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Bible Study Opportunities: Allowing God’s Word to Penetrate Our Hearts
If we are going to fulfill our calling to become true disciples of Christ, we as Catholics must follow the example of the first disciples. This means spending time listening to, learning from, and imitating our Lord. And what better way is there to do that — says our Pastor, Msgr. Robert Tucker — than through the living Word of God?
“As Catholics, we have to understand that the Bible is more than a book that was written over 2,000 years ago for the people of that age,” Msgr. Tucker says. “It is something that is living and relevant for all people of every age. This is because it contains truths that never change and the wisdom of God.”
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While we hear the Word proclaimed each time we attend Mass, many Catholics feel ill-equipped when it comes to personal study and knowledge of the Bible. We get lost in the historical narratives and archaic language of some of its books, and confused by its parables and symbolism.
“Many people are kind of nervous about the Bible because it’s not easy to read,” Msgr. Tucker says. “How many people, for example, have started reading through the Bible and read Genesis and Exodus only to give up when they get to books like Leviticus? That’s why Bible studies are so helpful. They allow us to go along with someone who can help guide us through the Word and accompany us on the journey.”
Not only do such studies help us understand the Bible better from an academic standpoint, but far more importantly, they also enable us to take in its rich spiritual content — allowing the reader to enter into an intimate, spiritual conversation with the Lord.
“It’s so important that we begin to view Scripture as a living Word that was written for me personally,” Msgr. Tucker says. “It invites us into a spiritual conversation with God as we read God’s Word and listen to it. This allows the ‘two-edged sword’ to penetrate our hearts and marrow (Hebrews 4:12).”
One way for parishioners to do this is by taking advantage of our parish’s FORMED.org subscription. Through this site, parishioners can gain free and easy access to biblical studies and books from renowned authors and scholars. These can be viewed conveniently at a time and place best meets your schedule.
“There are many studies there that people can do independently on their own,” Msgr. Tucker says. “There is a new one on Matthew, as well as one on St. Peter, the Eucharist, and others.”
Yet, because we are fundamentally social creatures, it’s also good to have group studies available, enabling parishioners to grow in faith alongside one another. This provides a level of accountability, as well, making it easier for us to stay on track with our spiritual goals. That’s why, as Msgr. Tucker notes, St. Vincent de Paul hopes to provide ongoing Scriptural studies through the parish, gathering parishioners together either in person or through Zoom video conferencing to learn, discuss and internalize God’s Word together.
“Though it’s becoming clear that things with COVID-19 aren’t going away anytime soon, we can’t quit growing in our faith,” Msgr. Tucker says. “That’s why I want us to continue offering opportunities for people to come and study God’s Word, whether that is in person or virtually.”
