By Manny Chery – Associate Pastor – Resident – Downtown
Do you remember the first time you reread a favorite book or rewatched a favorite film? Often, when something is looked at or experienced again, something new is revealed. There is a certain joy that comes from that sort of rediscovery of a favorite thing.
The Bible, more so than other types of media, generates a lifelong invitation to reread and reflect. It is a complex, unified story in many literary genres. It is like the depths of the ocean; there is much to be enjoyed on the shore, but as you step into the waters, there is another rich world waiting for you. And as you spend more time exploring, you are rewarded with more beautiful experiences.
The practice of meditation of Scripture is a lot like that analogy of the ocean’s hidden treasures. It is a lifelong practice of observation, imagination, and reflection. Observation allows us to enjoy the shore and invites us to use some tools that prepare us for the deep. It helps us to see the surface of what’s happening and look for patterns and symbols that may be revealed again elsewhere. Other tools include commentaries, study Bibles, or the function of different literary genres to help ground and direct our observations. And greater familiarity with the Scriptures brings to our awareness more patterns and connections.
Imagination is using God’s gift of “seeing” with your mind’s eye. As we ponder, focus, and imagine the stories and truth of Scripture, it begins to reshape our mind and heart. We can begin to see, hear, and feel the word of God. The “art” of Scripture begins to train our mind and heart to see God’s hand and beauty in all things. It helps us to become more comfortable with the oftentimes ambiguous and mysterious portions of Scripture which invite us to reflect.
Reflection is the ability to slow down and allow Scripture to reveal its patterns and points. It’s setting aside time to ruminate on the words, concepts, and patterns; to enjoy repetition for the sake of solidifying the words into our hearts. It allows the mind and heart to be shaped by the life and beauty that is to be found within the Scriptures.
The truth is that we may not “get it” right away. But the word of God invites us to reread it. The point isn’t to get it right away, to finish and think you’ve gathered all there is to know. Rather, like some of our most beloved art pieces, we see and acknowledge its beauty and then over time, see why it is so. Like the ocean, you don’t see or experience all its intricacies when you first arrive, yet as you spend time there, its beauty and complexity becomes more apparent. It is a lifetime practice of observation, imagination, and reflection that brings more awareness and appreciation of the depths of Scripture.
Consider this process to meditate on Scripture:
- Pause. Take a moment to slow your breath and settle your mind. Invite God to join you as you meditate on his word.
- Read. Read the passage at a normal pace
- Observe. What aspects of the passage, word, phrases, or actions, stand out to you? Are there noticeable patterns, repeated actions, words, or similar themes to other Bible stories you know?
- Imagine. Read the passage again with an intention to see, hear, and feel the narrative. Does this passage reveal anything new about itself in your mind’s eye?
- Reflect. Read the passage again but slower. Based on what you know of God’s character, what is being revealed? Based on what you know of humanity’s proclivities, what might this passage be highlighting about the human condition?
- Do it again. Read the passage again. Remember, you may not “get it” on your first or 50th reading but becoming more familiar with the text will help with revelation. Pray for God’s help as you wrestle with the text.
- Use tools. If there are deeper questions that arise, seek out tools such as study Bibles, commentaries, and podcasts to grow in your understanding of the text.
We hope that as you meditate on God’s word, you will find his heart and be transformed into the person he is calling you to be by the power of the Holy Spirit.