June 26 – July 2, 2016
A Little Bit of Midrash
Biblical Text: Luke 9:1-6
Guidelines for Individual Playdates
Value of This Activity:
Plays around with what Jewish teachers call “midrash”—taking a piece of scripture and “expanding” it through writing a totally new story that “fills in the gaps” in the text. Encourages imagination … and thus taking the Scripture seriously.
Items Needed:
Bible. Pen and paper.
To Begin . . .
Spend a moment in quiet prayer. If you wish, begin by freewriting for 3-5 minutes. Just let the pen empty out your concerns and thanksgiving for the day. Breathe.
How to Play . . .
- Read Luke 9:1-6.
- Make up a completely new story about what happened when the Twelve went into a particular city. Just make it up! Was there dust-shaking? A potluck supper? Healings or exorcisms? What happened in one of those towns or villages? Give the people names. Make it during a particular season of the year. Create a short story out of imagining Jesus’ instructions to the disciples into a new narrative.
- Share your story with someone this week!
In Closing . . .
Take a moment to breathe and let the playtime settle around you. Carry your curiosity and insights and questions into the day.
Playdate Reference Material:
Playing with Narratives
The Imaginative Intellect
Guidelines for Individual Playdates
Playdates with Scripture Email ARCHIVES
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