Please Pass the Instruction Manual
By Cindy L. Korf of North Platte, NE, USA
Scripture is an indispensable witness to the Eternal Source of light and truth, which cannot be fully contained in any finite vessel or language. Scripture has been written and shaped by human authors through experiences of revelation and ongoing inspiration of the Holy Spirit in the midst of time and culture. —Doctrine and Covenants 163:7a
My husband and sons were installing a garage door on an old farm building. They worked until they came to a snag. They tried different angles, different sizes of screws and nails, different tools and methods. But nothing they did would fix the door.
Finally, my oldest son pulled out the instruction manual, and carefully studied the book to discover how to make it work. After reading, studying, and applying their new-found wisdom, they hung the garage door and made it work.
The thought occurred to me—what if all of us studied and applied the scriptures to our lives with that same vigor and intensity? How fortunate we are to have a “study manual” to guide and direct us through life and to provide a continual source of light and truth.
Prayer for Peace
God of Wisdom, thank you for not leaving us to our own strategies. You have given us agency, but we rely on your guiding Spirit to help us make choices. Please continue teaching us ways to make peace.
Spiritual Practice: Teacher–learner
The first disciples of Jesus followed to hear his teaching, to learn a new way of living, and to practice what they learned in daily life. Prayerfully consider your role as a teacher–learner, disciple–apprentice, and a people cultivator in Community of Christ. In your journal, write the names of several people you discern as teachers or mentors and several you feel called to nurture and encourage in specific ways. Ask for God’s blessing on you and your congregation as a community of learners.
Peace Covenant
Today, God, when faced with confusion, I will not hesitate to go to the Source for direction.
