My philosophy students hated my assignments of readings from anthologies, collections of writings by various authors. I thought it was important that they read what philosophers actually said, rather than depend on my interpretation of them. I also felt that students should read a variety of authors in order to get a range of views.

I have the same attitude about spiritual development. It is assisted by reading a number of authors and not just one favorite writer. This devotional blog is an anthology. It is written by different people. We don’t even consult with each other to homogenize our thoughts. When you read this blog you are learning about the Christian life from a variety of different viewpoints. I think that’s healthy.

Two devotional anthologies I particularly like are Watch for the Light for Advent and Christmas and Bread and Wine for Lent and Easter. Some of the devotions say things I have always thought in a fresh, new way. Some give me insights I have never had, and some aggravate me because they say things I don’t agree with. They are all worth reading, even the ones I disagree with, because they challenge me.

If you think about it, the Bible is an anthology of spiritual writings. The four Gospels have four varied understandings of Jesus. The letters of Paul, James, Peter and John give different perspectives on the faith. Despite the differences (and sometimes apparent contradictions) it’s all inspired Scripture.

A varied diet is good for the body. Varied devotional reading is good for the soul.

Read Proverbs 2:1-5 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne