When we think of religion, we might associate it with rituals, devotions, or moral codes. However, generally, at least, half of the religious practice is about words or scriptures. In other words, proclamation, teaching, discussion and understanding take a fundamental role in religion. All major religions of the world such as Buddhism, Islam as well as Christianity share this characteristic.

Why? It is because man does not accept religion without intelligible knowledge. Of course, we see agnostics and esoteric cults. But do they last or gain wide acceptance? Superstitions do not develop into a religion because of the lack of intelligibility.

As we see in the ministry of Jesus, Jesus proclaimed the Good News and taught his disciples and people. He was called “Teacher” or “Rabbi”. And we see in the Acts how the first Christians shared the Scripture and teachings. In the early Church, the bigger part of the Eucharistic celebration was the liturgy of the Word. They used to proclaim and read substantial parts of the gospels and epistles during the liturgy. It was not like us reading only one episode or a short passage. Because of this current practice, our understanding of the Bible is fragmented.

Some Catholics come to the Mass merely to receive Communion. Indeed, Communion is critical. However, without any interest and devotion to the Word of the Lord, our faith is likely to fall into a lifeless cultural habit or even a superstitious practice.

However, many Catholics now find joy in reading, studying, sharing thoughts on the Bible. Under this pandemic, the work on the Word not only maintains but also rejuvenates and revives our faith. A true sacrament is made up of words and sensible actions or symbols, not of actions or symbols alone. It is because the words invoke the Holy Spirit and sanctify actions and matters. I wish that we spare time to read, study, and share the Word of the Lord so that we may truly sanctify our life under this pandemic.