Death of a Mentor

Eugene H. Peterson died a few days ago. Although I never met the gentleman, through his books he became a Mentor for me. I've been reading his devotional book, "Living the Message, Daily Help for Living the God-Centered Life" I quote from todays reading, November 2, "Listening to Scripture in the form of story we learn that we are also in the story, traveling toward God, being drawn toward him. We develop a sense of journeying and discipleship. If we fail to develop the 'story sense' we inevitably start 'applying' the Bible--taking charge of a verse or doctrine or moral with which we intend to fix some fragment of ourselves [or others]. This is an excellent recipe for creating good Pharisees." We can approach the scriptures with an attitude of seeking information; creating applications or listening for transformation. It is important that we turn loose of our need to be in control and let the scriptures read us. Thanks for the many lesson, Eugene Peterson.