May 2008

Scripture readings for May are from the books of Ezra, Ruth, Jonah, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus.  God bless you as you read and grow.
- Pastor Dan

Readings from Ezra

The book of Ezra tells the story of the return of the people of Israel to Jerusalem following their captivity in Babylon, the rebuilding of the temple, and the reforms that followed.

Readings from Ruth

The book of Ruth describes both the hardships, faithfulness, and blessing of a Moabite woman named Ruth and her marriage to a Hebrew man named Boaz.

Readings from Jonah

The book of Jonah is the story of a reluctant prophet.  The Lord told Jonah to prophecy against Nineveh.  He refused and ran away.  The Lord changed his mind.  Someone has described the book as: Jonah running from God; Jonah running to God; Jonah running with God; Jonah running ahead of God.

Readings from 1 Timothy

The book of 1 Timothy is a letter from Paul to a young pastor named Timothy.  In the letter Paul gives Timothy a variety of instructions regarding leadership in the church.

Readings from 2 Timothy

The book of 2 Timothy was Paul’s last letter included in the New Testament.  In the letter Paul gives personal encouragement to Timothy.  He also writes powerful statements about the terrible times in the last days and a summary of his own life and ministry.

Readings from Titus

The book of Titus is a letter from Paul to church leader named Titus, whom Paul left on the Island of Crete to “straighten out what was left unfinished and appoint elders” (1:5).  That was a challenging task.  Look for what it says about the people of Crete.  As you read, also look for the word “good” and how it applies to leaders, teachers, and the people of the church.