I love this picture. Something about it draws me. It is an African church.I think I am moved by the concentration that these people are showing over the Bibles. They haven't just read the passage and then set it aside waiting for someone to tell them what it all means. It seems they are reading and re-reading the passage, seeking to really understand and take it all in.
Also the discussion from the gentleman in the group of listeners shows that this experience with the Bible is not merely passive. With the Bible open in his hand, he seems to really be expressing something from his heart.
Finally, the sparseness of their surroundings shows their desire to gather and study and ponder and learn even without a comfortable and easy situation.
Just a few things that may contribute to why this picture moves me. There is something fresh and unencumbered about it.
"Blessed is the man
who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked,
or stand in the way of sinners,
or sit in the seat of mockers,
but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law he meditates day and night." (Ps. 1:2)
Lord, may my heart come before you fresh and unencumbered as I feast on your word alone and may I find a place to feast as these people are doing with others. Let me bring my whole self to the meal and not just my mind or my feelings or my latest activities, but everything. My vision may be idealistic, but may it be supported by your grace and the power of your Spirit. Amen.
