A Book of Action

Bible Reading: ACTS 5:12-16; 12:6-11

Landon slammed his book shut. “This is the most boring book I have ever read!” he declared. “I like books that have lots of action.”

“Well, then you should read this,” said Mom. She held up a Bible.

Landon frowned. “To tell you the truth, I think the Bible’s kinda boring too. I mean, I know there are some exciting stories, like Daniel and the lions or David and Goliath, but I already know what happens in them.”

“Try reading the book of Acts,” suggested Mom. “The story of the early church is exciting. It starts with a man defying the laws of gravity and launching into space without a spaceship.”

Landon sat up. “Oh, Mom, you’re kidding!”

“No, I’m not. Read the first chapter of Acts for yourself.” She handed him the Bible.

Landon took the book and began reading. “Oh,” he said after a few minutes, “you’re talking about Jesus going up into heaven.”

Mom chuckled. “Right. And then there’s the story about the man whose shadow was so powerful that people came from miles around to see it and have it fall on them.”

Landon frowned. “Are you talking about Jesus again?”

Mom shook her head. “Nope. Check out the fifth chapter of Acts.”

Again all was silent, except for the rustling of pages. Then Landon looked up. “I remember hearing about this in church! Tell me another one.”

Mom thought for a moment. “Once there was an exciting jail break,” she said. “A prisoner had a visitor one night who apparently had a strange effect on the guards—and right under their noses, he led the prisoner out through the prison gates.”

“Where’s that one found?” asked Landon.

“I don’t remember exactly—somewhere in Acts. You find it, Landon,” Mom answered. “I think, if you give it a chance, you’ll find reading the Bible is anything but boring. Not only does it contain lots of exciting stories, but they’re all true! And they all point to the story of Jesus and how He saves us from sin. All those who trust in Him will one day be raised from the dead just like He was. What’s more exciting than that?”

“Okay, Mom,” Landon said. “I guess I’ve got some reading to do!” BARBARA J. WESTBERG

How About You?

Have you read any exciting stories in the Bible? There’s a lot of them. Even parts of the Bible that don’t seem as exciting still point to the most exciting story of all—the story of Jesus and all He’s done for us. Spend time reading the Bible, even if it’s only a little at a time, and ask Jesus to use His Word to encourage you in your walk with Him.

Today’s Key Verse:
PSALM 119:97 OH, HOW I LOVE YOUR LAW! IT IS MY MEDITATION ALL THE DAY. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Read God’s word