Day 338 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey 8th Day of Advent - 4 December 2022 reflections
Day 338, 4 December 2022
Today at https://www.calvarycommunity.ca/ , Pastor Barry Regier spoke on
Why can't we get along?
What is our foundation?
Philippians 2
Christian Humility and Christ's Humility
1 (2Co 13:14; Col 3:12) If there is any encouragement in Christ, if any
comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any compassion and mercy,
[1] If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love,
if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded, having the same
love, being in unity with one mind.
[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of
one accord, of one mind.
2 seats of knowledge exist
Cognitive - we learn facts , concepts and priciples.
Experiential - experiencing what is true
Experiential knowledge wins out over cognitive knowledge
1 John 1:1-2
1 John 1
The Word of Life
1 (Jn 20:27; Lk 24:39; Ac 4:20) That which was from the beginning, which
we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon,
and our hands have touched, concerning the Word of life-
2 (Jn 1:4; 1Jn 5:20; 3:5) the life was revealed, and we have seen it
and testify to it, and announce to you the eternal life, which was with
the Father and was revealed to us-
[1] That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have
seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled,
of the Word of life;
[2] (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and
shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was
manifested unto us;)
Notice how experience of the resurrected and risen Christ.
Notice the emotionals words
Philippians 2
1 (2Co 13:14; Col 3:12) If there is any encouragement in Christ, if any
comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any compassion and mercy,
[1] If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love,
if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
A sense of confidence and peace
Comfort and cherish
The sensing of the presence of God.
Tenderness/mercy is something created by the Holy
Spirit at the core of who we are.
Compassion toward others is what spills over from the reality of tenderness.
How do you experience the Spirit of the Lord?
Our experience with God inspires us to:
I ) Be like minded
2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded ...
[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded ...
II) Love sacrificially
2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded, having the same
love, ...
[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, ...
III) Be one in spirit and purpose
2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded, having the same
love, being in unity with one mind.
[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of
one accord, of one mind.
This is the work of the Holy Spirit!
Matthew 28:18-20
18 (Mt 11:27; Ro 14:9) Then Jesus came and spoke to them, saying,
"All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.
19 (Mk 16:15-16; Ac 1:8) Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father
and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20 (Mt 18:20; Ac 2:42) teaching them to observe all things I have commanded
you. And remember, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.
[18] And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me
in heaven and in earth.
[19] Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of
the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
[20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:
and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
1) Acts 28 , Ephesians 1 - 2
Acts 28
Paul in Malta
1 (Ac 27:26; 27:39) When they had escaped, they learned that the island
was called Malta.
2 (Ac 28:4; Ro 1:14) The natives showed extraordinary kindness, for they
kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because of the rain and the cold.
3 When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper
driven out by the heat fastened on his hand.
4 (Lk 13:2; 13:4) When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand,
they said to one another, "Surely this man is a murderer. Though he has
escaped from the sea, justice does not allow him to live."
5 (Mk 16:18; Lk 10:19) But he shook off the creature into the fire
and suffered no harm.
6 They expected him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But while
they waited and saw no harm befall him, they changed their minds
and said that he was a god.
7 In that area was an estate of the chief man of the island, named Publius,
who had welcomed us and courteously housed us for three days.
8 (Ac 9:40; Mt 9:18) It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with
a fever and dysentery. Paul visited him and, placing his hands on him, prayed
and healed him.
9 When this happened, the rest on the island who had diseases also came
and were healed.
10 They honored us in many ways. And when we sailed, they provided us
with necessary supplies.
[1] And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called
Melita.
[2] And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled
a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because
of the cold.
[3] And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the
fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
[4] And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they
said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath
escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
[5] And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
[6] Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead
suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to
him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.
[7] In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island,
whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days
courteously.
[8] And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and
of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on
him, and healed him.
[9] So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island,
came, and were healed:
[10] Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they
laded us with such things as were necessary.
Paul Arrives in Rome
11 (Ac 27:6) After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose
figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island.
12 Landing at Syracuse, we waited there for three days.
13 From there we circled around and sailed to Rhegium.
After one day the south wind blew, and the next day we arrived at Puteoli.
14 There we found brothers, and were invited to remain with them for seven
days. And so we went to Rome.
15 From there, when the brothers heard of us, they traveled as far as the
Forum of Appius (A town on the Appian Way about 55 miles from Rome.)
and the Three Taverns
(Or Three Inns, also on the Appian Way and about 10 miles closer to Rome.)
to meet us. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.
16 (Ac 27:3; 24:23) When we arrived at Rome, the centurion handed
the prisoners over to the captain of the guard. But Paul was allowed
to remain by himself with the soldier who guarded him.
[11] And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had
wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.
[12] And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.
[13] And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after
one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli:
[14] Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven
days: and so we went toward Rome.
[15] And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as
far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked
God, and took courage.
[16] And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the
captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a
soldier that kept him.
Paul Preaches in Rome
17 (Ac 25:8; 6:14) After three days Paul called the leaders of the Jews
together. When they had assembled, he said to them, "Brothers, having done
nothing contrary to our people or the customs of our fathers, I was delivered
as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.
18 (Ac 26:31-32) When they had examined me, they were determined to release
me, because there was no charge against me deserving death.
19 (Ac 26:32; 25:21) But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal
to Caesar, not that I had any charge to bring against my nation.
20 (Ac 21:33; 23:6) For this reason I have asked to see you and speak with
you, because I am bound with this chain for the hope of Israel."
21 (Ac 22:5) They said to him, "We have not received any letters from Judea
concerning you, and none of the brothers that have come have reported
or spoken any evil of you.
22 (Ac 24:14; 1Pe 2:12) But we think it is proper to hear from you what you
think. For concerning this sect,
we know that it is spoken against everywhere."
23 (Ac 19:8; 8:35) When they had arranged a day to be with him, many came
to him at his residence. From morning until evening he explained and solemnly
testified of the kingdom of God to them, persuading them concerning Jesus
from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets.
24 (Ac 14:4; 17:4-5) Some believed what was said, but some did not believe.
25 (Mt 15:7) Being in disagreement with one another, they were dismissed after
Paul had said one word: "The Holy Spirit accurately spoke to our fathers
through Isaiah the prophet,
26 (Eze 12:2; Isa 6:9-10) 'Go to this people and say:
You shall certainly hear, but never understand;
and you shall certainly see, but never perceive;
27 for the heart of this people has grown dull.
Their ears are hard of hearing,
and they have closed their eyes,
lest they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears
and understand with their heart
and turn, and I would heal them.'
28 (Lk 3:6; Ro 11:11) "Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation
of God has been sent to the Gentiles. They will hear it!"
29 When he had said these words, the Jews departed and disputed greatly among
themselves.
30 Paul remained two whole years in his own rented house. He welcomed all who
came to him,
31 (Ac 28:23; Mt 4:23) boldly and freely preaching the kingdom of God
and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ.
[17] And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the
Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and
brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of
our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of
the Romans.
[18] Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was
no cause of death in me.
[19] But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto
Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.
[20] For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to
speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this
chain.
[21] And they said unto him, We neither received letters out of Judaea
concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any
harm of thee.
[22] But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning
this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.
[23] And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his
lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading
them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the
prophets, from morning till evening.
[24] And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.
[25] And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that
Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet
unto our fathers,
[26] Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall
not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:
[27] For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of
hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their
eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should
be converted, and I should heal them.
[28] Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto
the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.
[29] And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great
reasoning among themselves.
[30] And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all
that came in unto him,
[31] Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern
the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
Ephesians 1
Salutation
1 (2Co 1:1; Col 1:2) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God,
To the saints who are at Ephesus and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:
2 (Ro 1:7) Grace to you and peace from God our Father
and the Lord Jesus Christ.
[1] Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which
are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:
[2] Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus
Christ.
Spiritual Blessings in Christ
3 (2Co 1:3; Eph 6:12; 2:6) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly
places in Christ,
4 (Eph 5:27; Col 1:22) just as He chose us in Him before the foundation
of the world, to be holy and blameless before Him in love;
5 (Ro 8:29-30; Eph 1:11) He predestined us to adoption as sons to Himself
through Jesus Christ according to the good pleasure of His will,
6 (Mt 3:17; Eph 1:12) to the praise of the glory of His grace which
He graciously bestowed on us in the Beloved.
7 (Ro 3:24; Ac 2:38; 20:28) In Him we have redemption through His blood
and the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace,
8 which He lavished on us in all wisdom and insight,
9 (Ro 8:28; Eph 1:11) making known to us the mystery of His will,
according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Himself,
10 (Col 1:20; Eph 3:15) as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite
all things in Christ, which are in heaven and on earth.
11 (Eph 1:14; Heb 6:17) In Him also we have received an inheritance,
being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things
according to the counsel of His own will,
12 (Eph 1:6) that we, who were the first to hope in Christ,
should live for the praise of His glory.
13 (Eph 4:30; Ac 1:4; 2:33) In Him you also, after hearing the word of truth,
the gospel of your salvation, and after believing in Him,
were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,
14 (Ro 8:23; 2Co 1:22) who is the guarantee of our inheritance
until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.
[3] Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed
us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
[4] According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the
world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
[5] Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to
himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
[6] To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us
accepted in the beloved.
[7] In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins,
according to the riches of his grace;
[8] Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;
[9] Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good
pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
[10] That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather
together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which
are on earth; even in him:
[11] In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated
according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of
his own will:
[12] That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in
Christ.
[13] In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the
gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were
sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
[14] Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the
purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
Paul's Prayer
15 (Phm 1:5) Therefore I also, after hearing of your faith in the Lord Jesus
and your love toward all the saints,
16 (Ro 1:8-9; Col 1:9) do not cease giving thanks for you, mentioning you
in my prayers,
17 (Jn 20:17; Ac 7:2) so that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father
of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge
of Him,
18 (Ac 26:18; 2Co 4:6) that the eyes of your understanding may be enlightened,
that you may know what is the hope of His calling and what are the riches
of the glory of His inheritance among the saints,
19 (Col 1:29; Eph 3:7) and what is the surpassing greatness of His power
toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power,
20 (Mk 16:19; Ps 110:1) which He performed in Christ when He raised Him
from the dead and seated Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places,
21 (Col 2:10; Heb 1:4) far above all principalities, and power, and might,
and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age
but also in that which is to come.
22 (1Co 11:3; Mt 16:18) And He put all things in subjection under His feet
and made Him the head over all things for the church,
23 (Jn 1:16; Eph 3:19) which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills
all things in all ways.
[15] Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and
love unto all the saints,
[16] Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;
[17] That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give
unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
[18] The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what
is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his
inheritance in the saints,
[19] And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe,
according to the working of his mighty power,
[20] Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set
him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,
[21] Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and
every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is
to come:
[22] And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head
over all things to the church,
[23] Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Ephesians 2
From Death to Life
1 (Col 2:13; Lk 15:24) And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,
2 (Jn 12:31; Eph 6:12; 2:3) in which you formerly walked according
to the age of this world and according to the prince of the power of the air,
the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience,
3 (Gal 2:15-16; Ps 51:5) among them we all also once lived in the lusts
of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind,
and we were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.
4 (Ro 2:4; Eph 1:7) But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love
with which He loved us,
5 (Eph 2:1; Ac 15:11; Eph 2:8) even when we were dead in sins, made us alive
together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
6 (Eph 1:3) and He raised us up and seated us together in the heavenly places
in Christ Jesus,
7 (Titus 3:4; Eph 2:4) so that in the coming ages He might show
the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
8 (Eph 2:5; Mk 16:16) For by grace you have been saved through faith,
and this is not of yourselves. It is the gift of God,
9 (2Ti 1:9; Ro 3:20) not of works, so that no one should boast.
10 (Eph 4:24; 2Co 5:17; Eph 1:4) For we are His workmanship, created
in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand,
so that we should walk in them.
[1] And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
[2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world,
according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh
in the children of disobedience:
[3] Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts
of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were
by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
[4] But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
[5] Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ,
(by grace ye are saved; )
[6] And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly
places in Christ Jesus:
[7] That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace
in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
[8] For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it
is the gift of God:
[9] Not of works, lest any man should boast.
[10] For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works,
which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
One in Christ
11 (Col 2:11; 1Co 12:2; Eph 5:8) Therefore remember that formerly you,
the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called the "uncircumcision"
by the so-called "circumcision" in the flesh by human hands,
12 (1Th 4:13; Gal 4:8) were at that time apart from Christ,
alienated from the citizenship of Israel and strangers to the covenants
of promise, without hope and without God in the world.
13 (Ac 2:39; Isa 57:19) But now in Christ Jesus you who were formerly
far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
14 (Gal 3:28; Mic 5:5) For He is our peace, who has made both groups one
and has broken down the barrier of the dividing wall,
15 (Col 2:14; 2:20) by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, that is,
the law of the commandments contained in ordinances, that in Himself
He might make the two into one new man, thus making peace,
16 (Eph 2:15; Col 1:20-22) and that He might reconcile both to God
into one body through the cross, thereby slaying the enmity.
17 (Ps 148:14; Dt 4:7) And He came and preached peace to you who were
far away and peace to those who were near.
18 (1Co 12:13; Eph 3:12) For through Him we both have access by one
Spirit to the Father.
19 (Gal 6:10; Php 3:20) Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers
and foreigners, but are fellow citizens with the saints and members
of the household of God,
20 (Mt 16:18; Isa 28:16; Rev 21:14) having been built upon
the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself
being the chief cornerstone,
21 (1Co 3:16-17) in whom the entire building, tightly framed together,
grows into a holy temple in the Lord,
22 (1Co 3:16) in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling
place of God through the Spirit.
11] Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh,
who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in
the flesh made by hands; without Christ, being aliens from the
commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having
no hope, and without God in the world:
[13] But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by
the blood of Christ.
[14] For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the
middle wall of partition between us;
[15] Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments
contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so
making peace;
[16] And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross,
having slain the enmity thereby:
[17] And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them
that were nigh.
[18] For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
[19] Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but
fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
[20] And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus
Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
[21] In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy
temple in the Lord:
[22] In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through
the Spirit.
2) Our Daily Bread for 4 December 2022
Entitled "A Labour of Love"
Colossians 3:23-24
23 (Col 3:17) And whatever you do, do it heartily,
as for the Lord and not for men,
24 (1Co 7:22; Eph 6:8) knowing that from the Lord you will receive
the reward of the inheritance. For you serve the Lord Christ.
[23] And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
[24] Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the
inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first African American woman to earn a
medical degree. Yet during her lifetime (1831-95), she recalls being
"ignored, slighted and rendered insignificant." However, she remained devoted
to healing and fulfilling her purpose. Crumpler affirmed that although some
people might choose to judge her based on her race and gender, she'd always
have a "renewed and courageous readiness to go whenever and wherever duty
calls," and that she did. She believed that treating women and children and
providing medical attention for freed slaves was a way to serve God. Sadly,
she didn't receive formal recognition for her accomplishments until nearly a
century later.
There are times when we'll be overlooked, devalued, or unappreciated by those
around us. Biblical wisdom reminds us, however, that when God has called us
to a task, we shouldn’t focus on gaining worldly approval and recognition but
should instead "work at it with all [our] heart, as working for the
Lord" (Colossians 3:23). When we focus on serving God, we're able to
accomplish even the most difficult tasks with fervor and gladness in His
power and leading. We can then become less concerned with receiving earthly
recognition and become more eager to receive the reward only He can provide
(v. 24).
By: Kimya Loder
Reflect & Pray
When have you felt the good you did went overlooked? How can you practice
keeping God at the forefront of your activities?
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to do good things for You.
Help me to focus on what You've called me to do.
For further study, read
Get Outside—Work.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 8 Guided by Grace Day 1 A circle of Light
John 8:12
12 (Jn 12:35; Job 33:28; Isa 49:6)Again, Jesus spoke to them, saying,
"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me
shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life."
12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world:
he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness,
but shall have the light of life.
When Judy Garland stepped onstage, she filled the spotlight. Nothing was
illuminated but her face, and as she sang, her listeners had a sense of being
transported beyond themselves into the meaning of her song. The focus of
reality, at that moment, was "Judy", and everything else faded into the dim
recesses of the shadowed room. The spotlight brought her into sharp focus
as the center of attention, and all around her was darkness.
When the scriptures speaks of Jesus as "the light," the image is not
of thousands of blazing bulbs lighting up a football field for a night game.
Rather, he is like a hand-help lamp that throws a circle of light in the
immediate vicinity. such a lamp lights the path that a traveler will walk,
but lights it only one step at a time.
Jesus is the center of that circle of light. As we follow him, we share the
light, but he is always at center. Jesus Christ is the focal point,
and everything else fades into dim gray by comparison.
If we are to keep our lives illuminated, to have his light falling upon the
road we walk, we must stay close to him. Jesus does not hand the lamp
to us and suggest that we go the way he wants; he , the Light, leads,
and if we want to stay in the light, we follow.
Application
a) Have I ever tried to go my own way, apart from the Light?
What was the result?
b) How can this verse help me remember the importance of staying close
to Jesus?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Proverbs 22:7
7 The rich rules over the poor,
and the borrower is servant to the lender.
7 The rich ruleth over the poor,
And the borrower is servant to the lender.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Saddened by Loss
John 14:1 - 7
1 "Let not your heart be troubled. You believe in God. Believe also in Me.
2 In My Father's house are many dwelling places.
If it were not so, I would have told you.
I am going to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again
and receive you to Myself,
that where I am, you may be also.
4 You know where I am going, and you know the way."
5 Thomas said to Him, "Lord, we do not know
where You are going. How can we know the way?"
6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth,
and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
7 If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also.
From now on you do know Him and have seen Him."
1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so,
I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again,
and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest;
and how can we know the way?
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life:
no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also:
and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for MUslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facity, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far notherern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
4nd Day of the Month
a) Pray for the preservation of godly values in Canada
(Prov 14:34 - Righteousness exalts a nation,
but sin is a reproach to any people.
34 Righteousness exalteth a nation:
But sin is a reproach to any people.
)
b) Pray the political leaders will be awakened by God to the right
use of power and the right stewardship of their positions.
Advent Day 8
From C. S. Lewis A Grand Miracle Joel Heck
"When the year dies in preparation for the birth/Of other seasons, not the same,
on the same earth,
Then saving and calamity together make/The Advent gospel,
telling how the heart will break....
Therefore it was in Advent that the Quest began; in wail of wind
the flower of the Britons all/Went out, and desolation was
in Arthur's hall." - C. S. Lewis
(From C. S. Lewis' "Launcelot," in Narrative Poems, p. 95.)
The Quest
The quest for the Holy Grail in the King Arthur story has captivated millions of people
over the centuries. Launcelot, the Christ figure of the Arthurian legend, is the noble
knight who begins a search for the cup that Christ used at the Last Supper.
This cup has appeared in many places in literature, theater, and the movies.
In Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, for example, Indiana Jones finds his way
down a passageway and comes into a room full of chalices. He must select one
and drink from it. If he selects the wrong cup, he dies.
An ancient figure in the room tells him, "Choose wisely."
Legend has it that the cup was carried by Joseph of Arimathea to a castle
in Great Britain. The court of King Arthur believed that the Grail would be
rediscovered by a descendant of Joseph. Of the Knights of the Round Table,
only Galahad, Lancelot's son, was able to find and enter the castle with
the Grail. When he finally gazed upon the cup, the story goes, grail
and man were lifted up to heaven together.
What's the point of this story for us? Lancelot's quest began in Advent,
and our quest, our preparation for Christmas, likewise begins in Advent.
And like the Wise Men preparing for their quest, we need to set out to find
our King, the Christ Child. When we begin our Advent season with Scripture
and seek the Holy Christ rather than the Holy Grail, we are choosing wisely.
God, grant us wisdom to choose thoughtfully our preparation
for your coming in Jesus. Amen.
Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?
Matthew 2:2
From Follow the Story Marva J. Dawn
SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest.
-Luke 1:32a
It is fitting that on this second Sunday of Advent we have before us
the actual words of annunciation for Mary. I was going to entitle this
meditation "The Annunciation to Mary," but was prevented by the actual
content of the angel's message. Conspicuously, Gabriel's words are much
more about Jesus than about practical matters for Mary. She is a servant,
absolutely, but the child that will be born of her is so great that all
consideration should be placed upon him.
Not only will he be great, but he will be called the Son of the Most High.
The LORD God (which uses the two most prominent names in the Hebrew
Scriptures, Yahweh and Elohim) will give him the throne over all of lsrael,
which his ancestor David once ruled, and of his kingdom there will be no end.
Unquestionably, this is the child for which all lsrael has been waiting.
prayer
LORD God, how can we ever thank you for sending us, Jesus,
the Son of the Most High? Amen.
Read Luke 1:25-33.
25 "Thus the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked on me,
to take away my reproach among men."
The Birth of Jesus Foretold
26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God
to a city of Galilee named Nazareth,
27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph,
of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.
28 The angel came to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favoured.
The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women."
29 When she saw him, she was troubled by his words, and considered
in her mind what kind of greeting this might be.
30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found
favour with God.
31 Listen, you will conceive in your womb and bear a Son
and shall call His name JESUS.
32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest.
And the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David,
33 and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever.
And of His kingdom there will be no end."
From the AH-HAs of Advent by Rich Bimler
SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ACTION!
Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel,
who alone does wondrous deeds.
PSALM 72:18
The AH-HAs of Advent provides us a time to reflect, refocus
and remember who we are in Jesus Christ So, enjoy refreshing
yourself through his Word and hrs people. And as we find time
to enjoy the "power of pause" we can also recall that the Lord
provide us opportunities to not only be his people but also
the chance to do a his people
Psalm 72 helps us to focus on being both be-ers and do-ers
in the world The good news in Christ is that we are motivated
to be active in serving others, not because we "gotta do it"
but because we ·get to do it"! Today's Psalm is an affirmatiion
of God at work in the world-our world. Right here and now-through us!
Isn't it great that one of the books of the Bible is titled the Acts of the
Apostles instead of the Resolutions of the Apostles'
There must be a message there somewhere!
So, what are you going to do today to show the glory, might and
love of the Lord? For starters pause to remember the promise
of your Baptism. Then look around you at your needs and your
gifts, take a deep breath. and announce your action plan at
least to yourself). Do not worry about getting everything correct
today or doing everything you want to do.
Just "Get ready! Fire!"... and then aim later when
you rethink all of the possibilities for a ministry of action!
Look out world, here I come!
Lord thanks for being active in the world both in little
and big ways. Help me today to be active
in big ways and little ways as well,
not because I "gotta do it" but because I" want to do it."
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Psalm 72·1-7. 18-19
1 Give the king Your judgments, O God,
and Your righteousness to the king’s son.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) May he judge Your people with righteousness,
and Your poor with justice.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) May the mountains bring well-being to the people,
and the hills, in righteousness.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) May he judge the poor of the people,
may he save the children of the needy,
and crush the oppressor.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) May they fear You as long as the sun endures,
and the moon, throughout all generations.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) May he descend like rain on the mown grass,
as showers dripping on the earth.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) In his days may the righteous flourish,
and abundance of peace until the moon is no more.
18 Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel,
who alone does wondrous deeds.
19 Blessed be His glorious name forever;
and may the whole earth be filled with His glory.
Amen, and Amen.
Conclusion:
Pray: " Heavenly Father, I come to you in Jesus name, thanking you for Your
love and Your desire to connect with me. I thank you that You loved me enough
to die for my sin. I thank you that You desire to have an intimate and tender
relationship with me. Will You help me grow in this? May I experience the
encouragement that comes with being united with Christ. Will You comfort me
in your love? Help me experience an ongoing connection with the Holy Spirit
and my You fill my Heart.
"I choose, by an act of my will, to pursue unity with other believers and open
my heart and life to new people You want me to love. In Jesus' name, amen."
Pray to the Lord and pray to be in Unity in the Boys.
Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to
do good things for You. Help me to focus on what You've called me to do."
Pray to the Lord and pray to follow the light of life.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know who the borrower is.
Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for preparing a place in Heaven!
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for the preservation of godly values in Canada
Pray the political leaders will be awakened by God to the right
use of power and the right stewardship of their positions.
Prayer : God, grant us wisdom to choose thoughtfully our preparation for your coming in Jesus. Amen.
Pray: LORD God, how can we ever thank you for sending us, Jesus,
the Son of the Most High? Amen.
Pray: Lord, calm us, settle us and point us
to the hope and the future that you have
provided for us, through Jesus' birth, death and resurrection.
You have our attention Lord In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray that God will strengthen missionaries facing deportation from Turkey
and guide those who have already been deported.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
Today at https://www.calvarycommunity.ca/ , Pastor Barry Regier spoke on
Why can't we get along?
What is our foundation?
Philippians 2
Christian Humility and Christ's Humility
1 (2Co 13:14; Col 3:12) If there is any encouragement in Christ, if any
comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any compassion and mercy,
[1] If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love,
if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded, having the same
love, being in unity with one mind.
[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of
one accord, of one mind.
2 seats of knowledge exist
Cognitive - we learn facts , concepts and priciples.
Experiential - experiencing what is true
Experiential knowledge wins out over cognitive knowledge
1 John 1:1-2
1 John 1
The Word of Life
1 (Jn 20:27; Lk 24:39; Ac 4:20) That which was from the beginning, which
we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon,
and our hands have touched, concerning the Word of life-
2 (Jn 1:4; 1Jn 5:20; 3:5) the life was revealed, and we have seen it
and testify to it, and announce to you the eternal life, which was with
the Father and was revealed to us-
[1] That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have
seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled,
of the Word of life;
[2] (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and
shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was
manifested unto us;)
Notice how experience of the resurrected and risen Christ.
Notice the emotionals words
Philippians 2
1 (2Co 13:14; Col 3:12) If there is any encouragement in Christ, if any
comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any compassion and mercy,
[1] If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love,
if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
A sense of confidence and peace
Comfort and cherish
The sensing of the presence of God.
Tenderness/mercy is something created by the Holy
Spirit at the core of who we are.
Compassion toward others is what spills over from the reality of tenderness.
How do you experience the Spirit of the Lord?
Our experience with God inspires us to:
I ) Be like minded
2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded ...
[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded ...
II) Love sacrificially
2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded, having the same
love, ...
[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, ...
III) Be one in spirit and purpose
2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded, having the same
love, being in unity with one mind.
[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of
one accord, of one mind.
This is the work of the Holy Spirit!
Matthew 28:18-20
18 (Mt 11:27; Ro 14:9) Then Jesus came and spoke to them, saying,
"All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.
19 (Mk 16:15-16; Ac 1:8) Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father
and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
20 (Mt 18:20; Ac 2:42) teaching them to observe all things I have commanded
you. And remember, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.
[18] And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me
in heaven and in earth.
[19] Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of
the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
[20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:
and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
1) Acts 28 , Ephesians 1 - 2
Acts 28
Paul in Malta
1 (Ac 27:26; 27:39) When they had escaped, they learned that the island
was called Malta.
2 (Ac 28:4; Ro 1:14) The natives showed extraordinary kindness, for they
kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because of the rain and the cold.
3 When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper
driven out by the heat fastened on his hand.
4 (Lk 13:2; 13:4) When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand,
they said to one another, "Surely this man is a murderer. Though he has
escaped from the sea, justice does not allow him to live."
5 (Mk 16:18; Lk 10:19) But he shook off the creature into the fire
and suffered no harm.
6 They expected him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But while
they waited and saw no harm befall him, they changed their minds
and said that he was a god.
7 In that area was an estate of the chief man of the island, named Publius,
who had welcomed us and courteously housed us for three days.
8 (Ac 9:40; Mt 9:18) It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with
a fever and dysentery. Paul visited him and, placing his hands on him, prayed
and healed him.
9 When this happened, the rest on the island who had diseases also came
and were healed.
10 They honored us in many ways. And when we sailed, they provided us
with necessary supplies.
[1] And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called
Melita.
[2] And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled
a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because
of the cold.
[3] And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the
fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
[4] And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they
said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath
escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
[5] And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
[6] Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead
suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to
him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.
[7] In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island,
whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days
courteously.
[8] And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and
of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on
him, and healed him.
[9] So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island,
came, and were healed:
[10] Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they
laded us with such things as were necessary.
Paul Arrives in Rome
11 (Ac 27:6) After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose
figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island.
12 Landing at Syracuse, we waited there for three days.
13 From there we circled around and sailed to Rhegium.
After one day the south wind blew, and the next day we arrived at Puteoli.
14 There we found brothers, and were invited to remain with them for seven
days. And so we went to Rome.
15 From there, when the brothers heard of us, they traveled as far as the
Forum of Appius (A town on the Appian Way about 55 miles from Rome.)
and the Three Taverns
(Or Three Inns, also on the Appian Way and about 10 miles closer to Rome.)
to meet us. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.
16 (Ac 27:3; 24:23) When we arrived at Rome, the centurion handed
the prisoners over to the captain of the guard. But Paul was allowed
to remain by himself with the soldier who guarded him.
[11] And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had
wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.
[12] And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.
[13] And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after
one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli:
[14] Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven
days: and so we went toward Rome.
[15] And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as
far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked
God, and took courage.
[16] And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the
captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a
soldier that kept him.
Paul Preaches in Rome
17 (Ac 25:8; 6:14) After three days Paul called the leaders of the Jews
together. When they had assembled, he said to them, "Brothers, having done
nothing contrary to our people or the customs of our fathers, I was delivered
as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.
18 (Ac 26:31-32) When they had examined me, they were determined to release
me, because there was no charge against me deserving death.
19 (Ac 26:32; 25:21) But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal
to Caesar, not that I had any charge to bring against my nation.
20 (Ac 21:33; 23:6) For this reason I have asked to see you and speak with
you, because I am bound with this chain for the hope of Israel."
21 (Ac 22:5) They said to him, "We have not received any letters from Judea
concerning you, and none of the brothers that have come have reported
or spoken any evil of you.
22 (Ac 24:14; 1Pe 2:12) But we think it is proper to hear from you what you
think. For concerning this sect,
we know that it is spoken against everywhere."
23 (Ac 19:8; 8:35) When they had arranged a day to be with him, many came
to him at his residence. From morning until evening he explained and solemnly
testified of the kingdom of God to them, persuading them concerning Jesus
from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets.
24 (Ac 14:4; 17:4-5) Some believed what was said, but some did not believe.
25 (Mt 15:7) Being in disagreement with one another, they were dismissed after
Paul had said one word: "The Holy Spirit accurately spoke to our fathers
through Isaiah the prophet,
26 (Eze 12:2; Isa 6:9-10) 'Go to this people and say:
You shall certainly hear, but never understand;
and you shall certainly see, but never perceive;
27 for the heart of this people has grown dull.
Their ears are hard of hearing,
and they have closed their eyes,
lest they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears
and understand with their heart
and turn, and I would heal them.'
28 (Lk 3:6; Ro 11:11) "Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation
of God has been sent to the Gentiles. They will hear it!"
29 When he had said these words, the Jews departed and disputed greatly among
themselves.
30 Paul remained two whole years in his own rented house. He welcomed all who
came to him,
31 (Ac 28:23; Mt 4:23) boldly and freely preaching the kingdom of God
and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ.
[17] And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the
Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and
brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of
our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of
the Romans.
[18] Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was
no cause of death in me.
[19] But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto
Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.
[20] For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to
speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this
chain.
[21] And they said unto him, We neither received letters out of Judaea
concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any
harm of thee.
[22] But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning
this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.
[23] And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his
lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading
them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the
prophets, from morning till evening.
[24] And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.
[25] And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that
Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet
unto our fathers,
[26] Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall
not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:
[27] For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of
hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their
eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should
be converted, and I should heal them.
[28] Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto
the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.
[29] And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great
reasoning among themselves.
[30] And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all
that came in unto him,
[31] Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern
the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
Ephesians 1
Salutation
1 (2Co 1:1; Col 1:2) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God,
To the saints who are at Ephesus and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:
2 (Ro 1:7) Grace to you and peace from God our Father
and the Lord Jesus Christ.
[1] Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which
are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:
[2] Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus
Christ.
Spiritual Blessings in Christ
3 (2Co 1:3; Eph 6:12; 2:6) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly
places in Christ,
4 (Eph 5:27; Col 1:22) just as He chose us in Him before the foundation
of the world, to be holy and blameless before Him in love;
5 (Ro 8:29-30; Eph 1:11) He predestined us to adoption as sons to Himself
through Jesus Christ according to the good pleasure of His will,
6 (Mt 3:17; Eph 1:12) to the praise of the glory of His grace which
He graciously bestowed on us in the Beloved.
7 (Ro 3:24; Ac 2:38; 20:28) In Him we have redemption through His blood
and the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace,
8 which He lavished on us in all wisdom and insight,
9 (Ro 8:28; Eph 1:11) making known to us the mystery of His will,
according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Himself,
10 (Col 1:20; Eph 3:15) as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite
all things in Christ, which are in heaven and on earth.
11 (Eph 1:14; Heb 6:17) In Him also we have received an inheritance,
being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things
according to the counsel of His own will,
12 (Eph 1:6) that we, who were the first to hope in Christ,
should live for the praise of His glory.
13 (Eph 4:30; Ac 1:4; 2:33) In Him you also, after hearing the word of truth,
the gospel of your salvation, and after believing in Him,
were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,
14 (Ro 8:23; 2Co 1:22) who is the guarantee of our inheritance
until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.
[3] Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed
us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
[4] According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the
world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
[5] Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to
himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
[6] To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us
accepted in the beloved.
[7] In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins,
according to the riches of his grace;
[8] Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;
[9] Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good
pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
[10] That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather
together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which
are on earth; even in him:
[11] In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated
according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of
his own will:
[12] That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in
Christ.
[13] In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the
gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were
sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
[14] Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the
purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
Paul's Prayer
15 (Phm 1:5) Therefore I also, after hearing of your faith in the Lord Jesus
and your love toward all the saints,
16 (Ro 1:8-9; Col 1:9) do not cease giving thanks for you, mentioning you
in my prayers,
17 (Jn 20:17; Ac 7:2) so that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father
of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge
of Him,
18 (Ac 26:18; 2Co 4:6) that the eyes of your understanding may be enlightened,
that you may know what is the hope of His calling and what are the riches
of the glory of His inheritance among the saints,
19 (Col 1:29; Eph 3:7) and what is the surpassing greatness of His power
toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power,
20 (Mk 16:19; Ps 110:1) which He performed in Christ when He raised Him
from the dead and seated Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places,
21 (Col 2:10; Heb 1:4) far above all principalities, and power, and might,
and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age
but also in that which is to come.
22 (1Co 11:3; Mt 16:18) And He put all things in subjection under His feet
and made Him the head over all things for the church,
23 (Jn 1:16; Eph 3:19) which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills
all things in all ways.
[15] Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and
love unto all the saints,
[16] Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;
[17] That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give
unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
[18] The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what
is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his
inheritance in the saints,
[19] And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe,
according to the working of his mighty power,
[20] Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set
him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,
[21] Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and
every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is
to come:
[22] And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head
over all things to the church,
[23] Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
Ephesians 2
From Death to Life
1 (Col 2:13; Lk 15:24) And you were dead in your trespasses and sins,
2 (Jn 12:31; Eph 6:12; 2:3) in which you formerly walked according
to the age of this world and according to the prince of the power of the air,
the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience,
3 (Gal 2:15-16; Ps 51:5) among them we all also once lived in the lusts
of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind,
and we were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.
4 (Ro 2:4; Eph 1:7) But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love
with which He loved us,
5 (Eph 2:1; Ac 15:11; Eph 2:8) even when we were dead in sins, made us alive
together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
6 (Eph 1:3) and He raised us up and seated us together in the heavenly places
in Christ Jesus,
7 (Titus 3:4; Eph 2:4) so that in the coming ages He might show
the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
8 (Eph 2:5; Mk 16:16) For by grace you have been saved through faith,
and this is not of yourselves. It is the gift of God,
9 (2Ti 1:9; Ro 3:20) not of works, so that no one should boast.
10 (Eph 4:24; 2Co 5:17; Eph 1:4) For we are His workmanship, created
in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand,
so that we should walk in them.
[1] And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
[2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world,
according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh
in the children of disobedience:
[3] Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts
of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were
by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
[4] But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
[5] Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ,
(by grace ye are saved; )
[6] And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly
places in Christ Jesus:
[7] That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace
in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
[8] For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it
is the gift of God:
[9] Not of works, lest any man should boast.
[10] For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works,
which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
One in Christ
11 (Col 2:11; 1Co 12:2; Eph 5:8) Therefore remember that formerly you,
the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called the "uncircumcision"
by the so-called "circumcision" in the flesh by human hands,
12 (1Th 4:13; Gal 4:8) were at that time apart from Christ,
alienated from the citizenship of Israel and strangers to the covenants
of promise, without hope and without God in the world.
13 (Ac 2:39; Isa 57:19) But now in Christ Jesus you who were formerly
far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
14 (Gal 3:28; Mic 5:5) For He is our peace, who has made both groups one
and has broken down the barrier of the dividing wall,
15 (Col 2:14; 2:20) by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, that is,
the law of the commandments contained in ordinances, that in Himself
He might make the two into one new man, thus making peace,
16 (Eph 2:15; Col 1:20-22) and that He might reconcile both to God
into one body through the cross, thereby slaying the enmity.
17 (Ps 148:14; Dt 4:7) And He came and preached peace to you who were
far away and peace to those who were near.
18 (1Co 12:13; Eph 3:12) For through Him we both have access by one
Spirit to the Father.
19 (Gal 6:10; Php 3:20) Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers
and foreigners, but are fellow citizens with the saints and members
of the household of God,
20 (Mt 16:18; Isa 28:16; Rev 21:14) having been built upon
the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself
being the chief cornerstone,
21 (1Co 3:16-17) in whom the entire building, tightly framed together,
grows into a holy temple in the Lord,
22 (1Co 3:16) in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling
place of God through the Spirit.
11] Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh,
who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in
the flesh made by hands; without Christ, being aliens from the
commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having
no hope, and without God in the world:
[13] But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by
the blood of Christ.
[14] For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the
middle wall of partition between us;
[15] Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments
contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so
making peace;
[16] And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross,
having slain the enmity thereby:
[17] And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them
that were nigh.
[18] For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
[19] Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but
fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
[20] And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus
Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
[21] In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy
temple in the Lord:
[22] In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through
the Spirit.
2) Our Daily Bread for 4 December 2022
Entitled "A Labour of Love"
Colossians 3:23-24
23 (Col 3:17) And whatever you do, do it heartily,
as for the Lord and not for men,
24 (1Co 7:22; Eph 6:8) knowing that from the Lord you will receive
the reward of the inheritance. For you serve the Lord Christ.
[23] And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
[24] Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the
inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first African American woman to earn a
medical degree. Yet during her lifetime (1831-95), she recalls being
"ignored, slighted and rendered insignificant." However, she remained devoted
to healing and fulfilling her purpose. Crumpler affirmed that although some
people might choose to judge her based on her race and gender, she'd always
have a "renewed and courageous readiness to go whenever and wherever duty
calls," and that she did. She believed that treating women and children and
providing medical attention for freed slaves was a way to serve God. Sadly,
she didn't receive formal recognition for her accomplishments until nearly a
century later.
There are times when we'll be overlooked, devalued, or unappreciated by those
around us. Biblical wisdom reminds us, however, that when God has called us
to a task, we shouldn’t focus on gaining worldly approval and recognition but
should instead "work at it with all [our] heart, as working for the
Lord" (Colossians 3:23). When we focus on serving God, we're able to
accomplish even the most difficult tasks with fervor and gladness in His
power and leading. We can then become less concerned with receiving earthly
recognition and become more eager to receive the reward only He can provide
(v. 24).
By: Kimya Loder
Reflect & Pray
When have you felt the good you did went overlooked? How can you practice
keeping God at the forefront of your activities?
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to do good things for You.
Help me to focus on what You've called me to do.
For further study, read
Get Outside—Work.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 8 Guided by Grace Day 1 A circle of Light
John 8:12
12 (Jn 12:35; Job 33:28; Isa 49:6)Again, Jesus spoke to them, saying,
"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me
shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life."
12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world:
he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness,
but shall have the light of life.
When Judy Garland stepped onstage, she filled the spotlight. Nothing was
illuminated but her face, and as she sang, her listeners had a sense of being
transported beyond themselves into the meaning of her song. The focus of
reality, at that moment, was "Judy", and everything else faded into the dim
recesses of the shadowed room. The spotlight brought her into sharp focus
as the center of attention, and all around her was darkness.
When the scriptures speaks of Jesus as "the light," the image is not
of thousands of blazing bulbs lighting up a football field for a night game.
Rather, he is like a hand-help lamp that throws a circle of light in the
immediate vicinity. such a lamp lights the path that a traveler will walk,
but lights it only one step at a time.
Jesus is the center of that circle of light. As we follow him, we share the
light, but he is always at center. Jesus Christ is the focal point,
and everything else fades into dim gray by comparison.
If we are to keep our lives illuminated, to have his light falling upon the
road we walk, we must stay close to him. Jesus does not hand the lamp
to us and suggest that we go the way he wants; he , the Light, leads,
and if we want to stay in the light, we follow.
Application
a) Have I ever tried to go my own way, apart from the Light?
What was the result?
b) How can this verse help me remember the importance of staying close
to Jesus?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Proverbs 22:7
7 The rich rules over the poor,
and the borrower is servant to the lender.
7 The rich ruleth over the poor,
And the borrower is servant to the lender.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Saddened by Loss
John 14:1 - 7
1 "Let not your heart be troubled. You believe in God. Believe also in Me.
2 In My Father's house are many dwelling places.
If it were not so, I would have told you.
I am going to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again
and receive you to Myself,
that where I am, you may be also.
4 You know where I am going, and you know the way."
5 Thomas said to Him, "Lord, we do not know
where You are going. How can we know the way?"
6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth,
and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
7 If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also.
From now on you do know Him and have seen Him."
1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so,
I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again,
and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest;
and how can we know the way?
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life:
no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also:
and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for MUslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facity, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far notherern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
4nd Day of the Month
a) Pray for the preservation of godly values in Canada
(Prov 14:34 - Righteousness exalts a nation,
but sin is a reproach to any people.
34 Righteousness exalteth a nation:
But sin is a reproach to any people.
)
b) Pray the political leaders will be awakened by God to the right
use of power and the right stewardship of their positions.
Advent Day 8
From C. S. Lewis A Grand Miracle Joel Heck
"When the year dies in preparation for the birth/Of other seasons, not the same,
on the same earth,
Then saving and calamity together make/The Advent gospel,
telling how the heart will break....
Therefore it was in Advent that the Quest began; in wail of wind
the flower of the Britons all/Went out, and desolation was
in Arthur's hall." - C. S. Lewis
(From C. S. Lewis' "Launcelot," in Narrative Poems, p. 95.)
The Quest
The quest for the Holy Grail in the King Arthur story has captivated millions of people
over the centuries. Launcelot, the Christ figure of the Arthurian legend, is the noble
knight who begins a search for the cup that Christ used at the Last Supper.
This cup has appeared in many places in literature, theater, and the movies.
In Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, for example, Indiana Jones finds his way
down a passageway and comes into a room full of chalices. He must select one
and drink from it. If he selects the wrong cup, he dies.
An ancient figure in the room tells him, "Choose wisely."
Legend has it that the cup was carried by Joseph of Arimathea to a castle
in Great Britain. The court of King Arthur believed that the Grail would be
rediscovered by a descendant of Joseph. Of the Knights of the Round Table,
only Galahad, Lancelot's son, was able to find and enter the castle with
the Grail. When he finally gazed upon the cup, the story goes, grail
and man were lifted up to heaven together.
What's the point of this story for us? Lancelot's quest began in Advent,
and our quest, our preparation for Christmas, likewise begins in Advent.
And like the Wise Men preparing for their quest, we need to set out to find
our King, the Christ Child. When we begin our Advent season with Scripture
and seek the Holy Christ rather than the Holy Grail, we are choosing wisely.
God, grant us wisdom to choose thoughtfully our preparation
for your coming in Jesus. Amen.
Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?
Matthew 2:2
From Follow the Story Marva J. Dawn
SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest.
-Luke 1:32a
It is fitting that on this second Sunday of Advent we have before us
the actual words of annunciation for Mary. I was going to entitle this
meditation "The Annunciation to Mary," but was prevented by the actual
content of the angel's message. Conspicuously, Gabriel's words are much
more about Jesus than about practical matters for Mary. She is a servant,
absolutely, but the child that will be born of her is so great that all
consideration should be placed upon him.
Not only will he be great, but he will be called the Son of the Most High.
The LORD God (which uses the two most prominent names in the Hebrew
Scriptures, Yahweh and Elohim) will give him the throne over all of lsrael,
which his ancestor David once ruled, and of his kingdom there will be no end.
Unquestionably, this is the child for which all lsrael has been waiting.
prayer
LORD God, how can we ever thank you for sending us, Jesus,
the Son of the Most High? Amen.
Read Luke 1:25-33.
25 "Thus the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked on me,
to take away my reproach among men."
The Birth of Jesus Foretold
26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God
to a city of Galilee named Nazareth,
27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph,
of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.
28 The angel came to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favoured.
The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women."
29 When she saw him, she was troubled by his words, and considered
in her mind what kind of greeting this might be.
30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found
favour with God.
31 Listen, you will conceive in your womb and bear a Son
and shall call His name JESUS.
32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest.
And the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David,
33 and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever.
And of His kingdom there will be no end."
From the AH-HAs of Advent by Rich Bimler
SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ACTION!
Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel,
who alone does wondrous deeds.
PSALM 72:18
The AH-HAs of Advent provides us a time to reflect, refocus
and remember who we are in Jesus Christ So, enjoy refreshing
yourself through his Word and hrs people. And as we find time
to enjoy the "power of pause" we can also recall that the Lord
provide us opportunities to not only be his people but also
the chance to do a his people
Psalm 72 helps us to focus on being both be-ers and do-ers
in the world The good news in Christ is that we are motivated
to be active in serving others, not because we "gotta do it"
but because we ·get to do it"! Today's Psalm is an affirmatiion
of God at work in the world-our world. Right here and now-through us!
Isn't it great that one of the books of the Bible is titled the Acts of the
Apostles instead of the Resolutions of the Apostles'
There must be a message there somewhere!
So, what are you going to do today to show the glory, might and
love of the Lord? For starters pause to remember the promise
of your Baptism. Then look around you at your needs and your
gifts, take a deep breath. and announce your action plan at
least to yourself). Do not worry about getting everything correct
today or doing everything you want to do.
Just "Get ready! Fire!"... and then aim later when
you rethink all of the possibilities for a ministry of action!
Look out world, here I come!
Lord thanks for being active in the world both in little
and big ways. Help me today to be active
in big ways and little ways as well,
not because I "gotta do it" but because I" want to do it."
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Psalm 72·1-7. 18-19
1 Give the king Your judgments, O God,
and Your righteousness to the king’s son.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) May he judge Your people with righteousness,
and Your poor with justice.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) May the mountains bring well-being to the people,
and the hills, in righteousness.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) May he judge the poor of the people,
may he save the children of the needy,
and crush the oppressor.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) May they fear You as long as the sun endures,
and the moon, throughout all generations.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) May he descend like rain on the mown grass,
as showers dripping on the earth.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) In his days may the righteous flourish,
and abundance of peace until the moon is no more.
18 Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel,
who alone does wondrous deeds.
19 Blessed be His glorious name forever;
and may the whole earth be filled with His glory.
Amen, and Amen.
Conclusion:
Pray: " Heavenly Father, I come to you in Jesus name, thanking you for Your
love and Your desire to connect with me. I thank you that You loved me enough
to die for my sin. I thank you that You desire to have an intimate and tender
relationship with me. Will You help me grow in this? May I experience the
encouragement that comes with being united with Christ. Will You comfort me
in your love? Help me experience an ongoing connection with the Holy Spirit
and my You fill my Heart.
"I choose, by an act of my will, to pursue unity with other believers and open
my heart and life to new people You want me to love. In Jesus' name, amen."
Pray to the Lord and pray to be in Unity in the Boys.
Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to
do good things for You. Help me to focus on what You've called me to do."
Pray to the Lord and pray to follow the light of life.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know who the borrower is.
Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for preparing a place in Heaven!
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for the preservation of godly values in Canada
Pray the political leaders will be awakened by God to the right
use of power and the right stewardship of their positions.
Prayer : God, grant us wisdom to choose thoughtfully our preparation for your coming in Jesus. Amen.
Pray: LORD God, how can we ever thank you for sending us, Jesus,
the Son of the Most High? Amen.
Pray: Lord, calm us, settle us and point us
to the hope and the future that you have
provided for us, through Jesus' birth, death and resurrection.
You have our attention Lord In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray that God will strengthen missionaries facing deportation from Turkey
and guide those who have already been deported.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.