Study the Divine

   “Ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ.” (St. Jerome)

   As children we learned simple things; our ABC’s and other basics of learning.  Over the years we built on these basics and gained the knowledge of much more difficult subjects.  Some stopped learning at High School, some went to college. Others learned a trade such as plumbing or auto repair, serving all of us with their knowledge and experience.

   In a similar way we learned of God in very basic ways.  We heard bible stories, went to summer bible school, Sunday School or CCD.  We progressed in other learning as we grew older but somewhere along the way most us quit growing in knowledge of our faith.  For some what was learned as children is still their understanding of God and faith.

   A professional such as doctor or lawyer continues to learn throughout their career.  Otherwise their abilities never progress, they become outdated in their profession.  Similarly, if the auto mechanic quits learning the new technology used in various vehicles they can no longer repair them when they break down.

   Our knowledge as Christians also needs to be continuously increased.  Through adult learning offered at church, learning about the great saints and reading the books written by holy men and women, our faith will continue to grow from the childish ideas of youth to a more mature understanding.

   An absolute requirement for continuing Christian education is scripture.  The bible is the best-selling book of all time, but I suspect many Christians would have a difficult time finding their bible.  It’s on a shelf or in a drawer and rarely sees the light of day.  It should be at our bedside or tableside; picked up and read every day.  Learn the story of creation, Abraham, Moses, the prophets, and most of all the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  It’s all there, waiting to be read and learned; waiting to enrich our knowledge and strengthen our spiritual life.

   “When we pray we speak to God; but when we read God speaks to us.” (St. Jerome)