Tomorrow I begin the six-week Intensive Greek course at North Park Theological Seminary in Chicago. Couldn't they have used a different word than "intensive"? The course write-up recommends not taking any other course at the same time, not working--not even part time, not doing ANYTHING but living and breathing Greek.
With completion of another five years serving as Executive Minister of Women Ministries for the Evangelical Covenant Church, my Board has granted me a second sabbatical. Studying Greek has been something I've always wanted to do. No thoughts of getting an MDiv (actually also looking at a Masters in Social Justice); just want to get deeper into the Word; hoping it will also deepen my preaching.
However, I have avoided telling people that I, a 59 year old woman, am using my sabbatical in this way. The response is predictable: hilarious laughter or looks of deep pity, the latter from those who have taken it or been married to someone who took it. A friend who learned of my plan to take a course at the seminary, asked which one. I said, "Promise you won't laugh?" He seriously replied, "Of course." "Me: "Greek." Him: 'HA HA HA HA HA HA! (pause) Are you serious?"
So here I am, poised to launch into a whole new world. Will I pass? Will I finish?! I know there are going to be some really difficult times ahead, no doubt some tears, maybe a tantrum to two (poor Brad), serious rethinking, temptations to quit, maybe swapping last three weeks for a visit to the grandkids...
And maybe, just maybe it will go OK! I memorized the alphabet yesterday and looked ahead at an exercise - and could read the simple words!! Cool!
Check in and follow the saga. I'll try to be totally honest with how I am feeling and doing.
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