people's lives and teaching them to be holy." (2 Timothy 3:16)
2 Timothy 3:14 - 4:2

 

This Sunday's second reading for Mass was from St. Paul's second letter to Timothy. St. Paul is teaching about Scripture and tells us that all Scripture is inspired by God. He says it is for guiding people's lives and teaching them how to be holy. 

The word of God, the Scriptures, is not meant to be read and heard alone. We read many things every day. We take in information. Sometimes we listen to what is read, and then, once heard, we move on. God's word is different. God's word is not for reading alone. It is for pondering, reflecting on, praying with and transforming the way we think about ourselves, others and the world. 

I recently heard someone using the analogy of water in a river for God's word. As water flows through a river bed, it, over time, shapes the rocks and river bed. The flow of the water gives all a unique colour and texture. But the water also supports life – fish, bird, trees, plants, animals and human beings. 

So too, the word of God, when we spend time with it and allow it to flow through us – not just hear it read but live with it and ponder it – shapes us over time. God's word gives us a unique shape as we allow it to penetrate deep within us. Over time God's word transforms us, and we become life-giving to those around us. Ultimately, as St. Paul tells us, God's word guides our lives and teaches us to be holy. 

For this reason, we do not approach God's word like we do the daily news or novels. In our Catholic tradition, we treat Bibles and Missals with respect, knowing that these books contain God's word, the word of life. Often, you will notice the Book of Scriptures is enthroned at Mass or in Churches to remind us that the text is sacred and has the potential to transform in a way that nothing else has. 

Take time today to consider the place of God's word in your own life. Do you spend time with God's word? Do you allow God's word to shape you daily as water shapes the rocks in a river? Do you have a special place for your Bible, the sacred book that is our real source of life, in your house or room?
 

Lord God, 
Thank you for speaking to me in so many ways. You speak to us through nature, 

through others, in my thoughts and through the concerns of my heart. 

Today, I want to thank you for the unique way you communicate with me 

through the sacred texts of Scripture. Grace me with the ability to allow your word to penetrate deeply into my mind and heart. May your word shape me 

so that I may become life-giving to all around me.

Amen.