I have it imagined, and I feel the same way about our textbook. I prefer not to read Bedford’s comments after the stories in the text, because I would rather not listen when someone else is telling me what I should think as opposed to my own imagination. Although I Keeter 2do enjoy reading; I must confess that it is not a hobby of mine. As a matter of fact, I don’t read much at all, other than for classes. Perhaps that is because I am too busy or just distracted.I’ve never considered the idea of literature in relation to my faith until I began this class, but I believe it is important, no, vital in helping us to love God with entirety. I believe that to love God with all my heart, soul, and mind, means that my mind should be open to all knowledge, giving me more to offer to Him, and more for Him to use in doing His work. “However, not all literature is useful for all purposes. We can use many works of literature for multiple purposes; others may serve only one. Some texts teach, others amuse, others give us joy in the gifts of God. All provide various ways to participate in God’s world.” (Gallagher and Lundin, xxvi / introduction) When anything is written, the author puts part of himself/herself into it. Literature is therefore a reflection of life, illustrating some aspect of it. And whether or not the story is true, we may still learn valuable lessons from it. Reading literature allows us take in an “extra bit of life”, and will help us to live our lives to the fullest. So when I read, it does affect my walk with God. What I read may not impact my beliefs, faith or convictions, but it will give me understanding, appreciation, and knowledge. This knowledge will make me into a better, more “well rounded” person, and it will equip me with even more to give to my Father in heaven. One question that drives me into the depths of literature is this: how can I claim ...
