Day Thirty-Seven -- You're not listening to me.  Says you!!

Job 8:1 to Job 24:25

Years ago, before I went to seminary, I decided to read the Book of Job from start to finish.  When I mentioned this to my parish priest his response was "What for?"  He didn't think there was much to be gained from the story.  I did finish my little project back then but can't recall any real lasting impressions.  In the intervening years I have from time-to-time read portions of the book, but it was not until this challenge that I have again engaged it in this way.  What I'm discovering is an appreciation for the literary style and brilliance of this book.  Rather than feeling like I'm slogging through the reading, I'm finding the back and forth between Job and his "friends" a fascinating study in human relations and the consequences of living with false expectations.  There's a lot of snarky things being said by everyone, some of which might be humorous if it were not for the fact that they only seem to make matters worse.

Is Job doomed to live out his days in pain and despair?  Will his friends ultimately write him off as an unrepentant sinner?  When, if ever, will any of them truly begin to hear what the other is saying?  And if God is listening to any of their arguments, how will he decide to respond?  Stay tuned, and we'll try to unravel all of this in the coming days.