In recent weeks I was introduced to a wonderful concept that could be used to accomplish different purposes in a variety of settings. Basically, the idea is that you read a passage and then “step into the scene” with each of your senses, taking on the role of a character in the passage or as an observer. What do you see, smell, hear, sense, experience? As you think of these various elements, you will come to understand a little more clearly what the passage is saying to you. I have used it and it really is a wonderful exercise.
This method of study could be used by adults and children alike, for studying God’s word and in other areas of study or reading as well. For instance, what would the world be like from the perspective of a praying mantis, an oak tree, a dog, the survivor of an earthquake, a blind person? Perhaps people would be more compassionate or understanding if they stepped into a scene with a whole new perspective. If you are a home educating parent, you could have your children write about what they “saw, smelled, heard, sensed, experienced” through the eyes of someone or something else.
An assignment I completed looked at some of the teachings of Jesus. A man interrupted Jesus to ask him to talk some sense into his brother. It turns out the fellow wanted Jesus to settle a family inheritance dispute. I took on the role of a young woman who might have been in the multitude that day and I will share my “letter to Mom” with you. But, before you read it, here is an assignment for you! The commemoration of Good Friday will soon be upon us, followed by the celebration of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Try this “stepping into the scene” exercise as you experience those two events. Read the scripture accounts and put yourself into the scenes. What do you see, smell, hear, taste, experience? What would you ask or say to Jesus or the writer of the passage you read?
I trust you will enjoy my step-into-the-scene letter and, when you get to the end of it, ask yourself if people should be following in your footsteps!
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A letter from the perspective of one in the multitude:
Dear Mom: I watched for you today, but with so many thousands pressing in to hear Jesus teaching today it was impossible to find you. To be honest, I was afraid of being trampled to death so when I found a spot to stand close to where Jesus and his disciples were, I stayed put! I could clearly hear what the Master was saying.
Jesus warned His disciples and us to not be like the Pharisees who pretend to be good but aren’t. He told us to not be afraid of those who murder because they can only kill the body, not your soul. My heart was warmed when He said I am worth more than a whole flock of sparrows and He knows how many hairs are on my head! Jesus even promised that He will acknowledge before the angels of God those who acknowledge Him. Then He said the Holy Spirit will teach me what to say if I am tried for being one of His followers.
Would you believe, here we are, in the middle of powerful teachings on life and death itself, and some guy stands up and asks Jesus to tell his brother to divide the family inheritance with him! Can you imagine? He was right there and close enough to have heard all that Jesus was saying and his missed the point of it all! The guy was so busy thinking about himself, his selfish wants and how to get half of his father’s estate, that he totally blew it.
It was not at all surprising that Jesus told us point blank that storing up for ourselves treasures on earth out of sheer greed is wrong, wrong, wrong. Sure, we need to work and care for our family and eat to live but, living to eat, drink and be merry is not what we should strive for. In fact, you can’t take it to the grave. Then Jesus turned to the man and said, “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you.” I sure hope his family doesn’t follow in his footsteps.
I hope to see you in a couple of days and we will talk more about what Jesus is teaching us.
Your loving daughter.
Tags: Bible Study, Easter, Good Friday, resurrection, Writing