Students and researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have created an amazing new book. Using a combination of sensors implanted in a vest, the reader of this new book experiences various vibration patterns. As you read along, you begin to “feel the emotions” of the characters.

“Traditionally, fiction creates and induces emotions and empathy through words and images. By using a combination of networked sensors and actuators, the Sensory Fiction author is provided with new means of conveying plot, mood and emotion while still allowing space for the reader’s imagination. These tools can be wielded to create an immersive storytelling experience tailored to the reader.” (www.telegraph.com)

The fact is, reading for personal enrichment is in serious decline and the implications are being widely felt. Besides the obvious economic impact, non-readers are affecting the social and cultural fabric of our society as well. Only 57% of adults read a book that is not required for work or school. Less than one-third of 13 year olds read every day and those aged 15-24 only read for 7-10 minutes a day. So, maybe this new tool will make a huge impact of reading in general.

But consider for a moment the impact such a device might have on reading God’s Word. Can you imagine what might happen if we could open the pages of I Samuel and “feel” the rumble as David takes on Goliath? What would it feel like to sense Noah’s consternation as the rains began to fall and the ground sprouted up fountains of water? What emotional response might we have as we read and “feel” the details of Moses parting the Red Sea?

I think this “wearable Bible” might be a great idea. Some 92% of American households own at least one copy of the Bible, but only 60% of Christians read their Bible during a typical week. Maybe a little bit of vibration would help.

But in the meantime, lets start this week off with a personal commitment to read God’s word every single day. If you need some extra stimulation, wiggle around a bit while you read!

By His Grace and for His Glory,
Sherry L. Worel