How is the Word of God to be read and heard? With diligence, preparation, and prayer; so that we may accept it with faith, store it in our hearts, and practice it in our lives. (New City Catechism)
And teach. Let us be ready:
the hands poised beneath the pages,
holding open, as in prayer;
the eyes attuned, the ears listening,
the spirit waiting,
the Spirit turning
hearts to hear and grow.
And store:
though minds are dull
and eyes may wander,
teach and hold
and store within
the mind’s recesses truths received.
Rebuke! Transform!
Let grace unfold
in pages turned in time, absorbed,
ingested, stored in minds and souls,
ready now to grow.
The Consolations of Writing 