Journal Entry #14 November 30, 2002
Lately I have been asking people around me what their favorite Bible stories are. You get interesting responses. From those who try and give the "Sunday School response," to those who are honest and really have no response. Interestingly enough, I have found that lots of guys favor the story of David and Goliath. Whether it is because the little guy wins or just the fact that it is a story with guts and gore.... it seems to be popular among the males I know. And then, for the women, Queen Esther tends to be a favorite. And why not? It's a wonderful story empowering women to do what God has called them to do.
In asking folks what their favorite Bible story is, I'm making conversation, but I'm also developing a theory about how we relate best to certain stories, usually because we see and hear so much of our own story within them. For instance... those who love David and Goliath may very well relate best to and find hope in the story of how God uses the most unexpected people to carry out His purposes and plans. And maybe for those who are particularly charged by the epic adventures of Joseph in the Old Testament, they can connect with the story of one who went through many trials and adversities, but all for the glory of God, so that He could use Joseph in some of the most incredible ways.
For me, of course I have a favorite Bible story. I mean, I better... considering I'm the one asking the ridiculous question in the first place. My favorite story would have to be that of the Prodigal Son. What an amazing story of grace, forgiveness, hope and hospitality. Have I ever run away from home? Squandered my Dad's inheritance? Or, seen my Father run out to meet me as I began my journey home? Yes, on all counts.
Sure, as believers we can all relate to this story. It is a story that resonates in all of our hearts. But why do I connect with it so? Why does the image of the Father running out to meet His son, with arms open wide catch me by surprise each and every time? Why does the picture of the Father putting rings on his son's fingers and sandals on his feet and a robe on his shoulders choke me up when I read it? Why? Because it is nothing short of Amazing Grace. Because it is my story. Because it is your story. And because, even with my "good" little life, so free from harm and evil and suffering, I find myself in desparate need of this grace. And when I hear this incredible story of the Father's forgiveness of His child, something wells up inside of me in a way that I cannot deny. I am His child. He is my Father. And I am loved more than I can imagine. It's no wonder I connect with that story. How beautiful it is.
