We must begin at the beginning.

The Bible begins with five books we call the Pentateuch. Their importance to the faith cannot be overstated. Getting to know this story is essential to understanding what happens next.

Reading the Pentateuch is tricky when we’re already convinced that its contents are holy, and dare we say, perfect. Doing this puts us into the position to miss the point; not seeing the proverbial forest for the trees.

This workshop is about helping us see the forest. Each week, we’ll have a video, prompts for reflection, suggested readings, and an assignment for an ongoing project.

Week One: Promise

Watch the video.

Prompt 1: What happens to our lives when we make keeping a promise our highest priority?

Suggested Readings: Genesis 17-18, Genesis 27, Exodus 13:17-22, Exodus 15:22-17:7, Leviticus 19, Deuteronomy 31

Assignment: We are working on a project of learning this great, big story. This certainly requires reading it. But it also requires reflecting on what we’re reading in a wholistic way. Over the next several weeks, we’re going to be asking ourselves “what’s the big story so far?”

You may choose to keep a journal. Begin each day by putting the story into your own words. This week, we are starting at the beginning, so what is the story so far in these first five books? I’ve given you a theme of “promise” to focus on. How does God’s promise, first to Abraham, and then to his people, show up in the story?

A Final Note About Reading: Please don’t think you have to read all five books this week. I’ve provided a few suggested readings that speak to the theme. You may also choose to read the daily lectionary. But I encourage you to read some Scripture every day. This is a practice that can have a big impact.