Writer's Block
I think for most of my life, Bible reading (apart from group Bible studies, and prepartion for Bible studies) usually amounts to either reading through a few verses for daily inspiration, or reading through an entire book as one would read a novel.

Sitting down and really studying as part of the intern program has been tough but rewarding in many ways. On one hand, having a mandatory study schedule can easily make study a chore. Study can also turn the Word of God into an academic text, the way an academic study of Shakespeare can take the joy away from reading the literature. Finally, it is a constant challenge not to interpret scripture in manner that is suitable for myself.

On the flip side, in recent weeks, I've been finding moments of joy in staring blankly at a Psalm, not knowing what to write, praying in frustration, and eventually over hours or days, seeing a beautiful relationship with God among the lines of poetry.

So as I myself have nothing to write now, here's Psalm 32:

How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven,

        Whose sin is covered! 

    How blessed is the man to whom the LORD does not impute iniquity,

            And in whose spirit there is no deceit!





When I kept silent about my sin, my body wasted away

        Through my groaning all day long. 

    For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me;

            My vitality was drained away as with the fever heat of summer. Selah.



I acknowledged my sin to You,

        And my iniquity I did not hide;

    I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD";

            And You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah.



Therefore, let everyone who is godly pray to You in a time when You may be found;

        Surely in a flood of great waters they will not reach him. 

    You are my hiding place; You preserve me from trouble;

            You surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah. 



I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go;

        I will counsel you with My eye upon you. 

    Do not be as the horse or as the mule which have no understanding,

            Whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check,

            Otherwise they will not come near to you.



Many are the sorrows of the wicked,

        But he who trusts in the LORD, lovingkindness shall surround him. 

    Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones;

            And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.