“The relationship with God called eternal life gets started when we’re baptized, but it has to be cultivated.  We cultivate that relationship by being with Jesus – – – in the sacraments, in prayer and in Bible study.  As we receive, pray and study, we begin to change.  Little by little we become like the person we’re learning about, talking to and receiving – – – that is, we become like Jesus.”  – Karen Purnell

The above is an excerpt from a Women’s Retreat I went to Saturday, led by Karen Purnell at St. Athanasius, called “Like Jesus.”  I think it is very fitting for us.  We are all trying very hard to be more holy and to be like Jesus.  This bible study is one way in which we are working on holiness.  Keep up the good work!

This week, please read chapters 13 and 14 of Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians.  As always, feel free to share your thoughts on the readings and/or study questions by posting your comments on the LGB website/Week 7 or on the LGB Facebook page.

Information:

• In Chapter 13, we read probably one of the most read chapters from Paul’s First Letters to the Corinthians.  This chapter is widely used at weddings.  In this chapter, we read Paul’s description of the importance of LOVE, which is greater than any other spiritual gift. (see 1 Corinthians 13)
• In Chapter 14, Paul stresses the importance of raising up the congregation by the use of our gifts.  Paul warns us against using our gifts (no matter how wonderful they may be) in ways that take away from the liturgy. Our gifts used during worship should not detract from the service or cause confusion in those around us. Instead, they should only be used to uplift others to help bring them closer to God.  (see 1 Corinthians 14)

I’d like to end this post with one more quote from Karen Purnell’s retreat (“Like Jesus”):

“The relationship we have developed with God is the only thing that we will take out of this world with us when we die.” – Karen Purnell

God bless you all in your work towards holiness and building your relationship with God!