Offer the Sacrifice

 

VILLA ALESSA - GAZEBO OFFICE
December 31, 2023

Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, 

and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, 

in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord.

LUKE 2:23

For every child that smiles with glee, it’s still about Jesus. For all the joy the season brings, every shiny, glowing thing, every Christmas light that shines without, it’s still about Jesus. Jesus is the light and glory of the Father's love so true. He came to earth to save us. The light and glory of the grace that sets us free who died and rose to conquer sin and death and misery. He is the hope that never fails who lives and reigns forever and His kingdom will forever prevail.

Offer yourself as a living sacrifice to the One who gave His life for you. He knows your every pain and strife and He will make all things new. Offer yourself as a living sacrifice to the One who loves you more than all. He has a perfect plan and purpose and He will never let you fall. Offer yourself as a living sacrifice to the One who is the way, the truth, and the life. He will fill you with His grace and power and He will be your strength in the fight.

When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, they took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord.  Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted —and you yourself a sword will pierce—so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshipped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him. (Luke 2:22-40)

God will guide your way not in your own understanding. He has plans for you that are far beyond human comprehension. Put your faith in the Lord and it will be credited to you an act of righteousness. The Lord will bless you with His love and kindness, transform you by His grace and holiness, and reward you with His joy and happiness. He will be your treasure and your delight and He will fill you with His glorious light. He will renew your mind and your heart and He will give you a new and fresh start. Nothing is impossible with the Lord.

The word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying: “Fear not, Abram! I am your shield; I will make your reward very great.” But Abram said, “O Lord God, what good will your gifts be, if I keep on being childless and have as my heir the steward of my house, Eliezer?” Abram continued, “See, you have given me no offspring, and so one of my servants will be my heir.” Then the word of the Lord came to him: “No, that one shall not be your heir; your own issue shall be your heir.” The Lord took Abram outside and said: “Look up at the sky and count the stars, if you can. Just so,” he added, “shall your descendants be.” Abram put his faith in the Lord, who credited it to him as an act of righteousness. The Lord took note of Sarah as he had said he would; he did for her as he had promised. Sarah became pregnant and bore Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time that God had stated. Abraham gave the name Isaac to this son of his whom Sarah bore him. (Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3)

God remembers forever the covenant that He made binding for a thousand generations His faithful love and grace, His holy law and truth, His merciful kindness and peace. He keeps His promises to those who fear His name and He shows his mighty deeds to those who trust His ways. He teaches His statutes to those who seek His face and He guides His precepts to those who walk in His light. The Lord forgives His people for their sins and mistakes and He heals their wounds and restores their brokenness.

Give thanks to the Lord, invoke his name; make known among the nations his deeds. Sing to him, sing his praise; proclaim all his wondrous deeds. Glory in his holy name; rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord! Look to the Lord in his strength; constantly seek his face. You descendants of Abraham, his servants, sons of Jacob, his chosen ones! He, the Lord, is our God; throughout the earth his judgments prevail. He remembers forever the covenant that he made binding for a thousand generations which he entered into with Abraham and by his oath to Isaac. (Psalm 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9)

God who had made the promise is trustworthy. He never lied or changed His mind, He kept His word through all the ages, He was faithful and kind. He fulfilled His plan and purpose, sent His Son to save the world. He was gracious and generous. He gave His Spirit to His people, He empowered them to live and love. He was gentle and wonderful. By faith, obey the Lord and you shall surely receive your inheritance. We are the heirs of Christ and inherit the kingdom, a resurrection from the dead and a glory that is everlasting.

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; he went out, not knowing where he was to go. By faith he received power to generate, even though he was past the normal age—and Sarah herself was sterile— for he thought that the one who had made the promise was trustworthy. So it was that there came forth from one man, himself as good as dead, descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sands on the seashore. By faith Abraham, when put to the test, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises was ready to offer his only son, of whom it was said, “Through Isaac descendants shall bear your name.” He reasoned that God was able to raise even from the dead, and he received Isaac back as a symbol. (Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19)

Lord Jesus, You are the light of the world, the Word was made flesh and lived among us, and we have seen Your glory, as the only Son of the Father. We reflect with thankful hearts on the wonder of Your birth, the love You expressed when you left. Your glory to come to earth was like a beacon, shining brightly in the night, filling the world with the radiance of the Father’s glorious light. 

Here I am Lord, I present myself to You. I’m a broken and contrite spirit yielding to You. I bow before You and empty myself of my own self-righteousness. I leave myself open before You holding nothing back. See me Lord and accept me now in all my human frailty. Cleanse me now I pray, wash me thoroughly here today. I humbly offer myself as a living sacrifice as I long to please and honor You in all I do. Complete Your work in me as I give unto You, this body You’ve given me, my heart, mind, and soul so, I can learn to be a holy, living sacrifice, to heed to Your will, an open, willing vessel to offer You my skill. With all the company of heaven, we worship, saying: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God almighty, to Him be glory and honour for ever and ever. Amen

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE PRESENTATION IN THE TEMPLE / THE RETURN TO NAZARETH

Luke 2:22-38 / 39-40

II. The Patriarch Abraham

THE COVENANT WITH ABRAM / BIRTH OF ISAAC

Genesis 15:1-21 / 21:1-21

Fourth Book of Psalms 90-106

GOD'S FIDELITY TO THE PROMISE

Psalm 105:1-43

V. Examples, Discipline, Disobedience

FAITH OF THE ANCIENTS

Hebrews 11:1-40

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing Chat

Filled with Wisdom and the Favor of God

 

MINES VIEW PARK, BAGUIO CITY
December 28, 2023

The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; 

and the favor of God was upon him. 

LUKE 2:40

Jesus came as a child, humble and meek, born in a manger, no place for the weak. But He was the Son of God, the Word made flesh, the hope of the world, the Savior of the oppressed. He grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. He learned from His parents, and obeyed the Father's plan. He amazed the teachers in the temple, with His understanding and His answers. He revealed the mysteries of the kingdom, with His parables and His wonders. He was full of grace and truth, and the Spirit without measure. He healed the sick and raised the dead, and gave the poor His treasure. He was tempted in every way, yet He did not sin. He suffered for our sake, and died to make us win. He rose from the grave, victorious and alive. He ascended to heaven, to prepare us a place and a bride. He is the King of kings, and the Lord of lords. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the one we adore

There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty- four. She never left the temple, but worshipped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him. (Luke 2:36-40)

Jesus came from heaven, not to be served, but to serve. He laid down His life, not to be spared, but to save. He obeyed the Father, not to please Himself, but to glorify. He fulfilled the Scriptures, not to prove Himself, but to testify. He faced the cross, not to avoid the pain, but to endure. He bore our sins, not to condemn us, but to forgive. He shed His blood, not to stain us, but to cleanse. He gave His Spirit, not to leave us, but to indwell. He conquered death, not to stay in the grave, but to rise. He showed His wounds, not to shame us, but to heal. He opened His arms, not to reject us, but to embrace. He gave His promise, not to forget us, but to return.

I am writing to you, children, because your sins have been forgiven for his name’s sake. I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have conquered the evil one. I write to you, children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong and the word of God remains in you, and you have conquered the evil one. Do not love the world or the things of the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world. Yet the world and its enticement are passing away. But whoever does the will of God remains forever. (1 John 2:12-17)

Give to the Lord with a cheerful heart for He is the source of all you have. Give to the Lord with a grateful mind for He is the one who gives you life. Give to the Lord with a generous hand for He is the provider of your needs. Give to the Lord with a faithful spirit for He is the rewarder of your deeds. Give to the Lord with a joyful song for He is the maker of your voice. Give to the Lord with a humble soul for He is the reason for your rejoice.

Give to the Lord, you families of nations, give to the Lord glory and praise; give to the Lord the glory due his name! Bring gifts, and enter his courts; worship the Lord in holy attire. Tremble before him, all the earth. Say among the nations: the Lord is king. He has made the world firm, not to be moved; he governs the peoples with equity. (Psalm 96:7-8, 8-9, 10)

Lord, I want to do Your will but sometimes I don't know how. There are so many voices in the world that try to drown me out. Sometimes I'm afraid, there are so many challenges in life that make me doubt Your ways. Sometimes I'm too weak, there are so many temptations in the flesh that make me lose my streak. But then I hear Your gentle voice that whispers in my ear saying, "My child, I'm with you always, you have nothing to fear. I have a plan for your life that only I can fulfill. Trust in Me and follow Me and you will do My will." Fill me with Your wisdom O Lord and may Your favor be always upon me. I humbly give you my all in Jesus Name. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE PRESENTATION IN THE TEMPLE / THE RETURN TO NAZARETH

Luke 2:22-38 / 30-40

MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY

1 John 2:12-17

Fourth Book of Psalms 90-106

GOD OF THE UNIVERSE

Psalm 96:1-13

Thoughts of Heart Revealed

 

CAMP JOHN HAY, BAGUIO CITY
December 27, 2023

“Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, 

and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) 

so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

LUKE 2:34-35

What lies within this fragile heart that beats and bleeds and breaks apart. What secrets does it hold inside that I have tried so hard to hide. What dreams and hopes and fears and doubts that fill my mind and make me shout. What passions and desires and joys and pains that stir my soul and course my veins. What words and thoughts and feelings and deeds that shape my life and guide my needs. What truths and lies and rights and wrongs that form my voice and sing my songs. What is this heart that you can see that only you can set me free. What is this heart that I conceal that only you can make me reveal. 

There is a light that shines within that no darkness can conceal. A light that guides my way that no storm can obscure. A light that warms my heart that no cold can quench. A light that is my life that no death can dim. There is a glory that bursts forth that no words can reveal. A glory that fills my soul that no pain can endure. A glory that lifts me up that no weight can wrench. A glory that is my hope that no sin can grim. A light and glory revealed that is Jesus!

When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, the parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord. Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying:  “Lord, now let your servant go in peace; your word has been fulfilled: my own eyes have seen the salvation which you prepared in sight of every people, a light to reveal you to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.” The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” (Luke 2:22-35)

To know Jesus is to know love. The love that gave His life for us, the love that conquered death and sin, the love that calls us to follow Him. To know Jesus is to know peace. The peace that surpasses understanding, the peace that guards our hearts and minds, the peace that comes from His presence. To know Jesus is to know joy. The joy that fills our souls with light, the joy that overflows with praise, the joy that comes from His grace. To know Jesus is to know life. The life that is abundant and eternal, the life that is in Him and through Him, the life that comes from His Spirit.

The way we may be sure that we know Jesus is to keep his commandments. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps his word the love of God is truly perfected in him. This is the way we may know that we are in union with him: whoever claims to abide in him ought to walk just as he walked. Beloved, I am writing no new commandment to you but an old commandment that you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word that you have heard. And yet I do write a new commandment to you, which holds true in him and among you, for the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining. Whoever says he is in the light yet hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother remains in the light, and there is nothing in him to cause a fall. Whoever hates his brother is in darkness; he walks in darkness and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes. (1 John 2:3-11)

God's glory is beyond compare. His wondrous deeds are everywhere, He made the heavens and the earth, He gave us life and gave us worth. God's glory shines in every star. His wondrous deeds are near and far, He parted seas and raised the dead, He fed the hungry and healed the sick. God's glory fills the whole creation. His wondrous deeds are our salvation, He sent His Son to die for us, He rose again and gave us hope. God's glory is our highest praise. His wondrous deeds are all our days, He loves us more than we can know, He guides us where we need to go.

Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all you lands. Sing to the Lord; bless his name. Announce his salvation, day after day. Tell his glory among the nations; among all peoples, his wondrous deeds. The Lord made the heavens. Splendor and majesty go before him; praise and grandeur are in his sanctuary. (Psalm 96:1-2, 2-3, 5-6)

Lord, I offer you my life. All that I am and all that I have. Take me as I am, with all my flaws and sins and make me new, according to Your will. I offer You my heart, the source of my love and my emotions. Fill it with Your grace and Your compassion and let it beat in sync with Yours. I offer You my mind, the seat of my thoughts and my wisdom. Renew it with Your truth and Your vision and let it think of things above. I offer You my soul, the essence of my being and my identity. Save it with Your blood and Your mercy and let it rest in You alone. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE PRESENTATION IN THE TEMPLE

Luke 2:22-35

CHRIST AND HIS COMMANDMENTS / THE NEW COMMANDMENT

1 John 2:1-6 / 7-11

Fourth Book of Psalms 90-106

GOD OF THE UNIVERSE

Psalm 96:1-13

Do Not Worry

 

ATIENZAR FAMILY
December 25, 2023

When they hand you over, do not worry 

about how you are to speak or what you are to say. 

You will be given at that moment what you are to say.

MATTHEW 10:19

Do not worry, God is with you. He knows your every need, He sees your every struggle, He hears your every plea. The Lord will never leave your side, He will guide you and protect you, He will be your strength and light. He will fill your heart with peace, He will calm your anxious thoughts, He will give you sweet release. This is the Lord Your God with you, He loves you more than you can know. He will turn your pain to joy and make you whole and grow.

Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware of men, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues, and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans. When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say. You will be given at that moment what you are to say. For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Brother will hand over brother to death, and the father his child; children will rise up against parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 10:17-22)

St. Stephen, the first of martyrs who bore witness to the Lord with courage and with wisdom proclaimed the living Word. He is a man of vision who beheld the throne of grace with glory and with wonder he beheld the Savior's face. He is a faithful servant who obeyed the Spirit's call with charity and with patience he forgave his killers all. He is the crown of glory who received the victor's palm with honor and with praises he rejoined the heavenly psalm.

Like St. Stephen, receive the Spirit of the Lord. God will fill you with His grace, He will renew your mind and heart, He will transform your life and faith. The Spirit of the Lord will empower you to serve, equip you with His gifts, and enable you to love. He will comfort you in pain,  counsel you in truth, convict you of your sin. He will testify of Christ, He will glorify the Son, He will reveal the Father's light.

Stephen, filled with grace and power, was working great wonders and signs among the people. Certain members of the so-called Synagogue of Freedmen, Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and people from Cilicia and Asia, came forward and debated with Stephen but they could not withstand the wisdom and the spirit with which he spoke. When they heard this, they were infuriated, and they ground their teeth at him. But he, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked up intently to heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” But they cried out in a loud voice, covered their ears, and rushed upon him together. They threw him out of the city, and began to stone him. The witnesses laid down their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul. As they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” (Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59)

God is our rock of refuge. He is our shelter and our shield, our fortress and our strength, our hope and our heal. The Lord is our anchor and guide, protector and friend. He is our savior and our light, our helper and our grace, deliverer and peace, our joy and our praise.

Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety. You are my rock and my fortress; for your name’s sake you will lead and guide me. Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, O Lord, O faithful God. I will rejoice and be glad of your mercy. Rescue me from the clutches of my enemies and my persecutors. Let your face shine upon your servant; save me in your kindness. (Psalm 31:3-4, 6, 8, 16, 17)

Lord, into Your hands, I place my life and commend my spirit. You alone knows what's best for me. I believed that You have a plan and a purpose and You will fulfill the destiny that You have set for me. In Your hands I find my peace. You calm my troubled soul, gives me hope and joy, and makes me whole. As always, I trust Your will. You are my Lord and King, my Savior and my Friend. You are my everything. All glory and honor are Yours now and forever. Amen.

Pericope:

III. Ministry and Mission in Galilee

COMING PERSECUTIONS

Matthew 10:16-25

II: The Mission in Jerusalem

ACCUSATION AGAINST STEPHEN / STEPHEN'S MARTYRDOM

Acts 6:8-15 / 7:54-60

First Book of Psalms 1-41

PRAYER IN DISTRESS AND THANKSGIVING FOR ESCAPE

Psalm 31:1-25

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing Chat

Jesus is the Word

 

CHRIST IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON
December 24, 2023

In the beginning was the Word, 

and the Word was with God, 

and the Word was God. 

JOHN 1:1

Jesus is the Word, the living and eternal Word. He spoke the world into being, by His power it was heard. He is the Word of God, the expression of His mind. He reveals the Father's heart, His grace and truth we find. He came to dwell among us, in the flesh He was observed. He is the Word of life, the source of every breath. He gave Himself for us, to save us from our death. He conquered sin and grave, by His victory He assured. He is the Word of hope, the promise of His return. He will come again for us, to take us where He is.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. A man named John was sent from God. He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came to be through him, but the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, but his own people did not accept him. But to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name, who were born not by natural generation nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision but of God. And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth. John testified to him and cried out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’” From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace, because while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. The only Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed him. (John 1:1-18)

Salvation of our God, the greatest gift of love. He sent His only Son to die for us on the cross. He bore our sins and paid the price, He rose again in power. He offers us eternal life, if we believe and trust. Salvation of our God, the joy of our salvation. He fills our hearts with peace and grace, He makes us new creations. He gives us hope and strength to live, He guides us by His Spirit. He teaches us His will and ways, if we obey and follow. Salvation of our God, the glory of our God. He calls us to His kingdom, He prepares a place for us. He will come back to take us home, He will wipe away our tears. He will welcome us with open arms, if we endure and persevere.

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings glad tidings, announcing peace, bearing good news, announcing salvation, saying to Zion, “Your God is King!” Hark! Your sentinels raise a cry, together they shout for joy, for they see directly, before their eyes, the Lord restoring Zion. Break out together in song, O ruins of Jerusalem! For the Lord comforts his people, he redeems Jerusalem. The Lord has bared his holy arm in the sight of all the nations; all the ends of the earthwill behold the salvation of our God. (Isaiah 52:7-10)

God revealed His justice, in His righteous Son. He came to show us mercy, and for our sins atone. He took our place on the cross, and bore the wrath we deserved. He paid the debt we owed, and from death He preserved. God revealed His justice, in His holy Word. He gave us His commandments, and His will to be heard. He taught us how to live, and what is right and wrong. He guides us by His Spirit, and makes us wise and strong. God revealed His justice, in His sovereign plan. He works all things for good, and His glory to expand. He judges every deed, and rewards every faith. He restores every brokenness, and heals every pain.

Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done wondrous deeds; his right hand has won victory for him, his holy arm. The Lord has made his salvation known: in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice. He has remembered his kindness and his faithfulness toward the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. Sing joyfully to the Lord, all you lands; break into song; sing praise. Sing praise to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious song. With trumpets and the sound of the horn sing joyfully before the King, the Lord. (Psalm 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6)

God spoke through Jesus, His beloved Son. He revealed His glory, His grace and His love. He spoke of the kingdom, the truth and the way. He spoke of the Father, His will and His plan. God spoke through Jesus, His faithful Son. He fulfilled His promise, His law and His word. He spoke with authority, power and wisdom. He spoke with compassion, mercy and forgiveness. God spoke through Jesus, His obedient Son. He accomplished His purpose, His mission and His work. He spoke on the cross, His blood and His sacrifice. He spoke from the grave, His victory and His life.

In times past, God spoke in partial and various ways to our ancestors through the prophets; in these last days, he has spoken to us through the son, whom he made heir of all things and through whom he created the universe, who is the refulgence of his glory, the very imprint of his being, and who sustains all things by his mighty word. When he had accomplished purification from sins, he took his seat at the right hand of the Majesty on high, as far superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. For to which of the angels did God ever say: You are my son; this day I have begotten you? Or again: I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me? And again, when he leads the firstborn into the world, he says: Let all the angels of God worship him. (Hebrews 1:1-6)

Lord Jesus Christ, You are the one true reason for the season, the gift of God's love and grace. You came to the world as a humble child to save the human race. You are the light of the world, the ever shining star to show us the way to God and how much He loves us from afar. You are the king of kings and the lord of lords. You came to reign in our hearts and lives and bring us peace and joy evermore. Thank You so much Lord for being the Word that have brought us back to the loving arms of our Father in heaven. All glory and honor are Yours now and forever. Amen.

Pericope:

I: Prologue

PROLOGUE

John 1:1-18

II: Expiation of Sin, Spiritual Liberation of Israel

LET ZION REJOICE

Isaiah 52:1-12

Fourth Book of Psalms 90-106

THE COMING OF GOD

Psalm 98:1-9

I: Introduction / II: The Son higher than Angels

INTRODUCTION / MESSIANIC ENTHRONEMENT

Hebrews 1:1-4/5-14

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing Chat

Full of Grace

 

HOUSE OF SEALTHIEL CONSTRUCTION
December 24, 2019

“Hail, full of grace! 

The Lord is with you.” 

LUKE 1:28

She walks with beauty and with grace, a gentle smile upon her face. She spreads her kindness all around and lifts the spirits of the down. She knows the value of each soul and sees the good in young and old. She gives her love without a price and shares her faith in Jesus Christ. She is a blessing to behold, a precious gem, more than gold. She is a child of God above and she is full of grace and love. She is Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. “Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. (Luke 1:26-38)

You have a gift and a purpose to share, you have a vision and a passion to dare, you have a voice and a message to shine so do whatever you have in mind. Don't let the doubts and fears hold you back, don't let the critics and naysayers attack, don't let the rules and norms confine, just do whatever you have in mind. Life is too short and too precious to waste, life is too rich and too varied to taste, life is too wonderful and amazing to find if you don't do whatever you have in mind.

The Lord is with you in every trial, He knows your pain and every sigh, He holds you close and wipes your tears, He gives you strength and calms your fears. The Lord is with you in every joy, He shares your happiness and your smile, He blesses you with grace and peace, He fills your heart with love and ease. The Lord is with you in every moment, He guides your steps and lights your way, He hears your prayers and speaks to you. He is your friend and loves you true

When King David was settled in his palace, and the Lord had given him rest from his enemies on every side, he said to Nathan the prophet, “Here I am living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God dwells in a tent!” Nathan answered the king, “Go, do whatever you have in mind, for the Lord is with you.” But that night the Lord spoke to Nathan and said: “Go, tell my servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord: Should you build me a house to dwell in? “‘It was I who took you from the pasture and from the care of the flock to be commander of my people Israel. I have been with you wherever you went, and I have destroyed all your enemies before you. And I will make you famous like the great ones of the earth. I will fix a place for my people Israel; I will plant them so that they may dwell in their place without further disturbance. Neither shall the wicked continue to afflict them as they did of old, since the time I first appointed judges over my people Israel. I will give you rest from all your enemies. The Lord also reveals to you that he will establish a house for you. And when your time comes and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your heir after you, sprung from your loins, and I will make his kingdom firm. I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me. Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever before me; your throne shall stand firm forever.’” (2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16)

God made a covenant with His people to be their God and they His own. He promised to bless and protect them and never leave them alone. He sealed His covenant with a sign, a rainbow in the sky, a reminder of His faithfulness and His mercy ever nigh. He fulfilled His covenant with David and gave him a royal throne. He established his house and kingdom and promised him a greater Son. He revealed His covenant with the prophets and gave them a vision of grace. He foretold the coming of the Messiah and the salvation of the human race. He completed His covenant with Jesus and gave Him the cross and the crown. He raised Him from the dead and exalted Him and poured out His Spirit all around.

The Lord invites us to join His covenant and gives us the gift of faith. He calls us to love and obey Him and to follow Him all our days. He will keep His covenant forever and gives us the hope of glory. He will come again and receive us and we will reign with Him eternally.

The promises of the Lord I will sing forever; through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness. For you have said, “My kindness is established forever”; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness. “I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant: forever will I confirm your posterity and establish your throne for all generations.” “He shall say of me, ‘You are my father, my God,the rock, my savior. Forever I will maintain my kindness toward him, and my covenant with him stands firm.’” (Psalm 89:2-3, 4-5, 27, 29)

Obedience of faith is a journey, a journey of growth and discovery, a journey of joy and peace, a journey of grace and glory. Obedience is not a burden but a blessing based on His grace and power and His will and purpose. To obey God is to trust Him, to trust Him is to love Him, to love Him is to know Him, to know Him is to have faith, Faith is not a blind leap but a confident step based on His word and promise and His character and goodness.

To him who can strengthen you, according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret for long ages but now manifested through the prophetic writings and, according to the command of the eternal God, made known to all nations to bring about the obedience of faith, to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ be glory forever and ever. Amen. (Romans 16:25-27)

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your love and grace that You have shown me in Christ Jesus. I thank You for revealing to me the mystery of Your will, which You purposed in Him before the foundation of the world. I thank You for making me a partaker of Your promise and a member of Your body, the church.

Lord, I ask You to open the eyes of my heart, that I may know You more and more. I ask You to enlighten me with the knowledge of Your glory and the riches of Your inheritance. I ask You to grant me wisdom and understanding in the mystery of Christ, which is the gospel of Your grace. I pray that You would help me to walk worthy of Your calling, and to bear fruit in every good work. I pray that You would empower me with Your Spirit, and enable me to speak the mystery of Christ with boldness and clarity. I pray that You would use me as Your instrument, to make known Your manifold wisdom to the world.

Lord, I praise You for Your great and precious promises, which are all Yes and Amen in Christ. I praise You for Your faithfulness and goodness, which endure forever. I praise You for Your marvelous works, which are beyond my comprehension. I praise You for Your glorious plan, which is unfolding before my eyes. I worship You for who You are, the King of kings and the Lord of lords. I worship You for what You have done, the Savior of sinners and the Redeemer of the lost. I worship You for what You will do, the Judge of the living and the dead and the Restorer of all things.

You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power. For You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created. You are worthy, O Lamb, to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing. For You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood. To You be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS

Luke 1:26-38

IV: The Reign of David

DAVID'S CONCERN FOR THE ARK

2 Samuel 7:1-17

Third Book of Psalms 73-89

A LAMENT OVER GOD'S PROMISE TO DAVID

Psalm 89:1-53

VII: Conclusion

DOXOLOGY

Romans 16:25-27

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The Hand of the Lord was with him

 

HOUSE OF GABRIEL - AIRCON INSTALLATION
December 23, 2020

"All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, 

'What, then, will this child be?'

For surely the hand of the Lord was with him."

LUKE 1:66

God is in control of everything that happens under the sun, and that He works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Our faith and destiny is in God's hands. He is our hope and our salvation, our joy and our satisfaction, our God and our King.

We don't know what the future holds but we know who holds it in His hands. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. We don't know how our lives will unfold but we know who has a purpose and a plan. He is the Creator and the Sustainer, the Author and the Finisher. We don't know when our trials will end but we know who will see us through them. He is the Refuge and the Strength, the Comforter and the Friend. We don't know how our stories will blend but we know who will make them beautiful. He is the Potter and the Painter, the Weaver and the Composer

One of the benefits of having faith and destiny in God’s hands is that we can have peace and joy in any situation, knowing that God is with us and for us. We can also have hope and courage to face the challenges and opportunities that come our way, knowing that God will guide us and provide for us. We can also have gratitude and praise for all that God has done, is doing, and will do in our lives, knowing that He is faithful and good.

When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Immediately, his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be?” For surely the hand of the Lord was with him. (Luke 1:57-66)

The time of purification is here, to cleanse our hearts and minds, to repent and forsake our sins, to seek God's grace and mercy. The time of purification is now, to humble ourselves and pray, to confess and forgive, to restore our relationship with God. The time of purification is near, to prepare for His coming, to rejoice and worship, to celebrate His love and glory.

Thus says the Lord God: Lo, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me; and suddenly there will come to the temple the Lord whom you seek, and the messenger of the covenant whom you desire. Yes, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. But who will endure the day of his coming? And who can stand when he appears? For he is like the refiner’s fire, or like the fuller’s lye. He will sit refining and purifying silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi, refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the Lord. Then the sacrifice of Judah and Jerusalem will please the Lord, as in days of old, as in years gone by. Lo, I will send you Elijah, the prophet, before the day of the Lord comes, the great and terrible day, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the land with doom. (Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24)

The ways and paths of the Lord are good that leads us to His perfect will, teaches us to obey His word, and shows us how to love and serve. The ways and paths of the Lord are true, revealing His character and nature, guiding us to His promises and plans, and inspiring us to trust and praise. The ways and paths of the Lord are right, they correct us when we go astray, they protect us from the enemy's snares, they empower us to do His works.

Your ways, O Lord, make known to me; teach me your paths, guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior. Good and upright is the Lord; thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice, he teaches the humble his way. All the paths of the Lord are kindness and constancy toward those who keep his covenant and his decrees. The friendship of the Lord is with those who fear him, and his covenant, for their instruction. (Psalm 25:4-5, 8-9, 10, 14)

Lord, Your hand is mighty and strong, holding the entire universe in Your palm. Your hand is gentle and kind, touching the broken with Your grace, lifting up the humble and heals, and guiding the lost and leads. Our faith and destiny is at the palm of Your hands. Let Your hand be upon us O Lord. We need You, Lord, we need You now. We cry out to You, we bow down, we ask You, Lord, to purify us. We trust in You and we follow You now and forever. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE BIRTH OF JOHN

Luke 1:57-66

The Book of Malachi

THE MESSENGER OF THE COVENANT

Malachi 3:1-24

First Book of Psalms 1-41

CONFIDENT PRAYER FOR FORGIVENESS AND GUIDANCE

Psalm 25:1-22

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The Greatness of the Lord

 

VILLA ALESSA
December 22, 2022

"My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; 

my spirit rejoices in God my savior."

LUKE 1:46-47

God is great in many ways, such as His power, His majesty, His glory, His wisdom, His love, His grace, and His holiness. Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom (Ps 145:3). May you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God (Eph 3:18-19).

The greatness of God should impact our lives in many ways. It should inspire us to worship Him, to trust Him, to obey Him, to love Him, and to serve Him. It should also humble us, to realize how small and dependent we are compared to Him, and how much we need His grace and mercy. It should also fill us with joy and hope, to know that He is with us, for us, and in us, and that He has a good plan for our lives.

Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. For he has looked upon his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed:  the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to help of his servant Israel for he remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.” Mary remained with Elizabeth about three months and then returned to her home. (Luke 1:46-56)

Be dedicated to the Lord. Surrender your life to Him and seek His glory in everything you do. Devote yourself to Him and His will, love Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and serve Him with all your abilities. In doing so, you will experience His presence, peace, and joy in your life. You will grow in your knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of Him and His ways. You will receive His guidance, protection, and provision for your needs. You will have a clear purpose, direction, and vision for your life.

In those days, Hannah brought Samuel with her, along with a three- year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and presented him at the temple of the Lord in Shiloh. After the boy’s father had sacrificed the young bull, Hannah, his mother, approached Eli and said: “Pardon, my lord! As you live my lord, I am the woman who stood near you here, praying to the Lord. I prayed for this child, and the Lord granted my request. Now I, in turn, give him to the Lord; as long as he lives, he shall be dedicated to the Lord.” She left Samuel there. (1 Samuel 1:24-28)

Exult in the Lord. Express great joy and delight in Him and His works. Praise and worship the Lord for who He is and what He has done. Celebrate His goodness, faithfulness, and love in your life. God is our salvation. He has saved us from our sins and given us eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ. He has also delivered us from our enemies and troubles, and given us victory over them. (Habakkuk 3:181, Isaiah 61:102) God is our strength. He gives us power, courage, and endurance to face any situation. He enables us to do all things through Him who strengthens us. He is our refuge and fortress, our help and hope. (Psalm 28:73, Philippians 4:134) God is our joy. He fills our hearts with gladness and peace. He makes us happy and satisfied in His presence. He turns our mourning into dancing and our sorrow into laughter. He is the source and object of our joy. (Psalm 16:115, Psalm 126:2) Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight (Prv 3:5-6).

“My heart exults in the Lord, my horn is exalted in my God. I have swallowed up my enemies; I rejoice in my victory.” “The bows of the mighty are broken, while the tottering gird on strength. The well-fed hire themselves out for bread, while the hungry batten on spoil. The barren wife bears seven sons, while the mother of many languishes.” “The Lord puts to death and gives life; he casts down to the nether world; he raises up again. The Lord makes poor and makes rich; he humbles, he also exalts.” “He raises the needy from the dust; from the dung heap he lifts up the poor, to seat them with nobles and make a glorious throne their heritage.” (1 Samuel 2:1, 4-5, 6-7, 8)

Who can measure the greatness of God, the Maker of heaven and earth? Who can fathom His infinite power, the Source of all life and worth?

He spoke and the worlds came into being, He breathed and the stars shone bright. He stretched out the sky like a curtain, He separated the day from the night. He formed the mountains and the oceans, He filled the earth with His grace. He made the creatures of the land and sea, He fashioned the human race. He revealed His love and His mercy, He sent His Son to redeem. He gave us His Spirit and His Word, He invited us to His dream.

He is holy, righteous, and faithful, He is gracious, loving, and kind. He is sovereign, majestic, and glorious, He is beyond our reason and mind. He deserves our praise and our worship, He deserves our honor and our awe. He deserves our trust and our obedience, He deserves our love and our all. This is the greatness of God, the Maker of heaven and earth. This is the fathomless power of God, the Source of all life and worth.

Lord, You are truly great and awesome. Let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love Your name may rejoice in You (Ps 5:11). May the righteous be glad and rejoice before You O God; may they be happy and joyful (Ps 68:3). For You make me glad by Your deeds, LORD; I sing for joy at what Your hands have done (Ps 92:4). Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE CANTICLE OF MARY

Luke 1:46-56

I: History of the Last Judges, Eli and Samuel

SAMUEL IS OFFERED TO GOD

1 Samuel 1:24-28

I: History of the Last Judges, Eli and Samuel

SAMUEL IS OFFERED TO GOD

1 Samuel 2:1-11

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Believe and Be Fulfilled

 

VILLA ALESSA
December 21, 2022

"Blessed are you who believed that 

what was spoken to you by the Lord 

would be fulfilled.” 

LUKE 1:45

God created us for His glory, and that He has a wonderful plan for our lives. He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins and to rise again, so that we can have eternal life and fellowship with Him. He also gave us His Holy Spirit, who guides us, empowers us, and fills us with His love, joy, peace, and other fruits. He also gave us His Word, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. 

What the Lord says, He does. Find your ultimate purpose, joy, and peace in Him. Tust in His promises, obey His commands, and follow His example. Live for His glory and not your own. Being fulfilled in the Lord is not a one-time event, but a lifelong journey. It is not always easy, but it is always rewarding. It is not based on your feelings, but on your faith. It is not dependent on your circumstances, but on your relationship with Him. It is not something you achieve, but something you receive.

Mary set out in those days and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” (Luke 1:39-45)

God loves us so much but do we possess the same degree of deep and sincere affection for God and His will. A lover of God seeks to know Him, worship Him, serve Him, and please Him. A lover of God also loves what God loves, which includes His creation, His Word, His people, and His righteousness.

The Bible uses different words to describe the love of God and the love for God. One of them is agape, which is a Greek word that means unconditional, selfless, and sacrificial love. Agape is the kind of love that God has for us, and that we are called to have for Him and for others. Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commands" ( John 14:15 )1. He also said, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength" ( Mark 12:30 )2. This is the greatest commandment, and the second is to love your neighbor as yourself ( Mark 12:31 )2.

Another word for love is philotheia, which is a Greek word that means love or devotion to God. Philotheia is associated with the concepts of worship and piety. Theophilus, which means "friend of God" or "loved by God", is derived from this word. Luke addressed his Gospel and the book of Acts to Theophilus ( Luke 1:3, Acts 1:1 )34, implying that he was a believer who loved God.

A third word for love is ahab, which is a Hebrew word that means affection, attachment, or desire. Ahab is used to describe various kinds of love, such as the love between a husband and a wife, a parent and a child, a friend and a friend, or a person and an object. Ahab is also used to describe the love that God has for His people, and the love that His people have for Him. For example, God said to Israel, "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness" ( Jeremiah 31:3 ). David said to God, "I love you, Lord, my strength" ( Psalm 18:1 ).

The true test of our love for God is not in our words, but in our actions. As John wrote, "Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth" ( 1 John 3:18 ). May we show our love for God by obeying His commands, following His example, and sharing His gospel. 

Hark! My lover, here he comes springing across the mountains, leaping across the hills. My lover is like a gazelle or a young stag. Here he stands behind our wall, gazing through the windows, peering through the lattices. My lover speaks; he says to me: “Arise, my beloved, my beautiful one, and come! For see, the winter is past, the rains are over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of pruning the vines has come, and the song of the dove is heard in our land. The fig tree puts forth its figs, and the vines, in bloom, give forth fragrance. Arise, my beloved, my beautiful one, and come! O my dove in the clefts of the rock, in the secret recesses of the cliff, let me see you, let me hear your voice, for your voice is sweet, and you are lovely.” (Song of Songs 2:8-14)

God’s plan and design is based on His perfect wisdom, power, and love. He created everything out of nothing, and He sustains and governs everything by His word. He has a purpose for everything He made, and He works all things according to His will. He is the sovereign Lord of history, and He reveals His plan and design through His word and His works.

God’s plan and design is also centered on His Son, Jesus Christ. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation, and the head of the church. He is the one through whom and for whom all things were created. He is the one who came to earth, lived a sinless life, died on the cross, and rose again, to save us from our sins and reconcile us to God. He is the one who will come again, to judge the living and the dead, and to establish His eternal kingdom.

God’s plan and design is ultimately for His glory. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last. He is the one who does all things for His own sake, and He is worthy of all praise, honor, and worship. He is the one who invites us to share in His glory, and He is the one who will fill all things with His glory.

Give thanks to the Lord on the harp; with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises. Sing to him a new song; pluck the strings skillfully, with shouts of gladness. But the plan of the Lord stands forever; the design of his heart, through all generations. Blessed the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance. Our soul waits for the Lord, who is our help and our shield, for in him our hearts rejoice; in his holy name we trust. (Psalm 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21)

Lord, I am not an accident, a mistake, or a flaw but a masterpiece of Your grace and awe. I am not a a random product of chance or fate but a chosen vessel of Your love and faith. I am not a slave to sin, fear, or shame but Your child, called by Your name. Thank You so much for making me Your own plan and design, Your glory and Your sign, Your workmanship and Your art, the delight of Your heart. May all the days of my life bring glory to Your Name and may I always be blessed in believing that all Your words would be fulfilled in Your perfect will and time. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

MARY VISITS ELIZABETH

Luke 1:39-45

The Song of Songs by Solomon

A TRYST IN THE SPRING

Song of Songs 2:8-17

First Book of Psalms 1-41

PRAISE OF GOD'S POWER AND PROVIDENCE

Psalm 33:1-22

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Born for a Purpose

 

VILLA ALESSA - DEEP WELL WATER SUPPLY
December 19, 2019

"He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah 

to turn the hearts of fathers toward children 

and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, 

to prepare a people fit for the Lord.” 

LUKE 1:17

Everyone is born for a purpose, and that purpose is ultimately related to God, who created us and loves us. God has a plan and a purpose for each person, and that He works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). Each of us has a unique role and contribution to make in this world, and that we can discover and fulfill our purpose by following our passions, talents, and values. You can find inspiration and guidance from other people who have lived purposeful lives, such as biblical characters, historical figures, or role models.

Angel Gabriel’s announced to Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, about the role and mission of his son. John the Baptist was the prophet who prepared the way for Jesus, the Messiah, by preaching repentance and baptism. John the Baptist has a similar ministry and character as Elijah, the Old Testament prophet who performed miracles and confronted the idolatry of his time. "To prepare a people fit for the Lord”, John the Baptist would help people to recognize their sinfulness and their need for God’s forgiveness and grace, which would be fulfilled in Jesus.

In the days of Herod, King of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah of the priestly division of Abijah; his wife was from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. Both were righteous in the eyes of God, observing all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren and both were advanced in years. Once when he was serving as priest in his division’s turn before God, according to the practice of the priestly service, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord to burn incense. Then, when the whole assembly of the people was praying outside at the hour of the incense offering, the angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right of the altar of incense. Zechariah was troubled by what he saw, and fear came upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He will drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb, and he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of fathers toward children and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to prepare a people fit for the Lord.” Then Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” And the angel said to him in reply, “I am Gabriel, who stand before God. I was sent to speak to you and to announce to you this good news. But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.” Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah and were amazed that he stayed so long in the sanctuary. But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He was gesturing to them but remained mute. Then, when his days of ministry were completed, he went home. After this time his wife Elizabeth conceived, and she went into seclusion for five months, saying, “So has the Lord done for me at a time when he has seen fit to take away my disgrace before others.” (Luke 1:5-25)

To be consecrated to God means to be set apart for His service, to be devoted to His purpose, and to be sanctified by His grace. It is a way of living that honors and glorifies God in everything we do. A life dedicated to obeying God’s will and fulfilling His plan. As the Lord said, "You shall consecrate yourselves therefore and be holy, for I am the Lord your God. You shall keep My statutes and practice them; I am the Lord who sanctifies you" (Leviticus 20:7-8). Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:1-2:).

There was a certain man from Zorah, of the clan of the Danites, whose name was Manoah. His wife was barren and had borne no children. An angel of the Lord appeared to the woman and said to her, “Though you are barren and have had no children, yet you will conceive and bear a son. Now, then, be careful to take no wine or strong drink and to eat nothing unclean. As for the son you will conceive and bear, no razor shall touch his head, for this boy is to be consecrated to God from the womb. It is he who will begin the deliverance of Israel from the power of the Philistines.” The woman went and told her husband, “A man of God came to me; he had the appearance of an angel of God, terrible indeed. I did not ask him where he came from, nor did he tell me his name. But he said to me, ‘You will be with child and will bear a son. So take neither wine nor strong drink, and eat nothing unclean. For the boy shall be consecrated to God from the womb, until the day of his death.’” The woman bore a son and named him Samson. The boy grew up and the Lord blessed him; the Spirit of the Lord first stirred. (Judges 13:2-7, 24-25)

God formed each person in His image and likeness, and that He has a purpose and a plan for every life (Genesis 1:26-27) (Jeremiah 29:11). God formed you with love and care, and He knows everything about you, even the number of hairs on your head (Psalm 139:13-16) (Matthew 10:30).

Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety; for you are my rock and my fortress. O my God, rescue me from the hand of the wicked. For you are my hope, O Lord; my trust, O God, from my youth. On you I depend from birth; from my mother’s womb you are my strength. I will treat of the mighty works of the Lord; O God, I will tell of your singular justice. O God, you have taught me from my youth, and till the present I proclaim your wondrous deeds. (Psalm 71:3-4, 5-6, 16-17)

God Formed Me. He gave me His breath of life, made me a living soul, and filled me with His light. God formed me with His hands, He shaped me with His skill, molded me with His wisdom, and fashioned me with His will. God formed me with His love, He cherished me with His heart, blessed me with His grace, He set me apart. God formed me with His care, He watched me with His eyes, guided me with His voice, and protected me with His might.

Lord, You have  a plan for my life. I believe that I was born for a purpose, not by chance or fate, but by Your own design and grace. You have a role for me to play. I was born not to wander or waste but to grow and serve. You have a promise for me to claim. I was born not to fear or doubt but to trust and obey. You have a glory for me to reflect. I was born not to live for myself

But to live for You.

I am consecrated to You O God. You have set me apart for Your glory, called me by Your grace and has chosen me for Your story. You have cleansed me by Your blood, renewed me by Your Spirit, and transformed me by Your Word. Thank You so much for empowering me with Your strength and entrusting me with Your mission.

Help me to always be fit for You O Lord not just in body, but in soul and spirit, to love You with all my heart and follow Your perfect will. To know You with all my understanding and worship You in truth, not just in words, but in deeds. To serve You with all my strength and glorify You in all I do. May I always live with You in Your presence and enjoy You forevermore. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JOHN

Luke 1:5-25

II: Stories of the Judges

THE BIRTH OF SAMSON

Judges 13:1-25

Second Book of Psalms 42-72

PRAYER IN TIME OF OLD AGE

Psalm 71:1-24

Reflection Source:

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