"Do you understand what you are reading?" Philip asked.
My wife and I sometimes wander through the Vancouver Art Gallery admiring the special art collections on display. I have discovered that a gallery visit is greatly enriched when we join a guided tour. I learn things about the artists and the paintings that I would have missed on my own. Wandering through the Bible can be a little like that.
Perhaps you are like the Ethiopian official we read about today. You may describe yourself as a spiritual person, and you may be wondering which religion is best. Maybe you're exploring Christianity and have begun reading parts of the Bible--along with these devotions, for example. But, like the Ethiopian, you may find that some things you read are confusing or hard to understand. There seems to be a continuous story, but you aren't sure how to connect the dots.
The journey you are on is a very important one. It will lead you to see yourself as God sees you, a person who is deeply loved and valued by God. Jesus is the glue that holds the whole story together.
But you may do well to invite a "Philip" into your life. Check out a church and start asking questions. Get into a small group that studies the Bible and cares about you as a person. Experience the reality of Christian community. It will change your life.
Lord, I feel like I'm on a spiritual journey, and I'm discovering that it would be helpful to have some guidance along the way. Please send me mentors who can help. In Jesus, Amen.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!