The Wired Word for 02232025 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 02/23/2025 ![rw-book-cover](https://www.thewiredword.com/touch-icon-iphone-retina.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 02/23/2025 - Category: #articles - Summary: Since many Americans are currently unable to read cursive handwriting, the National Archives is looking for volunteers to transcribe handwritten historical documents into modern typeface. - URL: mailto:reader-forwarded-email/8105e04fe3de391fb88ee638927a999d Dear Class Members, Since many Americans are currently unable to read cursive handwriting, the National Archives is looking for volunteers to transcribe handwritten historical documents into modern typeface. Such challenges of reading and understanding lead us to focus this installment of *The Wired Word* on translations of the Bible, and what kind of assistance we need to comprehend the word of God. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **National Archives Volunteers to Translate Cursive Writing*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of February 23, 2025** **In the News** Letters. Diaries. Manuscripts of various kinds, written in ink on yellowed paper. All were composed by hand, during the Civil War. An American historian named Drew Gilpin asked her college class what they thought of a book of Civil War manuscripts. One student said that the manuscripts were not very helpful to him, because he cannot read cursive. "What?" the professor said to herself. "Had I heard him correctly?" *Cannot read cursive.* She then asked the class, "Who else can't read cursive?" About two-thirds of the class. "And who can't write it?" she asked. Even more. According to *The Atlantic* magazine*,* cursive was omitted from Common Core standards for education back in 2010. At that point, handwriting instruction had already been in decline for some time. Laptops and tablets were everywhere, so students were being taught keyboarding. The result? Many students today cannot read a Civil War manuscript. We live in an increasingly cursive-less world. As the United States approaches its 250th birthday (addressed in *The Wired Word* for February 16, 2025), the National Archives is launching a project which invites volunteers to help transcribe and digitize historical documents written in cursive, some that date back more than 200 years. Currently, the Archives contains millions of documents that are difficult for many people to read since they were written in longhand. Younger generations, in particular, will be able to understand them once they have been transcribed from cursive into modern typeface. The *Good News Network* reports that this effort by the Archives is called the "Citizen Archivist" project, which wants to "unlock history" by making digital documents more accessible. One of its major goals is to transcribe and digitize a collection of handwritten documents from the Revolutionary War era, documents connected to the pensions earned by soldiers during the war. A collaborative effort between the National Park Service and the Archives, this Revolutionary War Pension Project will attempt to transcribe more than 2.3 million pages of pension files from the nation's first veterans and their widows. Originally, pensions were available only to Continental Army soldiers who served under George Washington. Over time, pensions became available to those who served in militias, and also to widows. Each of these documents provides a window into the lives of these founding fighters. To date, more than 4,000 Revolutionary War Pension Project volunteers have transcribed the content of over 80,000 pages of pension files. Approximately 2,300 records have been completely transcribed. "The pensions are revealing the stunning -- frequently heartbreaking and sometimes funny -- complexity, nuance and previously unknown details about the American Revolution and the nation in the decades after," said Joanne Blacoe, an interpretation planner for the National Park Service. "It's rich content that will benefit [national] parks and inspire artists, researchers and families connecting to ancestors." To join the effort, volunteers can visit the [Citizen Archivist project website](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCZWCUHGPS4c1gU2wcyWGZ4pQb8TdtYVyLkPT5UYKt7KxSm890tNalDRRTYWkjVBrQ-3D-3DEvK7_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J6GOpV-2B6IT5TFfRdb4SSKrqgpoVHs7-2FsE2ZNHFAt9BldgXUxFM3esRoEh7n2z9U6nPTqI0gGjPzYhwKC8oSuuqP3GoP1vhc0GQbvUeYR51ma8YKj1wBMOSmQ89valgY-2F5lmsHPWKaLcnzf1szwqrtol6Zc4I-2FRI2uGuJg2Ct8X0oarr7dPp-2FC-2B4uPcLHNoIGDVuLm5P7f3VU3EM-2Bh-2FUIh9Y-3D) and sign up. Once registered, a volunteer can pick a document that has not been transcribed, and then begin work according to the instructions provided by the Archives. In addition to the Revolutionary War pensions, collections that still need to be digitized are a legal case involving the Choctaw nation, submarine patrol reports in World War II, and others. "There's no application," said Suzanne Isaacs of the National Archives to *USA Today*. "You just pick a record that hasn't been done and read the instructions. It's easy to do for a half hour a day or a week." Alex Smith, a retiree from Pennsylvania, has transcribed more than 100,000 documents over nine years. "Reading cursive is a superpower," said Isaacs. Fortunately, cursive is making a comeback in some American schools. According to *Smithsonian Magazine*, states such as Kentucky and California have passed laws requiring cursive to be part of the English school curriculum. "We don't want this to become a lost art," said Sean Howard, superintendent of Kentucky's Ashland Independent School District. "There is research that connects the ability to read and fluency ... to the ability to write cursive." More on this story can be found at these links: [Gen Z Never Learned to Read Cursive.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAhYkU3qpDDdhU3-2Fb5KUlnLXmEDQxewNjUg6EnEVHWYhAVKMOh6vp95yj9IbD7j5s0JbRpYdGVZv0cyHMgWWdxwNZV3DR2K3E-2FyqHOZy-2FZM8cR7W06uELwN-2FsFBJGrPcM1Lx8DhYIeGI15-2Fk5TobV5s-3DFM8A_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J2L2ElK-2FDi7DpAhCzQ55cOVH6h9DB12dKw9gK5pj3ijzKboABrJ5OSNn7PcPwN6rCo44SVSxZobncER6jn1-2FiDPxyqTCBtfSnUOe49e81FneCMSZZgGjHbsE-2BgeC3dIy9GSv8BLWzuXmsMCrQ5DbAwsA42bfxThOeh1WC5aVNBCpN15phkzj19d4QocZdrrZCsvGKzJiHjiUge8z-2BJCKZfQ-3D) [*The Atlantic*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAhYkU3qpDDdhU3-2Fb5KUlnLXmEDQxewNjUg6EnEVHWYhAVKMOh6vp95yj9IbD7j5s0JbRpYdGVZv0cyHMgWWdxwNZV3DR2K3E-2FyqHOZy-2FZM8cR7W06uELwN-2FsFBJGrPcM1Lx8DhYIeGI15-2Fk5TobV5s-3DRrEL_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J-2Be2YDL-2Bjr8GLrUhC-2BRRxNv-2BQt7q95pN0J64MfNjxI49n9uSg64R7YN3fasOX2hNWLH7k1fc8HDEE2cmhFpVrHg9cxXZIcmWADCpU9eZTXs75wgW1PYnpy1CdJ38LP-2BJ1X-2BAm4uofmkxBoVlgwWrghpNGRIxiIRQ3SISG3oVPNLx6B4LFIQdyWfdoKTVyim7wpDyUW07KeGfqFYjBzhJKOc-3D) [Volunteer for the National Archives to Translate Cursive Handwriting for Modern Newbies.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHvHTLTPAGMaybWyCq3M06cC-2B97ww4625W3IwVUq-2FrMoCKg9hpt6yphBbssXgmuPKEurBpVf8vzf38HGMDvOMEaAHM9YCv6TuUGRj-2FUBbVIT-2FACCBRqGtoZlGRYW-2BqdW0BQel6MhqOvxpZO8k07u7ionucDVi2k8VTWyrLHdteSZv7p0_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J0LEZ946-2BwuynsJ3OLuIrfYJdhWN3KJMBqoeGW5k1thxomKm4NvSrWm-2B2Tc4QJbuvt2yH-2BNyaVSx0UEOGaHDnRciuKXyWPmGLmR3fcJWUulscme5PnDWiPON9qN4-2BivQqVUc-2BeqHxwEG4mliCLqWCZ64kkqzNRB9w4-2FwxCCt5DVQQSbktHtlUHHzzu5y1QW5bn9jXJhiCDPHv0ah92aMNao-3D) [*Good News Network*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHvHTLTPAGMaybWyCq3M06cC-2B97ww4625W3IwVUq-2FrMoCKg9hpt6yphBbssXgmuPKEurBpVf8vzf38HGMDvOMEaAHM9YCv6TuUGRj-2FUBbVIT-2FACCBRqGtoZlGRYW-2BqdW0BQel6MhqOvxpZO8k07u7ionucDVi2k8VTWyrLHdteSZ4Xsh_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J1WayQfOEqzw3NTG0-2BlTBZ7HmQLmoP3xFOLbrcdNv6MwRoJPk6CzUTDM6xgFg4H8tUZFUxf-2FM0Ip2YY3yah1cDP7i-2FJzQCdOKnhd63F6jpkTBjO2jykOK4HS9fBJqoLi2e4P0qIhwsGtJRSA6-2FxgU2wLW-2FrBHbQd-2BMqK8I9EA0MItHUmb64so0lOHuE1D6im3OrgbglVPYDVnzCFV-2FmVs7s-3D) [Can You Read Cursive? It's a Superpower the National Archives is Looking For.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA7ousAV-2BR-2F5mS0DDmLU4DBv4b31J1wi3JRJUorxrPpczXF3e5a9cPyfzhUBakAM1pjnRmxNQrlmX9PV2PqY3O-2B5l82rZGUe8IkYiWVD-2FQM-2FYdVGc-2FBGDjiPsJm3eaZ6YgJCwFKvFH0IAhgNghsJVZs-3D0RaT_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8Jz3mtOdP1B8VKuGFi5D-2Fx7i0btQhrjlfhPSoCtyqQOU80V20ibPkNFV8qzpXCTEg-2FbYyQJPXuLE60S-2BKZjPOYBdT7jnjMZtROvrYjD4CxHKcp5bKmunQHYDZNr7uNORXTIzoQLcMELTiF9BhUrVKkyQEAqO9IUSEyXmVaz8aINSxEQGPd6EcpyKJLDyRad9R-2F6bPP-2B7hIZx6rbnRS092mvw-3D) [*USA Today*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA7ousAV-2BR-2F5mS0DDmLU4DBv4b31J1wi3JRJUorxrPpczXF3e5a9cPyfzhUBakAM1pjnRmxNQrlmX9PV2PqY3O-2B5l82rZGUe8IkYiWVD-2FQM-2FYdVGc-2FBGDjiPsJm3eaZ6YgJCwFKvFH0IAhgNghsJVZs-3DVULa_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J6uryBrzIiXdH-2Bgz5h0cACxvtVLp1Em0VAcBJrODYHS1t3CpATAm8vz-2BONYfx3v-2Fq86D3-2FisYUrtMF-2BW53MrxIY1-2B4mD1JnXvoqnGjSazKwXHtW7UnyD3kMxFBxp7zEImepuQBKQAeiYBd52-2BksnmscvWL55Scsc1fexa1YXIsyClAxNPcFDHmBwy4Q-2BBnMOGes0-2BU176AgVEJN0lRZpZG0-3D) [Can You Read This Cursive Handwriting? The National Archives Wants Your Help.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLphJFL-2B0F2lgj15Gf-2FWEPmR-2B4Caw3pE2OWG1h-2BANLWc3k3Ky5Hmtz70WHtqf-2FBIBJfOKl-2BwPX4S4Rfnk9gJk6CeeJlyam1NZ5T-2BfQVLVzC0-2F07DTLimZxFEW1E2U0IjkSwVjPYHnTaYxAyZO5FFOmB-2FxPv3TjnKj6YU1Q7a857x5fFv_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J-2Fg4HpNqtRIC8TujibckbWup0Ql6XtGpd9OgcuOY3thsBeJjmVf1EqJtZIIrbq5vy1oBuln7RSqK8mQcg18L5yJCo1zVy12LDQFEmpBzEw4Y8yvwpU79wOWdr2hcZzTlpsHYSk5PbKLcfOW0eh5dWunORRyNyPiTJoHk734QSB7tugcDeQqHnB8upwTPNHpJ-2FueZ0Qyiw09cpccxD5-2Bjy2o-3D) [*Smithsonian*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLphJFL-2B0F2lgj15Gf-2FWEPmR-2B4Caw3pE2OWG1h-2BANLWc3k3Ky5Hmtz70WHtqf-2FBIBJfOKl-2BwPX4S4Rfnk9gJk6CeeJlyam1NZ5T-2BfQVLVzC0-2F07DTLimZxFEW1E2U0IjkSwVjPYHnTaYxAyZO5FFOmB-2FxPv3TjnKj6YU1Q7a857x7q0k_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8JxblrEt6q1oKDMQw3vhX68jjVASlYlluqYM2Dh9hnxVdTkjyzq-2FFao3glW5B6JERST4f6KaZpD5-2FyH0NqhaPY17Y8Z9nvkC0X9aFhdjyjTqtU3hALIGV5UW4QMfsopxIL9H1YekJSf-2BKvY40XCYxlWK8ZDVeli8EsqetL8NHXffzH2wCqH-2B-2BTaz4nSDaMc02pV9JhXVHVRAoD1rLWqA1wRg-3D) **Applying the News Story** The National Archives needs readers of cursive to make historical documents intelligible to modern readers. In a similar manner, we need help in our efforts to comprehend the Bible. Reflect on the kinds of aids you need in order to understand the word of God, including various translations, commentaries and Bible dictionaries. In addition, the community itself can be an aid to understanding, which is why Bible studies and discussions based on *The Wired Word* can lead to deeper insights. Discuss what you need to understand God's word, including the identification of resources that you find to be trustworthy. **The Big Questions** 1. Which translation of the Bible do you prefer and why? What versions of the Bible have not been useful to you, and what led you to set them aside? TWW Team Member Bill Tammeus regularly reminds his Bible study that "every translation of the Bible from its original languages into English (or any other language) is an interpretation." 2. What Bible dictionaries, commentaries or online resources have been helpful to you? How do you assess whether they are trustworthy? 3. How does your church community help you with biblical interpretation and application? What classes or small group discussions have helped you to understand and apply the word of God? When, if ever, has the community led you astray? 4. Which passage of Scripture is most inspiring to you, and why? Which passage has caused you the most difficulty, and what has been your experience with it? Which passage, if any, remains incomprehensible to you? What do you think would make it understandable? 5. Theologian Karl Barth is given credit for saying, "We must hold the Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other." What does this mean to you? How do you try to understand the news of the day in light of the word of God? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Exodus 31:18***When God finished speaking with Moses on Mount Sinai, he gave him the two tablets of the covenant, tablets of stone, written with the finger of God.* (For context, read [Exodus 31:12-18](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxeUd9Vmpl90lk2kwaMbS8RH42UjY9jxVwgVkNSJ8I5xOfwpqoet5IT5vmPk4e3G-2BYUET3_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J2zjh2CyghdHBzqG-2FYAfuHh1WUdZc5HI7-2F4TnrtHZ4c6iU5J4vzTdQE1OnM4NNZEKh3t6tbF1-2FbvEru0z-2Bi68Xqx56POKO3mtSwCPNbdjwIpLDgJTGgH6bUqYmQe8ueVpKWgGXVZG76thWCzRK28YpBqSlj7k6LDZgbMtyfooedZD-2FpY7umeR2OAT5PnPWfP0x2PCsAHwbNT3Vdx3y5-2Ficc-3D).) In the book of Exodus, God speaks to Moses on Mount Sinai, beginning with the Ten Commandments (20:1-21). God speaks these commandments and also writes them on the original tablets of stone. By being first, these commandments have the most important position in God's covenant at Sinai, and in the entire collection of legal material that follows. After the Ten Commandments, God offers numerous additional laws and instructions pertaining to human bondage, penalties for theft, business ethics, religious festivals and practices, and finally the keeping of the Sabbath. The penalty for breaking the Sabbath is severe: "whoever does any work on the Sabbath day shall be put to death" (31:15). God is said to write the tablets directly and give them to Moses. Deuteronomy 9:10 also describes the tablets as inscribed by the finger of God. > **Questions:** What does it mean to you that the Ten Commandments and other laws were written with the finger of God? How are these handwritten laws to be understood and applied? Are all laws to be taken literally, including death to Sabbath-breakers? How should they be enforced? **Nehemiah 8:5-8***And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was standing above all the people, and when he opened it, all the people stood up. Then Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God, and all the people answered, "Amen, Amen," lifting up their hands. Then they bowed their heads and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground. Also the Levites Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah helped the people to understand the law, while the people remained in their places. So they read from the book, from the law of God, with interpretation. They gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading.* (For context, read [Nehemiah 8:1-12](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxzvnfv6aiuzAcwSS3Z6Z2uMXITGbYYgj2pFeqtnYpPki-2BY-2FkXt07Mj-2FL4NT5samN-2FaV98_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J7VvOB50veNeEb6aoVT4VsumlDb-2Fnyys5iEdEI4BL89vwNSjWaYZwiCA9bkHAPAn1HVjmf954Y6EtCljnR9xdat7RChLRVFIMDHCm6HFQ8OnlztvjbiqdOtJTcntG6BW3BhETrdYbcFsQKoNeA6w4HWqI3K1HdZ2RgwOWlsyaroVT63PZxTP726J35nuKJ-2BhdfwMJgxaYSPjD0-2FTcWIeEN0-3D).) The book of Nehemiah tells the story of the people of Judah, back in Jerusalem after their exile in Babylon. Their governor Nehemiah led them in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and instituting social and religious reforms, and the priest Ezra stood and read from Scripture. In Nehemiah 8, notes TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez, "the scriptures were read aloud, then interpreted (probably translated into Aramaic) so the people could understand them." This is similar to the attempt being made today to make cursive documents available. As Ezra read from the law of God, the Hebrew text was interpreted by leaders in the more familiar Aramaic. Like worshipers today, the people needed scripture to be read and interpreted. It is significant that the people gathered beneath a wooden platform and listened, because to "understand" the Bible means, quite literally, to "stand under" the Bible -- to place ourselves under its authority, to take it personally, to allow our lives to be shaped by it. > **Questions:** What translations of the Bible do you find to be necessary for your understanding of God's Word? Which interpretations do you find to be trustworthy, and why? How do you "stand under" the Bible as you seek to understand it? **John 1:14***And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.* (For context, read [John 1:1-18](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxyyJ0A-2BEDvrQGKorIXaiDBpvge15r31oRxuebxxDnno4i-2F0yQ8lFcIhra5J5t96wAgr-Z_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J2-2BS58rIEL3SDDDoWD-2BtMSqyq5ORJ6mWxv2km8kE8Ex45GWwhvJ7Q6mq9A3uPdnOE8hNAf2iskKX8USE4LNkGh6skohAsIjVH7DDukVs8uUV3ckm8i9rNm0-2B7kwdluTDsflwwCfXFtU8Jpg9luTdzjDc4EPVgZ4blUzBBSMKOellExqqRP1KkV-2FN9Pxv6ZQmg4XBzz1rxfHNMjaMXnWwPAc-3D).) From beginning to end, the Bible speaks about what God accomplishes through a word. "In the beginning was the Word," says the gospel of John -- in the beginning was *the Word*, not the Deed. And "the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (1:1). Genesis reports that "God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light" (1:3). God did not build a light-generating device, but instead God spoke light into being. Then God did the same for the sky, the land, the seas, the plants, the animals, and even humankind itself. According to the prophet Isaiah, God says that my word "shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose" (55:11). For God, there is no distinction between deeds and words. For God, words *are* deeds -- God's words actually accomplish God's goals. The significance of God's Word reaches its peak in the birth of Jesus. The gospel of John tells us that God's "Word became flesh and lived among us." God's Word actually took human form in Jesus, becoming incarnate -- which means "in the flesh." God's Word began to walk among us as Jesus, a living expression of God's grace and God's truth. > **Questions:** How does Jesus help you to understand God's word? Where do you see signs of God's words accomplishing God's goals in the church community? How is the life, death and resurrection of Jesus an expression of God's grace and God's truth to you? **Hebrews 4:12***Indeed, the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.* (For context, read [Hebrews 4:1-13](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxfhOLPuUklFplPPD2VWbSPML6T-2BuR3pT4eqfv0eK7X7-2BhTeZ9FRsStC1n4urKTquS_4_N_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8Jw2jmCI5vDx6QgX3-2FJDLtUzKUlelBCGXP0ZZSlB8RnJETMiS8KCKpHgg01gj67TQYnCBvsLMjaTnggawQn5f7D7RU6XMbJv6m7lCzR-2FLp-2BXJAluU-2FKyA8K0VCHxkPx5XLe8ItxfegV6tRw7njBdbwuMkVEH5mu8cIus9itPFAI0WGSgh68RANc7UzaBWYyC58BNaY5Spxtntq4pFC6BS-2BII-3D).) The letter to the Hebrews is written to a group of Jesus-followers, most of whom had grown up Jewish. At this point, they were feeling disheartened and needed encouragement. In chapters 3 and 4, the author offers lessons from the story of Moses, contrasting his faithfulness and leadership with the behavior of his followers. Speaking to the followers of Jesus, the author says, "the message [the followers of Moses] heard did not benefit them because they were not united by faith with those who listened" (4:2). The letter promises that "a Sabbath rest still remains for the people of God," if they do not "fall through such disobedience as theirs" (vv. 9, 11). Hebrews challenges the followers of Jesus to be united in faith, to listen to the word of God, and to be obedient. "Indeed, the word of God is living and active" -- not dead, but as alive and active as God himself. The word is "sharper than any two-edged sword," cutting to the inmost heart of the people of God. Nothing escapes God's scrutiny, but instead all people are fully known, vulnerable and accountable, because God's word "is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." God is "the one to whom we must render an account" (v. 13). > **Questions:** How does your church community help you to be united in faith and better able to listen to the word of God? When do you feel your church supporting you in your attempts to be obedient to God's word? In what ways does the Christian community hold you accountable? **For Further Discussion** 1. On a lighter note, TWW consultant James Gruetzner points to a study that concludes that women in midlife (ages 25-64) [speak about 18% more than men in that age group](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNdyenyES3AGwKma9hYBTtcgY2BVL28dH2WDJkeai4zayGy-2BW3DA8bExWseDw7c3xwjijZkSr2ZiofcJ66a3ydY-3Dc2L9_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8Jw8bQmgwS3X-2Brpfu7u6Nlbxrj1WW89NBKmsXEVU9q7V1jmD8rmAAkAAh3BXLiM7rpIT5r-2BgMVFAYZx2umNt4mzRnYHFuanvT3DJcv0zMzBihwTvPZ-2F1mEE76wFXl9AKFnDdHkL2LHJOmgG1sXpyevljW8iIchGJjCn8i4ovCl-2BBEEtLsmeX9S8QyoexYRk4KEG-2Fc56fKRhKwPn7dghPBiac-3D) For other age cohorts, men/boys and women/girls speak about the same number of words. The same study revealed that since 2005, [the number of words spoken by every group has dropped](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCci1SC1zo-2FuqQXUwdYODwQ-3D7Wgz_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J1UukExySqeIe7Xj1oKJ-2Br1Gc4mp436VLmt33tEXzwwPrHPkKE2Gbni-2Bbm27vF-2B6hT28ZX-2BbaS7174q22lEDhiMjiGwHVz-2FXMTgvKjqLZZ7ETpOGZ-2FIgcdSvya8FkSkuKoMxB2lu79ihMQk1DecItUKrTLgp5O3H89HJr62xg5iRdX0KCWF-2BCZ0GAK1KSdl4NUbcDc2-2Bj2l8sb-2Bd4ZDgQw8-3D). What, in your opinion, is the power of words? Discuss the utility of words, the need for language, and what we accomplish through communication. 2. TWW Team Member Mary Sells has experienced the power of a Bible translation to help people grasp God's message, which is why she finds it helpful to use three or four translations in a class. She says, "I spoke last week with a young adult who was struggling to read the Bible, which she really wants to do, yet the NIV and NRSV versions were a bit obtuse for her; so, I told her this weekend I will bring to class *The Message* [a brilliant paraphrase, not a translation] to see if that resonates." When has this been true for you? What is the value of multiple translations and paraphrases in revealing God's message? 3. "The question of being able to read cursive writing, which is becoming something of a lost art, really takes us back to reading and writing in Paul's time," notes TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez. "What we read in Paul's letters is not what he said or wrote, but what the scribe (sometimes a friend, but perhaps sometimes a professional) wrote down." TWW Team Member Stan Purdum adds that "many of the scribes who wrote down what Paul and others dictated were probably slaves who either had that skill before being enslaved or were purposely educated and trained in that skill after being enslaved." What influence do you think scribes had on the words of the Bible we read today? How do you think their status as free or enslaved people affected their recordings? How does your own position in society affect the way you read and understand the Word of God? 4. An anecdote from the mission field: A missionary was trying to translate the verse in Romans 12:20, regarding doing good to one's adversaries despite their negative behavior toward you. The figure of speech had to be conveyed adequately in the native speaker's language (a huge problem in translation). It went: "*Therefore, if your enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing, you shall heap coals of fire on his head."* The native missed the entire point and thought that it was a wonderful suggestion to torture their enemies. What other passage of scripture might be wildly misunderstood? How can good interpretation get us closer to the heart of God? **Responding to the News** Take the time to look at multiple translations of a passage of scripture before you make a decision about its meaning. Discuss your interpretation with fellow members of your community of faith. When faced with a difficult passage, interpret it in light of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. **Prayer** Almighty God, we thank you for creating this world with your powerful word. Open our hearts and minds to what you are saying to us today, as we seek to follow your Son Jesus, your Word made flesh. Amen. ****Copyright 2024 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=qfOp3eKObSA1b-x1LQcU838qepUJDvP9C7W-G4hv5d1oMDAwdTAwMClcVDhskGDs4xrfgUFjKLvv28BWH8gNORlOxuD1-r_kUD3IDNM7ldK7Gg3saZopllWylwUNvOjN0XyAdTrenfa47my0FwxQ6uMdnWXlBsN5iQ5ByGU14m7H28CeaznniqG5npDhNe5dlmzgRVF9fAdSnA9EiKrzLpm3a_HjiYJtRF684DVAZHWVgkgbw1Un4BuSUQeSiFRl8oNTmm3igu6l0zNktKyN-NLRkYT_VBDT4yJ1u35jGzJKKEJ5dcTGkewC1C17AZTpibOXH1LsXv2tC5q7VxbbKNvRa1pB80fpIgCNHEtL2NI3ErYvMRisdBnyaZ2Vm4aPxqpTbb60PTLD0E0PgpHP3m6Ylrrsd8VunabXS73cTyBeM3bs64eLvqDhhQL3FPt5SorgumBZfB1xMLU0bfVRnWmi1q7XOa11qPUCAq1fs39-LQZzAcXwPvzV0ypiKfkhyvRmFJ4TcPAshaCrf545BHUUOPgf72OEql-FvQFPL3VAnXeY7Q6wA-nhRQxAckXku-8NaYToDz_wmvIL9-g-uijnIrCAJoVMpijp5LM9Weg2Kj2dQ_D7SZJxwEBjTnki0KAF6-ZXLcY=) <div>Dear Class Members, Since many Americans are currently unable to read cursive handwriting, the National Archives is looking for volunteers to transcribe handwritten historical documents into modern typeface. Such challenges of reading and understanding lead us to focus this installment of The Wired Word on translations of the Bible, and what kind of assistance we need to comprehend the word of God. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> National Archives Volunteers to Translate Cursive Writing The Wired Word for the Week of February 23, 2025 In the News Letters. Diaries. Manuscripts of various kinds, written in ink on yellowed paper. All were composed by hand, during the Civil War. An American historian named Drew Gilpin asked her college class what they thought of a book of Civil War manuscripts. One student said that the manuscripts were not very helpful to him, because he cannot read cursive. "What?" the professor said to herself. "Had I heard him correctly?" Cannot read cursive. She then asked the class, "Who else can't read cursive?" About two-thirds of the class. "And who can't write it?" she asked. Even more. According to The Atlantic magazine, cursive was omitted from Common Core standards for education back in 2010. At that point, handwriting instruction had already been in decline for some time. Laptops and tablets were everywhere, so students were being taught keyboarding. The result? Many students today cannot read a Civil War manuscript. We live in an increasingly cursive-less world. As the United States approaches its 250th birthday (addressed in The Wired Word for February 16, 2025), the National Archives is launching a project which invites volunteers to help transcribe and digitize historical documents written in cursive, some that date back more than 200 years. Currently, the Archives contains millions of documents that are difficult for many people to read since they were written in longhand. Younger generations, in particular, will be able to understand them once they have been transcribed from cursive into modern typeface. The Good News Network reports that this effort by the Archives is called the "Citizen Archivist" project, which wants to "unlock history" by making digital documents more accessible. One of its major goals is to transcribe and digitize a collection of handwritten documents from the Revolutionary War era, documents connected to the pensions earned by soldiers during the war. A collaborative effort between the National Park Service and the Archives, this Revolutionary War Pension Project will attempt to transcribe more than 2.3 million pages of pension files from the nation's first veterans and their widows. Originally, pensions were available only to Continental Army soldiers who served under George Washington. Over time, pensions became available to those who served in militias, and also to widows. Each of these documents provides a window into the lives of these founding fighters. To date, more than 4,000 Revolutionary War Pension Project volunteers have transcribed the content of over 80,000 pages of pension files. Approximately 2,300 records have been completely transcribed. "The pensions are revealing the stunning -- frequently heartbreaking and sometimes funny -- complexity, nuance and previously unknown details about the American Revolution and the nation in the decades after," said Joanne Blacoe, an interpretation planner for the National Park Service. "It's rich content that will benefit [national] parks and inspire artists, researchers and families connecting to ancestors." To join the effort, volunteers can visit the <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCZWCUHGPS4c1gU2wcyWGZ4pQb8TdtYVyLkPT5UYKt7KxSm890tNalDRRTYWkjVBrQ-3D-3DEvK7\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J6GOpV-2B6IT5TFfRdb4SSKrqgpoVHs7-2FsE2ZNHFAt9BldgXUxFM3esRoEh7n2z9U6nPTqI0gGjPzYhwKC8oSuuqP3GoP1vhc0GQbvUeYR51ma8YKj1wBMOSmQ89valgY-2F5lmsHPWKaLcnzf1szwqrtol6Zc4I-2FRI2uGuJg2Ct8X0oarr7dPp-2FC-2B4uPcLHNoIGDVuLm5P7f3VU3EM-2Bh-2FUIh9Y-3D">Citizen Archivist project website</a> and sign up. Once registered, a volunteer can pick a document that has not been transcribed, and then begin work according to the instructions provided by the Archives. In addition to the Revolutionary War pensions, collections that still need to be digitized are a legal case involving the Choctaw nation, submarine patrol reports in World War II, and others. "There's no application," said Suzanne Isaacs of the National Archives to USA Today. "You just pick a record that hasn't been done and read the instructions. It's easy to do for a half hour a day or a week." Alex Smith, a retiree from Pennsylvania, has transcribed more than 100,000 documents over nine years. "Reading cursive is a superpower," said Isaacs. Fortunately, cursive is making a comeback in some American schools. According to Smithsonian Magazine, states such as Kentucky and California have passed laws requiring cursive to be part of the English school curriculum. "We don't want this to become a lost art," said Sean Howard, superintendent of Kentucky's Ashland Independent School District. "There is research that connects the ability to read and fluency ... to the ability to write cursive." More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAhYkU3qpDDdhU3-2Fb5KUlnLXmEDQxewNjUg6EnEVHWYhAVKMOh6vp95yj9IbD7j5s0JbRpYdGVZv0cyHMgWWdxwNZV3DR2K3E-2FyqHOZy-2FZM8cR7W06uELwN-2FsFBJGrPcM1Lx8DhYIeGI15-2Fk5TobV5s-3DFM8A\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J2L2ElK-2FDi7DpAhCzQ55cOVH6h9DB12dKw9gK5pj3ijzKboABrJ5OSNn7PcPwN6rCo44SVSxZobncER6jn1-2FiDPxyqTCBtfSnUOe49e81FneCMSZZgGjHbsE-2BgeC3dIy9GSv8BLWzuXmsMCrQ5DbAwsA42bfxThOeh1WC5aVNBCpN15phkzj19d4QocZdrrZCsvGKzJiHjiUge8z-2BJCKZfQ-3D">Gen Z Never Learned to Read Cursive. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPAhYkU3qpDDdhU3-2Fb5KUlnLXmEDQxewNjUg6EnEVHWYhAVKMOh6vp95yj9IbD7j5s0JbRpYdGVZv0cyHMgWWdxwNZV3DR2K3E-2FyqHOZy-2FZM8cR7W06uELwN-2FsFBJGrPcM1Lx8DhYIeGI15-2Fk5TobV5s-3DRrEL\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J-2Be2YDL-2Bjr8GLrUhC-2BRRxNv-2BQt7q95pN0J64MfNjxI49n9uSg64R7YN3fasOX2hNWLH7k1fc8HDEE2cmhFpVrHg9cxXZIcmWADCpU9eZTXs75wgW1PYnpy1CdJ38LP-2BJ1X-2BAm4uofmkxBoVlgwWrghpNGRIxiIRQ3SISG3oVPNLx6B4LFIQdyWfdoKTVyim7wpDyUW07KeGfqFYjBzhJKOc-3D">The Atlantic</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHvHTLTPAGMaybWyCq3M06cC-2B97ww4625W3IwVUq-2FrMoCKg9hpt6yphBbssXgmuPKEurBpVf8vzf38HGMDvOMEaAHM9YCv6TuUGRj-2FUBbVIT-2FACCBRqGtoZlGRYW-2BqdW0BQel6MhqOvxpZO8k07u7ionucDVi2k8VTWyrLHdteSZv7p0\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J0LEZ946-2BwuynsJ3OLuIrfYJdhWN3KJMBqoeGW5k1thxomKm4NvSrWm-2B2Tc4QJbuvt2yH-2BNyaVSx0UEOGaHDnRciuKXyWPmGLmR3fcJWUulscme5PnDWiPON9qN4-2BivQqVUc-2BeqHxwEG4mliCLqWCZ64kkqzNRB9w4-2FwxCCt5DVQQSbktHtlUHHzzu5y1QW5bn9jXJhiCDPHv0ah92aMNao-3D">Volunteer for the National Archives to Translate Cursive Handwriting for Modern Newbies.</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHvHTLTPAGMaybWyCq3M06cC-2B97ww4625W3IwVUq-2FrMoCKg9hpt6yphBbssXgmuPKEurBpVf8vzf38HGMDvOMEaAHM9YCv6TuUGRj-2FUBbVIT-2FACCBRqGtoZlGRYW-2BqdW0BQel6MhqOvxpZO8k07u7ionucDVi2k8VTWyrLHdteSZ4Xsh\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J1WayQfOEqzw3NTG0-2BlTBZ7HmQLmoP3xFOLbrcdNv6MwRoJPk6CzUTDM6xgFg4H8tUZFUxf-2FM0Ip2YY3yah1cDP7i-2FJzQCdOKnhd63F6jpkTBjO2jykOK4HS9fBJqoLi2e4P0qIhwsGtJRSA6-2FxgU2wLW-2FrBHbQd-2BMqK8I9EA0MItHUmb64so0lOHuE1D6im3OrgbglVPYDVnzCFV-2FmVs7s-3D">Good News Network</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA7ousAV-2BR-2F5mS0DDmLU4DBv4b31J1wi3JRJUorxrPpczXF3e5a9cPyfzhUBakAM1pjnRmxNQrlmX9PV2PqY3O-2B5l82rZGUe8IkYiWVD-2FQM-2FYdVGc-2FBGDjiPsJm3eaZ6YgJCwFKvFH0IAhgNghsJVZs-3D0RaT\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8Jz3mtOdP1B8VKuGFi5D-2Fx7i0btQhrjlfhPSoCtyqQOU80V20ibPkNFV8qzpXCTEg-2FbYyQJPXuLE60S-2BKZjPOYBdT7jnjMZtROvrYjD4CxHKcp5bKmunQHYDZNr7uNORXTIzoQLcMELTiF9BhUrVKkyQEAqO9IUSEyXmVaz8aINSxEQGPd6EcpyKJLDyRad9R-2F6bPP-2B7hIZx6rbnRS092mvw-3D">Can You Read Cursive? It's a Superpower the National Archives is Looking For. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA7ousAV-2BR-2F5mS0DDmLU4DBv4b31J1wi3JRJUorxrPpczXF3e5a9cPyfzhUBakAM1pjnRmxNQrlmX9PV2PqY3O-2B5l82rZGUe8IkYiWVD-2FQM-2FYdVGc-2FBGDjiPsJm3eaZ6YgJCwFKvFH0IAhgNghsJVZs-3DVULa\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J6uryBrzIiXdH-2Bgz5h0cACxvtVLp1Em0VAcBJrODYHS1t3CpATAm8vz-2BONYfx3v-2Fq86D3-2FisYUrtMF-2BW53MrxIY1-2B4mD1JnXvoqnGjSazKwXHtW7UnyD3kMxFBxp7zEImepuQBKQAeiYBd52-2BksnmscvWL55Scsc1fexa1YXIsyClAxNPcFDHmBwy4Q-2BBnMOGes0-2BU176AgVEJN0lRZpZG0-3D">USA Today</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLphJFL-2B0F2lgj15Gf-2FWEPmR-2B4Caw3pE2OWG1h-2BANLWc3k3Ky5Hmtz70WHtqf-2FBIBJfOKl-2BwPX4S4Rfnk9gJk6CeeJlyam1NZ5T-2BfQVLVzC0-2F07DTLimZxFEW1E2U0IjkSwVjPYHnTaYxAyZO5FFOmB-2FxPv3TjnKj6YU1Q7a857x5fFv\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J-2Fg4HpNqtRIC8TujibckbWup0Ql6XtGpd9OgcuOY3thsBeJjmVf1EqJtZIIrbq5vy1oBuln7RSqK8mQcg18L5yJCo1zVy12LDQFEmpBzEw4Y8yvwpU79wOWdr2hcZzTlpsHYSk5PbKLcfOW0eh5dWunORRyNyPiTJoHk734QSB7tugcDeQqHnB8upwTPNHpJ-2FueZ0Qyiw09cpccxD5-2Bjy2o-3D">Can You Read This Cursive Handwriting? The National Archives Wants Your Help. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLphJFL-2B0F2lgj15Gf-2FWEPmR-2B4Caw3pE2OWG1h-2BANLWc3k3Ky5Hmtz70WHtqf-2FBIBJfOKl-2BwPX4S4Rfnk9gJk6CeeJlyam1NZ5T-2BfQVLVzC0-2F07DTLimZxFEW1E2U0IjkSwVjPYHnTaYxAyZO5FFOmB-2FxPv3TjnKj6YU1Q7a857x7q0k\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8JxblrEt6q1oKDMQw3vhX68jjVASlYlluqYM2Dh9hnxVdTkjyzq-2FFao3glW5B6JERST4f6KaZpD5-2FyH0NqhaPY17Y8Z9nvkC0X9aFhdjyjTqtU3hALIGV5UW4QMfsopxIL9H1YekJSf-2BKvY40XCYxlWK8ZDVeli8EsqetL8NHXffzH2wCqH-2B-2BTaz4nSDaMc02pV9JhXVHVRAoD1rLWqA1wRg-3D">Smithsonian</a> Applying the News Story The National Archives needs readers of cursive to make historical documents intelligible to modern readers. In a similar manner, we need help in our efforts to comprehend the Bible. Reflect on the kinds of aids you need in order to understand the word of God, including various translations, commentaries and Bible dictionaries. In addition, the community itself can be an aid to understanding, which is why Bible studies and discussions based on The Wired Word can lead to deeper insights. Discuss what you need to understand God's word, including the identification of resources that you find to be trustworthy. The Big Questions 1. Which translation of the Bible do you prefer and why? What versions of the Bible have not been useful to you, and what led you to set them aside? TWW Team Member Bill Tammeus regularly reminds his Bible study that "every translation of the Bible from its original languages into English (or any other language) is an interpretation." 2. What Bible dictionaries, commentaries or online resources have been helpful to you? How do you assess whether they are trustworthy? 3. How does your church community help you with biblical interpretation and application? What classes or small group discussions have helped you to understand and apply the word of God? When, if ever, has the community led you astray? 4. Which passage of Scripture is most inspiring to you, and why? Which passage has caused you the most difficulty, and what has been your experience with it? Which passage, if any, remains incomprehensible to you? What do you think would make it understandable? 5. Theologian Karl Barth is given credit for saying, "We must hold the Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other." What does this mean to you? How do you try to understand the news of the day in light of the word of God? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Exodus 31:18 When God finished speaking with Moses on Mount Sinai, he gave him the two tablets of the covenant, tablets of stone, written with the finger of God. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxeUd9Vmpl90lk2kwaMbS8RH42UjY9jxVwgVkNSJ8I5xOfwpqoet5IT5vmPk4e3G-2BYUET3\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J2zjh2CyghdHBzqG-2FYAfuHh1WUdZc5HI7-2F4TnrtHZ4c6iU5J4vzTdQE1OnM4NNZEKh3t6tbF1-2FbvEru0z-2Bi68Xqx56POKO3mtSwCPNbdjwIpLDgJTGgH6bUqYmQe8ueVpKWgGXVZG76thWCzRK28YpBqSlj7k6LDZgbMtyfooedZD-2FpY7umeR2OAT5PnPWfP0x2PCsAHwbNT3Vdx3y5-2Ficc-3D">Exodus 31:12-18</a>.) In the book of Exodus, God speaks to Moses on Mount Sinai, beginning with the Ten Commandments (20:1-21). God speaks these commandments and also writes them on the original tablets of stone. By being first, these commandments have the most important position in God's covenant at Sinai, and in the entire collection of legal material that follows. After the Ten Commandments, God offers numerous additional laws and instructions pertaining to human bondage, penalties for theft, business ethics, religious festivals and practices, and finally the keeping of the Sabbath. The penalty for breaking the Sabbath is severe: "whoever does any work on the Sabbath day shall be put to death" (31:15). God is said to write the tablets directly and give them to Moses. Deuteronomy 9:10 also describes the tablets as inscribed by the finger of God. <blockquote> Questions: What does it mean to you that the Ten Commandments and other laws were written with the finger of God? How are these handwritten laws to be understood and applied? Are all laws to be taken literally, including death to Sabbath-breakers? How should they be enforced? </blockquote> Nehemiah 8:5-8 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was standing above all the people, and when he opened it, all the people stood up. Then Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God, and all the people answered, "Amen, Amen," lifting up their hands. Then they bowed their heads and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground. Also the Levites Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah helped the people to understand the law, while the people remained in their places. So they read from the book, from the law of God, with interpretation. They gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxzvnfv6aiuzAcwSS3Z6Z2uMXITGbYYgj2pFeqtnYpPki-2BY-2FkXt07Mj-2FL4NT5samN-2FaV98\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J7VvOB50veNeEb6aoVT4VsumlDb-2Fnyys5iEdEI4BL89vwNSjWaYZwiCA9bkHAPAn1HVjmf954Y6EtCljnR9xdat7RChLRVFIMDHCm6HFQ8OnlztvjbiqdOtJTcntG6BW3BhETrdYbcFsQKoNeA6w4HWqI3K1HdZ2RgwOWlsyaroVT63PZxTP726J35nuKJ-2BhdfwMJgxaYSPjD0-2FTcWIeEN0-3D">Nehemiah 8:1-12</a>.) The book of Nehemiah tells the story of the people of Judah, back in Jerusalem after their exile in Babylon. Their governor Nehemiah led them in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and instituting social and religious reforms, and the priest Ezra stood and read from Scripture. In Nehemiah 8, notes TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez, "the scriptures were read aloud, then interpreted (probably translated into Aramaic) so the people could understand them." This is similar to the attempt being made today to make cursive documents available. As Ezra read from the law of God, the Hebrew text was interpreted by leaders in the more familiar Aramaic. Like worshipers today, the people needed scripture to be read and interpreted. It is significant that the people gathered beneath a wooden platform and listened, because to "understand" the Bible means, quite literally, to "stand under" the Bible -- to place ourselves under its authority, to take it personally, to allow our lives to be shaped by it. <blockquote> Questions: What translations of the Bible do you find to be necessary for your understanding of God's Word? Which interpretations do you find to be trustworthy, and why? How do you "stand under" the Bible as you seek to understand it? </blockquote> John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxyyJ0A-2BEDvrQGKorIXaiDBpvge15r31oRxuebxxDnno4i-2F0yQ8lFcIhra5J5t96wAgr-Z\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J2-2BS58rIEL3SDDDoWD-2BtMSqyq5ORJ6mWxv2km8kE8Ex45GWwhvJ7Q6mq9A3uPdnOE8hNAf2iskKX8USE4LNkGh6skohAsIjVH7DDukVs8uUV3ckm8i9rNm0-2B7kwdluTDsflwwCfXFtU8Jpg9luTdzjDc4EPVgZ4blUzBBSMKOellExqqRP1KkV-2FN9Pxv6ZQmg4XBzz1rxfHNMjaMXnWwPAc-3D">John 1:1-18</a>.) From beginning to end, the Bible speaks about what God accomplishes through a word. "In the beginning was the Word," says the gospel of John -- in the beginning was the Word, not the Deed. And "the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (1:1). Genesis reports that "God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light" (1:3). God did not build a light-generating device, but instead God spoke light into being. Then God did the same for the sky, the land, the seas, the plants, the animals, and even humankind itself. According to the prophet Isaiah, God says that my word "shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose" (55:11). For God, there is no distinction between deeds and words. For God, words are deeds -- God's words actually accomplish God's goals. The significance of God's Word reaches its peak in the birth of Jesus. The gospel of John tells us that God's "Word became flesh and lived among us." God's Word actually took human form in Jesus, becoming incarnate -- which means "in the flesh." God's Word began to walk among us as Jesus, a living expression of God's grace and God's truth. <blockquote> Questions: How does Jesus help you to understand God's word? Where do you see signs of God's words accomplishing God's goals in the church community? How is the life, death and resurrection of Jesus an expression of God's grace and God's truth to you? </blockquote> Hebrews 4:12 Indeed, the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxfhOLPuUklFplPPD2VWbSPML6T-2BuR3pT4eqfv0eK7X7-2BhTeZ9FRsStC1n4urKTquS\_4\_N\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8Jw2jmCI5vDx6QgX3-2FJDLtUzKUlelBCGXP0ZZSlB8RnJETMiS8KCKpHgg01gj67TQYnCBvsLMjaTnggawQn5f7D7RU6XMbJv6m7lCzR-2FLp-2BXJAluU-2FKyA8K0VCHxkPx5XLe8ItxfegV6tRw7njBdbwuMkVEH5mu8cIus9itPFAI0WGSgh68RANc7UzaBWYyC58BNaY5Spxtntq4pFC6BS-2BII-3D">Hebrews 4:1-13</a>.) The letter to the Hebrews is written to a group of Jesus-followers, most of whom had grown up Jewish. At this point, they were feeling disheartened and needed encouragement. In chapters 3 and 4, the author offers lessons from the story of Moses, contrasting his faithfulness and leadership with the behavior of his followers. Speaking to the followers of Jesus, the author says, "the message [the followers of Moses] heard did not benefit them because they were not united by faith with those who listened" (4:2). The letter promises that "a Sabbath rest still remains for the people of God," if they do not "fall through such disobedience as theirs" (vv. 9, 11). Hebrews challenges the followers of Jesus to be united in faith, to listen to the word of God, and to be obedient. "Indeed, the word of God is living and active" -- not dead, but as alive and active as God himself. The word is "sharper than any two-edged sword," cutting to the inmost heart of the people of God. Nothing escapes God's scrutiny, but instead all people are fully known, vulnerable and accountable, because God's word "is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." God is "the one to whom we must render an account" (v. 13). <blockquote> Questions: How does your church community help you to be united in faith and better able to listen to the word of God? When do you feel your church supporting you in your attempts to be obedient to God's word? In what ways does the Christian community hold you accountable? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. On a lighter note, TWW consultant James Gruetzner points to a study that concludes that women in midlife (ages 25-64) <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNdyenyES3AGwKma9hYBTtcgY2BVL28dH2WDJkeai4zayGy-2BW3DA8bExWseDw7c3xwjijZkSr2ZiofcJ66a3ydY-3Dc2L9\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8Jw8bQmgwS3X-2Brpfu7u6Nlbxrj1WW89NBKmsXEVU9q7V1jmD8rmAAkAAh3BXLiM7rpIT5r-2BgMVFAYZx2umNt4mzRnYHFuanvT3DJcv0zMzBihwTvPZ-2F1mEE76wFXl9AKFnDdHkL2LHJOmgG1sXpyevljW8iIchGJjCn8i4ovCl-2BBEEtLsmeX9S8QyoexYRk4KEG-2Fc56fKRhKwPn7dghPBiac-3D">speak about 18% more than men in that age group</a> For other age cohorts, men/boys and women/girls speak about the same number of words. The same study revealed that since 2005, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCci1SC1zo-2FuqQXUwdYODwQ-3D7Wgz\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZnaWVI-2Bmc37acyvov1JrVTzp8ytusyd42rEnNyDzbaXifZ7cPb0PX07wZkT61V8J1UukExySqeIe7Xj1oKJ-2Br1Gc4mp436VLmt33tEXzwwPrHPkKE2Gbni-2Bbm27vF-2B6hT28ZX-2BbaS7174q22lEDhiMjiGwHVz-2FXMTgvKjqLZZ7ETpOGZ-2FIgcdSvya8FkSkuKoMxB2lu79ihMQk1DecItUKrTLgp5O3H89HJr62xg5iRdX0KCWF-2BCZ0GAK1KSdl4NUbcDc2-2Bj2l8sb-2Bd4ZDgQw8-3D">the number of words spoken by every group has dropped</a>. What, in your opinion, is the power of words? Discuss the utility of words, the need for language, and what we accomplish through communication. 2. TWW Team Member Mary Sells has experienced the power of a Bible translation to help people grasp God's message, which is why she finds it helpful to use three or four translations in a class. She says, "I spoke last week with a young adult who was struggling to read the Bible, which she really wants to do, yet the NIV and NRSV versions were a bit obtuse for her; so, I told her this weekend I will bring to class The Message [a brilliant paraphrase, not a translation] to see if that resonates." When has this been true for you? What is the value of multiple translations and paraphrases in revealing God's message? 3. "The question of being able to read cursive writing, which is becoming something of a lost art, really takes us back to reading and writing in Paul's time," notes TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez. "What we read in Paul's letters is not what he said or wrote, but what the scribe (sometimes a friend, but perhaps sometimes a professional) wrote down." TWW Team Member Stan Purdum adds that "many of the scribes who wrote down what Paul and others dictated were probably slaves who either had that skill before being enslaved or were purposely educated and trained in that skill after being enslaved." What influence do you think scribes had on the words of the Bible we read today? How do you think their status as free or enslaved people affected their recordings? How does your own position in society affect the way you read and understand the Word of God? 4. An anecdote from the mission field: A missionary was trying to translate the verse in Romans 12:20, regarding doing good to one's adversaries despite their negative behavior toward you. The figure of speech had to be conveyed adequately in the native speaker's language (a huge problem in translation). It went: "Therefore, if your enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing, you shall heap coals of fire on his head." The native missed the entire point and thought that it was a wonderful suggestion to torture their enemies. What other passage of scripture might be wildly misunderstood? How can good interpretation get us closer to the heart of God? Responding to the News Take the time to look at multiple translations of a passage of scripture before you make a decision about its meaning. Discuss your interpretation with fellow members of your community of faith. When faced with a difficult passage, interpret it in light of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Prayer Almighty God, we thank you for creating this world with your powerful word. Open our hearts and minds to what you are saying to us today, as we seek to follow your Son Jesus, your Word made flesh. Amen. 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