My Bible broke. In some ways, this happening is exciting, the culmination of many years of prayer and reflection. I admit, some small part of me exalted when I noticed the significant split in the spine. After all, a faithful church member I know says we should wear out a Bible every three years. But don’t throw it away then, she says. After that, cut it up and use the parts when traveling.

Another part of me mourned. I loved that Bible and it had been with me for years (eight, in fact). I literally traveled around the world with it. I read that Bible through cover to cover. It survived, years ago, a full cup of water being spilled on it. It was a good size, shape, and feel, that Bible. And I will miss it dearly.

Mostly, however, I’m struck by the cruel irony. These last few months were the least taxing ever for that Bible. While in Scotland, I kept it in my briefcase, but pulled it out seldom. I receive (and usually at least skim) daily emails with suggested daily Bible readings. And though I left it in the car for the first few weeks of pastoral visits, I’ve never used or needed the Bible on a visit.

It’s this last point that bothers me most. I’ve never used a Bible on a pastoral visit. Sure my visits have been made in light of the Bible. After all, a presbytery committee has been convinced of my “thorough competence of the Bible,” but shouldn’t the Bible be discussed and consulted at least occasionally by the pastor on visits?

To help consider these questions and more, I’ve asked a variety of folks to become guest bloggers on A Wee Blether and reflect on the Bible and their lives. Fellow interns from both Columbia Seminary and Princeton Seminary will reflect on their use of the Bible in pastoral care. Seminary professors will reflect on the Bible and their personal devotions. Pastors will reflect on the Bible and their congregations. A non-churchy friend will present her perspective, and a Director of Christian Education will reflect on her congregation’s “year of the Bible.” And there will be some surprises along the way.

My hearty thanks goes out to all those who have agreed to participate: Mary Hinkle Shore, Emily Martin, Erin Kobs, Noah Carlson, Bruce Reyes Chow, Erika Funk, Mark Douglas, Christopher Henry, and Rebekah Abel Lamar. These guest bloggers have come up with some great work, and I’m eager to share it with you and hear your perspective. So check back often, comment away, and let the guest blogging begin.