Throw-Back-Thursday (#TBT) popularity on social media wanes, constantly replaced by various new #’s, but it is still fun to remember. Along with its hash tags, pictures of yester-year would dance across out computer screens, mobile phones, and tablets. Frequently the hair styles and clothing reveal the era. We laugh, usually, or moan, sometimes. When I open my #TBT Bible, my name is written on the inside cover. Back in the day, unlike now, few versions of the Bible were available. "The Living Bible" broke the rules by using current vernacular, much the way we appreciate The Message today. The words and the order of the words sounded friendly, more familiar to the ear. The Living Bible with its padded green color, while popular with teenagers, did not thrill the adults. Whatever your thoughts or preferences are about various translations and transliterations of the Holy Bible, I believe God always uses His words to inspire, to convict, to reveal His Goodness and Grace.
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| #TBT High School, 1973 |
Reading today from Romans in The Living Bible, God's word tells it straight. Listen to some of the verses from Chapter 12: Be honest in your estimate of yourselves...we belong to each other, and each needs all the others. God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well. And further down, Don't just pretend that you love others; really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. Love each other with brotherly affection and take delight in honoring each other. These very valuable words remind us our connectedness in Christian community. These words are not just for #TBT!
Life is messy! We wait, longing for time to pass more quickly then hurry to what is next. Hurt and disappointment become friends we wish we didn't know. Doubt shouts! Hypocrisy mocks! But, God always sees the bigger picture, sees beyond what our minds cannot understand. Using my #TBT Bible, I find these words: Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and prayerful always. (Romans 12:12)
I did not read other translations or search commentaries, did not research Greek origins of the words or look at cross references (none in the #TBT Bible). I simply let my prayer echo His inspired words: With a grateful heart, God, I trust You are planning something good for me. In times of trouble, help me be patient. You show me how to love others, truly love them. Give me a boldness to stand on the side of good with love. Every moment of every day, my prayers rising to You, spending time with You ~ listening, resting, waiting, learning, loving. Amen! ~dho
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