By Ben Disney
The countdown has begun. On Jan. 8, Arborlawn will embark on a new and exciting journey as we launch the next congregational challenge, The Bible in 90 Days.
I had several conversations with colleagues who offered a similar challenge to their congregations and the words they used to describe the experience were “powerful,” “transformative,” and “life changing.” I brought the initiative to the staff because I believe deeply that the health of a congregation is directly tied to its spiritual strength and foundation. A congregation rooted and grounded in God’s Word is a church passionately active in missions, fully engaged in worship, and filled with a genuine Spirit of love and compassion for others.
If we’re honest with ourselves, so many of us don’t know the full content and the context of the Bible as well as we would like. We read and understand occasional bits and parts but we’ve never had the opportunity to read it in its entirety, put it all together and see the larger scope of this incredible story. Secondly, to attempt to read the Bible on your own is commendable but it can also be confusing without some guidance from a knowledgeable leader or the benefit of other insights from companions who are on the same journey.
So here’s my challenge. Make it a New Year’s resolution if you want. Take the 90 day challenge and join us as we walk through this journey together. The series will launch Jan. 8. Numerous small groups will be forming and opportunities will be offered on Sunday mornings, Sunday evenings, Wednesday mornings, Wednesday evenings, and Thursday mornings. There will be twelve pages a day to read, followed by a gathering of people each week to help you better understand how it all fits together and what it means for your life. If you’re ever going to read the entire Bible, this is your chance.
Ted Cooper is the creator and founder of The Bible in 90 Days, and he has a compelling story of why and how he came to recognize the need to read and understand the Bible in his own life. I’ve invited Ted to be with us at our worship services on Dec. 18 to briefly share a part of his story.
It’s coming. Get ready.
- - -
The Bible in 90 Days: Register online now
Online registration is available for The Bible in 90 Days, our Bible reading project starting with an orientation on Jan. 8.
Weekly gatherings will meet for one hour and will be offered Sunday mornings at 9:45 a.m. (for those interested in forming a new Sunday School class), Sunday evenings at 6 p.m., Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m., Wednesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. (for women only as part of the WMAA Bible Studies), and Thursday mornings at 10 a.m. Participants may choose the gathering time that best fits their schedule. Childcare will be available.
The program includes various optional resources that you can sign up for when registering: a New International Version Bible ($15) formatted in a slim design with large print so participants read just twelve pages a day; the Participant’s Guide ($8), which offers a place to detail insights from the daily readings and group discussions; and the Essential Bible Companion ($12), a unique and easy to use reference guide.
If you have any questions, please contact Rev. Ben Disney or Rev. Beth Evers or call us at 817-731-0701.
# # #
ArborlawnUMC.org