August 14, 2024

In 2024, we will strive to become more like Jesus by rediscovering the ancient practices of prayer, study, sabbath, celebration, and many more. Our knowledge of scripture, coupled with studying how Jesus lived his life while on earth, will help us become people that overflow with the goodness of God. Wednesday email devotionals will highlight the practices that have been discussed on the previous Sunday.

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

 

Hebrews 4:12-13

Devotional

The focus practice for Overflow this month is the study of God’s Word. I chose to contemplate this passage from Hebrews this week because a staff member said her Overflow group wondered what it means when we refer to the Bible as the Living Word.

 

It is a profound and thought-provoking theological question that we are privileged to ponder as we journey this month together. 

 

First, let’s begin by remembering what Rich said this week in worship: experiencing God’s Word does and should change us. Recall the story of King Josiah, who tore his robes when he heard the Word of God read aloud. He heard God’s Word, recognized the Word was not being obeyed and responded in anguish by tearing his clothing, a prized resource and possession in biblical times. This powerful act of transformation is a testament to the Bible’s ability to change lives. In his anguish and conviction, Josiah changed course for himself and his people. God’s Word changed the path. 

 

Have you ever sat through a sermon and walked away knowing that God has sent that message straight to you? It is not that the scripture passage is new or unknown, but rather the gift and promise of God is that the Word changes you, changes your heart, changes your desires. One day, you open your Bible to a passage you have read 100 times but this time you have an experience that changes you from the inside out. This is the promise of Scripture: a personal and transformative connection to God’s Word.

 

Now, back to Hebrews. The passage referenced above is taken from a passage where Paul encourages Christians who were in “danger of slipping back into Judaism” to understand that the entire Old Testament points to the living, breathing, resurrected Jesus. We rest, read, study, and fellowship in the confidence of Christ, in the gift of Christ. Understanding this connection between the Old Testament and Jesus can deepen our knowledge and faith.

 

So, yes, the Word of God is living and breathing because Jesus changes everything. Jesus walked this earth fully man and fully God, so the narrative of God and his people became a never-ending love story of redemption and salvation. 

 

The fact that you change in response to God’s Word and call on your life makes Scripture alive and active.

 

Our hope in Jesus makes the Church a beacon of that hope for the world.

For Reflection

How do you respond to hearing God’s Word? How does it impact your life?

 

How can you be intentional this month as we study God’s Word together?

Prayer

Jesus, thank you for bringing fulfillment to the story of God’s love and redemption for us. Help guide us as we journey through the Scriptures and help us see you in all the stories. Help us know that everything we read points to the promise of you, Jesus. Then, help us reflect your hope, love, and gentleness to those around us. Amen.

Morgan Kennedy
Teaching & Learning Director