Epilogue
Epilogue
Where do we go from here?
There were no readings at the end of the last chapter. From here on, our reading is the whole of the Bible. Of course, this still might seem impossibly daunting, so as you launch into the great and wonderful universe of Scripture, perhaps you might let me offer three last thoughts.
Be selective in your reading. You might find it helpful to spend a few months reading nothing but the Gospels; they may be more fruitful at first than other parts of Scripture. There is no need for anxiety about this. It seems likely that the resurrection narratives will always have more impact on most of us than the Levitical laws about mildew in houses. Most people find themselves spending more time in the Gospels, the New Testament letters, the Psalms and certain of the prophets than in Numbers, 1 Chronicles or Lamentations. It’s perfectly fine to do this. As long as we’re not avoiding any part of Scripture—as long as we’re always open to the possibility of God meeting us in any part of this huge and wonderful book—there is nothing wrong with investing ourselves more heavily in those parts which most readily help us pray, love and serve.
Don’t be rushed. There are any number of Bible reading plans out there that will sweep you through the book in record time—the New Testament in a year, the whole Bible in a year, the Bible in ninety days. These sprints through Scripture have some value in giving us a quick overview of the entire narrative; in the end, they can help us read the Bible more deeply. But in themselves they don’t encourage good, prayerful, engaged reading. By all means use them to grasp the big picture. But then slow down. After you’ve sped through a thousand pages in three months, or a year, pick a good page or two and live with it for the next three months (or a year). Respect the fact that this is holy ground. Dwell, don’t dash.
And finally, be attentive to Christ. Never lose sight of the fact that the Bible exists to draw you beyond itself into the presence of Jesus. He longs for you, yearns for you, desires you. Read like a lover. Allow your desire and longing to draw you to him. Don’t be afraid.
As you open the Bible, Jesus is present. If your reading leads you to him, you’re doing it right.