One of the “traditional” allegations about the more liturgical churches is that those who are members are not as familiar with their bibles as are those who are of a less liturgical bent. While I agree that many Orthodox (or Catholics and Anglicans) don’t have the bible memorized like our Charismatic brethren, we have a Liturgy that is rich in Biblical references and we really know more than it is realized. As a reader, I love to have the word of God surround me in all ways – liturgically, through our hymnography, and by my regular reading.

To this end, I was blessed to travel along with the wonderful Susan Sophia and two of her fellow parishioners to another fabulous Portland Women’s Retreat (would you believe I forgot my camera? I’m hoping I’m tagged in some Facebook photos that I can nab). Our topic was Applying Biblical Principals in our daily lives, and it really reminded me that while I have snippets and paraphrases in my head, I do need to work on making an effort to memorize more scripture.

One of the things that was really wonderful – in addition to a schedule that allowed for a lot of down and quiet prayer time – was the small groups where we got together and read about four women* of the Bible and how to apply their lessons to our lives. I was part of the group that read about Esther. Many great points** about her life were brought up in our group, and I was greatly blessed. One that I am still chewing on is this amazing line: “She was ruddy through the perfection of her beauty, and her countenance was cheerful and very amiable, but her heart was in anguish out of fear.” (Esther 9:5)
What a reminder that there are times that our outside is perfectly calm, but we are quaking with fear inside. And God is with us even when our heart is in anguish.

It was a fabulous weekend, it was lovely to see everyone (and I’m so sorry to not see good friends who couldn’t make it) and next year, I hope that others from my parish will be able to attend

*the groups were: St. Photini – the Woman at the Well
Ruth and Naomi
Deborah
Esther

**the biggest being that reading Septuagint version greatly enhances one’s understanding.

(Art credit )