Methods for Bible study

I've been looking at ways to make Bible study a bit easier. I often struggle to find the lesson in the reading and a way to explain it so it makes sense, helping me to get a better understanding of what it is I'm reading.

So, one article I read said you could create your own acronym to help you study. I came up with this: READ, as demonstrated in the graphic above. I think it is sort of an adaptation of the SOAP method. 

Read... this part is rather self-explainatory. Do the reading. But don't just read the words. Strive to understand them. Which brings me to the next point.

Examine.... examine the reading, what is going on? What do you think it is trying to convey? What comes before and after those particular verses (this is important because it gives you the context of what is happening).  

Allow... allow yourself time to let the reading sink in. Allow yourself time to really understand it. Allow ideas to form. Maybe do some brainstorming. 

Determine..... find out how the reading can best be applied to your life or situation. How can you use this to help you? How can it help you to better understand Scripture? How can it help you to help others?

I also came across something interesting when going through the reading guide in my Bible for this morning's Scripture from the book of Hosea. It's called Concentric Circle Thinking and Writing. I think this is very helpful when writing. Here is what it says:

Sometimes reading the Bible can be confusing. For example, you might be reading along focusing on one idea and a new image is introduced, and even another. Or, you are reading a text and you think "Haven't I read this before?" What at first seems confusing can really be helpful to understanding the biblical message.

 This could be called concentric circle thinking or writing. It is a way of organizing information that many of the biblical writers felt at home with, though it may seem strange to us. The way we've been taught to think or reason is more linear; you go through certain steps in a particular order and you come to a conclusion, at least most of the time. The people who produced the Bible generally thought in a more circular fashion. It doesn't mean they weren't logical; it's a different kind of logic.

Picture someone throwing a rock into a pond or lake. When the rock hits the water there is a splash--that's the main point of the writer. Then a circle
appears and begins to expand--the development of the main point. Another circle appears and moves out--a related idea is added and developed. Soon there are several concentric circles all visible and moving at the same time. By going around and around you bring in all kinds of familiar words and images.

When you are reading this circular kind of structuing, it is important to remember not to get caught in trying to figure out what is first, second or third. Let the images circle around. Through the use of commentary, try to find out what the person would have heard when these words were spoken or read to them. Let the message just sink in. (The Catholic Bible, Personal Study Edition, NAB)

I'm hoping that all this will make me a better writer and make it easier for me to explain to you, the reader. So stick with me... we'll get this done!!  😊😇

Pope Francis: Discover the beauty of prayer in adoration

This is a really great take on the Gospel message from Sunday, Aug. 17. There were so many ways in which that reading could be interpreted, which is really good because it sparks conversation and thought. 

Here is the reading:

“I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and what constraint I am under until it is completed! Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” (Luke 12:49-53, NIV)

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-francis-discover-the-beauty-of-prayer-in-adoration-72637?fbclid=IwAR0kv3zQ43bNzEAldBVyKpjDIlep-POcLiUuRHG9OC8EZ3p_tdriapN_I6o

The Wise and Foolish Virgins

Today's Gospel reading comes from the optional reading for the memorial of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (our Saint of the Day). It is rare that I get some many ideas and take aways from the daily reflection, but both of today's Gospels seems chock full of lessons, thoughts and ideas. So, read on….

The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins

Jesus told his disciples this parable:
"The Kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the *bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones, when taking their lamps, brought no oil with them, but the wise brought flasks of oil with their lamps. Since the bridegroom was long delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight, there was a cry, "Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!" Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' But the wise ones replied, 'No, for there may not be enough for us and you. Go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.' While they went off to buy it, the bridegroom came and those who were ready went into the wedding feast with him. The door was locked. Afterwards, the other virgins came and said, 'Lord, Lord, open the door for us!' But he said in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, I do not know you.' Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour." (Matthew 25:1-13, NAB)

(*bridegroom in this instance refers to Christ)

This reading reminds me of a couple of things. First off, the Parable of the Ten Virgins. As I have been studying Gothic architecture, this parable is often found displayed within the exterior statuary of Gothic cathedrals. It was a very popular story at the time because it relayed the message of how living a wise and prudent life is rewarded in heaven. At that time, the "fire and brimstone" approach to Catholicism was at its height. People were urged to repent or suffer eternal damnation. However, it is still a timely message in this day and age when we get so caught up in the busy-ness of our daily lives that we sometimes forget to make time for God. We are constantly running, going here, going there…

Another way to look at it would be like packing for a vacation. You try to stuff everything in that you think you may need and figure anything that's missed can be picked up when you reach your destination. However, when you arrive, you find that you forgot something very important (insert your own important item here). The item you left behind, let's say in this instance, was your spending money for trinkets and whatnot. You beg and plead with the other members of your party to loan you some cash, but no one will help. They remind you that you should have made double sure that you brought your money. 😕🤨 Great time to remind you, huh? So, do you get the point of the story? It kind of goes along with my other thought that follows the images. So, keep reading……..




←All ten virgins are seen here, wonderfully displayed in the central doorway of the western portico of St. Fin ←Barre's cathedral in Cork, Ireland.

                                                                           

 

The five wise virgins on the right side of the doorway..→

You can see how the wise virgins have their heads covered as a display of their chastity, holding their flames up. They are on the right side of the bride groom (Christ), the side being associated with strength, virtue and favor. →

Five Foolish Virgins

←The five foolish virgins, on the left side of the doorway.

They are in direct opposition of the wise virgins. The foolish virgins do not have their heads covered and look rather morose for wasting all of the oil for their for their lamps. This side being can be associated with weakness, frivolity and dishonor.


There is much more depicted within the architecture within the portal, but you get the idea. As I've been studying, the pieces are all starting to come together. To learn about one is to learn about the other. 😊💜

So, the next part of this, where Christ says "Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.", He is telling us that we must remain vigilant and be prepared because we do not know when He will return. If we waste our energies on foolish or sinful pursuits, we won't have the stamina to maintain our watchfulness and our faithfulness to Him. We need to gently pace ourselves in our quest for Christ. That does not mean we slack off, though. It just means to take your time. Learn ABOUT Him, not just OF Him. Make an honest and concerted effort in your faith. Your arduous journey will be rewarded in heaven. 💜💙😊

Sending Peace and Love to you all!💜💙💖🕊♱

Helpful Links:
https://pilgrimagemedievalireland.com/tag/parable-of-the-wise-and-foolish-virgins/
http://usccb.org/bible/readings/0809-memorial-teresa-benedicta.cfm

Here's the link to my Gothic Art & Architecture Blog:
https://gothicartarchitecture.blogspot.com/

The Hard Decisions

Lately I've been felt compelled to go back to my Catholic faith. At the same time, I am learning about Gothic cathedrals. And before you ask what has one to do with the other, it really does make perfect sense because these grand cathedrals are houses of worship, built to glorify God and to bring people a sense of peace. Anyway, I digress..my point is that since this new renewal of my faith, I’ve been sort of hesitant to post a lot of stuff that I’m reading because I do tend to go overboard sometimes. Also, I don’t want people to think that I’m some “holy roller” because Lord knows I am far from it. I’m just a passionate person with strong ideas.

The Conditions of Discipleship

 

“Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? For the Son of Man will come with His angels in His Father’s glory, and then he will repay everyone according to his conduct. Amen, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming to his kingdom.” (Matt.16:24-28, NAB)

That particular verse where Jesus reminds people that if they deny Him and their faith in Him in this life, then He will deny them when they get to heaven. Think about this for just a minute. How would you feel if someone you truly cared about denied knowing you? How would that make you feel? I know I’d feel pretty crappy and let down. That’s how Jesus feels when you deny your faith in Him. BUT, (and there’s always a but...lol) through the mercy that Jesus shows us continually, He will still forgive you and want you back. How many people can say that?

Why should I deny my faith, my zeal and my passions just so I don’t offend anyone or make them feel uncomfortable. If I deny Jesus now, then, when I get to heaven, He may take one look at me and say “I don’t know who this person is or why she is here”. However, it is much more than that. Our faith teaches us that we must be courageous in our beliefs, in our faith. It’s not easy sometimes. Especially in this day and age where every time we turn around someone else is offended by something.

I hope that maybe I can influence one person, or many people. I hope that through my words you will find courage and strength to get through your day. I hope that I can foster a sense of belonging, peace and serenity. I hope that I can convey my passion through my deeds and through my words. I seek not to offend, but to brighten and educate.

"“Let the words of my mouth meet with Your favor, keep the thoughts of my heart before You, Lord, my Rock and Redeemer" (Psalm 19:15, NAB)

Sending Peace and Love to you all!💜💙💖🕊♱

Helpful links:
https://www.catholic.org/bible/daily_reading/