Hello Everyone,
Below you’ll find the Scripture readings for April. As we conclude Lent and come into Holy Week and Easter this month, we’d love to have you join our community in committing to five simple practices for re-embodying your faith. Here’s a quick synopsis of the five practices with some links to get you started:
SCRIPTURE: We share a common reading schedule, usually one passage from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament, and a Psalm each day. Learn more: How To Read The Bible
PRAYER: We pray on our knees the first minute we get out of bed and the last minute before our head hits the pillow. Learn more: How To Pray
FASTING: Fasting makes space for God. We do it in different ways in different seasons (e.g. internet fast on Sundays; no meat or dairy on Fridays; special alms-giving in summer). Learn more: Why We Fast
CHURCH: Make a commitment to physically go and worship with other Christians at a local church every Sunday. Learn more: Losing Our Religion
AUTHORITY: Begin to ask God for a trustworthy pastor, priest, or spiritual leader. Then approach that person and give them authority in your life. Learn more: What Is A Priest?
For more on Christian faith and practice check out: Creeds, Deeds, & Needs.
The April Plan
The readings for this month are as follows. If you’re the analog type, you can access the reading plan here and print it out or bookmark it on your phone or computer. We also have a personalized plan on the Dwell app (FREE for you!), which automatically loads each new day’s Bible passages. You can read or listen right on the app. It’s pretty awesome. You have to create an account to get started, but once you’re in, it’s free thanks to VB Fellows footing the bill (we welcome your donations to help keep it going).
This month in the Old Testament, we conclude our journey through the royal history of ancient Israel in 2 Kings. Then we begin the book of Judges. In the New Testament, we will be reading Paul’s letters to the church in Corinth. The Psalm readings are listed as “optional,” as I am trying not to overwhelm those who are new to a daily reading plan. However, I highly recommend working the Psalms into your daily routine. Rather than simply “reading” each Psalm, try praying through the selected Psalm before you read the other Scriptures.
Below are the excellent Bible Project video introductions to our readings for this month. Definitely use these resources as you begin each new book. It will help to give context into what you’re about to read.
Thanks and Happy Easter in advance!
— Ross