Fourth Sunday After the Epiphany
Old Testament: Jeremiah 1:4-10(17-19)
Epistle: 1 Cor 12:31b-13:13
Gospel: Luke 4:31-44
Grace and Peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, in whom was exemplified the love the One and Only.
As I learned, or perhaps relearned, while sitting in with the confirmation group last Sunday after church, this is a time of year when we are focused on the ministry of Christ, or the growth of his ministry on earth, growth represented by the color green, but,also, Epiphany is the revelation of who Jesus was- the Son of God, being sent from Him who is.
Now, in the Gospel lesson for today, we hear of Jesus driving a demon out of a man. The point I wish to emphasize relates to the revelation of Jesus. That it was with power and authority that he drove the demon out. The people standing around, the witnesses to the event, couldn't help but be amazed. Here was this man, possessed by all accounts, and with words- not a touch, not a prayer- with a command, the demon came out of the man. I am sure that part of what caused word to spread was that this had occurred on the Sabbath, a time when work was not to be done. But, this is addressed later in the scripture, when we are told that Sabbath was created for man, and not man for the Sabbath.
But the ministry of Christ on earth, the shining of the light of life to men in darkness, was just beginning. It was in its infancy. But from the moment it began, from the moment he was born, it was love- the love of God. This was the only command that our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, gave us: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." (Mat 13:34).
Love. In Love. With Love. By Love.
Love each other. Love your enemies. Love those in need. When I read this passage from Paul, I am reminded, as we all should be, of what qualities and behaviours comprise love- are exhibited when you love; and what becomes of us when we are without it, when we do things without the love of Christ in us. For even with the greatest gifts the Holy Spirit has to offer, without love we are nothing, and our actions gain nothing. But, in love... by using our gifts in love, we can reach others, we can spread the word of the Lord, and let His love be known. If we do everything with love, then you will seed the earth and be fruitful. I am reminded of the greatest commandment from Matthew 22, when Jesus was tested by the Pharisees, being asked which is the greatest commandment in the Law. "Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." It is by loving your neighbor as yourself that we fulfill the first. For it is like the first, it is similar, the same as. Through our belief in Christ, knowing his love, and God's love for us, by loving each other, by loving our neighbors as ourselves, we fulfill the Law. This is why Romans 13:10 says, "Therefore love is fulfillment of the Law."
I have come to understand that love is certainly all the things that Paul describes: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." And so when we read this beautiful passage, remember to exemplify these things, but remember also that God exemplifies these things, and they were exemplified to us through Christ. Love never fails. Christ never fails. God never fails. You're salvation never fails.
Love each other. Clothe each other. Feed each other. Shelter each other. With Love. In Love. By Love.
May you be blessed by Him Who Is; May you revel and glory in the forgiveness and eternal life afforded us by His Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Perhaps, just maybe, later this week or early next I will continue by expounding some more on love. Not just forgiving others, earnestly, but by testifying of Christ and sharing him with them.
28 January 2010
21 January 2010
Say It Once
I will only say this once.
The world is bound by fear. Overcome all fear- overcome the world- and you will find everything, exactly where you stand, even in your hand. But first you must ask, "why?" of everything you know, to the very foundation, so that you may understand the baseless reasons supporting the fear. Or, perhaps more simply, you can act on faith, but, still, understanding is needed.
This is all I wish to say.
The world is bound by fear. Overcome all fear- overcome the world- and you will find everything, exactly where you stand, even in your hand. But first you must ask, "why?" of everything you know, to the very foundation, so that you may understand the baseless reasons supporting the fear. Or, perhaps more simply, you can act on faith, but, still, understanding is needed.
This is all I wish to say.
05 January 2010
Epiphany
Grace, Peace and Mercy to you from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Epiphany. The 6th of January. Every year. To recognize, believe, that Christ came into the world, he must first have come into this world. Thanks be to God for His grace and mercy. I had recently come to the conclusion, and managed to put into words, that sense is the proper use of logic. for if logic is used improperly, no sense is made, and there is no reason. So i will try to logic properly for this wonderful Christian festival.
I thouroughly enjoyed reading all three of the scripture lessons for this week and, as usual, have struggled delineating a line of logic. Perhaps I should start using outlines. But there is so much to say; so many things to be imparted. But I will start with the word "epiphany," and a short story.
Epiphany
Epiphany: from the greek epiphaneia, to show forth, manifest; a moment of sudden intuitive understanding; flash of insight b a scene, experience, etc. that occasions such a moment (these being only 2 definitions)
also: Manifest Clearly apparent to the sight or understanding; obvious.
1. To show or demonstrate plainly; reveal: 2. To be evidence of; prove.
Continuing On
We celebrate this day as a day of revelation, when the Gentiles, in the form of the Magi, had Christ the savior revealed to them. Now, as such an historic day, being the entrance of prophesied Savior and King of the Jews into the world, I am pretty sure that it was a day that the Magi remembered throughout their lives. But I am pretty sure that not many of us remember when Christ was revealed to us, through the Holy Spirit, by our Father in Heaven, for the first time. It seems that we may only recognize that every time we profess Christ as the son of the Living God, that it can only be done by the power of the Holy Spirit, rather than remembering the first time Christ was revealed to us as the Son of Living God.
There is a man, a Gentile, who has heard the voice of Lord, praise be to God, and who has seen the Sun of Righteousness rise with healing in its wings. It is safe to say that this man has been blessed with a rather extraordinary epiphany of the Lord. But to him it was apparent to his sight, and understanding, that there was One true God, and his Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, and that in Christ he had the forgiveness of his sins, and was made to be righteous and holy before the Lord; a son entitled to his inheritance.
It was the hidden mystery of the Father that the Gentiles should come to be heirs to the Kingdom of God, which had formerly been preserved for the Jews. We are together heirs, we are now members of one body, the Lord Jesus Christ, who brings us together. We gentiles are adopted through Christ. When a person was adopted in Roman times, they were considered new peoples. Their past was forgotten, all their debts, their former lives disappear as if they had never breathed before the day they were adopted. And so it is with us in Christ: rightful heirs. holy. blameless. it is our right in Christ to be Sons of the Father. We can rest assured that our inheritance will not fail. It is the mystery that, in Christ, all things should be brought together (as talked about in the last entry).
So in this knowledge, "Arise, shine, for your light has come" come into being (a new being); originate (a new beginning)--- glow, be bright with the reflected light of the Savior who came to provide information and clarification. "the glory of the Lord rises upon you."
Give thanks to God for our Salvation and the knowlede of it. Reflect upon it on this celebrated day, and continue to remember all the things that Christ came to give us. I wish for you to have a daily epiphany, a daily revelation that Christ Jesus is the Son of the Living God; and to remember all that your belief entitles you to.
May your faith be strong and light your lamp, so that others may come to it, and come to believe in Christ,in whom, by the counsel of the Father's plan, we have life; in whome we are all heirs to the promised Kingdom.
Epiphany. The 6th of January. Every year. To recognize, believe, that Christ came into the world, he must first have come into this world. Thanks be to God for His grace and mercy. I had recently come to the conclusion, and managed to put into words, that sense is the proper use of logic. for if logic is used improperly, no sense is made, and there is no reason. So i will try to logic properly for this wonderful Christian festival.
I thouroughly enjoyed reading all three of the scripture lessons for this week and, as usual, have struggled delineating a line of logic. Perhaps I should start using outlines. But there is so much to say; so many things to be imparted. But I will start with the word "epiphany," and a short story.
Epiphany
Epiphany: from the greek epiphaneia, to show forth, manifest; a moment of sudden intuitive understanding; flash of insight b a scene, experience, etc. that occasions such a moment (these being only 2 definitions)
also: Manifest Clearly apparent to the sight or understanding; obvious.
1. To show or demonstrate plainly; reveal: 2. To be evidence of; prove.
Continuing On
We celebrate this day as a day of revelation, when the Gentiles, in the form of the Magi, had Christ the savior revealed to them. Now, as such an historic day, being the entrance of prophesied Savior and King of the Jews into the world, I am pretty sure that it was a day that the Magi remembered throughout their lives. But I am pretty sure that not many of us remember when Christ was revealed to us, through the Holy Spirit, by our Father in Heaven, for the first time. It seems that we may only recognize that every time we profess Christ as the son of the Living God, that it can only be done by the power of the Holy Spirit, rather than remembering the first time Christ was revealed to us as the Son of Living God.
There is a man, a Gentile, who has heard the voice of Lord, praise be to God, and who has seen the Sun of Righteousness rise with healing in its wings. It is safe to say that this man has been blessed with a rather extraordinary epiphany of the Lord. But to him it was apparent to his sight, and understanding, that there was One true God, and his Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, and that in Christ he had the forgiveness of his sins, and was made to be righteous and holy before the Lord; a son entitled to his inheritance.
It was the hidden mystery of the Father that the Gentiles should come to be heirs to the Kingdom of God, which had formerly been preserved for the Jews. We are together heirs, we are now members of one body, the Lord Jesus Christ, who brings us together. We gentiles are adopted through Christ. When a person was adopted in Roman times, they were considered new peoples. Their past was forgotten, all their debts, their former lives disappear as if they had never breathed before the day they were adopted. And so it is with us in Christ: rightful heirs. holy. blameless. it is our right in Christ to be Sons of the Father. We can rest assured that our inheritance will not fail. It is the mystery that, in Christ, all things should be brought together (as talked about in the last entry).
So in this knowledge, "Arise, shine, for your light has come" come into being (a new being); originate (a new beginning)--- glow, be bright with the reflected light of the Savior who came to provide information and clarification. "the glory of the Lord rises upon you."
Give thanks to God for our Salvation and the knowlede of it. Reflect upon it on this celebrated day, and continue to remember all the things that Christ came to give us. I wish for you to have a daily epiphany, a daily revelation that Christ Jesus is the Son of the Living God; and to remember all that your belief entitles you to.
May your faith be strong and light your lamp, so that others may come to it, and come to believe in Christ,in whom, by the counsel of the Father's plan, we have life; in whome we are all heirs to the promised Kingdom.
02 January 2010
The Riches of His Grace
2nd Sunday after Christmas
Readings:
Old Testament 1 Kings 3:4-15
Epistle: Ephesians 1:3-14
Gospel Luke 2:40-52
Grace, Mercy, and Peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
My friends, I wasn't sure what to write about this week, but a theme is emerging so I am going to let the rhythm of my fingers on the keyboard takeover. So let me apologize now for any broken thoughts, sentences, or convoluted statements.
It is always important to recognize the sacrifice that Christ made on the cross. It is important to remember the body and blood of Christ; the words he spoke in all wisdom and truth, pleasing to the Father, and the atonement he made for us on our behalf, being sent by the Father in all wisdom and truth.
I read a daily devotional this week that seemed to harbor animosity towards atheists and the battle the world (being said to be led by atheists) wages against the Christ and Christmas. It did eventually find its way to making a prayer for the souls of the atheists, that they may be saved, but it was certainly lacking the love we Christians should practice. And upon this and other events I ponder, "what meaning is there in this? what purpose has God here?" And I believe that other people ask these very same questions, variations on the question, "why?" But the world tends to cast a negative light on things, asking, "if God is so loving, why does he allow these things to happen?" But it is in accordance with the will of God that these things should take place. If you as Christians ever wonder this, you need only to remember Christ your Salvation. Your sins have been forgiven, by the shedding of his blood, done in all wisdom and understanding, according to the riches of God's grace. This was done with intent and purpose, it fits into God's plan for the world, which is simply that everything should come together, heaven and earth, and to reconcile the two, us being in darkness and sin, Christ was sent to bridge the gap.
We have been chosen. He chose us to be blameless and holy in his sight, before the creation of the world. Who are we to understand the will of the Father, or how exactly it will play out? His thoughts are above ours. Who can comprehend his will? But praise be to God! We have our Salvation, and a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance, the Holy Spirit. We have been marked, by the Lord as His own. Christ is our shepherd, in him we have been granted every spiritual blessing.
I often hear people speak of prophecies as warnings to change your ways. They tout them as changeable occurences in history meant to steer us one way or another. They are meant as warnings. They are meant to steer us one way or another. But I tell you that God knows we are a rebellious and sinful people, and He gave us prophecies to tell us what to expect so that we believers can be ready. And when these things happen, do not ask why... know that these things had to happen. If a prophecy revealed from God through the Holy Spirit doesn't happen, then what power does God have? But these things must happen, that others may see and repent; that they may return to God.
We may not understand everything that happens to us, or in the world, but we, as believers, can rely on Christ, and his Salvation, knowing that we are loved, forgiven, to the praise of His glory, that when the times will have reached their fulfillment, we will have our redemption, and heaven and earth will be brought together under one head- Christ.
May God lavish his blessings upon you. May you be reminded of His love when you are in doubt, and may you always remember and rejoice in your Salvation, which is in Christ Jesus. Amen.
afterthought: I suppose I could've have written more on the riches of his grace; relating the OT lesson of a thousand and one sacrifices, to Christ's; and the epistle expounding on God's grace and plan, our unknowing, to the Gospel lesson of Mary and Joseph not understanding what Christ meant, yet treasuring those things up in their hearts... but maybe I'll write a second entry this week before Epiphany (Jan 6), which should be fun!
Readings:
Old Testament 1 Kings 3:4-15
Epistle: Ephesians 1:3-14
Gospel Luke 2:40-52
Grace, Mercy, and Peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
My friends, I wasn't sure what to write about this week, but a theme is emerging so I am going to let the rhythm of my fingers on the keyboard takeover. So let me apologize now for any broken thoughts, sentences, or convoluted statements.
It is always important to recognize the sacrifice that Christ made on the cross. It is important to remember the body and blood of Christ; the words he spoke in all wisdom and truth, pleasing to the Father, and the atonement he made for us on our behalf, being sent by the Father in all wisdom and truth.
I read a daily devotional this week that seemed to harbor animosity towards atheists and the battle the world (being said to be led by atheists) wages against the Christ and Christmas. It did eventually find its way to making a prayer for the souls of the atheists, that they may be saved, but it was certainly lacking the love we Christians should practice. And upon this and other events I ponder, "what meaning is there in this? what purpose has God here?" And I believe that other people ask these very same questions, variations on the question, "why?" But the world tends to cast a negative light on things, asking, "if God is so loving, why does he allow these things to happen?" But it is in accordance with the will of God that these things should take place. If you as Christians ever wonder this, you need only to remember Christ your Salvation. Your sins have been forgiven, by the shedding of his blood, done in all wisdom and understanding, according to the riches of God's grace. This was done with intent and purpose, it fits into God's plan for the world, which is simply that everything should come together, heaven and earth, and to reconcile the two, us being in darkness and sin, Christ was sent to bridge the gap.
We have been chosen. He chose us to be blameless and holy in his sight, before the creation of the world. Who are we to understand the will of the Father, or how exactly it will play out? His thoughts are above ours. Who can comprehend his will? But praise be to God! We have our Salvation, and a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance, the Holy Spirit. We have been marked, by the Lord as His own. Christ is our shepherd, in him we have been granted every spiritual blessing.
I often hear people speak of prophecies as warnings to change your ways. They tout them as changeable occurences in history meant to steer us one way or another. They are meant as warnings. They are meant to steer us one way or another. But I tell you that God knows we are a rebellious and sinful people, and He gave us prophecies to tell us what to expect so that we believers can be ready. And when these things happen, do not ask why... know that these things had to happen. If a prophecy revealed from God through the Holy Spirit doesn't happen, then what power does God have? But these things must happen, that others may see and repent; that they may return to God.
We may not understand everything that happens to us, or in the world, but we, as believers, can rely on Christ, and his Salvation, knowing that we are loved, forgiven, to the praise of His glory, that when the times will have reached their fulfillment, we will have our redemption, and heaven and earth will be brought together under one head- Christ.
May God lavish his blessings upon you. May you be reminded of His love when you are in doubt, and may you always remember and rejoice in your Salvation, which is in Christ Jesus. Amen.
afterthought: I suppose I could've have written more on the riches of his grace; relating the OT lesson of a thousand and one sacrifices, to Christ's; and the epistle expounding on God's grace and plan, our unknowing, to the Gospel lesson of Mary and Joseph not understanding what Christ meant, yet treasuring those things up in their hearts... but maybe I'll write a second entry this week before Epiphany (Jan 6), which should be fun!
27 December 2009
Wrapped in Love
1st Sunday after Christmas
Readings:
Old Testament: Exodus 13:1-3a, 11-15
Epistle: Colossians 3:12-17
Gospel Luke 2:22-40
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I had lunch with a friend the other day, and we were talking about watching the wonders of God's plan unfolding before our eyes. It is truly amazing to see God's will at work, and to be able to recognize those times when He is using you as an instrument of His love is an experience like no other. My friends, we are all capable of being these instruments so often, and probably even more often than we are. So we should always be ready for service. We should live as though at any moment the Holy Spirit, sent from God, will work in us to help another.
And so to be ready at any moment, we should live every moment in His love, and as shining examples and beacons of His light and love. The Epistle lesson this week from Colossians says, "As God's cheson people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as teh Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."
It is the way we should live. Displaying all these qualities at all times, doing each one in the love that Christ gave us. And we should be these things not only to each other, as brothers and sisters in Christ, but also to everyone else you meet.
Do not begrudge each other. As I know this occurs, I implore you to give up the grudge and cling to love, and forgiveness, for the sake of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the will of God the Father. If you do not forgive, why, then, should God forgive you? But forgive, and you will be forgiven. "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." If a body wars against itself, what good can it be accomplished? But remember Christ, your light, and the directions he gave us, so that we may move forward confidently, with love, until that day when He returns.
In this New Year I wish for you all to make it your resolution to strive to exemplify these virtues; to always be at the ready; to live in the Spirit. "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom... with gratitude in your hearts to God." And to do all this, wrapped in love.
As you enter this new year, may the Lord God, creator of all things, bless you richly, keep you in His love, and grant you His peace.
Readings:
Old Testament: Exodus 13:1-3a, 11-15
Epistle: Colossians 3:12-17
Gospel Luke 2:22-40
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
I had lunch with a friend the other day, and we were talking about watching the wonders of God's plan unfolding before our eyes. It is truly amazing to see God's will at work, and to be able to recognize those times when He is using you as an instrument of His love is an experience like no other. My friends, we are all capable of being these instruments so often, and probably even more often than we are. So we should always be ready for service. We should live as though at any moment the Holy Spirit, sent from God, will work in us to help another.
And so to be ready at any moment, we should live every moment in His love, and as shining examples and beacons of His light and love. The Epistle lesson this week from Colossians says, "As God's cheson people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as teh Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."
It is the way we should live. Displaying all these qualities at all times, doing each one in the love that Christ gave us. And we should be these things not only to each other, as brothers and sisters in Christ, but also to everyone else you meet.
Do not begrudge each other. As I know this occurs, I implore you to give up the grudge and cling to love, and forgiveness, for the sake of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the will of God the Father. If you do not forgive, why, then, should God forgive you? But forgive, and you will be forgiven. "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." If a body wars against itself, what good can it be accomplished? But remember Christ, your light, and the directions he gave us, so that we may move forward confidently, with love, until that day when He returns.
In this New Year I wish for you all to make it your resolution to strive to exemplify these virtues; to always be at the ready; to live in the Spirit. "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom... with gratitude in your hearts to God." And to do all this, wrapped in love.
As you enter this new year, may the Lord God, creator of all things, bless you richly, keep you in His love, and grant you His peace.
26 December 2009
Christmas
Christmas
Readings:
Old Testament: Isaiah 52:7-10
Epistle: Hebrews 1:1-6 (7-12)
Gospel: John 1:1-14(15-18)
Grace and Peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
1st: Merry Christmas!
2nd: I debated this week on what to write, as I usually do. I wrote a few lines, and that didn't seem to work for me, so I approached it from a different angle, which also didn't work. And then a third, and the same. But a thought came to me as I was standing outside on a cold night, which I felt made the most sense in terms of what I'm trying to accomplish with these writings. So this will be a more freestyle post, writing as the thoughts move along.
I really do enjoy the gospel lesson for the week, but find that it lacks in the traditional Christmas story as told in other areas. When I think of Christmas I get a picture in my head of Linus from the Peanuts comic strip, standing on stage with the spotlight shining, reading the Christmas story from Luke chapter 2. But today I am going to write you concerning the light that is the life contained in Christ, the Word who was sent from the Father, who is with the Father, and through whom all things were made.
My thoughts run as this:
Many things can be said concerning the arrival of Christ on that spectacular starlit night; about the shepherds who received the angels words; about the angels singing their praises; or about the wisemen who followed the star to bring gifts to the King of the Jews.
"In him was life, and that life was the light of men." The light that is life is what came down to men when Christ arrived. His purpose was to illuminate the darkness, "The light shines in the darkness," The life contained within him- through whom all things were made- is the light of men. It is that thing that guides us from the other side, and testifies within each of us that there is more to this life, more to this world, than the time we spend between sunrises. There was a separation between heaven and earth when Christ came, when he left the curtain between those two worlds was torn- this being why he preached, "the Kingdom of Heaven is near." It is nearer than a day would display to those living in darkness. When Christ gathered up flesh and came to this world, he came to testify, and teach us, about the life beyond this life, about the world beyond this world, about the Father's Kingdom, and the life eternal. He was a light to the Gentiles, to us, and praise be to God for his mercy and compassion.
"But the darkness has not understood it. " Those living in darkness cannot see the light. Those of the world only perceive the world. It is all they know. It is that in which all their hopes and dreams are contained. It is one of our Christian duties to reveal this light to those living in darkness. But the world did not recognize the light from which they came, they did not receive him. But we, as believers in Christ, the only son of the Living God, the One and Only, we are granted the right to be His children. Not an earthly birth, not of blood, but "born of God."
I keep repeating, "He is the light" in my head. It is a phrase that I can not explain, other than to say, "He is the light.'But the darkness has not understood.'" So I suppose what I am trying to say this Christmas is that we should keep in our minds the light that Christ brought with him to illuminate the world, to illuminate the darkness. He was not put under a table, but out in the open, so that his light, his life, could illuminate the darkness.
May the Father of all things be gracious to you this Christmas, and may the Peace of the Lord, which surpasses all understanding, be with you.
Readings:
Old Testament: Isaiah 52:7-10
Epistle: Hebrews 1:1-6 (7-12)
Gospel: John 1:1-14(15-18)
Grace and Peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
1st: Merry Christmas!
2nd: I debated this week on what to write, as I usually do. I wrote a few lines, and that didn't seem to work for me, so I approached it from a different angle, which also didn't work. And then a third, and the same. But a thought came to me as I was standing outside on a cold night, which I felt made the most sense in terms of what I'm trying to accomplish with these writings. So this will be a more freestyle post, writing as the thoughts move along.
I really do enjoy the gospel lesson for the week, but find that it lacks in the traditional Christmas story as told in other areas. When I think of Christmas I get a picture in my head of Linus from the Peanuts comic strip, standing on stage with the spotlight shining, reading the Christmas story from Luke chapter 2. But today I am going to write you concerning the light that is the life contained in Christ, the Word who was sent from the Father, who is with the Father, and through whom all things were made.
My thoughts run as this:
Many things can be said concerning the arrival of Christ on that spectacular starlit night; about the shepherds who received the angels words; about the angels singing their praises; or about the wisemen who followed the star to bring gifts to the King of the Jews.
"In him was life, and that life was the light of men." The light that is life is what came down to men when Christ arrived. His purpose was to illuminate the darkness, "The light shines in the darkness," The life contained within him- through whom all things were made- is the light of men. It is that thing that guides us from the other side, and testifies within each of us that there is more to this life, more to this world, than the time we spend between sunrises. There was a separation between heaven and earth when Christ came, when he left the curtain between those two worlds was torn- this being why he preached, "the Kingdom of Heaven is near." It is nearer than a day would display to those living in darkness. When Christ gathered up flesh and came to this world, he came to testify, and teach us, about the life beyond this life, about the world beyond this world, about the Father's Kingdom, and the life eternal. He was a light to the Gentiles, to us, and praise be to God for his mercy and compassion.
"But the darkness has not understood it. " Those living in darkness cannot see the light. Those of the world only perceive the world. It is all they know. It is that in which all their hopes and dreams are contained. It is one of our Christian duties to reveal this light to those living in darkness. But the world did not recognize the light from which they came, they did not receive him. But we, as believers in Christ, the only son of the Living God, the One and Only, we are granted the right to be His children. Not an earthly birth, not of blood, but "born of God."
I keep repeating, "He is the light" in my head. It is a phrase that I can not explain, other than to say, "He is the light.'But the darkness has not understood.'" So I suppose what I am trying to say this Christmas is that we should keep in our minds the light that Christ brought with him to illuminate the world, to illuminate the darkness. He was not put under a table, but out in the open, so that his light, his life, could illuminate the darkness.
May the Father of all things be gracious to you this Christmas, and may the Peace of the Lord, which surpasses all understanding, be with you.
21 December 2009
Money and Power (an Anomoly)
In this anomaly to the weekly writings, I cover a subject of my choosing. I often, as you know, experience random thoughts that can often turn over my mind for days. This was one those, and apart of a broader subject that I often debate with myself.
Money and Power. Power and Money. I guess it is a matter of understanding.
It is a well know phrse: money is power. But to those who are not rich in earthly wealth, this prase may seem innocuous or irrelevant to their condition, save they understand that it is those above them, rich in earthly wealth, who have the power and use it to rule over them.
Certainly, I believe, that men will acquiesce to those above them if only because they do not posess the means, or numbers, to rebel or refuse enacted laws or those nations' officials. And no man enjoys the rule of law, or the rule of another man, with which he disagrees. But, money is power, and power is money.
power comes from the latin posse, which means, "to be able." so to have money is to be able. The question is, and the point I wish to emphasize here is, "what abilities can be afforded?" And this is the true matter of understanding. For those with little money, looking nearly always at those who have more, their abilities seem trivial and are so greatly overshadowed that their perception of powerlessness becomes the reality in which they live. It leads us to look for more, to always want more, and leaves contentment and happiness on the wayside.
In these days, in this nation, simplicity has been overrun by ever-growing appetites. And perception leads us to believe that our ability becomes ever smaller. But even in the smallest amounts, money is power. Not power to rule over men, such power should not be sought. But it is the ability to clothe, and feed, and shelter. Through our daily jobs we acquire the ability to provide for our basic needs, and this should be power enough. Yet we are consumed with having more; wanting more: a car; newer, more expensive clothes; a stereo; a television; computer; cable; internet. And in the plethera of wants we lose sight of the power we have, of our ability to take control of our life and see the power we have, and find contentment. Whoever loves money never has money enough (Ecc 5:10)
So when you feel powerless, look at your situation without regard to the situation you aspire, and ask yourself how much, money or power, you truly need, and weigh that against how much you currently have. I would guess you will find yourself surprised. And if you dwell too long on the subject, then I suppose you will find yourself in my shoes, tracing my thoughts, reading scripture and wondering.
May God bless you in this time of year with the knowledge that you who believe are rightfully His children, and heirs to the life eternal.
Money and Power. Power and Money. I guess it is a matter of understanding.
It is a well know phrse: money is power. But to those who are not rich in earthly wealth, this prase may seem innocuous or irrelevant to their condition, save they understand that it is those above them, rich in earthly wealth, who have the power and use it to rule over them.
Certainly, I believe, that men will acquiesce to those above them if only because they do not posess the means, or numbers, to rebel or refuse enacted laws or those nations' officials. And no man enjoys the rule of law, or the rule of another man, with which he disagrees. But, money is power, and power is money.
power comes from the latin posse, which means, "to be able." so to have money is to be able. The question is, and the point I wish to emphasize here is, "what abilities can be afforded?" And this is the true matter of understanding. For those with little money, looking nearly always at those who have more, their abilities seem trivial and are so greatly overshadowed that their perception of powerlessness becomes the reality in which they live. It leads us to look for more, to always want more, and leaves contentment and happiness on the wayside.
In these days, in this nation, simplicity has been overrun by ever-growing appetites. And perception leads us to believe that our ability becomes ever smaller. But even in the smallest amounts, money is power. Not power to rule over men, such power should not be sought. But it is the ability to clothe, and feed, and shelter. Through our daily jobs we acquire the ability to provide for our basic needs, and this should be power enough. Yet we are consumed with having more; wanting more: a car; newer, more expensive clothes; a stereo; a television; computer; cable; internet. And in the plethera of wants we lose sight of the power we have, of our ability to take control of our life and see the power we have, and find contentment. Whoever loves money never has money enough (Ecc 5:10)
So when you feel powerless, look at your situation without regard to the situation you aspire, and ask yourself how much, money or power, you truly need, and weigh that against how much you currently have. I would guess you will find yourself surprised. And if you dwell too long on the subject, then I suppose you will find yourself in my shoes, tracing my thoughts, reading scripture and wondering.
May God bless you in this time of year with the knowledge that you who believe are rightfully His children, and heirs to the life eternal.
Christ, our peace.
I apologize for posting this after the 4th Sunday in Advent, but I have been battling computer problems, which now seem to be fixed. yay!
Readings:
Old Testament: Micah 5:2-5a
Epistle: Hebrews 10:5-10
Gospel: Luke 1:39-45(46-56)
Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Welcome to the final Sunday in Advent. This is the last Sunday before Christmas, so I hope you all have prepared yourselves accordingly. I know that I am a last minute shopper- always looking for the perfect gifts. It seems I face a similar problem in these writingts. Always looking for the perfect words, the perfect complements in explanations, and in being able to relate the readings- a nice little bow. But then I look at the Old Testament reading and realize that its not the wrappin, or where a gift comes from; it isn't how much it costs, but it is the purpose and manner (intent) in which it is given.
Even though Bethlehem was small among the clans of Judah, it was here that our Heavenly Father said Christ should be born. A ruler whose origins were from of old, from ancient times. Christ wasn't a new or shiny gift. He wasn't wrapped in pretty packaging or topped with a bow. No, like those things that are blessed by God, they seem lowly and unassuming to the world. It is their purpose and intent that matter.
Christ came to shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord God. Christ came to do this for us! Christ was born, lived, and died so that we, his flock, could live securely. And he will be our peace. (I am fond of definitions) And he will be our freedom from distress. he will be our harmony. Christ will be our tranquility. Yes, Christ is certainly all of these things. Peace comes from the indo european base "pak," which means, "to fasten". and the latin pasisci which means, "to confirm an agreement". Christ is our glue. the binding agreement between us and the Father, the creator of all things. It is our belief in him, sealed in His blood, by which we are blessed, and can rest, free from distress, in harmony and tranquility,in the knowledge that our sins are forgiven and a greater life awaits us.
I read the Gospel lesson and the one thing that jumps out at, the idea that says, "hey, look here... i relate to the foundation" is the line, "Blessed are you who has believed that what the Lord has said will be accomplished." When you believe in Christ, the son of the living God, our Heavenly Father, who created all things, you believe in that very same Father, from whom all things eminate, who has given us forgiveness and sealed it with the blood of His only son. We are fastened to Christ through our belief. And Christ will be our peace.
And when you testify about Christ you prophecy about the future, for the testimony of Christ is prophecy. And he will come again. Blessed are you who believe that the things the Lord has said will be accomplished. He set aside sacrifices and offering to do the will of God, that we may be saved. For God was not pleased with sacrifices and burnt offerings for they could not make us perfect- those who draw near for worship. If they could have made us perfect, then they would not have stopped. But Christ was perfect for us. He is our strength. The confidence of our peace. Christ died once for all mankind. By the will of the Father have we been made holy through the sacrifice of Christ Jesus, the son of the living God. Our shepherd, our peace.... the Lord is my shepherd.
By his blood we have been forgiven and by our belief have we been fastened to that forgiveness, and we can rest easy, in the knowledge the our future is secure. The Lord is our peace.
Readings:
Old Testament: Micah 5:2-5a
Epistle: Hebrews 10:5-10
Gospel: Luke 1:39-45(46-56)
Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Welcome to the final Sunday in Advent. This is the last Sunday before Christmas, so I hope you all have prepared yourselves accordingly. I know that I am a last minute shopper- always looking for the perfect gifts. It seems I face a similar problem in these writingts. Always looking for the perfect words, the perfect complements in explanations, and in being able to relate the readings- a nice little bow. But then I look at the Old Testament reading and realize that its not the wrappin, or where a gift comes from; it isn't how much it costs, but it is the purpose and manner (intent) in which it is given.
Even though Bethlehem was small among the clans of Judah, it was here that our Heavenly Father said Christ should be born. A ruler whose origins were from of old, from ancient times. Christ wasn't a new or shiny gift. He wasn't wrapped in pretty packaging or topped with a bow. No, like those things that are blessed by God, they seem lowly and unassuming to the world. It is their purpose and intent that matter.
Christ came to shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord God. Christ came to do this for us! Christ was born, lived, and died so that we, his flock, could live securely. And he will be our peace. (I am fond of definitions) And he will be our freedom from distress. he will be our harmony. Christ will be our tranquility. Yes, Christ is certainly all of these things. Peace comes from the indo european base "pak," which means, "to fasten". and the latin pasisci which means, "to confirm an agreement". Christ is our glue. the binding agreement between us and the Father, the creator of all things. It is our belief in him, sealed in His blood, by which we are blessed, and can rest, free from distress, in harmony and tranquility,in the knowledge that our sins are forgiven and a greater life awaits us.
I read the Gospel lesson and the one thing that jumps out at, the idea that says, "hey, look here... i relate to the foundation" is the line, "Blessed are you who has believed that what the Lord has said will be accomplished." When you believe in Christ, the son of the living God, our Heavenly Father, who created all things, you believe in that very same Father, from whom all things eminate, who has given us forgiveness and sealed it with the blood of His only son. We are fastened to Christ through our belief. And Christ will be our peace.
And when you testify about Christ you prophecy about the future, for the testimony of Christ is prophecy. And he will come again. Blessed are you who believe that the things the Lord has said will be accomplished. He set aside sacrifices and offering to do the will of God, that we may be saved. For God was not pleased with sacrifices and burnt offerings for they could not make us perfect- those who draw near for worship. If they could have made us perfect, then they would not have stopped. But Christ was perfect for us. He is our strength. The confidence of our peace. Christ died once for all mankind. By the will of the Father have we been made holy through the sacrifice of Christ Jesus, the son of the living God. Our shepherd, our peace.... the Lord is my shepherd.
By his blood we have been forgiven and by our belief have we been fastened to that forgiveness, and we can rest easy, in the knowledge the our future is secure. The Lord is our peace.
13 December 2009
I will say it again, Rejoice!
3rd Sunday in Advent
Readings:
Old Testament: Zephaniah 3:14-20
Epistle: Pillipians 4:4-7
Gospel: Luke 7:18-28
Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
To be glad (have joy) again: this is the root meaning of the origin of the word, "rejoice." And this is our message for today, and one to be taken throughout the new year. Remember Christ, his birth, his life, his sacrifice, and be glad again. Let loose of your sorrow, your sins are forgiven! Walk with your confidence in Christ, for in Him lies your joy.
Rejoice! For those of us who believe, we have been redeemed. We have intercession for our sins. And in our faith in Christ, we show faith in the Father of all things, who will take care of your needs. Truly, we are worth many sparrows. So with the joy, the gladness of our salvation in Christ we can let loose of our stress, we can worry less- in fact Christ says to not worry at all, and thus we are more calm, more glad, more mild. "Let your gentleness be evident to all."
"I will say it again, Rejoice!" and let your gentlenes be evident to all. Not just to other Christians who celebrate this blessed time of year, but also the person at the store checkout who says, "Happy Holidays," as opposed to, "Merry Christmas." Be gentle in your tone when you reply, "Merry Christmas." And do not be anxious (coming from the indo-european base angh, which means anger) about teh season, or what gifts to give, or that another town will no longer display a nativity scene on the courthouse lawn. For Christ came, and lived, and was crucified. Let Him be your foundation. Let him be the center of your Christmas celebration, and rejoice.
"I will say it again, Rejoice!" do not be anxious about anything. I'm not sure if you caught that. Do not be anxious about Anything. We know that it can be a stressful time of year, but remember Christ. Remember to hold Him at the center of the celebration and everything else will fall into line as it should be. "But in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God." In everything. By taking every situation to the Lord, through faith in Christ can we truly come to not be anxious about anything. For Christ is our strength and our redemption. He is the intercession between us an the Father. By his body he paid for our sins, and anything we ask in his name will be granted to those who believe.
"I will say it again, Rejoice!" "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Rejoice that we have been blessed. It is a blessing that was promised in the days of old and fulfilled in the birth of Christ. That a savior was to be born. He would become our righteousness, and our redemption. And we should rejoice for all these things. And also that he will come again. Rejoice. I will say it again, Rejoice!
Readings:
Old Testament: Zephaniah 3:14-20
Epistle: Pillipians 4:4-7
Gospel: Luke 7:18-28
Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
To be glad (have joy) again: this is the root meaning of the origin of the word, "rejoice." And this is our message for today, and one to be taken throughout the new year. Remember Christ, his birth, his life, his sacrifice, and be glad again. Let loose of your sorrow, your sins are forgiven! Walk with your confidence in Christ, for in Him lies your joy.
Rejoice! For those of us who believe, we have been redeemed. We have intercession for our sins. And in our faith in Christ, we show faith in the Father of all things, who will take care of your needs. Truly, we are worth many sparrows. So with the joy, the gladness of our salvation in Christ we can let loose of our stress, we can worry less- in fact Christ says to not worry at all, and thus we are more calm, more glad, more mild. "Let your gentleness be evident to all."
"I will say it again, Rejoice!" and let your gentlenes be evident to all. Not just to other Christians who celebrate this blessed time of year, but also the person at the store checkout who says, "Happy Holidays," as opposed to, "Merry Christmas." Be gentle in your tone when you reply, "Merry Christmas." And do not be anxious (coming from the indo-european base angh, which means anger) about teh season, or what gifts to give, or that another town will no longer display a nativity scene on the courthouse lawn. For Christ came, and lived, and was crucified. Let Him be your foundation. Let him be the center of your Christmas celebration, and rejoice.
"I will say it again, Rejoice!" do not be anxious about anything. I'm not sure if you caught that. Do not be anxious about Anything. We know that it can be a stressful time of year, but remember Christ. Remember to hold Him at the center of the celebration and everything else will fall into line as it should be. "But in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God." In everything. By taking every situation to the Lord, through faith in Christ can we truly come to not be anxious about anything. For Christ is our strength and our redemption. He is the intercession between us an the Father. By his body he paid for our sins, and anything we ask in his name will be granted to those who believe.
"I will say it again, Rejoice!" "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Rejoice that we have been blessed. It is a blessing that was promised in the days of old and fulfilled in the birth of Christ. That a savior was to be born. He would become our righteousness, and our redemption. And we should rejoice for all these things. And also that he will come again. Rejoice. I will say it again, Rejoice!
29 November 2009
Preparing the Way
2nd Sunday in Advent.
Readings:
Old Testament: Malachi 3:1-7b
Epistle: Philemon 1:2-11
Gospel: Luke 3:1-14 (15-20)
Grace, Mercy, and Peace be unto you from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
We all have a job to do. And it seems this is the season when people are at their best, when their hearts are turned towards helping others in need. You can already see the salvation army volunteers out in front of stores ringing their bells. But our job isn't a seasonal one. Is isn't to be confined to the month of advent, but rather is one that should performed througout the whole year. Just as many of you set new year's resolutions, the new year being a time of new beginnings, so should advent be a time to set new Christian goals, and one of those goals should be to prepare the way for Christ's return- to, "go forth and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit" (MT 28:19) This is our commission. This is how we prepare the way for Christ's second advent. Just as we must prepare the way for Christ's return, so was it necessary to prepare for his first coming, when he would become the Light of the World.
Now, prepare comes from the Latin word praeparar, which means "before something is brought forth." it is what must be done. My Webster's dictionary defines it this way:
1. to make ready, usually for a specific purpose; make suitable; fit; adapt; train
2. to make receptive; dispose; accustom
Our Old Testament lesson says, "See I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me." And we read in the Gospel lesson of John the Baptist going throughout the area around the River Jordan, where he preached of a baptism for the forgiveness of sins. This is what had to be done to prepare the way for Christ. It is in the River Jordan, by John the Baptist that Christ is baptized and receives the Holy Spirit- about which John says, "I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel" (Jn 1:31) So only by preparing the way could Christ be revealed. And now we are all called to be ambassadors of Christ.
In the Epistle lesson, Paul, "prays that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you may have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ."
In Luke, John says "produce fruit in keeping with repentance" Now, those listening to John ask him how this is accomplished, to which he replies, "the man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same." Give in the name of Christ and share your faith, by this we produce fruit. By producing fruit, being in Christ, the vine, "the Father prunes you so that you will be even more fruitful." Andy by these things we can come to understand all the good things we have in Christ while preparing the way for his return. Christ is the reason for the season, and in His name we should diligently do our work, preparing the way for His return. His love will surely not fail or cease. God has already delivered on his promise of redemption and salvation, and that is why we celebrate in this very special time of year. Let your celebrating and rejoicing overflow to those around you, and into the coming days and months. Make it your resolution to carry on with your work in Christ's name, until that day He returns, Amen.
Readings:
Old Testament: Malachi 3:1-7b
Epistle: Philemon 1:2-11
Gospel: Luke 3:1-14 (15-20)
Grace, Mercy, and Peace be unto you from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
We all have a job to do. And it seems this is the season when people are at their best, when their hearts are turned towards helping others in need. You can already see the salvation army volunteers out in front of stores ringing their bells. But our job isn't a seasonal one. Is isn't to be confined to the month of advent, but rather is one that should performed througout the whole year. Just as many of you set new year's resolutions, the new year being a time of new beginnings, so should advent be a time to set new Christian goals, and one of those goals should be to prepare the way for Christ's return- to, "go forth and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit" (MT 28:19) This is our commission. This is how we prepare the way for Christ's second advent. Just as we must prepare the way for Christ's return, so was it necessary to prepare for his first coming, when he would become the Light of the World.
Now, prepare comes from the Latin word praeparar, which means "before something is brought forth." it is what must be done. My Webster's dictionary defines it this way:
1. to make ready, usually for a specific purpose; make suitable; fit; adapt; train
2. to make receptive; dispose; accustom
Our Old Testament lesson says, "See I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me." And we read in the Gospel lesson of John the Baptist going throughout the area around the River Jordan, where he preached of a baptism for the forgiveness of sins. This is what had to be done to prepare the way for Christ. It is in the River Jordan, by John the Baptist that Christ is baptized and receives the Holy Spirit- about which John says, "I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel" (Jn 1:31) So only by preparing the way could Christ be revealed. And now we are all called to be ambassadors of Christ.
In the Epistle lesson, Paul, "prays that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you may have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ."
In Luke, John says "produce fruit in keeping with repentance" Now, those listening to John ask him how this is accomplished, to which he replies, "the man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same." Give in the name of Christ and share your faith, by this we produce fruit. By producing fruit, being in Christ, the vine, "the Father prunes you so that you will be even more fruitful." Andy by these things we can come to understand all the good things we have in Christ while preparing the way for his return. Christ is the reason for the season, and in His name we should diligently do our work, preparing the way for His return. His love will surely not fail or cease. God has already delivered on his promise of redemption and salvation, and that is why we celebrate in this very special time of year. Let your celebrating and rejoicing overflow to those around you, and into the coming days and months. Make it your resolution to carry on with your work in Christ's name, until that day He returns, Amen.
24 November 2009
First Sunday in Advent
This is my first step towards achieving my personal goal of writing a message for every sunday of the new church year. Please be patient as I am sure I have lots of room for growth. The style and flow will most likely be different than in previous posts as these will be less "from the hip."
Readings:
Old Testament: Jeremiah 33:14-16
Epistle: 1 Thesselonians 3:9-13
Gospel: Luke 21: 25-36
Grace, Peace, and Mercy be unto you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Welcome to the first Sunday of the church year: the 1st Sunday of Advent. It is a time of promises and anticipation and fulfillment.
Of course, we know, that the culmination of Advent is in the birth of our Lord and Savior , Jesus Christ, celebrated on Christmas day. It is a most wonderful time of year, and a most stressful time of year. But Advent is about looking forward with anticipation, with hope, with the surity that God fulfills his promises, to the coming of Christ.
"'The days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I will fulfill the gracious promise I made to the house of Israel and to the house of Judah.'"
";In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David's line he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called, The Lord Our Righteousness." (O.T. lesson)
It seems that every year the stores are stocked and the displays for the Christmas season are put out earlier and earlier. And for us this shouldn't necessarily be considered in negative light- for us it is the beginning of our anticipation, and a reminder of our eternal hope-for we know the fulfillment of His gracious promise- our righteousness is soon to come. The birth of our Savior is on the horizon, and for the next month this should be our focus- Christ's coming.
But we should not only consider the birth orf our Lord in this time of year. We should give thanks to God for his merciful promise being kept (He always keeps his promises), and, in that truth, also look ahead to the second advent, or coming of Christ. that we should look with hope and anticipation as our redemption draws near, again with the surity that God fulfills His promises, and to the coming of the Kingdom of God. The gospel lesson for this day warns that we need to be careful, "or our hearts will be weighed down with dissipation , drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. For it will come upon all those who live on the face of the Earth." So we have been told by the Lord, who spoke only the words that God had given him, that this second advent is coming. But, with love, he also warns of the traps, which seem ever magnified in this bustly time of year. Dissipation being idle or frivolous amusement or diversions; a wasting or squandering. do not spend your time on that which is not fruitful. Remember your redemption when the season weighs on you. I know the days are getting colder and snow is just around the corner. I know some of you are worried about how to pay for the gifts during this time of economic hardship. I know that some of you are worried about finding a job, or what to cook, or what lights and where, and the tree... it really can be frustrating. But take those moments to remember your Savior draws near; your Redemption is near at hand.
so be glad and give thanks to God, for he sent us Christ and He will again come and for those of us that have heard, that have knowledge in the spirit, it will not be a trap. Love others by warning them of the traps, and the hope that is in Christ.
Christ is drawing near! And just as the fulfillment of God's gracious promise drew near over 2000 years ago and culminated in the birth of Jesus, The Lord our Righteousness, so again will His promise be fulfilled. so look with hope and joy in Christ to the future.
Amen.
Readings:
Old Testament: Jeremiah 33:14-16
Epistle: 1 Thesselonians 3:9-13
Gospel: Luke 21: 25-36
Grace, Peace, and Mercy be unto you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Welcome to the first Sunday of the church year: the 1st Sunday of Advent. It is a time of promises and anticipation and fulfillment.
Of course, we know, that the culmination of Advent is in the birth of our Lord and Savior , Jesus Christ, celebrated on Christmas day. It is a most wonderful time of year, and a most stressful time of year. But Advent is about looking forward with anticipation, with hope, with the surity that God fulfills his promises, to the coming of Christ.
"'The days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I will fulfill the gracious promise I made to the house of Israel and to the house of Judah.'"
";In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David's line he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called, The Lord Our Righteousness." (O.T. lesson)
It seems that every year the stores are stocked and the displays for the Christmas season are put out earlier and earlier. And for us this shouldn't necessarily be considered in negative light- for us it is the beginning of our anticipation, and a reminder of our eternal hope-for we know the fulfillment of His gracious promise- our righteousness is soon to come. The birth of our Savior is on the horizon, and for the next month this should be our focus- Christ's coming.
But we should not only consider the birth orf our Lord in this time of year. We should give thanks to God for his merciful promise being kept (He always keeps his promises), and, in that truth, also look ahead to the second advent, or coming of Christ. that we should look with hope and anticipation as our redemption draws near, again with the surity that God fulfills His promises, and to the coming of the Kingdom of God. The gospel lesson for this day warns that we need to be careful, "or our hearts will be weighed down with dissipation , drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. For it will come upon all those who live on the face of the Earth." So we have been told by the Lord, who spoke only the words that God had given him, that this second advent is coming. But, with love, he also warns of the traps, which seem ever magnified in this bustly time of year. Dissipation being idle or frivolous amusement or diversions; a wasting or squandering. do not spend your time on that which is not fruitful. Remember your redemption when the season weighs on you. I know the days are getting colder and snow is just around the corner. I know some of you are worried about how to pay for the gifts during this time of economic hardship. I know that some of you are worried about finding a job, or what to cook, or what lights and where, and the tree... it really can be frustrating. But take those moments to remember your Savior draws near; your Redemption is near at hand.
so be glad and give thanks to God, for he sent us Christ and He will again come and for those of us that have heard, that have knowledge in the spirit, it will not be a trap. Love others by warning them of the traps, and the hope that is in Christ.
Christ is drawing near! And just as the fulfillment of God's gracious promise drew near over 2000 years ago and culminated in the birth of Jesus, The Lord our Righteousness, so again will His promise be fulfilled. so look with hope and joy in Christ to the future.
Amen.
22 November 2009
Maybe Wishes
So, life is a struggle. I recently updated my facebook status to say I am an allusion, but life, as we know it, is really the allusion (def: 1. a passing or casual reference; an incidental mention of something, either directly or by implication). What we see is not all there is, and I often refer to the defficiencies caused by perspective, but to be honest, no individual realizes, or sees, the allusions around him and is even deficient in his own perspective- that is, to say, that not even his supposed portion is realized.
Sometimes I jot down notes; incomplete thoughts; or meditations. They seem to help when I'm at a crossroad. Here is what I found today:
To what end is a life lived (truly a relavent question)
Sometimes you have to step with faith, knowing that in faith there is doubt. (in this the difference between knowledge and the path)
truth matters.
it could be as simple as it reads (on scripture passages that tend to cause me mental anguish)
God shouldn't be a force in your life. Your life should be a force for God.
As the Christian calendar turns over here in the next week or two with the beginning of advent, I have decided that I will go over the texts for each sunday beforehand and write a short passage of meaning (nearly a sermon [but shorter] for I am not an ordained minister). I think this a good goal and have already written most of the passage for the first sunday in advent. The texts will come from those used in LCMS churches and found on the LCMS.org website (truly difficult to navigate). I will copy them word for word without omission. If any of my readers would like to share with others, that is fine. And any comments or advice is always welcome.
Sometimes I jot down notes; incomplete thoughts; or meditations. They seem to help when I'm at a crossroad. Here is what I found today:
To what end is a life lived (truly a relavent question)
Sometimes you have to step with faith, knowing that in faith there is doubt. (in this the difference between knowledge and the path)
truth matters.
it could be as simple as it reads (on scripture passages that tend to cause me mental anguish)
God shouldn't be a force in your life. Your life should be a force for God.
As the Christian calendar turns over here in the next week or two with the beginning of advent, I have decided that I will go over the texts for each sunday beforehand and write a short passage of meaning (nearly a sermon [but shorter] for I am not an ordained minister). I think this a good goal and have already written most of the passage for the first sunday in advent. The texts will come from those used in LCMS churches and found on the LCMS.org website (truly difficult to navigate). I will copy them word for word without omission. If any of my readers would like to share with others, that is fine. And any comments or advice is always welcome.
25 October 2009
a former myspace post
this was posted on my myspace account on 4/6/2007
I am indeed glad to tell you that we are currently in transition, from phase one (where you belong), to phase two (get in line). The humor here lies in the fact that this was constructed as part of a joke during normal work hours at the place of my previous employ, and now seems to begin to bear shreds of truth if looked at with a squinted eye and cocked head... if you look, you'll see it.
Politics. Crazy stuff... like Dizzy Gillespie jaming with Jonie Mitchell. or Air Supply rock'n out with Oasis.
All I hear- on t.v.; radio; people talking- is how bad our country is. How much we're screwing things up here and everywhere else. Well my friends, I don't know if you've seen it coming or not, but I am here to tell you that the answer is coming. Like the snake who thinks he's got you, up until the moment he feels the sharp teeth of the mongoose grab hold. I am here to tell you that the mongoose is (red), and he &*($@!*% means business. I am here to warn you of the communist plot to take over the world, don't resist because it won't work, and soon you'll find out why.
I have, in my posession, the specific plans of the communist party's attempt to take over the U.S.A. (note: before we begin you must realize that Vodka is their only weakness- as Russians proved in the previous decades)
Phase 1 (also called "where you belong")
This is their grass roots campaign. Starting out in small suburbs with disgruntled americans who believe strongly in a social government programs (i.e. welfare). This is when you will find them beginning to congregate, as well as airing communist commercials which usually involve the symbol "(red)" I think I saw one on t.v. the other day... It had some sort of communist sounding music and was a fade in/ fade out sort of commercial that said:
Inspi(red)
Desi(red)
Communism where you belong.
You should know that propaganda will be increasing in volume and their ideas should begin to permeate our government and begin to affect its policy making.
Phase 2 &3 still to come. But I can tell you that there advertising campaigns are "get in line" and "because we f*cking mean business" respectively.
I don't want to be around when they get to phase 3, but I think we can all agree that the signs of the shift from phase 1 to 2 are occuring as we speak..{ let it be known that this was incorrect and that the majority of the campaign and first few months in office were truly phase one- I guess things got extended} They've already got China and Cuba. Russia seems to be the autistic (sorry) communist or the drunk uncle. Either way- that's a whole lotta commie pigs roaming the earth.. If only you'd look towards washington... I bet you could see a whole lotta (red).
Don't get me wrong... it's a great philosophy... but you can't make people help others.. .it should be there decision.. If I don't wanna help those on welfare... I should be able to defer those taxes to something else... Like the suppression of communism in the United States.
I am indeed glad to tell you that we are currently in transition, from phase one (where you belong), to phase two (get in line). The humor here lies in the fact that this was constructed as part of a joke during normal work hours at the place of my previous employ, and now seems to begin to bear shreds of truth if looked at with a squinted eye and cocked head... if you look, you'll see it.
Politics. Crazy stuff... like Dizzy Gillespie jaming with Jonie Mitchell. or Air Supply rock'n out with Oasis.
All I hear- on t.v.; radio; people talking- is how bad our country is. How much we're screwing things up here and everywhere else. Well my friends, I don't know if you've seen it coming or not, but I am here to tell you that the answer is coming. Like the snake who thinks he's got you, up until the moment he feels the sharp teeth of the mongoose grab hold. I am here to tell you that the mongoose is (red), and he &*($@!*% means business. I am here to warn you of the communist plot to take over the world, don't resist because it won't work, and soon you'll find out why.
I have, in my posession, the specific plans of the communist party's attempt to take over the U.S.A. (note: before we begin you must realize that Vodka is their only weakness- as Russians proved in the previous decades)
Phase 1 (also called "where you belong")
This is their grass roots campaign. Starting out in small suburbs with disgruntled americans who believe strongly in a social government programs (i.e. welfare). This is when you will find them beginning to congregate, as well as airing communist commercials which usually involve the symbol "(red)" I think I saw one on t.v. the other day... It had some sort of communist sounding music and was a fade in/ fade out sort of commercial that said:
Inspi(red)
Desi(red)
Communism where you belong.
You should know that propaganda will be increasing in volume and their ideas should begin to permeate our government and begin to affect its policy making.
Phase 2 &3 still to come. But I can tell you that there advertising campaigns are "get in line" and "because we f*cking mean business" respectively.
I don't want to be around when they get to phase 3, but I think we can all agree that the signs of the shift from phase 1 to 2 are occuring as we speak..{ let it be known that this was incorrect and that the majority of the campaign and first few months in office were truly phase one- I guess things got extended} They've already got China and Cuba. Russia seems to be the autistic (sorry) communist or the drunk uncle. Either way- that's a whole lotta commie pigs roaming the earth.. If only you'd look towards washington... I bet you could see a whole lotta (red).
Don't get me wrong... it's a great philosophy... but you can't make people help others.. .it should be there decision.. If I don't wanna help those on welfare... I should be able to defer those taxes to something else... Like the suppression of communism in the United States.
07 October 2009
a novella by yours truly
I have been working on a novella, a book, if you will, based on the experiences of a man I know (those who know me know the truth, but not the truth of my life). there are hints of the truth that lay beneath the surface-clues if you will. I am in the process of combining the past events of a man I knew (know), and am contemplating the attempt of puttin them into a published work. I am proud for this friend, of where he's been (what he's seen), and understand the conflicted nature of his being (though he feels alone), if any of you readers out there (5, I count you) have any input into this work, though you know not of its origin, or the second sight contained within, please let me know... the concourse of the words seems more difficult than slolomn, and his path more treacherous than a white lie... He believes his "choice" to be near at hand, and the consequence the distance between two worlds. I know I am vague, but that is my charm (and his). He (and I) have severed half the cord, but are always looking for more. In error do we see the fog rise and give form to the veil of covered vision, but when fear is conquered and clear sight is gained, who will follow?
14 September 2009
just a short
sitting outside, this is what I pondered:
If, in the time between two days, the sun should become lost, then the days would end, but if the moon should hide its face, then we are lost.
If, in the time between two days, the sun should become lost, then the days would end, but if the moon should hide its face, then we are lost.
30 August 2009
Limitations
Today, despite the mild weather and taffy clouds moving through the advanced blue sky, I was not moved to joy. The drowning sensation that occurs is only heightened by the contentment of the world around- and nature always feeds this slide. There are things a person can and cannot due; these are his limitations. I am one of those who believes in endless limitations, but they require of that which does not make itself seen in this world. So then, among the world, there are finite limits to a person, and also to his spirit. Mine broke today. I have finally reached the bottom of the sinking sand- speaking of: you know that glimmer of hope a person sees as things seem to be growing dimmer? Well, that is merely the light reflecting off of the dirt that has collapsed beneath you.
I was eager, and satisfied, to be chasing happyness. But one must eventually come to terms with their limitations. I have come to that point. Now, frantically I search for the stairwell to lead me back to the ground upon which I stood previously. where though it is sometimes dark and murky, other times just dim with specks of light, I belong. Some things were not meant for me in this life, and the sad reality is not that I have realized it- that is progress- but that it took me so long to realize.
I have limitations. I hit them like they were an unseen stone wall blended into the horizon where the sun did shine.
I was eager, and satisfied, to be chasing happyness. But one must eventually come to terms with their limitations. I have come to that point. Now, frantically I search for the stairwell to lead me back to the ground upon which I stood previously. where though it is sometimes dark and murky, other times just dim with specks of light, I belong. Some things were not meant for me in this life, and the sad reality is not that I have realized it- that is progress- but that it took me so long to realize.
I have limitations. I hit them like they were an unseen stone wall blended into the horizon where the sun did shine.
22 August 2009
Babel and the Spirit at Pentecost
About a week ago, I had a thought to look at the story of the tower of babel (of course, I had no idea why), and the immediate reason became apparent to me, and a subsequent reason was also recently revealed. I will start with the first: I am often confounded as to why it is that I do not receive answers to my questions dealing with meanings and practice- the story of babel adequately illustrates that the reason for my frustration is due to the meaning with which I search, or the intent I have while searching. The story of babel has to do with man's attempt to attain a level of divinity, to be themselves as gods, and I believe this is the reason for my confounding. I am not searching to uphold or reveal his glory, but to attain for myself a level of divinity or glory (sad, I know).
The second reason for having looked up this story came to me the other day as I was pondering verse 6 (in bold below), but it only makes sense when combined with a story from the Book of Acts (the holy spirit comes at pentecost) which immediately follows in this entry.
Genesis 11
1And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.
2And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there. 3And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them thoroughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter. 4And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth. 5And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. 6And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. 7Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. 8So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. 9Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.
Acts 2
1When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.
5Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7Utterly amazed, they asked: "Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans? 8Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language? 9Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11(both Jews and converts to Judaism Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" 12Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?"
13Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine.
The bold verse from Genesis essentially says that when the people are one and speak one language, that is to say that when all men are able to understand each other, there is nothing to stop them from accomplishing anything they have imagined to do. This ties well into the Acts verse, I think. When disciples of Christ are able to speak to men in tongues (all being able to understand) there is nothing that they cannont accomplish. So with the gift of the spirit, being attained through belief in Christ Jesus, and for the purpose of furthering the Kingdom of Heaven on earth, there is nothing that cannot be accomplished. It does seem that perhaps more should be said, but I find the correlation to be relatively evident and simple to understand. Still, though, it feels incomplete.
The second reason for having looked up this story came to me the other day as I was pondering verse 6 (in bold below), but it only makes sense when combined with a story from the Book of Acts (the holy spirit comes at pentecost) which immediately follows in this entry.
Genesis 11
1And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.
2And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there. 3And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them thoroughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter. 4And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth. 5And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. 6And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. 7Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. 8So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. 9Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.
Acts 2
1When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.
5Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7Utterly amazed, they asked: "Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans? 8Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language? 9Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11(both Jews and converts to Judaism Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" 12Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?"
13Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine.
The bold verse from Genesis essentially says that when the people are one and speak one language, that is to say that when all men are able to understand each other, there is nothing to stop them from accomplishing anything they have imagined to do. This ties well into the Acts verse, I think. When disciples of Christ are able to speak to men in tongues (all being able to understand) there is nothing that they cannont accomplish. So with the gift of the spirit, being attained through belief in Christ Jesus, and for the purpose of furthering the Kingdom of Heaven on earth, there is nothing that cannot be accomplished. It does seem that perhaps more should be said, but I find the correlation to be relatively evident and simple to understand. Still, though, it feels incomplete.
08 August 2009
Puddles and Oceans
I woke up today, and after shaking off the cobwebs, I found myself to be in a particularly spiritual mood. Like most days, I tend to find more trouble and friction in the pursuit, and this leads to uneasiness and frustration. Today, it seems, I am so full of words and thoughts that a proper order should not make itself clear, and the resultant clutter would make itself seem an ocean from a puddle (A good place to start, I think). And so are the words of God, Christ, and the Apostles. The Bible is an ocean from a puddle. By this I mean not to say that the book itself is inconsequential, not that too much has been made of this book, or any other connotation being negative, but rather that from something small comes something larger; from a word:meaning; from a book of His words:endless meaning. It is like the parable of the mustard seed: It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it.- Luke 13:18-19"
So that in any word there is multiple meanings, and in any passage there is a power of meanings. This is why it is said: "11The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one Shepherd. 12Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them.Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body. -Ecclesiastes 12:11-12"
I shall end with this final train of thought: From the word of God came creation in its entirety: from the smallest to the largest, from the seen to the unseen. The world we see is large froom where we look, and small in comparison to the depth of the universe, and still we do not see the completeness of His word, of His work, and yet, we are swimming in it.
So that in any word there is multiple meanings, and in any passage there is a power of meanings. This is why it is said: "11The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one Shepherd. 12Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them.Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body. -Ecclesiastes 12:11-12"
I shall end with this final train of thought: From the word of God came creation in its entirety: from the smallest to the largest, from the seen to the unseen. The world we see is large froom where we look, and small in comparison to the depth of the universe, and still we do not see the completeness of His word, of His work, and yet, we are swimming in it.
15 July 2009
Creation of Man
O.k., today I will keep my post short. I have recently, and inexplicably, been thinking about the sistine chapel's frescos- most notably the "creation of man" panel. After studying it lightly I have come to two conclusions: 1) Adam has his eyes fixed on God and his face along with his upper body, show a concerted effort to look to God, but his arm is limp; half-heartedly reaching for God. Also his body is in a position that not only leans slightly away, but gives the impression of turning away. 2) God is not only reaching for Adam, but is stretching and leaning towards Adam. I find this relationship to hold true today, or perhaps I see this relationship because it exists today.
On a side note, and not to be downer, all sins can be forgiven- except one.
07 July 2009
what it is.
Some people read horoscopes to help guide them through their lives, I do occasionally do this, but I prefer the word of the day- it has always seemed more appropriate to me. It is often an accurate description of me on that day or a feeling, attitude, or personal trait that seems prevalent at the moment. I had, at one point, showed how a story can be derived from connecting one day's word to the next, but, being honest and not remembering the story, it was probably an accurate description of me that month.
According to my monthly horoscope, I have nothing but good things ahead of me this month. I am a virgo, in case you were wondering. Most all descriptions I have seen of Virgos seem to be accurate. I really have nothing to say today, but I tried. It seems I'm really just waiting for something good to happen- I'm not really patient. I wait because I'm not really sure what it is that I want at this moment, I have set out goals to work towards and the things that I want in the future, but as for the moment, things seem uncomfortable- a notion I am very familiar with- and I just toss and turn looking for that "spot."
I always feel different; out of touch and awkward in any situation- like I don't really belong anywhere. That is probably the hardest thing to deal with. I can adjust to any situation to alleviate the discomfort I may cause others, and try to not to disturb the balance or apply a negative vibe. anyway... it is what it is and the line between wish and want- that from dusk to dawn, is wide and black, and then gray at the edges.
According to my monthly horoscope, I have nothing but good things ahead of me this month. I am a virgo, in case you were wondering. Most all descriptions I have seen of Virgos seem to be accurate. I really have nothing to say today, but I tried. It seems I'm really just waiting for something good to happen- I'm not really patient. I wait because I'm not really sure what it is that I want at this moment, I have set out goals to work towards and the things that I want in the future, but as for the moment, things seem uncomfortable- a notion I am very familiar with- and I just toss and turn looking for that "spot."
I always feel different; out of touch and awkward in any situation- like I don't really belong anywhere. That is probably the hardest thing to deal with. I can adjust to any situation to alleviate the discomfort I may cause others, and try to not to disturb the balance or apply a negative vibe. anyway... it is what it is and the line between wish and want- that from dusk to dawn, is wide and black, and then gray at the edges.
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