“What are you looking for?”

Jesus turned and saw them

following him and said to them, 

“What are you looking for?” 

They said to him, “Rabbi” 

(which translated means Teacher), 

“where are you staying?” 

(John 1:38)

Look for Jesus in the morning when the sun begins to rise. He will fill your heart with joy and brighten up your eyes. Look for Jesus in the noonday when the world is in a rush. He will give you peace and calm and help you overcome the crush. Look for Jesus in the evening when the shadows start to fall. He will be your light and guide and answer when you call. Look for Jesus in the night time when the darkness fills your mind. He will comfort you and heal you and show you he is kind.

We have found the Messiah, He is Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, the one the prophets foretold. He is the Son of God, the Lamb who breaks the mold. He is the one who heals and saves, the King of kings, the Lord who rules the waves. He is the one who loves and cares, the Prince of peace, the Friend who always shares. He is the one who died and rose, the Alpha and Omega, the Source from which life flows. 

John was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and as he watched Jesus walk by, he said, “Behold, the Lamb of God.” The two disciples heard what he said and followed Jesus. Jesus turned and saw them following him and said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come, and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day. It was about four in the afternoon. Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, was one of the two who heard John and followed Jesus. He first found his own brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah,” which is translated Christ. Then he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John; you will be called Cephas,” which is translated Peter. (John 1:35-42)

Act in righteousness, not in sin for God is watching from above. He knows your thoughts and deeds and judges you with love. Act in righteousness, not in pride for God is humble and meek. He resists the proud and haughty and lifts up the weak. Act in righteousness, not in hate for God is gracious and forgiving. He commands you to love your neighbor and shows you the way of living. Act in righteousness, not in fear for God is faithful and strong. He protects you from all evil and helps you to belong.

Children, let no one deceive you. The person who acts in righteousness is righteous, just as he is righteous. Whoever sins belongs to the devil, because the devil has sinned from the beginning. Indeed, the Son of God was revealed to destroy the works of the devil. No one who is begotten by God commits sin, because God’s seed remains in him; he cannot sin because he is begotten by God. In this way, the children of God and the children of the devil are made plain; no one who fails to act in righteousness belongs to God, nor anyone who does not love his brother. (1 John 3:7-10)

Jesus rules the world with justice and the peoples with equity. He is the righteous judge of all and the source of all authority, He is the faithful servant of all and the model of all humility. He is the loving shepherd of all and the giver of all mercy. He is the living Lord of all and the hope of all eternity.

Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done wondrous deeds. His right hand has won victory for him, his holy arm. Let the sea and what fills it resound, the world and those who dwell in it; Let the rivers clap their hands, the mountains shout with them for joy before the Lord. The Lord comes, he comes to rule the earth; He will rule the world with justice and the peoples with equity. (Psalm 98:1, 7-8, 9)

Lord Jesus, You rule the world with justice and the peoples with equity. I look on You as my Lord and Savior. Help me to always find You not just in my innerself but also in others. I am a sinner who will always beg for Your pardon and mercy. Forgive me dear Lord for the countless times I have not been just, fair and honest in my dealings. May I always follow Your ways in all my days now and forever. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

THE FIRST DISCIPLES

John 1:35-51

II: God as Light

AVOIDING SIN

1 John 3:4-18

Fourth Book of Psalms 90-106

THE COMING OF GOD

Psalm 98:1-9

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing Chat

Published:

January 04, 2024, 7:35 AM

Know All

If anyone supposes he knows something, 

he does not yet know as he ought to know.

(1 Corinthians 8:2)

Knowledge can sometimes lead to pride, but love builds up and edifies others. While knowledge is important, love should be our guiding principle. Even if we have the freedom to do something, it’s crucial to consider how our actions affect others. We should be considerate and empathetic, ensuring that our freedoms do not become stumbling blocks for others. Our interactions should be done with humility and compassion, prioritizing the well-being of others over simply being right. 

Our belief in one God and one Lord, Jesus Christ should anchor our faith and guide our decisions. We should stay focused on our relationship with God and to let this relationship influence our actions and attitudes. Sometimes it is necessary to set aside our own preferences and freedoms out of love and concern for the spiritual well-being of others. By considering the needs and consciences of others, we contribute to a supportive and loving community. Before making decisions, especially those that might affect others, let us consider how our actions reflect love and compassion.

Love Over Knowledge

Knowledge can sometimes lead to pride, 

But love builds up, it edifies. 

While knowledge shines, love must guide, 

In every heart, let love reside.

Even with freedom in our hand, 

Consider how our actions land. 

Be empathetic, kind, and true, 

Ensuring others’ well-being too.

Humility and compassion’s call, 

Prioritize others, great and small. 

Not just to be right, but to care, 

In every interaction, love to share.

One God, one Lord, our faith’s strong base, 

Guiding our steps, our life’s embrace. 

Stay focused on this sacred bond, 

Let actions reflect love profound.

Set aside your own desires, 

For others’ spiritual fires. 

Consider needs, consciences too, 

In love, a supportive community grew.

Before decisions, pause and see, 

How love and compassion should be. 

Reflecting Christ in all we do, 

In every choice, let love shine through.

Prayer for Love and Humility

Heavenly Father,

We come before You, acknowledging that knowledge can sometimes lead to pride, but love builds up and edifies others. While knowledge is important, let love be our guiding principle. Even if we have the freedom to do something, help us to consider how our actions affect others. Grant us the grace to be considerate and empathetic, ensuring that our freedoms do not become stumbling blocks for others.

Teach us to interact with humility and compassion, prioritizing the well-being of others over simply being right. May our belief in one God and one Lord, Jesus Christ, anchor our faith and guide our decisions. Help us to stay focused on our relationship with You and let this relationship influence our actions and attitudes.

Sometimes it is necessary to set aside our own preferences and freedoms out of love and concern for the spiritual well-being of others. By considering the needs and consciences of others, we contribute to a supportive and loving community. Before making decisions, especially those that might affect others, let us consider how our actions reflect love and compassion.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

III. Answers to the Corinthian's Questions (B. Offerings to Idols)

KNOWLEDGE INSUFFICIENT / PRACTICAL RULES

1 Corinthians 8:1-6 / 7-13

First Reading | 1 Corinthians 8:1-7, 11-13

1 Brothers and sisters: Knowledge inflates with pride, but love builds up. 2 If anyone supposes he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. 3 But if one loves God, one is known by him. 4 So about the eating of meat sacrificed to idols: we know that *there is no idol in the world,* and that *there is no God but one.* 5 Indeed, even though there are so-called gods in heaven and on earth (there are, to be sure, many “gods” and many “lords”), 6 yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom all things are and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things are and through whom we exist. 7 But not all have this knowledge. There are some who have been so used to idolatry up until now that, when they eat meat sacrificed to idols, their conscience, which is weak, is defiled. 11 Thus through your knowledge, the weak person is brought to destruction, the brother for whom Christ died. 12 When you sin in this way against your brothers and wound their consciences, weak as they are, you are sinning against Christ. 13 Therefore, if food causes my brother to sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I may not cause my brother to sin.

Background:

1 Corinthians 8:1-7 and 11-13 addresses the issue of eating food sacrificed to idols, a contentious topic in the early Christian community in Corinth. 

Context and Background

The city of Corinth was a major commercial hub in ancient Greece, known for its diverse population and numerous pagan temples. Many of the new Christians in Corinth had previously participated in pagan rituals, including eating meat that had been sacrificed to idols. This practice became a point of contention within the church.

Knowledge vs. Love: Paul begins by acknowledging that “we all possess knowledge” but cautions that “knowledge puffs up while love builds up” (1 Corinthians 8:1). He emphasizes that love should guide their actions, not just knowledge.

Idols and One True God: Paul asserts that idols are nothing and that there is only one God, the Father, and one Lord, Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 8:4-6). This knowledge gives some believers the freedom to eat meat sacrificed to idols without feeling guilty.

Consideration for Weaker Believers: However, not all believers possess this knowledge. Some, whose conscience is weak, may see eating such meat as participating in idol worship, which could lead them to stumble in their faith (1 Corinthians 8:7, 11-13). Paul urges the stronger believers to refrain from eating meat if it causes their weaker brothers and sisters to stumble, prioritizing love and the well-being of others over their own freedom.

Learning Lessons:

1. Prioritize Love Over Knowledge. Paul emphasizes that while knowledge is important, love should be our guiding principle. Knowledge can sometimes lead to pride, but love builds up and edifies others. This teaches us to approach our interactions with humility and compassion, prioritizing the well-being of others over simply being right.

2. Understand the Impact of Our Actions. Even if we have the freedom to do something, it’s crucial to consider how our actions affect others. Paul advises the Corinthians to be mindful of their weaker brothers and sisters who might be led astray by their actions. This encourages us to be considerate and empathetic, ensuring that our freedoms do not become stumbling blocks for others.

3. Acknowledge the One True God. Paul reaffirms the belief in one God and one Lord, Jesus Christ. This central truth should anchor our faith and guide our decisions. It reminds us to stay focused on our relationship with God and to let this relationship influence our actions and attitudes.

4. Exercise Self-Control and Sacrifice. Paul’s willingness to refrain from eating meat if it causes another to stumble highlights the importance of self-control and sacrifice for the sake of others. This teaches us to sometimes set aside our own preferences and freedoms out of love and concern for the spiritual well-being of others.

5. Build a Supportive Community. By considering the needs and consciences of others, we contribute to a supportive and loving community. This passage encourages us to foster an environment where everyone feels valued and supported in their faith journey.

Practical Application

In Daily Life: Before making decisions, especially those that might affect others, consider how your actions reflect love and compassion.

In Community: Strive to build up others in your community, being mindful of their spiritual needs and weaknesses.

In Faith: Keep your focus on God and let your relationship with Him guide your actions and interactions with others.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Think what is Best

So this is what I think best 

because of the present distress: 

that it is a good thing 

for a person to remain as he is. 

(1 Corinthians 7:26)

God has a plan for us in every season of life. We need to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances seeking and valuing godly wisdom and counsel in our decisions, especially during uncertain times. It is important to balance our earthly commitments with our spiritual responsibilities focusing on what truly matters—our relationship with God and our spiritual growth—rather than getting overly attached to temporary, worldly concerns. Let us live with an eternal perspective and be open to God’s leading and to adjust our plans and expectations according to His will.

Balancing Earth with Heaven's Call

In every season, God’s plan unfolds, 

Through changing times, His wisdom holds. 

Flexibility and grace we seek, 

In every choice, His counsel speak.

When uncertainty clouds our way, 

We trust in Him, come what may. 

Balancing earth with heaven’s call, 

In His presence, we stand tall.

Worldly concerns may come and go, 

But in His love, our spirits grow. 

Eternal perspective, our guiding light, 

In His will, we find our might.

Let us be open, hearts aligned, 

To His leading, pure and kind. 

Adjust our plans, our hopes, our dreams, 

In His purpose, life redeems.

Prayer for Flexibility and Adaptability

Heavenly Father,

In every season of life, we trust in Your divine plan. Grant us the flexibility and adaptability to navigate changing circumstances with grace. Help us to seek and value godly wisdom and counsel in all our decisions, especially during uncertain times.

Teach us to balance our earthly commitments with our spiritual responsibilities, focusing on what truly matters—our relationship with You and our spiritual growth. Guard our hearts against becoming overly attached to temporary, worldly concerns.

May we live with an eternal perspective, always open to Your leading. Guide us to adjust our plans and expectations according to Your will, trusting that Your ways are higher than ours.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

III: Answers to the Corinthians' Questions - A. Marriage and Virginity

ADVICE TO VIRGINS AND WIDOWS

1 Corinthians 7:25-40

First Reading | 1 Corinthians 7:25-31

25 Brothers and sisters: In regard to virgins, I have no commandment from the Lord, but I give my opinion as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy. 26 So this is what I think best because of the present distress: that it is a good thing for a person to remain as he is. 27 Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek a separation. Are you free of a wife? Then do not look for a wife. 28 If you marry, however, you do not sin, nor does an unmarried woman sin if she marries; but such people will experience affliction in their earthly life, and I would like to spare you that. 29 I tell you, brothers, the time is running out. From now on, let those having wives act as not having them, 30 those weeping as not weeping, those rejoicing as not rejoicing, those buying as not owning, 31 those using the world as not using it fully. For the world in its present form is passing away.

Background:

1 Corinthians 7:25-31 is part of a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. This passage specifically addresses the topic of marriage and singleness, providing guidance during a time of crisis.

Context and Background

Paul refers to a “present crisis” (1 Corinthians 7:26), which many scholars believe could be a period of persecution, famine, or other significant distress affecting the early Christian community. Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece, known for its diverse population and moral challenges. The church there faced issues related to sexual immorality, marriage, and social status.

Paul’s Guidance: 

Paul begins by addressing those who are virgins or unmarried, stating that he has no direct command from the Lord but offers his trustworthy judgment (1 Corinthians 7:25). He suggests that remaining single might be beneficial due to the current crisis. Paul advises those who are already married not to seek a separation and those who are single not to seek marriage, though he clarifies that marrying is not a sin (1 Corinthians 7:27-28). He emphasizes the transient nature of the world, encouraging believers to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on their relationship with God rather than earthly concerns (1 Corinthians 7:29-31).

Learning Lessons:

1. Trust in God’s Wisdom. Paul emphasizes that his advice comes from a place of trustworthiness and experience, even though he doesn’t have a direct command from the Lord. This teaches us the importance of seeking and valuing godly wisdom and counsel in our decisions, especially during uncertain times.

2. Contentment in Current Circumstances. Paul advises those who are single to remain as they are due to the present crisis. This encourages us to find contentment and purpose in our current situation, whether single or married, trusting that God has a plan for us in every season of life.

3. Eternal Perspective. Paul reminds believers of the transient nature of the world, urging them to live with an eternal perspective. This lesson encourages us to focus on what truly matters—our relationship with God and our spiritual growth—rather than getting overly attached to temporary, worldly concerns.

4. Flexibility and Adaptability. In advising both married and single individuals, Paul highlights the need to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances. This teaches us to be open to God’s leading and to adjust our plans and expectations according to His will.

5. Balancing Commitments. Paul’s guidance on marriage and singleness underscores the importance of balancing our earthly commitments with our spiritual responsibilities. Whether married or single, we are called to live faithfully and responsibly, prioritizing our relationship with God.

6. Living with Urgency. The passage encourages believers to live as though the time is short, which can inspire us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose, making the most of every opportunity to serve God and others.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

You shall Know the Lord

God’s Relentless Pursuit

God relentlessly pursues us, even when we stray,

His love unwavering, guiding us each day.

He longs to restore broken relationships,

Drawing us back to Himself with gentle grips.

His covenant is all-encompassing, wide and deep,

Bringing restoration to every aspect we keep.

From shattered dreams to hidden fears,

He desires to mend, wiping away our tears.

Idols crumble in His presence, powerless and frail,

As He establishes an unbreakable bond, without fail.

True knowledge of the Lord transcends mere thought,

It’s recognizing His hand in every moment sought.

When we align with His will, we bear fruit,

Blooming like flowers, our purpose taking root.

May we embrace God’s pursuit, surrendering all,

Allowing Him to remove idols, breaking their thrall.

Seek Him intimately, in whispers and storms,

For our lives echo creation, where His glory transforms.

Acknowledging His sovereignty, we yield and adore,

Bearing fruit that reflects His love forevermore.

REFLECTION:

I will espouse you in fidelity, and you shall know the Lord. (Hosea 2:22)

God relentlessly pursues us, even when we stray. His desire is to restore broken relationships and draw us back to Himself. God’s covenant is all-encompassing, bringing restoration to every aspect of our lives. He desires to free us from idolatry and establish an unbreakable bond. 

True knowledge of the Lord goes beyond intellectual understanding; it involves recognizing His hand in every aspect of life. When we align with His will, we bear fruit. 

May we embrace God’s pursuit, allow Him to remove idols, and seek to know Him intimately. Let our lives echo the response of creation, acknowledging His sovereignty and bearing fruit for His glory. 

A Prayer of Surrender and Intimacy

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before You, humbled by Your relentless pursuit. Even when we stray, Your love remains steadfast, drawing us back into Your embrace. We thank You for desiring restoration in our brokenness, for seeking to mend every fractured relationship.

Lord, Your covenant is vast—encompassing every aspect of our lives. You long to free us from the chains of idolatry, those things that distract us from You. Help us recognize and release these false gods, that we may find true freedom in You.

Grant us an unbreakable bond with You, woven through trust and obedience. May our knowledge of You extend beyond mere intellect, reaching into the depths of our hearts. Open our eyes to see Your hand at work in every moment, whether in joy or trial.

As we align with Your will, may our lives bear fruit—a harvest of love, kindness, and compassion. Let our actions echo the response of creation, acknowledging Your sovereignty. May our hearts yield to Your purpose, glorifying You in all we do.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

I: The Prophet's Marriage and its Lesson

ISRAEL'S PUNISHMENT AND RESTORATION

Hosea 2:1-25

First Reading | Hosea 2:16, 17-18, 21-22

16 Thus says the Lord: I will allure her; I will lead her into the desert and speak to her heart. 17 She shall respond there as in the days of her youth, when she came up from the land of Egypt. 18 On that day, says the Lord, She shall call me “My husband,” and never again “My baal.” 21 I will espouse you to me forever: I will espouse you in right and in justice, in love and in mercy; 22 I will espouse you in fidelity, and you shall know the Lord. 

Background:

Let’s explore the beautiful and profound verses from the book of Hosea. These passages reveal God’s deep love, compassion, and desire for a restored relationship with His people.

Hosea 2:16: “Therefore, I will allure her now; I will lead her into the wilderness and speak persuasively to her.” In this verse, God speaks tenderly to Israel, using the imagery of a lover alluring or wooing a beloved. Despite their unfaithfulness, God seeks to draw them back to Himself. The wilderness represents a place of intimacy and transformation, where God will speak to their hearts.

Hosea 2:17-18: “Then I will give her the vineyards she had, and the valley of Achor as a door of hope. There she will respond as in the days of her youth, as on the day when she came up from the land of Egypt.” The valley of Achor was associated with trouble and judgment (see Joshua 7:26). But here, God promises to transform it into a door of hope—a new entry into the promised land. Israel’s relationship with God will be restored, and they will respond with youthful devotion.

Hosea 2:21-22: “I will betroth you to me forever: I will betroth you to me with justice and with judgment, with loyalty and with compassion; I will betroth you to me with fidelity, and you shall know the Lord.” These verses depict a remarriage between God and Israel. The betrothal language emphasizes commitment and covenant. God promises justice, loyalty, and compassion. Through this renewed relationship, Israel will truly know and acknowledge the Lord.

Reflection: These passages remind us of God’s relentless pursuit of our hearts, even when we stray. His love seeks to restore, transform, and betroth us to Himself forever. May we respond with openness, trust, and a desire to know Him intimately. 

Learning Lessons:

Let’s delve into the profound lessons we can glean from the verses in Hosea 2:16, 17-18, and 21-22. These passages reveal God’s heart, His desire for restoration, and the transformative power of His love:

God’s Pursuit of Restoration: In Hosea 2:16, God declares, “On that day, you will call me ‘My husband,’ and no longer will you call me ‘My Baal.’” Here, God promises a restored relationship with Israel. Despite their unfaithfulness, He longs to be their loving and faithful Husband. The shift from “Baal” (which means “master” or “lord”) to “husband” signifies intimacy and reconciliation. Lesson: God relentlessly pursues us, even when we stray. His desire is to restore broken relationships and draw us back to Himself.

Removing Idols and Covenant Renewal: Hosea 2:17c-18 states, “I will remove the names of the Baals from her mouth, and they shall be mentioned by name no more. I will make for you a covenant on that day with the wild animals, the birds of the air, and the creeping things of the ground.” God promises to eradicate idolatry and establish a new covenant. The removal of Baal’s name signifies a break from false gods. The covenant extends not only to humans but also to creation itself. God’s peace will replace war, and safety will prevail. Lesson: God’s covenant is all-encompassing, bringing restoration to every aspect of our lives. He desires to free us from idolatry and establish an unbreakable bond.

Knowing the Lord: Hosea 2:21-22 declares, “On that day, I will answer the heavens, and they shall answer the earth; and the earth shall answer the grain, the wine, and the oil, and they shall answer Jezreel.” This interconnected dialogue emphasizes God’s sovereignty. Creation responds to Him, and Jezreel (meaning “God sows”) symbolizes spiritual fruitfulness. Lesson: True knowledge of the Lord goes beyond intellectual understanding; it involves recognizing His hand in every aspect of life. When we align with His will, we bear fruit.

Reflection: As we learn from Hosea, may we embrace God’s pursuit, allow Him to remove idols, and seek to know Him intimately. Let our lives echo the response of creation, acknowledging His sovereignty and bearing fruit for His glory. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Seek and Save What was Lost

And Jesus said to him, 

“Today salvation has come to this house 

because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. 

For the Son of Man has come 

to seek and to save what was lost.”

LUKE 19:9-10

Jesus Christ came to earth to offer Himself in the place of sinners and save them from the penalty they deserve. This phrase is from Luke 19:10, where Jesus says it after meeting Zacchaeus, a tax collector who repented and turned to God. It signifies that Jesus came to seek and save all those who are lost and in need of redemption. 

At that time Jesus came to Jericho and intended to pass through the town. Now a man there named Zacchaeus, who was a chief tax collector and also a wealthy man, was seeking to see who Jesus was; but he could not see him because of the crowd, for he was short in stature. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. When he reached the place, Jesus looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house.” And he came down quickly and received him with joy. When they all saw this, they began to grumble, saying, “He has gone to stay at the house of a sinner.” But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost.” (Luke 19:1-10)

Christ’s mission was one of compassion, grace, and salvation for those who were spiritually lost. His purpose was to seek out and redeem those who were separated from God, offering hope and forgiveness to all who would turn to Him.

Your words echo with courage, a resolute determination to uphold honor and righteousness. The path you tread is one of self-sacrifice, leaving behind a legacy etched in valor and devotion. 

Eleazar, one of the foremost scribes, a man of advanced age and noble appearance, was being forced to open his mouth to eat pork. But preferring a glorious death to a life of defilement, he spat out the meat, and went forward of his own accord to the instrument of torture, as people ought to do who have the courage to reject the food which it is unlawful to taste even for love of life. Those in charge of that unlawful ritual meal took the man aside privately, because of their long acquaintance with him, and urged him to bring meat of his own providing, such as he could legitimately eat, and to pretend to be eating some of the meat of the sacrifice prescribed by the king; in this way he would escape the death penalty, and be treated kindly because of their old friendship with him. But Eleazar made up his mind in a noble manner, worthy of his years, the dignity of his advanced age, the merited distinction of his gray hair, and of the admirable life he had lived from childhood; and so he declared that above all he would be loyal to the holy laws given by God. He told them to send him at once to the abode of the dead, explaining: “At our age it would be unbecoming to make such a pretense; many young men would think the ninety-year-old Eleazar had gone over to an alien religion. Should I thus pretend for the sake of a brief moment of life, they would be led astray by me, while I would bring shame and dishonor on my old age. Even if, for the time being, I avoid the punishment of men, I shall never, whether alive or dead, escape the hands of the Almighty. Therefore, by manfully giving up my life now, I will prove myself worthy of my old age, and I will leave to the young a noble example of how to die willingly and generously for the revered and holy laws.” Eleazar spoke thus, and went immediately to the instrument of torture. Those who shortly before had been kindly disposed, now became hostile toward him because what he had said seemed to them utter madness. When he was about to die under the blows, he groaned and said: “The Lord in his holy knowledge knows full well that, although I could have escaped death, I am not only enduring terrible pain in my body from this scourging, but also suffering it with joy in my soul because of my devotion to him.” This is how he died, leaving in his death a model of courage and an unforgettable example of virtue not only for the young but for the whole nation. (2 Maccabees 6:18-31)

In twilight's embrace, you stand, a sentinel of honor, resolute. Your life, a testament to the grand, a beacon for the young, absolute. The revered laws, you yield. Generously, willingly, you tread. In sacrifice, your purpose revealed, a noble example, in shadows spread. As the sun sets on your days, may your unwavering spirit inspire generations to come, igniting flames of nobility and selflessness. 

When darkness veils your weary soul, and burdens weigh upon your fragile frame, God's light breaks through, makes you whole, your glory, your strength, your eternal flame.

O Lord, how many are my adversaries! Many rise up against me! Many are saying of me, “There is no salvation for him in God.” But you, O Lord, are my shield; my glory, you lift up my head! When I call out to the Lord, he answers me from His holy mountain. When I lie down in sleep, I wake again, for the Lord sustains me. I fear not the myriads of people arrayed against me on every side. (Psalm 3:2-3, 4-5, 6-7)

In the shadowed fray, where battles rage, my refuge, my defense, my shield unfurled. The tempests howl, yet I stand unswayed, For You, O Lord, are my fortress, my world. Lifted high, my head, once bowed in strife, Your grace, a beacon, pierces the night. In Your embrace, I find abundant life, a symphony of love, unwavering and bright. So I raise my voice, my heart's refrain, to You, O Lord, my refuge and my song. In Your presence, I find solace, gain, for You, my Shield, my Glory, I belong.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

ZACCHAEUS THE TAX COLLECTOR

Luke 19:1-10

IV: Profanation and Persecution

MARTYRDOM OF ELEAZAR

2 Maccabees 6:18-31

First Book of Psalms 1-41

THREATENED BUT TRUSTING

Psalm 3:1-9

Reflection Source:

Microsoft Copilot

SEEK THE LORD

Glory in his holy name; rejoice, O hearts 
that seek the Lord!

Psalm 105:3

Look to the Lord in His strength; 
seek to serve Him constantly.

Psalm 105:4

I sought the Lord, and He answered me 

and delivered me from all my fears. 

Psalm 34:5

Simon and those who were with him pursued him, and they found him and said to him, "Everyone is searching for you." (Mark 1:36-37)

Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord? Or who may stand in his holy place? He whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain. Such is the race that seeks for him, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob. (Psalm 24:3-4, 6)

Seek the Lord is a phrase that means to pursue a personal relationship with God through prayer, worship, obedience, and faith. It is a biblical command and a spiritual practice that leads to joy, peace, and salvation. Here are some of the reasons and ways to seek the Lord:

To know and love God: Seeking the Lord is the way to know Him personally and intimately, and to grow in our love for Him. God reveals Himself to those who seek Him with all their heart, and He delights in our desire for Him. [Jeremiah 29:13], [Psalm 37:4]

To receive His grace and mercy: Seeking the Lord is the way to receive His forgiveness, healing, and restoration. God is gracious and merciful to those who seek Him sincerely and humbly, and He promises to pardon and heal our sins and wounds. [Isaiah 55:6-7], [2 Chronicles 7:14]

To obey His will and commands: Seeking the Lord is the way to obey His will and commands for our lives. God guides and instructs those who seek Him diligently and faithfully, and He empowers us to do His good and pleasing will. [Psalm 119:10], [Proverbs 3:5-6]

To enjoy His presence and blessings: Seeking the Lord is the way to enjoy His presence and blessings in our lives. God fills and satisfies those who seek Him earnestly and continually, and He bestows on us His joy, peace, and favor. [Psalm 16:11], [Matthew 6:33]

Seeking the Lord is not a one-time event, but a lifelong journey. It requires our whole heart, mind, soul, and strength. It involves our daily choices, actions, and attitudes. It is not a burden, but a privilege and a pleasure. It is the greatest adventure and the highest reward. Seek the Lord today and always, and you will find him. [Deuteronomy 4:29], [Hebrews 11:6]

Source:

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PRAYER

 

Lord, I am yours; save me, for I have sought your precepts (Ps 119:94).With all my heart I seek you; let me not stray from your commands (Ps 119:10).

Father in heaven, nothing is imposible with you. Only you can work for good in me. In You, I am assured that I am stronger than my enemies. Thank You so much for Your hand that continues to work wonders in our daily lives making us victorious in our battles.

 

Please forgive me dear Father for I have sinned. In my hour of weakness and temptation, be my strength and shield. May Your love, mercy, and forgiveness be upon me always each time I sin. May your Spirit in Christ fill me with all I need in order to live a righteous life for the praise and glory of Your name. I completely surrender my faith in You as I seek You each and every moment of my life.

In a special way, I humbly claim the mighty power of Your hands to work great wonders over the lives of all of us Your children most especially those who are in dire need of Your presence. Stretch out and extend Your most loving hands to all the people who are currently suffering from bondage and poverty. 

With much hope, love, and thanksgiving, I offer you back all the glory and praise in Jesus Name. Amen.

Pericope:
JESUS LEAVES CAPERNAUM - Mark 1:35-39
THE GLORY OF GOD IN PROCESSION TO ZION - Psalm 24:1-10
THANKSGIVING TO GOD WHO DELIVERS THE JUST - Psalm 34:1-23 
GOD'S FIDELITY TO THE PROMISE - Psalm 105:1-43
A PRAYER TO GOD, THE LAWGIVER - Psalm 119:1-176


Published:

July 22, 2023, 7:02 AM

August 08, 2021, 9:00 AM

October 26, 2019, 9:05 AM
October 25, 2019, 8:03 AM
July 06, 2018, 9:43 AM
February 20, 2014, 4:01 PM
January 15, 2013, 3:26PM
November 07, 2012, 2:26PM

Think As God Does

 He turned and said to Peter, 

“Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me. 

You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.”

MATTHEW 6 : 23

Thinking means to have or form in the mind as an idea, conception, etc., to have or form in the mind in order to understand, know, or remember something else. First recorded before 900; Middle English thinken, variant of thenken, Old English thencan; cognate with Dutch, German denken, Old Norse thekkja, Gothic thagkjan; akin to Latin tongēre “to know”. (Dictionary.com).

The Lord declares, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). I know their works and their thoughts; the time is coming to gather all nations and tongues. And they shall come and see My glory" (Isaiah 66:18).

They do not know the thoughts of the LORD, and they do not understand His purpose; for He has gathered them like sheaves to the threshing floor (Micah 4:12). The thoughts of God no one knows except the Spirit of God. We speak not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words (1 Corinthians 2:11,13). 

The LORD knows the thoughts of man, that they are a mere breath (Psalm 94:11). And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, “Why are you thinking evil in your hearts? (Matthew 9:4) From within, out of the heart of men, proceed the evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries" (Mark 7:21).

The LORD searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever (1 Chronicles 28:9). For behold, He who forms mountains and creates the wind and declares to man what are His thoughts, He who makes dawn into darkness and treads on the high places of the earth, the LORD God of hosts is His name. (Amos 4:13)

How great are Your works, O LORD! Your thoughts are very deep. (Psalm 92:5). How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them! (Psalm 139:17) Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; (Psalm 139:23) When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul. (Psalm 94:19)