Reading the Old Testament

Having just finished reading the complete Old Testament for the fifth or sixth time, I’m starting with the New Testament again. (I throw the Old in after every third or fourth reading of the New). The joy of beginning the New Testament is palpable, like wandering around in a forest and suddenly coming out into a sunny glade. The promise has been fulfilled and even though there may be dark times ahead the awe of being with Christ is overwhelming.

To understand the New Testament more fully, it is necessary to read the Old. Here is where we see the beginning of life and comprehend how much God loves us. We learn of the history of His chosen people and who obeys and who doesn’t. We get to know the kings and judges and prophets and learn who we want to follow and who we don’t. We watch as those who obey God and cry out to Him are protected in battle. We see the consequences of dispersion when the people sin and are unrepentant. We begin to see the hints of what the New Covenant will bring. As we cross the border we see how perfectly the promise of the old becomes the fulfillment of the new. The followers of Christ are now the Chosen People.

The Old Testament describes in detail the many practices of temple worship – what is expected of the high priest and the form of sacrifice. Jesus at the Last Supper and in His crucifixion demonstrate the duties of high priest and the ultimate sacrifice. Reading about these practices in the Old Testament and seeing how they are brought to fruition by Jesus, one can envision the priest of today saying Mass, clothed in specific robes and performing certain rituals such as hand-washing, blessings, and especially the Consecration of the bread and wine so that they become the body, blood, soul, and divinity of Christ Himself.

How does one get through the Old Testament (or even the New Testament) you might ask. The same way you eat an elephant – one bite at a time. Or in this case two Chapters a day. Probably the equivalent of one page and perhaps 10 – 15 minutes. The enrichment of your spiritual life and your relationship with God will be immeasurable.