January 1st One Year Bible Readings

~ Click on this link for today's readings ~
Genesis 1:1-2:25 ~ Matthew 1:1-2:12
Psalm 1:1-6 ~ Proverbs 1:1-6

Old Testament - Today we begin the book of Genesis!  Below is a fresco of "The Creation of Adam" by the Italian Renaissance painter Michelangelo, from the year 1510:

~Genesis~
Author: Moses
Date: 1420 or 1220 B.C.
Content: The book of Genesis was written to explain how everything began; in fact, the very title Genesis means “origin” or “beginning”. It explains that God created the universe, how man was created and placed in a perfect environment, how sin began, and how God provided salvation for lost man. The beginning of human history is described, the beginning of arts and crafts, how human languages began, and where the various nations came from. The focus then shifts to the beginning of the Hebrew people with Abraham, followed by the histories of Isaac, Jacob and his sons, and the book ends with Joseph in Egypt.
Theme: The main idea that runs through the book is that although God made everything good, man’s sin has spoiled it. God has not given up, but is now in search of man to save him. The overall control of God is stressed, and special attention is given to how God directs history for the good of his people and their salvation. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 1)  A wonderful commentary on the book of Genesis by Bob Deffinbaugh is at this link.  Below is more art from Michelangelo - this is a marble statue of Moses, the author of Genesis, made in the year 1515 in Italy:

Moses is the author/compiler of the first five books of the Old Testament, also known as the Pentateuch, or the books of the Law.  It is believed that these five books were written by Moses during Israel's 40 years in the desert after the exodus from Egypt - which was likely between 1446 B.C. and 1406 B.C.  The book of Genesis is foundational to understanding the rest of the Bible.  It is a book of relationships - between God and his creation; between God and humans; and between humans themselves.  In Genesis, God pledges his love and faithfulness to humans through covenants.  It is a narrative that continually demonstrates faith.  Below is a modern day artist's creative overview of the book of Genesis:

In today's Genesis readings we read about the Creation account and Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.  There is so much happening in today's readings, that this daily blog will not do it all justice... (I do hope you have the One Year Bible Companion book or another commentary to dive deeper in to today's readings - I'd type more but this post is already a bit long as you'll see below... :)  The 6 days of creation have main 2 lines of thought by various scholars:  1. they were 6 literal 24 hour days or 2. they were 6 figurative days of an undefined timeframe, which could even be millions of years. Check out some great information on the Creation account in our Genesis readings today at bible.org at this link. Below is a wonderful piece of art from Pat Marvenko Smith titled "The Creation" - you'll note this piece shows all 6 days of creation and what was created on each day, going from the left to the right:

Art used by permission by Pat Marvenko Smith, copyright 1992.
To order prints visit her "Revelation Illustrated" site.

Today we read this incredibly powerful verse in Genesis chapter 1 verse 27: "So God created people in his own image; God patterned them after himself; male and female he created them."  Do you believe that you are made in the image of God?  Is this a powerful thing to reflect upon? What might this mean for your life in 2007, knowing that you are made in the image of God? Does this give you a sense of possibility for your life?  A sense that you are made for a great purpose in this life?

Chapter 2 verse 3 is beautiful: "And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from his work of creation."  A day of rest.  One day a week.  If God did this, think we should too?  :)   6 days of work and play and 1 day each week of resting in God.  I confess I like the concept a lot more than I actually put it into practice.  Perhaps 2007 can be a year of new beginnings where a Sabbath day of rest enters our lives each week?  I love this image below of God resting on the 7th day:

One quick note from our readings today about the location of the Garden of Eden.  It is believed to have been near where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet, in what is now southern Iraq.  Below is a very high level map:

Bible.org's commentary on today's readings in Genesis chapters 1 and 2 titled "The Meaning of Man: His Duty and His Delight" is at this link.

New Testament - Today we begin the gospel of Matthew!  Below is Northern Renaissance painter Jan Sanders van Hemessen's "Jesus Summons Matthew to Leave the Tax Office" from the year 1536:

~Matthew~
Author: Matthew
Place: Perhaps Antioch
Date: A.D. 60-70
Content: Matthew was a tax collector, called by Jesus to follow him early in his public ministry; hence, he was an eyewitness of most of the events he describes. He begins with a detailed account of Jesus’ birth of the virgin Mary, his baptism, and temptation in the wilderness. Jesus came preaching the kingdom of God, entrance into which meant eternal life. One entered by repentance and faith. Matthew blocks the teaching of Jesus together into five discourses in which may be seen the ethics, the proclamation, the parables, the fellowship, and the consummation of the kingdom. Jesus’ death and resurrection end the Gospel with the command to go into all the world with the good news (gospel) of Jesus Christ.
Theme: Matthew’s main purpose in writing his Gospel is to show that Jesus fulfills the promise of God in the Old Testament. For this reason Jesus is introduced as a “descendant of King David and of Abraham,” and Matthew makes use of numerous Old Testament prophecies and quotations to explain Jesus’ life. Jesus came to be the Savior of the Jews, the Gentiles, and ultimately the world. The ethics required by members of God’s kingdom are found in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7) where the world’s values are rejected and the Kingdom of God and his righteousness become supreme. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 21)  A wonderful commentary on the book of Matthew by Daniel Wallace is at this link.  Below is a painting (I absolutely love this painting!) titled "The Inspiration of St. Matthew" by the Baroque Italian artist Caravaggio, circa 1602:

In today's Matthew readings, we read the genealogy of Jesus. I know that genealogy's can sometimes seem a bit boring to read, but this one in Matthew is phenomenal!  If you just finished reading the One Year Bible in 2006, you will recognize many of these names.  Or - let me encourage you to come back and read this genealogy again on January 1, 2008, if you are going through the entire Bible for your first time this year in 2007.  This genealogy will amaze you.  One of the interesting things to note in this genealogy is the mention of 5 women - Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary.  It was not the norm in the 1st century to list women in genealogies - only men were typically listed.  At least 3 of these women were Gentiles (not Jewish) - Tamara, Rahab, and Ruth.  Matthew was potentially trying to indicate to his Jewish readers that God's work in this world is not limited to the people of Israel - nor was God's work limited to men.   The genealogy in Matthew is sometimes illustrated by a "Jesse Tree" showing the lineage of Jesus from Jesse, father of King David:

Chapter 1 verse 23 is certainly a huge prophecy from the Old Testament prophet Isaiah being fulfilled through the birth of Jesus: "Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and he will be called Immanuel (meaning, God is with us)." Jesus is God and came to literally be with us.  To experience our human sufferings and temptations - and joys and triumphs.  The importance of this birth of Immanuel cannot be overstated.  God came to be with us in flesh and blood.

Chapter 2 verse 6 is very powerful in that the 2006 One Year Bible crew recently read about the prophet Micah's prophesying of Jesus being born in Bethlehem: "O Bethlehem of Judah, you are not just a lowly village in Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel." Here again you can see Matthew writing for his Jewish audience - quoting an Old Testament prophet and also focusing in on the town of "Bethlehem of Judah" - the City of David.  This was to demonstrate again that Jesus was from the lineage of King David.

Verse 10 is a brief verse showing us the reaction of the magi in being led to Jesus: "When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!"   The magi were also Gentiles and likely astrologers - following a star might lead one to think this... :)  But no matter where they were from and what they believed prior, they were filled with joy at being led to the Messiah, Jesus.  And they gave him gifts and worshipped him.  And for us today - are we filled with joy in reading about the birth of Jesus?  Do we realize what this meant back then - and still means today?  That Immanuel was born - that God came to be with us.  (Note that some Biblical scholars say that contrary to popular tradition, it is believed that the magi did not visit Jesus at the manger on the night of his birth, as did the shepherds, but that the magi came months later and visited him as "child" in his "house" - see verse 11.)

Bible.org's commentary on today's readings in Matthew titled "The Birth of Jesus" is at this link and "The Visit of the Wise Men" is at this link.

Psalms - Psalm 1 today begins the 150 Psalms of the Psalter!  You'll note that in the One Year Bible we actually read through the Psalms twice during the course of the year. I think this is good because the Psalms have taken some time to really sink in for me personally. Once they sink in, they are phenomenal. I have a great friend who has shared with me that she "Prays the Psalms" every morning. I pray that during the course of this year you will have the experience of Praying the Psalms as you go through the One Year Bible.  I do believe praying the Psalms can indeed renew our passion for God:

It is often said that in 65 of the books of the Bible God speaks to us, but in the Psalter, the book of Psalms, we have the opportunity to speak to God. And in all kinds of ways and with all kinds of emotions. The Psalms can help you learn to express in pray everything to God – what you are happy about and what is troubling you. The Psalms are religious poetry. The 150 Psalms are comprised of Laments, Confessions, Crys, Petitions, Praise, Reflection, Reports, History, Blessings, and Wisdom. The author of many of the Psalms was King David. The Psalms were compiled over centuries and reached this final form in approximately the third century B.C. The Psalms were prayed in the temple and have been prayed in churches for the past two thousand years. The Psalms were quoted by Jesus, including Psalm 22:1 when Jesus was on the cross: ""My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"" (see Matthew 27:46) It is thought that the book of Psalms is one of the two books of the Old Testament most frequently quotes in the New Testament – along with the book of Isaiah.  See more commentary of the Psalms online at bible.org at this link.  Martin Luther said this about the book of Psalms: "The Psalter is the favorite book of all the saints. Each person, whatever his circumstances may be, finds in the book psalms and words which are appropriate to the circumstances in which he finds himself and meet his needs as adequately as if they were composed exclusively for his sake, and in such a way that he himself could not improve on them nor find or desire any better psalms or words."

Today we read this reflection on the godly in Psalm 1 verse 2: "But they delight in doing everything the LORD wants; day and night they think about his law."  How well does this verse ring true with your life today?  Do you delight in being obedient to God?  Do you think about God's Word, the Bible, day and night?  Should you? In 2007, will you?   

Bible.org's commentary on Psalm 1 is at this link.

Proverbs - The author of the majority of the Proverbs was King Solomon, the son of King David. This means that most of the Proverbs were written in the 10th century B.C. when Israel was a united kingdom. It may be that the Proverbs were not officially compiled together as a book until the 6th century B.C.  Agur son of Jakeh, King Lemuel, and "wisemen" were the other authors of the Proverbs.  Bob Deffinbaugh, Th.M., with bible.org has a wonderful Introduction to Proverbs at this link.  Below is an image of King Solomon dictating his wise maxims, the Proverbs:

Today we read in Proverbs chapter 1 verses 2 through 4 a great overview of why we should read and study the Proverbs: "The purpose of these proverbs is to teach people wisdom and discipline, and to help them understand wise sayings. Through these proverbs, people will receive instruction in discipline, good conduct, and doing what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will make the simpleminded clever. They will give knowledge and purpose to young people."  Do you want wisdom?  Do you want discipline in your life?  Do you want to do what is right, just and fair?  Do you want purpose for your life?   Do you believe this journey through the Bible in 2007 will move you forward in these areas?  Will you cling to the wisdom of the Proverbs this year?

Comments from You and Question of the Day:  As today is our first day together on the One Year Bible journey in 2007, I thought I'd post up a One Year Bible "roll-call."  This is an opportunity for each of us to click on the "Comments" link below and let everyone know a few things about ourselves, as we'll be journeying through the Word together over the coming year.  So here's the roll-call questions:  1. Have you read the entire Bible before?  2. Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007?  3. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007?  4. Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007?  5. What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible?  6. What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself? 7. Do you have a blog or website link that you can share with everyone?  Thanks for participating in the roll-call!  :) Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

Comments

[Mike]

Well, since I called the roll-call, I suppose I should start. :)

1. Yes. 2007 will be my 5th One Year Bible journey.
2. God-willing I hope to read the One Year Bible every year this side of heaven.
3. I'm looking forward to journeying through the Bible with each of you - and reading your comments! Your comments on our daily readings add so much to my learnings. Please post up comments frequently this year!
4. Not really. I just hope I serve well in this blogging/facilitating role.
5. Favorite book is probably Proverbs. There is so much wisdom in every single verse in that book!
6. I'm currently really late to the New Year's Eve gathering at my church tonight because of this blog posting - but it's worth it! :)
7. You're at it. I'm glad you found the One Year Bible Blog!

God bless,
Mike

[jen]

1. No
2. I joined this plan last year but failed dismally this year Im going to try again
3. Getting closer to God and making new friends though the blog
4. Not really hopeing I can do it this year
5. Psalms
6. I live in New Zealand
7. yep :)

Ive been reading Neil T Anderson's book Victory over the Darkness so the verses that stood out for me today were Genesis 1:27 and Psalms 1:3 as they tell me who I am in Christ

[Chris]

1. no
2. Because I want to grow closer to God and get to know him better.
3. Getting to understand things better and learning from the experiences of others.
4. not really.
5. Galatians 3:21
6. I live in Australia

[Bryan]

Have you read the entire Bible before? 2. Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007? 3. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007? 4. Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007? 5. What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible? 6. What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself? 7. Do you have a blog or website link that you can share with everyone? Thanks for participating in the roll-call! :) Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?
1. No I haven’t
2. I have wanted to read the entire Bible for many years. I get started and don’t finish. I want to finally achieve this goal.
3. That I will actually read the entire Bible.
4. Just that I wont be able to finish.
5. I have loved the 23rd Psalm since I was a child.
6. I have a son in the Marines, a daughter in college, and my wife is the Love of my life.
7. I don’t have a blog or a website.
8. God created us in His image. Jesus lineage and prophecy of Him is very fascinating.
Your blog for reading the Bible in a Year is awesome and I appreciate all the hard work that has gone in to it!

[William A Frobe]

1. No. I joined in August 2006 and read about half the Bible.
2. I want to get through the entire Bible for my own personal and spiritual growth.
3. I'm not sure. A sense of fulfillment, a sense of purpose, a sense of mission, maybe something else.
4. No.
5. The book of John. It's a fairly easy read and the movie ("The Gospel of John") follows the Bible word for word.
6. I am an Army Captain. I was deployed to Mosul, Iraq for most of 2005.
7. I ticker with Myspace, but I am not a dedicated author.

[Anka]

1)Not exactly all of it,started on the OYB journey last year but skipped some readings.
2)I believe we can't follow God if we don't know Him or His will/purpose for our lives.The only way to know Him is through His word,I plan to always read the bible daily by His grace and my discipline
3)Discovering more about God's will for me,apply it and be a living testimony
4)not really
5)Mat 6:33But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and (AQ)all these things will be added to you.
6)I currently live in Romania and attend a messianic congregation
7)nope
In the readings today I noticed the first thing God did was separate light from darkness...and this is mentioned again in gen 1:18...It just show to me how important to God it is that light and darkness be separate,that a line be drawn between them.Also,each day was created only one was blessed and sanctified...I looked up the dictionary meaning of sanctified online and one of the definitions was to set apart to a sacred purpose or to religious use..Last year as I journeyed through the bible I saw as a whole,God is one,the word is the same,never changes..I pray we all get to understand God's will and purpose in each of our lives....Today this stood out to me"it is not good for man to be alone"we need each others encouragement,prayer and we need to learn to love one another in spite of our different views...
God bless you all

[Erin]

1.Have you read the entire Bible before? No,but I have started before (Chronologically, but didn't get past Genesis)2. Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007? I had actually prayed today that I might find a way to increase my sense of connection with God, and the thought came to me that unless I read the bible I will remain confused about what I believe so I was searching for a way to increase commitment to reading the bible daily and I decided to look on the internet and here I am. 3. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007? Increased clarity and sense of connection with God. 4. Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007? That I may not complete it 5. What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible? I like the proverbs.. 6. What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself? I am attracted to shiny things (like a magpie)and actually change direction when walking past shiny things.. 7. Do you have a blog or website link that you can share with everyone? No, sorry, not so technically savvy.

[John H]

(1)No, although I have probably read most all the Bible at one time or another but never all in one year. (2) As Paul said in Phi 3:10 “That I may know him and the power of his resurrection.” (3) Becoming more disciplined in my daily reading/prayer/communion with God. (4) Just that I will not stick it out to the end. (5)Romans, I love Paul’s writings (6) I love to ride my motorcycle. (7)No site. In closing I want to thank you Mike for allowing God to use you in this manner! Praise His everlasting Name!

[Leroy Duke]

Bruce Feiler, Author of "Walking the Bible" places the Garden of Eden in Turkey! Any thoughts on this?

[Stella E. Huston]

Hello and Blessings to all,
I am looking forward to this yearof reading through the Bible with you. I have read the Bible man times, but in an undisciplined way. I'm praying that this year I remain focused and disiplined in my approach to God's Word. I have so much to learn and time flies by. I want to make the most of it placing my priorities on God first. Pray with me that we all will be blessed and grow in spiritual wisdom and knowledge by the grace of God in 2007 and beyond. Amen.S.E.H.

[Kitty]

First of all, I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Mike for this great blog. You are a blessing to thousands of people dear brother! May God bless you richly as you serve Him through this blog.

1. Yes I have.
2. Because I want to draw closer to God, and I desire to honour Him in my knowing, doing and being. And I believe reading HIS Word daily will allow me to reach this goal in 2007!
3. Journeying and fellowshiping with my blogger friends here.
4. Lack of discipline & lazyness.
5. The book of Philippians 6. I enjoy laughing!
7. www.kittycheng.blogspot.com

The reminder that we are created in God's own image for a great purpose in Genesis 1:27 stand out to me in today's readings.

Also I want to be like the tree planted in streams of water - to glorify God (Pslam 1:3)

[Cheryl K.]

Happy New Year!
1. I have read almost all of the Bible before (except the minor prophets) but 2006 was the 1st time I made it all the way through with "wisdom and discipline".Started reading this site midway through 2006 but have had the one year bible at home for the last 3 years
2. When you start a job you get an orientation packet, when you go on vacation you prepare by reading about the place you are going. Well the Bible is our orientation manual for life and since we are going to spend eternity in Heaven we should read about what God says about Heaven and how to get there:)
3. Every time I read the Bible I learn something knew or get a new understanding of God's word and His love for us. I also believe you need to know God's word to help bring others to Christ or help them on their walk
4. I still have trouble with the begats and numbers.
5. John's Gospel and John's Epistles
6. I am a labor and delivery nurse of 26 years, have a 24 year old son, 21 year old son in Iraq, and 16 year old identical twin girls-all of my children are saved praise God.
7. Read this blog at work which is technically against the rules but I haven't been caught yet-am computer challenged-have the one year bible at home for reading on my days off.
8. I like the verse about man and woman being "one flesh"- will celebrate my 29th wedding anniversary in 2007. I also like the psalm-there is something for everyone in psalms!

[Douglas Landis]

1. Have you read the entire Bible before?

Yes. This will be my 3rd year

2. Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007?

To grow as a Christian by:

1. Reading the Bible
2. Prayer
3. Attending Church regularly
4. Goal - All for the Glorifacation to GOD!

3. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007?

Reading it in a different Version. N.A.S.B.
Last year it was the N.I.V.

4. Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007?

What kind of question is that Mike?
What would make anybody nervous about reading GODS word?
GOD bless you Mike.

5. What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible?

Romans 7:13-26.
Even Paul had the same struggles we as Christians face every second!

6. What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself?

I love sporting events, to attend them, to watch them on t.v., to read about them. And there is nothing wrong with that unlike what some others may have you believe!

[Patrick]

Thanks to Mike for a wonderful blog.

1. Yes, last year using the 90 Day Bible Program (yes the entire Bible in 90 days).

2. Connect with God and know His story.

3. Read it along with this blog and facilitate another 90 Day Bible program at my church.

4. Nothing at all. I am excited.

5. Too many to list...

6. Much to humble to answer, but I do blog so you can find stuff there.

Happy New Year to All! God bless.

[mark]

1.no
2.to grow closer in my relationship with God and find the purpose for my life
3.learning spiritual truths that i need to know
4.i might get board and not finish
5.John 3:16
6.i travel all over America in my work
8.no

[Bev]

1: No I haven't read through the entire bible. I started last year and with the death of my grandfather I didn't finish.
2. I got the Biblezine Becoming and for Jan 1 it said make a spirtural resoulution. So this one was mine.
3.Just the fact that I read the entire bible.
4.I'm worried that I won't finish reading the bible.
5.My Fav. part changes with what I read. So no I don't have a fav. part.

[Luciano Del Monte]

I'm back on the blog again.
And I have invited a bunch of folks to join us.

Yes, I have read the bible many times through. It can be daunting but don't try to understand it all at once, With each new reading you gain some answers and insights but you also need to make peace with the fact that you won't always be able 'to connect the dots' of God's Grand Story.

As well, make it a priority, not an afterthought. We are reminded in Mark 1:35 that Jesus arose a great while before day to meet alone with God. I love Acts 20:32 "And now I commend you to God and the word of His grace which is able to build you up..." As we choose to invest time with God through His Word He causes His grace to flow through us. I have no idea how He does this but HE DOES!!
One more tip: don't just study the bible to study the bible, but read the Scriptures to know and experience Jesus. "You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life, BUT IT IS THEY (the scriptures--old testament) THAT BEAR WITNESS TO ME." Jesus speaking to the Pharisees

see you on the blog.
Luch

[Patricia]

1. Yes, I have read the King James version of the Bible many years ago. 2. My granddaughter gave me a Bible for Christmas that is divided to be read daily and get through the Bible in One Year. It was like she was reading my New Year's resolution. 3. Learning more about what God has planned for me. 4. Not nervous. 5. 1 Peter 5:7, the verse given to me by the pastor when my Dad died. 6. I survived a heart attack and I'm sure there was an angel there that night. 7. No

After reading the 1st chapter of Genesis, there is not doubt in my mind which came first: the chicken or the egg. Reading the ancestors of Christ in Matthew, I learned that Bathsheba was one that I never remembered. God Bless!

[Romayne]

1. No, and never thought I would ever manage to do so, but am now halfway through it, although intending on repeating it for more years to come!
2. I have a deep desire for God to plant His Word in my heart for me to have in times of stress or difficulty when I perhaps don't have access to a physical copy. Also feel we take His Word SO much for granted in the West because its so readily available to us, and the plight of the persecuted Church who hang on every single word of perhaps only a few verses they may have access to has really hit me hard!
3. Discovering yet more incredible nuggets of truth that only God can reveal to us in that wonderful awesome way He does :).
4. Nothing - just excited to know its going to be used in my life.
5. Daniel because of all the end-time prophecies we're now seeing come to pass faster than ever.
6. I live in N. Ireland, UK, and learnt to fly a plane in 2001 despite being in my 40s and heavily disabled! When God opens doors He opens them WIDE :)).
7. http://tikkiro.wordpress.com FYI - because people ask - the "Tikki" comes from my handreared cat who I named Tikvah - Hebrew for hope, but it gets abbreviated to Tikki, and the Ro - first 2 letters of my name :).

About Genesis - if you really want a superb fascintating rollercoaster of a bible study I can't recommend Chuck Missler;s (www.khouse.org) one of this book highly enough. It was the first I'd ever done and absolutely incredible - he takes you through astronomy, botany, astrophysics, geology etc, etc revealing creation as you've never heard it before (other than through Genesis of course :)).

And I'd also like to thank Mike & Tom Dooley (who does the daily readings online) for taking the time and having the patience to undertake their respective roles in enabling the body of Christ to grow in the most precious commodity we have - His Word! Blessings to all for 2007.

[kimella]

1. No.
2. For spiritual edification and to place the Lord where He belongs in my life.
3. Simply knowing I've had every bit of His word.
4. Fear of failure. I'm such an 'all-or-nothing' individual.
5. I love the minor prophets. Particularly Micah vii.7-10.
6. It's not very fun or interesting, but, I live in NY and I'm 21.
7. It's a work in progress.

[Karan]

I have read the Bible before, stared trying to find answers when I was a teenager, some made sense some didn't. What I find fasinating is that each time I read the Bible I gain a little more wisdom and understanding, I feel through the years I have been blessed with a more intimate relationship with God. The only thing I may be nervous about is that I do sin daily, I smoke, I ask for strength to quit, I ask for forgiveness, but I still am doing it, my fear is that God will get frustrated with me an cast me off. I have so many favorite verses, but the one I most cling to is Psalms 91:2 My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust. This may sound crazy, but I want to Hear God's voice, I think I feel Him speaking to my heart sometimes, but often I don't really know if it's my will and wanting to hear what I hear or if it's really His will and Him speaking to me?? So on with the fasinating journey!

[zenimah]

I began reading the entire bible with you last year. I was not focused and did not complete my goals.I believe this year I will complete my goals of reading the entire bible with you. I am excited and I want to read with you. I discovered last year you had wonderful pictures and important information on your site that motivated me beyond meassure to be a Godly person. Plus what is really wonderful is that we have the web at work. I can get my e-mail and make a copy of the reading schedule I can also read during lunch time at my desk. I can share with others what I've read and give them a copy of some goody/nugets that will stir their heart to get closer and know God for themselves. Iam looking forward to this year of bible reading.

[Regina]

1. I have never read the Bible in its entirety.
2. I want to read the bible in 2007 because it's the roadmap that God that provided for my life that I have yet to follow. I want to be faithful in my reading this year.
3. I am looking forward to having a better understanding and relationship with God.
4. I'm just a little nervous about the level of discipline needed to complete this goal.
5. I can't really answer this question at this time but will do so on Dec 31 of this new year :o)
6. What fun about me is I like to do karoake (sp?). What's interesting about me is I am planning (especially praying) about my first mission's trip to Mexico in February. Actually, my 17 year old son came to me about it not that long ago and yesterday, while sitting in church listening to a couple of our missionaries, the thought came to me that I wanted to go a mission's trip. Maybe it was God answering the question I've been asking for years now, "what is your purpose in my life?" Only time and prayer will tell.
7. Actually, my husband and I decided on December 19 to start our own business (local and global networking services, ranging from small business to corporate/governmental agencies) and on December 21, got our business license from the great state of Texas. Though we own our website, it is still being developed. It is WWW.OSICOMMUNICATIONS.NET.
Mike, "Thank you" for this great challenge and opportunity to be a part of something bigger than myself! Happy New Year to all!!!!!

[Pat]

Yes I have read the entire Bible but always in a random order more based on topics of interest and tracing them throughout all the Scripture or in straight order from Genesis to Revelation. I started this study last summer and love the way it is set-up and plan on continuing with it as long as Mike keeps it going. I read the Bible daily each morning because I love the Lord and love being able to seek out His Word, and He sets the path for me to take that day.

Mike, as we start our study of the New Testament, I would like to insert a little general background here about the four gospels.

Mark was the first gospel written and it was directed to the gentile church in Jerusalem that was undergoing great persecution from Nero and the Roman Empire at that time. Mark wrote his gospel to stress the way to salvation and to encourage the church members to persevere in the face of persecution. The gospel of Mark is the book selected by all Christian denomination missionaries to introduce Christ to nonbelievers, as it is a concise teaching of the Christian concepts.

Matthew’s gospel was the second one written and it was based on Mark’s gospel. Matthew rewrote Mark’s gospel for the Jewish people to show how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament. In chapter one Matthew traces the lineage of Jesus from Abraham to Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. Matthew selects 14 descendants from each era of Jewish history but the Old Testament actually records more than 14 in each era and some mentioned by Matthew appear no where else in the Bible.

Luke then took Mark’s gospel and rewrote it for the gentile believers who were neither brought up in the Jewish faith nor that interested in Jewish history. He writes it more from the human-interest aspect and described how Jesus interacted with the many people He mingled with. It is the longest of the four gospel books. In chapter 3 Luke starts tracing the linage of Jesus starting with many generations before Matthew’s but then abruptly stops and jumps directly to the Son of God because the lineage was really of no interest to the ones he wrote his gospel for. Some believe that Luke is really giving the lineage of Mary however that is not stated anywhere in the book of Luke.

John’s gospel is independent from the other three and different in so far as it does not follow the life and teachings of Christ in the chronological order they occurred. John wrote his gospel to stress the love Christ has for us, and the value in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the path of salvation they provide for all those who accept Christ as their personal Messiah.

I look forward to traveling with each and every one of you as we journey through the Scripture in 2007.

God Bless and Happy New Year!
Pat

[Leslie]

1.I dont think I have ever read it from cover to cover
2.I need a plan to help me keep on track with my daily quiet time. This is a good plan
3.I'm looking forward to what new things God is going to show me and how we are going to get more intimately acquainted
4.Not really nervous but more... expectant. I want to know where God is leading me or do I?
5.Favorite book(s)would have to be any of Pauls writings. I'm especially fond of 1 Timothy 4:12
6.I am passionate about the students I teach. I love them so very much
7.I have a myspace which I keep to help me relate better with my students and it gives me a chance to blog as well. look for lesart.

[Thomas]

Evening all,

1. Yes I have! I read all the way through it in 2005 with oneyearbibleblog and started again in 2006, but fell away in early June. I'm giving it another shot!

2. Because it is an amazing book. Plus, in my walk right now, I need the discipline of reading each and every day.

3. To developing my relationship with God afresh and, like the graphic, renewing the passion that once existed in my heart.

4. No. I've done it before! I'm excited about doing it again!

5. Genesis.

6. I play keyboards with my feet.

7. No blog or link I'm afraid.

Looking forward to journeying with you all in 2007! Happy new year!

[Thomas]

Further to my comment I was able to reload my blog, five8.blogspot.com - I haven't posted in ages, but it's a new year!

[Karen]

1) Yes, I have read the Bible from cover to cover Chronilogically.
2) This is going to be a challenge for me since I tried in the past to read the One Year Bible, but it goes all over the place for my liking.
3) I would love to grow and to get to know my God and Savior.
4) I am nervous that I won't finish this style of reading the Bible.
5) My favorite book is the Psalms.
6) I am a cat person.
7) I currently don't have a blog per se. I used to have one on MySpace, but I decided to give that one up.

[Lisa]

1. Yes
2. I want to learn this precious book inside out- I've been saved 23 years and still feel like I have so much to learn. Also the Word is a "safe haven" to which we will need to flee as times in this perilous world get worse and worse.
3. I look forward to becoming more intimately aquainted with my Lord through the reading of His Word.
4. My life is very busy. I fear that Satan will send, and that my flesh will allow interruptions to get me behind in my reading.
5. I love Proverbs & Psalsms and the gospels. But it's ALL good!
6. My dream is to live as an "Anna" - praying and fasting in God's House. I got a taste of this type of lifestyle when I took a three- month internship ship at International House of Prayer in K.C., Missouri last year.
7. Yes, ihop.org ... Blessings to you all!

[Andrew B]

1. Have you read the entire Bible before?

No. I was on this list in 2006 and for some months a consistent reader. But dropped out and in at various points through the year.

2. Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007?

I believe the various books of the Bible were inspired by the Holy Spirit, so in their diverse contexts they give us different perspectives on God's purpose of salvation.

3. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007?

Getting better insight into the mind and purpose of God.

4. Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007?

I find many parts of the OT a challenging effort. I believe the message of salvation for our time is in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I find in this way of reading the Bible that the OT tends to dominate the NT and there is a temptation to get stuck back in the Law, which is one of the things from which Jesus came to save us.

But as Luch as already pointed out today, the OT bears witness to Jesus, the Christ, the Messiah.

5. What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible?

The beginning of John's Gospel. I love the big picture in the opening verses, encompassing God's purpose with the whole universe and the whole of time, from the beginning to the end.

6. What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself?

I am a European. I caught the vision of the founders of Economic Community that has evolved into the European Union. I originate from the English speaking European islands and am now resident in the Dutch speaking delta, maybe not a good place to be as the ocean levels rise in the coming decades!

7. Do you have a blog or website link that you can share with everyone?

Yes, at http://isthistheway.typepad.com/ with the exceedingly ambitious, maybe pretentious title 'From Knowledge to Wisdom'.

Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?

He created them male and female.
God blessed them:
"Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Earth! Take charge!
Be responsible for fish in the sea and birds in the air,
for every living thing that moves on the face of Earth."
(Gen 1:27-28 The Message)

God created a good and beautiful planet as our home and gave us responsibility to manage it well and care for (not exploit) all the other creatures.

Last night we watched Al Gore's film "An Inconvenient Truth". Here in The Netherlands 2006 was another record year for high temperatures. There are shrubs still blooming in my garden that normally should have been driven into winter hibernation by some night frosts. A couple of nights ago it was 11 centigrade at midnight. How is that possible in the middle of winter?

It becomes undeniable that we have shirked the responsibility for care of the planet that was given by God.

[Adreena]

Overall I just want to thank you Mike for your faithfulness to this ministry. It blesses me and many others eternally I'm sure!

1. My name is Adreena. I live near Houston Texas and yes I've read the Bible in its entirety a couple of times and I was with "ya'll" much of 2006 :)
2. I desire to have Gods Word planted in my heart and mind so I can walk in the full purposes and plans He has for my life therefore I try to read His Word everyday.
3. I especially enjoy hearing not only the logos (written word) but also the rhema (personal words from the Lord to me).
4. I have often missed some days of reading but I just start again by picking up on that current days passage selection. I have another suggestion for other readers below that might also help you on your 1-year Bible reading journey especially when you get behind because it's a fast and effective way to catch up.
5. I think my favorite book is Psalms because it's so applicable to my everyday life and it helps me to relate better to God my Father, Jesus my Savior & the Holy Spirit. I know from the Psalms how much the Lord really does love me.
6. One interesting fact about me is that I attended 12-high schools coast to coast in America and 24 schools from K-College.
7. I do not have a blog or website to share at this time.

Like many of you I often find that I'm burning the candle at both ends and have a hard time keeping up with the daily One Year Bible Readings so I get behind. To help me I've also discovered another website that plays the One Year Bible over the Internet and it has been an invaluable resource to compliment this OneYearBibleBlog. I'd like it better if the spoken Word came from the NKJV but other than that I think its another wonderful resource to get the Word of God in you and we all know that the Word says in Romans 10:17 that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God so this is a great resource. My hope this year is to read passage selections from the One Year Bible each day and then to reinforce what I've read by listening to it everyday too. Their website is www.bibleonradio.org.

God bless you & keep "ya'll" in 2007!

Adreena
Spring, Texas

[Ramona]

Monday January 1st 2007

1) Have you read the entire Bible before?

Yes

2) Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007?

To continue a habit I developed in 1987

3) What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007?

I will be focusing on the New Testament readings though I will read all the passages. Also I want to compare the workings of the physical body, the need for food, movement, learning/outside stimulation, etc with what we need, what I need, to operate spiritually.

4) Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007?

That I might possibly forget to keep the focus on what I stated in three (3).

5) What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible?

Interestingly the Book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament is my favorite after that the Gospel of John.

6) What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself?

At church I have an official unofficial seat I try to secure by arriving one hour before service begins.

7) Do you have a blog or website link that you can share with everyone?

There is a Blog/Podcast that I like (secular) called the Word Nerds. It deals with the etymology of words and family of words. Sometimes it is not “G” rated so be forewarned.

Matthew 1:1-2:12

I love Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus because it lists righteous folk, the unrighteous and the downright evil. We have women of ill repute, woman who are “good,” women who were non-Jews and one who was somebody else’s wife. It reminds me that God is not put off by “bad” behavior in choosing the line of people who He will use to bring His work of reconciliation to the world. God is not afraid of using people that others may talk abut, Mary and Joseph, or those who when looked at from the outside may appear to be hypocrites and downright liars and sinners. God does not deal in the “appearance of …” anything he deals in the truth of someone’s character. The BIG problem for us folk is that we don’t see what God sees nor can we truly know with our five-senses who is being used by God. We may think we know but unless God has spoken to us through visions or dreams then we really can only guess.

My prayer for this coming year is that we learn how to discern the voice of God like Joseph. May we listen to His voice then walk in obedience to His Word even if it may cause us to “walk through the valley of the shadow of death.”

Grace and peace,
Ramona

[Karen]

I have established a new blog at
http://www.xianz.com/blog/jazzcaster

[Greg]

1. Not really. I have read quite a bit if the Bible, but have scattered around alot.

2. I want to finally put it all together and read the Bible from cover to cover.

3. I am looking forward to gaining a deeper understanding.

[Tiffany]

1. No, I've tried but always given up.

2. I want to know God and to be transformed by His Word. I want my mind to be renewed and to grow closer to God.

3. I'm looking forward to a deeper relationship with God through reading the entire Bible.

4. I'm a bit nervous about giving up...or that I'd be tempted to skip over 'boring' bits like the measurements for the ark.

5. Romans 8:39. It was the first verse I ever heard as a non-Christian.

6. I live in Hong Kong, bu I'm moving to Singapore in May.

[Becky]

No, I've never read through the whole Bible. The New Testament twice, but never could get very far in the Old Testament. I just really want to understand more of the way God works in history and in the present. Also, to learn more about Christ in the OT, as when I first became a Christian I didn't understand that Christ figures in the OT. My favorite verse is Psalm 119:105: "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet..." I am excited about doing this journey with others, and reading Mike's blog. Love the art work. I am living in (Greek) Cyprus.

[Lorry]

1. Yes 2. I want to continue to get closer to Jesus every day of this year. 3. I am looking forward to this format so that I can share the experience with the body of Christ 4. I give my nervousness to Jesus, at least I try to. 5. "For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him." (2 Chron. 16:9) 6. I am a Jewish Believer praying constantly that the veil with be lifted from the eyes of the Jewish Community and that they will come to know Him 7. I do prefer reading the Bible in hand rather than on the net. I love to touch His Word. Recently started The MacArthur Study Bible, NKJV, Nelson Publ. It has wonderful insights. :) In today's readings - Isaiah 7:14 "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel."(Literally God-With-Us) - is fulfilled in Matthew 1:22-23.
Thank you Mike, for this Ministry and God Bless all the Saints who join with you.
Lorry

[Jane]

1.Have you read the entire Bible before?

No.

2.Why do you want to?

I have been reading a lot of books by Christians like Derek Prince and it has made me aware of how little I know(and sometimes how little I believe)I need to take God at His Word-and so need to know what His Word is!

3.What are you looking forward to?

Hopefully having a prayer life again

4.Anything you may be nervous about?

Apart fom failing abysmally due to lack of self-discipline?

5.Fave book/verse?

Psalm 91'He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High...and the Samaritan Woman in the Gospel of John,especially Jn4:10

6.Fun/interesting fact?

I live in the North of England-I think it's fun and you may find it interesting...

7.Blog/website?

Not clever enough for that

[Gloria]

1. Have you read the entire Bible before?
I don't believe so; at least not in such an organized fashion, in one year.
2. Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007?
It is part of my plan to grow ever closer to God this year.
3. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007?
Learning even more, and having greater intimacy with God.
4. Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007?
Nothing to be nervous about.
5. What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible?
No favorite.
6. What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself?
While in college, on a choir bus trip one spring break, I began playing my kazoo at page one in a small song book, and continued page to page...and lived to tell about it.
7. Do you have a blog or website link that you can share with everyone?
Some posts are limited to friends or those in my "neighborhood," but others are public, at
http://gloriasmusings.vox.com/
Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?
Don't remember noticing before that the genealogy of Jesus included Uriah's wife.
I am journaling as I read through the Bible this year, including prayers and insights from the daily readings.

[Lesley]

1. I've never read the entire Bible.
2. I want to read the entire Bible this year because it seems like the best way to have a quiet time and daily study of God's word. Rather than relying on daily devotionals written by others, I want to go to the Source (combined, of course, with the great links to scholarly explanations).
3. What I'm looking forward to most is a closer connection to God. Also, I want to better understand the way prophecies of a Messiah were made in the OT and later fulfilled in the NT.
4. Only nervousness would be fear of not finishing what I start!
5. My favorite parts of the Bible are Jesus' parables.
6. I'm a work-at-home mommy who is constantly juggling, but keeps her sense of humor.

[Jit]

1.I have read the bible chronologically in 2006
2.As in previous times reading the whole bible put life in perspective
3.I believe God will speak to me through the bible in my daily walk with Him
4.No, I am not nervous about this
5.No particular favourite book
6.I enjoy being involved in the various programs of the church
7.I have a web album which people can visit and it is http://www.flickr.com/photos/jitchay/

In the 6 days of Creation, I see the introduction of "dichotomy" as in day & night, land & sea, above & below. I see the beginnings of right and wrong and of separation

[Karen S.]

1. Yes, a few times over the years from Genesis to Revelations. I like the format of this oneyearbible and this is my third year with Mike. Go Mike! 2. The more I read it the more I remember. 3. Knowing God better and more intimately. 4. Reading thru some of the 'boring' parts of the o.t. and being tempted to just skip over those parts. 5. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not on thine own understanding; in all thy ways acknowledge Him; and He shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 6. I live in Gold Canyon, AZ and I love the Lord.

[Denise]

1. No
2. To walk closer to God and to understand my purpose in this life as well as to seek direction. Also a personal challenge.
3. To be more scholarly for witnessing to others and to feel closer to God
4. That "life" will get in the way. I must not succumb to the ways of the world
5. Jeremiah 29:11.
6. I am a busy single mother of three great kids.
7. No

[Becky]

Have you read the entire Bible before? 2. Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007? 3. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007? 4. Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007? 5. What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible? 6. What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself? 7. Do you have a blog or website link that you can share with everyone? Thanks for participating in the roll-call! :) Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?
1.Yes, I have read through the entire Bible in 2005 and enjoyed the oneyearbibleblog.com for the little "extra's!"
2&3.I skipped the every day reading last year and had joined a weekly Bible Study which I love (Bible Study Fellowship) but miss the daily discipline, so... I hope to do both this year. My goal is that in the more I read through the Bible, the more I will look like Jesus!
4.The only thing I am nervous about is the daily discipline! Doesn't "life" get so fast sometimes. I want to make my walk with the Lord my priority, not my "left-over"
5.My favorite verse is Zephaniah 3:17 - I love the "picture" of God singing over me!!!
6.Only fact I can think of is that I will begin my 50th year on this earth this year!!! I really should be much more knowledgable of the Bible than I am - BUT... that is why I am doing this!!
7.No blog or website - just me!

[Alex R]

1. No
2. I want to read the Bible because I want to grow in faith and have peace in my life. I think that the Word of the LORD is the best method to finding my true peace and escaping from the world.
3. I look forward to reading the Gospel which I think I'll find inspiring and intruiging.
4. I fear that the Bible will call me to overcome my greatest weakness.
5. Galatians 3:10;13 (when read consecutively) <--made me and my friend cry like mad when we read it on a projector after hearing a song on it)
6. I was converted to Christianity by a 2nd grader when I was in 5th grade.
7. Nope.

Be blest everyone!!! Let's have a great year!!! *waves*

[Tiffany]

1. No
2. 2007 is going to be my spiritual year.
3. Learning, learning, learning!
4. I worry that I wont have the time. I have 2 babies and my husband is gone (military). The other thing I worry about is not having a clue about what I'm reading. I don't have any background in religion so I know I'll be a little overwhelmed with questions.
5. Don't know yet.
6. Can't even think of anything interesting about myself. I'm too tired to think half the time.
7. No blog or website.

[Loni]

1. Yes past years, BUT, I started again last here through this blog and did not finish. :(
2. Spiritual growth and God's convicting.
3. Spiritual growth & God's convicting.
4. Time & failing to do so again this year.
5. The last two years have been rough in our home since the death of our 16 year old son. This verse, especially, the end of this year, has been an encouragement to me as we see God's faithfulness through this valley. Isaiah 42:16
6. I am a homeschool mom, expecting my 12th child in March.
7. I am a freelance writer, and write on my blog, Finding JOY in the Morning, which began after the death of our son. From there are links to our family webpage, to memorial webpages, and more.
BLOG:
http://joyinthemorning.clubmom.com/

[Penny/Ramona, CA]

First of all, God Bless you Mike for what you're doing with this blog. I will enjoy coming here everyday and reading your posts and those of everyone who felt led to share that day. You are a blessing to all of us and we thank you for what you're doing.

1. Have you read the entire Bible before?
I believe I have but not using the One Year Bible. I've read the Bible in different studies throughout the years.

2. Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007?
I love God's word and want to learn more about Him.

3. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007? Becoming more disiplined in my walk with the Lord. I want to grow in my fellowship with Him and His word was given to us to help us to do that.

4. Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007?
Nothing to be nervous about. If there's something I don't understand, I will pray that the Holy Spirit gives me wisdom and revelation and there are very reliable sources (your blog for example) where I can gain better understanding of those harder to understand scriptures.

5. What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible?
I love the book of Romans as it tells me that I have been choosen by God : )

6. What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself?
I'm a member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA) and a girl who rides her own Harley. I use my bike to witness for the Lord.

7. Do you have a blog or website link that you can share with everyone?
Not yet.

[SissySue]

1. Have you read the entire Bible before?

Yes. I tried many times in my youth, but in 1989 I heard a radio broadcast of a gentleman who read through the entire Bible every month! Then I listened and learned that he was an attorney. Finally, it was shared how he did it: He divided the pages in his bible by 30 and read that many pages every day. I tried it, and: Viola! I did it. But my comprehension was next to nothing. Nevertheless, scripture says that the Holy Spirit will bring scripture to our remembrance--and I reasoned that if I don't get it in there, how is the Holy Spirit going to bring it to my remembrance?

In 1992 our church had the One-Year Bible at a discount in the Narthex, and I picked one up and have tried to read it through every year since. I love it, and love this site and the work Mike puts into it, and the fact that we can listen while we read

(don't we get hung up on those strange names and places?

--but with it being narrated [amd how I love Max MacLean's readings]

-- it just keeps us on track and gets us through it).

2. Why do you want to read the entire Bible in 2007?

Because I want to get to know God's character and attributes more intimately.

3. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2007?

Getting to know my brethren and "sistern" better on Mike's blog here.

4. Is there anything you might be nervous about in terms of reading the entire Bible in 2007?

I am trying to follow the edict to "...be anxious for nothing..." *LOL*

5. What's your favorite book or verse in the Bible?

Galatians 5:22,23 (...against such there is no law...)

6. What's a fun or interesting fact about yourself?

God loves me!

7. Do you have a blog or website link that you can share with everyone?

Sure.

http://disc.server.com/Indices/217804.html

Let's pray for each other throughout this coming year, as most of the concern is about our ability to maintain the discipline of staying on track.

Since there are 1440 minutes in a day (60 minutes x 24 hours)

--and since it only takes 15-20 minutes a day to read the scripture,

let's not let anything take a higher priority than reading God's word this year!

God's love and blessings to you all!

And thank you Mike for your willingness to maintain this blog daily--the least we can do is read it, eh?

[Jan]

1. not in a structured way.
2 & 3. Because I need the discipline of regular time in God's word and I also want to read the entire Bible to have more of the "big picture", not just seperate Bible verses that I memorized as a child.
4. I fear being unable to answer some of the questions that my two nieces might have, as we are all three reading this together this year. I am also very excited about doing it together and know that it will give us lots to talk about.
5. One is Acts 5:9
6. I love to travel and hope to do more when my husband retires next year.
7. No blog or website.