Jan 23 2008
shouting scripture
Have you ever noticed that when Christians gather and read scripture, we almost always read in the same dry monotone. Whether it is a dramatic narrative section of Mark, or a heartfelt psalm; a section of law, or a prophecy of judgement and doom, we read it all the same way.
In fact often when one person reads, this pattern is so habitual that we get caught up in it.
I think that this is a shame. It represents a lowest common denominator of reading scripture. I have been keyed up about this for a few years, but it is a hard thing to change. The momentum of our lousy habits (especially when it is one against a whole room who is not thinking about this issue) is hard to break.
This Saturday I am embarking on my first personal attempt to teach into this issue. During a spot in a worship service when we would normally have a song time, we are going to have some congregational scripture reading and I hope there will be a little shouting.
That is my best idea. I’ve picked some scriptures that deserve to be shouted in a rejoicing way and we are going to try to do it together. If you can be there, join us in Cook auditorium at 7PM. If you can’t make it, check out psalm 97-100 and find a private spot or some friends you can be loud with and read these psalms in a loud dramatic voice.
Let me know how it goes.
on the walk
-Ethan
Sound like this is right up your alley. ‘loud dramatic voice’ Unfortunately, droning reading is the norm for all written word. I encourage my students and especially my children to read aloud as if they are telling an exciting story. The Bible lends itself very well to this. Also the epistles lend themselves to being read as an orator before an audience.
Have fun (will it be online?)
kire