March Madness

It is officially March Madness when it comes to NCAA basketball. It's been a tradition off and on through the years for our family to fill out the bracket in a friendly competition. This year John, our grandson Calvin and I filled them out. I was crazy and picked an underdog to win it all. I'm already out of the competition though I'll still root for my remaining teams...if there are any. (John just texted me that he is ahead.)

I wonder if God is puzzled by our attention to basketball games. Though I'm two weeks ahead in my Bible-in-a-year reading, can I ever get enough of the Word? Should I spend every minute of every day reading Scripture as the Jewish boys did in Jesus' day? Or labor hours over the Bible as a pastor does for his sermon preparation?

"How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Praise be to you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth. I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word," (Psalm 119:9-16 NIV).

I have tried to memorize Scripture. But, I think there is a disconnect in my brain when it comes to memorizing. I've never been good at it. I remember my mother helping me practice when I had to memorize a poem for school. I had an awful time. I never tried out for a part in a play with lots of speaking because I knew I couldn't do it. I try to memorize Bible verses but I mostly fail. But, I can remember hearing a verse before and know what it means.

"I will not neglect your word." Simply stated and boldly spoken, these words remind me to keep the Word near by. I think that is what is important. To "hide your word in my heart" as best I can is what I can do. The Word is my guide for life so I will keep reading, studying, pondering, and meditating on His Holy Scriptures. Even when it is March Madness.