I don’t particularly like to be scared, especially when reading the Bible. But there’s no getting around the fact that sometimes Jesus and some of his cronies (i.e. the guys who helped God write the Bible) make me shake in my boots.
I was practicing a little Lectio Divina earlier this morning (i.e. reading and praying over Sacred Scripture) in the book of James…BIG mistake if you want a relaxing stroll through Scripture. James always kicks me in the backside with all of his talk about taming the tongue. But in reading James and praying to God for mercy, I was drawn back to the book of Matthew…against my will.
In chapter 12 verse 36, Jesus declares what I think is the scariest verse in the Bible – “I tell you, on the day of judgment men will render account for every careless word they utter.” I don’t know about you, but I’ve said some pretty ridiculous things in my life for which I would like to shake the eternal Etch a Sketch and erase. What are we to do? Answer: Do what I did and pray for mercy and forgiveness. Use your tongue to get you out of the messes you may have gotten yourself into. Then relax because we know that “a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise” (Ps 51:17).
So Matthew 12:36 is my scariest verse in the Bible. What’s yours? Leave a comment and let me know!
4 Responses
Tell me about it.
I would, but then I’d probably have to pray some more.
Matthew–Dude–there is something to be said for being an ignorant cradle catholic!
Didn’t know my scripture enough to be afraid. Then I go and find out about these protestant convert types–who really know their scripture–and are good at teaching….and…..uhhhhhrrrgg..the gig is up: I’m learning my James and now–Matthew 12:36…..Revelations……man, oh man–there is tons to be afraid of now!!!
Stop doing such a bang up job educating us, will ya?!
I see the humble-pie train is pulling outa the station….hang on, HANG ON…….I’m running after it and flinging myself ooooooonnnnnnn.
Lol. As always, Sally, you make me laugh. If you see someone hanging on to the back of the caboose of the humble-pie train….it’s me…and the pie has been thrown in my face.