Yipee Skipee

So, my summer term is over except for the exegetical paper due on July 15th. That was a quick few weeks but 'oh so productive. I can't believe we walked through the second half of the Old Testament in 3 short weeks. Before, I have to admit, that I was somewhat scared of the OT, but I have a new found love and respect for wisdom literature. When you learn the situation and social/historical context behind the text, the text really comes alive! I found myself excited to read the scriptures again and that was refreshing.

It's been a long time since the scriptures were refreshing to me. How much do I long to have a closer walk with God but the scriptures always seemed so foreign and strange to me. It was difficult for me to simply pick up my Bible and read, but when I connected with the writers of Job and Ecclesiastes, it wasn't so strange anymore. I get so tired of the "Health and Wealth Gospel" and I just want to hear someone cry to God that life isn't fair - because it's not. But at the same time, I want to know that God is there - always has and always will.

The majority of the reading was set during the time before the return from Babylon up to the time after the return. The main point, if you will, of these books was that God has not forgotten Israel - He was always with them even though He seemed so far away. I know you're lying if you haven't felt that way lately. Even though the writers were firm believers in what God was doing, they still seemed to question God (read Job if you don't believe me!).

It is my prayer that I can believe in my heart, when God seems so far, that He is actually right beside me. While I know it in my head, make it real in my heart. What's the prayer? "Lord I believe, help my unbelief!"

On a lighter note - I have the best dog ever! Sophie is 4 months old now and she's amazing. I think the funniest thing is when she's alseep on the bed next to me. She has her own pillow that she sleeps on and she sleeps like a human with her head on the pillow and her body on the bed. Last night she had her head on the pillow and she was sprawled out on the bed on her back with her stomach in the air! She looked so cute, I woke her up laughing at her! It was great! I'll try to get more recent pictures of her so you can enjoy too!