COL L EGE CHURCH S T A F F
The Living Word: Alive in Us
Connections asked our pastors, directors and pastoral residents to share their favorite parts of the Bible, or a part that is particularly speaking to them--to encourage us to read new and different parts of the Bible. Here’s what some of them had to say. A few years back I memorized Romans 8 and I’m currently reviewing and reflecting upon it. That, plus Ephesians 1:12:10, are probably my favorite Bible passages to remind me of all I have in Christ. —Cheryce Berg, director of children’s ministries
In general, systematically reading through the Bible each year feeds my soul. As for a particular book that has been impacting me lately, I’d say the psalms. They help give me words for prayers, and they encourage my soul, especially in times of trouble. Recently Psalm 103 has been highly impactful. It reminds me of God’s character, his forgiveness, his compassion and his power. It also reminds me that life is short, and that my life is in his hands. —Eric Channing, pastor of congregational care & family ministries John Piper opened a sermon titled, f My Words Abide in You’ by quoting from seven different sections of the Bible. I’ve been meditating on those passages, and it’s been wonderful (Psalm 1, Psalm 16, Psalm 103, Romans 5:1-8, Romans 8; Matthew 6:25-34, 1 Corinthians 13)
I recently read Genesis (again), but this time, Joseph’s story stood out to me. I usually read that story as bad things happened to Joseph that were out of his control, but each time God miraculously elevated him and the —Michael Walker, pastoral resident things around him. While thats true, this time saw OursmallgroupisstudyingthepsalmswithDougODonnells (and read between the lines) that Joseph’s commitment, Psalms: A 12-Week Study. ve never approached the psalms work ethic and faithfulness to God were used by God as a whole book of the Bible before. It’s refreshing to see the to elevate the situation around him. And Joseph was connections between various psalms. And to think of psalms elevated in the process. That faithfulness is evidenced by as the hymnbook of Jesus is eye-opening and inspiring when Joseph’s statement to Potiphar’s wife, “How then can I do looking at the gospels. this great wickedness and sin against God?” I see it when Wil Triggs, director of communications Joseph credits God for palace sta and Pharaohs dream interpretations rather than himself. Finally, when he tells I can’t imagine that very many people haven’t read this or his brothers, “Do not be angry or distressed with yourselves heard it preached, but my favorite (surprise, surprise), is because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to the parable of the talents in Matthew 2 5 : 1 4 - 3 0 . Why: its a preserve life.” very vivid reminder that God: There’s no mention of Joseph whining or complaining or · Is in charge of everything as the master; we are stewards being angry with God at his circumstance. Joseph didn’t or managers. just sit in a corner defeated. He rose to each occasion · One day he will call us into account and judge us for how with integrity, and God used him where he was. I take that we have handled HIS wealth that he has allowed us to not only as a personal challenge but also as a lesson to manage (Rom 3:19-20). pass on to my adult children who are just beginning their · Expects us to work hard to manage the possessions he careers and influence in their part of this world. has given us. Tim Hollinger, director of technology · Wants us to honor him by holding possessions and wealth with an open hand, being ready and willing to Romans 8. I have lived in this chapter for the past six give generously to advance his kingdom years as I’ve been writing my dissertation on adoption in Romans. Recently, I have been struck afresh at the wonder of being an “heir of God”—that the God of the universe is my Father, and that everything belonging to him is mine in Christ as his son. Amazing!
· Certainly desires us to enjoy the fruits of our hard work but not hoard our wealth, but instead use it to honor him
—Josh Maurer, pastor of discipleship
—Nancy Singer, director of administration and finance
· Expects us to be a cheerful giver, giving sacrificially, consistently, eagerly and joyfully
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