“For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.”
2 Peter 1:16
The scriptures say that faith comes by hearing. That was
never truer than in the days before the written canon existed. It is still true
today though the story may be read as often as it is heard. The point I wish to
stress is that the gospel is a story. As Peter said, that doesn’t mean that the
story is false or made up by the writer’s imagination.
What it does mean is that the surest approach to the
gospel is as a story. Rather than dissect it, outline it, or hunt for hidden subplots
and meanings—step inside. See the story; live the story.
Christians speak about studying the Bible and they should
engage in thinking about what it says and its application to their situation.
Contemplation and meditation are sound Christian disciples to be neglected at
their own peril.
Christianity, is more than reading, praying, and studying.
It is first and foremost to be lived—to enter physically, mentally, and
emotionally into the very life and story of Christ as a participant. C.S. Lewis
described this as the practice of enjoyment or joy. Christianity is to be
enjoyed.
It is difficult to see this from the outside, just as it is hard
to enjoy a story by looking at the cover of the book or reading reviews. I have
yet to understand how some young people get excited about watching others play
video games even though an entire industry has sprung up around the practice.
Watching Christians live the story is disappointing. Since no
one plays it perfectly or even in the same manner we might think they should.
The story can only be understood and appreciated from within. The “fable” was
written by those living it for those who would like to join in living it.
The good news of the scripture is life and living the
ongoing story of Christ.
Maranatha
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