hmm

So I mentioned a few days ago that I was starting a new Bible study. I have always been hit by the command in Leviticus to "make yourself Holy, for I am Holy," especially since "holy" is translated in some versions as "perfect." How can I make myself perfect? Isn't that impossible? I know that my faith pleases God more than anything, but my behavior is a direct result of my faith in and communion with God. Therefore the command to be holy or perfect in my thoughts and actions cannot be ignored.

My goal with this new book is a chapter a week, which at first I thought was a little pathetic. The writing is straightforward, and it's very easy to take notes on. As I started to really concentrate on the "study" part as opposed to the "casually flip through and nod accordingly" part, however, I realized that even a chapter a week might be too much for my brain to process. I'm using the Message Bible with this study which doesn't have verses marked. Therefore, I am constantly reading the context and trying to pin down exactly which words I'm supposed to be concentrating on. Context is good (and totally in keeping with my personality anyway). Turns out, this study is perfect for me. For example, here's the first chapter's primary verses, context included:

You must not give sin a vote in the way you conduct your life...Throw yourself wholeheartedly and full time...into God's way of doing things. Sin can't tell you how to live. After all, you're not living under the old tyranny any longer. you're living in the Freedom of God. (Romans 6:12-14, Message)

Good, yeah? Here's the verses that start off the study for chapter two:

...so roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear, be totally READY [emphasis mine] to receive the gift that's coming when Jesus arrives. Don't lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn't know any better then, you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God's life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, "I am Holy, you be Holy." You call out to God for help and He helps-He's a good Father that way. But don't forget He's also a responsible Father and won't let you get away with sloppy living." (1 Peter 13-18, Message)

I won't bore you with my own personal notes, but suffice to say I'm on page 5 of my little notebook, and the book itself is heavily underlined. Cultural holiness (when the Christians in our own culture define the standard) and sloppy living begone, there's a "new" standard in town.