'Myst' & Our Journey of Faith

There are two types of people who play computer games. One uses the computer and occasionally plays a game (that's me… so far). The other type lives to play games and only occasionally realizes there is a real world outside the computer screen. “Why do they do that?”

Being an enterprising and curious kind of guy, I decided to investigate the strange world of computer games and see if there would be any good lessons for a pastor and writer. (In other words, I wanted to check out the latest toys and call it work!) My research led me to "Myst," a top selling computer game where the creators wanted no violence but plenty of entertainment.

'Myst' sounded like the right kind of game for a pastor to check out… (Besides, it was on sale!) Of course, the last time I attempted to understand a video game, it was made by Atari and involved bouncing a little ball back and forth. Boy, have computer games dramatically changed…

"You have just stumbled upon a most intriguing book, a book titled Myst. You have no idea where it came from, who wrote it, or how old it is. Reading through its pages provides you with only a superbly crafted description of an island world. But it's just a book, isn't it?" (Introduction)

Amidst eerie music, you open the book on the computer screen and find yourself on 'Myst' island, which is deserted. “Why? What happened?” As you wander amidst beautiful surroundings, you begin looking for clues to help you find out where everyone went. All of it is intertwined in a story full of mystery and intrigue. “Who are these two mysterious brothers? Which one is evil? Why do I care? Why is the music so weird?” I have to admit… 'Myst' is fascinating and addicting fun.

The secret to successfully playing the game is to pay close attention to the details and take careful notes. What do you see? What do you hear? You must be patient and never give up. The instructions add, "But most importantly -- think of what you would do if you were really there."

Maybe I could learn from this…

"You have just stumbled upon a most intriguing book, a book titled The Holy Bible. You have very little idea where it came from, who wrote it, or how old it is. Reading its pages provides you with only a superbly crafted description of the real world. But it's just a book, isn't it?"

In many ways, exploring the Bible is similar to 'Myst.' You open the book and find yourself in a different world. You begin looking for clues to help you find answers. All of it is intertwined in a story full of mystery and intrigue. “Who are these mystifying people of God? How do they grow from 'mistake prone' followers to mature disciples of faith? How can their lessons help me?”

The secret to a successful journey through the scriptures is to pay close attention to the details. What do you see? What do you hear? What do you feel as you read? You must be patient and never give up. But most importantly -- think of what you would do if you were really there. 

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do.                   (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Playing 'Myst' is challenging and can be an interesting way to occupy your free time. Reading the Bible is also challenging but more than occupy your free time… Bible study can literally change your life. Try it… you’ll like it!