Scripture:
2 Timothy 3:10-17
Mark 12:28-34
Reflection:
Both readings tell us that the Scriptures are "inspired by God." The Word of God that comes through the Bible has been so crucial in my own conversion and ongoing growth as a disciple.
For the past ten years, I have boxes of The Word Among Us Mass devotional with daily Scripture readings sent to each parish mission that I preach. I distribute these booklets free of charge to all the people who attend the retreat. I want all to read the Bible. I think the daily Mass readings are a good place to start.
My parents used to have a machine commonly referred to as a treasure finder. Perhaps you’ve seen people scour the beach with these hand-held devices looking for buried coins, rings, and even paper money. (Some machines are sensitive to the metallic ink on the paper money.) When the machine is directly above something metallic, it emits a loud sound. Through this method, it lets you know there is something underneath. Hopefully a ring or silver dollar, not a bottle cap, will be found after digging.
Most of the time is spend in patient, silent sweeping with this instrument. Then, suddenly and inevitably comes the "urrrt" sound followed by excitement and digging.
Reading the Bible is a treasure hunt. We are on a quest searching for something of worth and value. We hunt for encouragement, comfort, inspiration and direction. Most days are spent in silent sweeping (reading) with not much happening. But every once in awhile the "urrrt" sound comes. Something touches us and jumps out at us. God speaks to us through a word, a phrase, or story. This touch can encourage and even change our life. When we keep sweeping, moments of grace will eventually come.
Fr. Cedric Pisegna, C.P. is a missionary preacher, author of 16books and creator of television and radio programs airing in many cities. You can learn more about his ministry at: http://www.frcedric.org