Embark on a Year-Long Journey Through the Bible
Introduction: Welcome, dear friends, to a meaningful journey through the Bible that we will undertake together this year. As I step into my new role as a pastor at Revolution Church, I’m delighted to invite you to join us in using the Revolution Church reading plan for our “Read Through the Bible in a Year” program. This is a journey of collective exploration and spiritual growth, where we immerse ourselves not just in reading, but in truly experiencing God’s Word. Let’s embark on this transformative path, opening our hearts to the wisdom and insights the scriptures hold.
Program Overview: In this divine journey, we will walk together through four meaningful steps:
- Read: Each day is a fresh opportunity to discover the wonders hidden in the Bible’s chapters. As we journey through these sacred texts, we’re not just reading; we’re uncovering the grand story of God’s love and wisdom. Let’s embrace this exploration with open hearts, eager to understand the grand narrative of the Bible.
- Research: The scriptures are a mosaic of divine messages, set against the rich backdrop of history and culture. Together, we’ll dive deep into the context of these holy words, seeking to uncover the layers of meaning that were woven into them centuries ago. This step is about connecting with the past to enrich our present understanding.
- Reflect: As we absorb God’s Word, let’s take time to let it resonate within us. Reflection is our spiritual nourishment; it’s where we pause and ponder, allowing the scriptures to speak to our souls. This step is about inner transformation, a quiet conversation between us and God.
- Respond: Finally, we are called to act. The scriptures are a living guide, urging us to embody their teachings in our daily lives. This is where our journey with the Word becomes practical, where faith is woven into the fabric of our everyday actions.
Today’s Devotional: January 1
Genesis 1-2, Matthew 1, Psalm 97
I once heard a rabbi remark that one could spend an entire lifetime delving into Genesis 1:1 without exhausting its depths of truth and wonder. Each time I read the opening chapters of Genesis, which recount the dawn of everything—our story’s beginning—I find myself overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude and beauty of such complexity, conveyed with stark simplicity and extraordinary restraint.
God narrates our genesis, our story, in words even a child could grasp. His intention isn’t to awe us with complexity; rather, He chooses to meet us at our level. Why?
Because He desires to be known. The God of the Universe longs for us to know Him.
Think about that!
Our God yearns to be known.
Over the deep, all of God’s potential hovered (Genesis 1:2). The Spirit, ever-present and closer than our breath, lingered above the darkness. Waiting. Just waiting…
But waiting for what, exactly? And for how long? How long did God’s full potential hover over the abyss?
Was it billions of years? The scripture doesn’t specify. Reflecting on the inception of my own story—amidst chaos and darkness—I realize I was oblivious then, unable to perceive Him. Yet, looking back, I can almost sense the Spirit of God hovering over the depths of my life. Always present, He was there. He has forever been there. There at the beginning. There at the start of my story, and yours. This is, after all, our shared narrative.
With full engagement, the Spirit waited.
Genesis 1
3 And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.
In the beginning, there came a ‘suddenly.’ That ‘suddenly’ is the Word of the Lord. His Word, echoing like a cosmic pistol, unleashed life, light, and indescribable joy!
Do you recall the day—your day—when everything transformed? The day when all your lived darkness was instantaneously converted into a nearly blinding light?
This is our story! This marks our true beginning.
Darkness stood no chance. Chaos found no foothold. In an instant, at the Lord’s command, God’s light altered everything. Indeed, it marked a new creation then and now.
Today, many of us are starting again. With the dawn of a new year, I, and perhaps you too, sense it as a fresh opportunity to start fresh. An opportunity to heed the Lord’s perpetual decree: “Let there be light.” A chance to witness our own personal chaos and darkness dissolve into nothingness at the sound of His voice.
A new beginning awaits! Hallelujah!!
Let’s start again.
And to those of you who are dedicating time to read the Word for the first time, welcome. The Gospel is only good news and this is the year of the Lord’s favor. Don’t you know He’s closer than your breath? Even now, haven’t you almost felt that nearness? He’s close. Unknown, and yet familiar. You were made by Him and for Him, and it’s time to come home.
This is the Word of the Lord, and it shall not return empty in your life: “Let there be light!” Chaos and darkness must retreat. A new day beckons! Behold, He is renewing all things!! Just wait and see! He is making everything new.
Engaging with the Community: As we walk this path together, your reflections and insights are a gift to our community. I warmly invite you to share what touches your heart in your daily readings. Whether a verse speaks to you in a new way, or you gain a fresh perspective, your experiences enrich our collective journey. You can comment here, or join the community over on my Facebook page.
In addition, for those who wish to follow along with our reading plan, you can find it here on my website. This plan will guide us through our daily readings and help us stay connected in our journey through the Bible.
Connecting with Revolution Church: If you’re seeking a spiritual home or wish to learn more about our community at Revolution Church, we welcome you with open arms. You can find more information and connect with us here. Whether you’re local or joining us from afar, our church offers a place of fellowship, learning, and growth.
Closing Thoughts: This year-long exploration is more than a reading plan; it’s a path to spiritual awakening and deeper understanding. Let’s embrace this journey with open hearts and minds, ready to grow, learn, and transform. Together, let’s discover the wonders of God’s Word and how it can illuminate our lives.
