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Saturday, March 31, 2012

Kiss the Son

"God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth."

--- John 4:24 ---

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Worship --- From Greek word, proskuneo ---
pros: toward, for purpose of;
kuneo: to kiss



Kiss --- Token of Brotherhood
Absence of formality, hypocrisy
Freedom from prejudice
Without any attitude of condescension or disrespect



Brotherhood
In plural, 'a community based on identity of origin or life'.

Token
Manifestation, evidence, or sign.


Worship ---

Denotes why a person behaves in a certain manner.
Denotes why a person show forth a certain character.
Requires a person to Kiss the Son.


 
Kiss the Son ---

Manifest that one is a member of a community that has as its foundation, the knowledge that Jesus -- the life -- is the expressed character of God.


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Worship The Lord - Can`t Stop Praising
Courtesy of Ron Kenoly
 





Further Review

Styles of Worship ---
  • Objective --- When people think chiefly about God; may be cold, remote from practical concerns.
  • Subjective --- When people think more about selves; may become sentimental, even hysterical.
  • 'Spectacular' --- When people think more about leader, personality; tends to degrade things thare holy; tends to lead to sacrilege, blasphemy.
*** Worship should be objective, but enough subjective to accord with facts of human experience

Songs of Worship ---
  • Psalms --- To praise is to psalm. Magnifying God because of His works.
  • Hymns --- Ascription of the perfections of Deity. Expresses point of worship. Magnifying God because of His matchless perfections, because He is God Almighty.
  • 'Spiritual Songs' --- Recital of God's ways or believer's experience.










Part 9 -- The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah-Tseboath)

Psalm 23 --- One of the most well-known passage of scriptures which is often referenced in times of distress to provide a person a measure of comfort and assurance. It's time for deeper reflection on what this passage really is conveying about the relationship between God and Man.


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"Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies"
Significant Points
Supply of salt and minerals to be distributed ar strategic spots by shepherd. Shepherd plans grazin/rotation program, check for poisonous weeds.
Cammas --- Blue cammas are delightful sight. White cammas much less conspicuious flower, quite attractive, and deadly menace to sheep; if lambs in particular, ate or even nibbled a few of the lily-like leaves could mean certain death; lambs become paralyzed --- succomb to toxic poisons in plants.
Shepherd clears out waterholes, springs, and drinking places for flock (the debris accumulated in autumn and winter)
Predators may be upon rimrock watching sheep, waiting for an opportunity to attack sheep.



Jesus Be a Fence Around Me

by Fred Hammond








Further Review

Jehovah-Tseboath --- The Lord of Hosts

Video ---  God Will Take Care of You

Video ---  No Weapon

Video --- The Battle Is Not Yours

Psalm 3




Friday, March 30, 2012

Water, Kiss, and Oil

"And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment...And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment  --- Luke 7:37-38; 44-46

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Worship of Jesus Christ

 It's Personal

Water --- (Service) ---  Due to the prevalence of dusty roads, it is customary to wash the feet of house guests. It was act of hospitality and service.  "But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant." --- Matthew 23:11


Kiss --- (Love) --- It is customary to greet one another with a 'holy kiss' (cheek-to-cheek) --- an expression of God's love towards all humans. It's a token of brotherhood. It is not an erotic gesture. "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."  --- John 13:35


Oil --- (Respect) --- It is customary to anoint certain house guests with oil as an act of hospitality. In the scriptures, 'anointing' signifies divine consecration and approval. It's not charismatic fervor   "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."  --- Colassians 3:17 
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Alabaster Box
by CeCe Winans







Further Reflection



Jesus Christ: The Expression of the God Almighty.


John 1:1, 14 --- "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God...And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us."

John 4:24 --- "God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth."

Colossians 2:9 --- "For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily."


Related Blog --- The Standard

Related Blog --- Kiss the Son

 
Essence of Worship ---




Expressions of Alabaster Box ---




Mark 12:30 --- "And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength."



Saturday, March 24, 2012

He Didn't Have To Do It

He didn't have to do it ---
Received the ridicule and rejection without rebuke
He didn't have to do it, but He did.

He didn't have to do it ---
Received the spitting and scourging without retaliation.
He didn't have to do it, but He did.

He didn't have to do it ---
Received the cross on His back, thorns on His head, and spear in His side without murmuring and complaining.
He didn't have to do it, but He did.

 

He didn't have to do it ---
Received the curse of death and the imprisonment of the grave.
He didn't have to do it.
He didn't have to do it.
He didn't have to do it.

He didn't have to do it ---
Made the declaration that He has all power in heaven and earth.
He arose! He arose! He arose!
Behold the nail prints in His hands!

He didn't have to do it.
He didn't have to do it.
He didn't have to do it.
He didn't have to do it, but He did...willingly.


Further Reflection



"He Didn't Have To Do It"

Courtesy of Mississippi Mass Choir



It was Me

It was me that betrayed Him one night so late.
It was me that mocked Him before Pilate.
It was me that scourge Him ---blood flowing down his back.
It was me that place the cross on His shoulders to bear through the streets, to Calvalry.

It was me.
It was me that spit in His face.
It was me that placed the thorns on His head, nails in His hands and feet.
It was me that pierce Him in His side.
He loved and forgave
It was for me He died.

Part 8 --- The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah-Nissi)

Psalm 23 --- One of the most well-known passage of scriptures which is often referenced in times of distress to provide a person a measure of comfort and assurance. It's time for deeper reflection on what this passage really is conveying about the relationship between God and Man.

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"Thy rod and staff they comfort me."
Significant Points
When Shepherd is afield in country with flock, it is customary to carry minimum of equipment. 
Shepherd's main weapon of defense for himself and sheep: the rod. The rod is ever ready in the Shepherd's hand.
The Rod --- An extension of shepherd's own right arm; symbol of strength and power, and authority. An instrument used to discipline, correct sheep.
"Passing under the Rod" --- Using the word to count sheep; coming under the Shepherd's control and authority; Being subject to Shepherd's careful, intimate, and firsthand examination. Shepherd uses rod to to part wool to determine condition of skin, cleanliness of fleece, and conformation of the body.
The Staff identifies Shepherd as a shepherd. Unique instrument used for care and management of sheep and only sheep.
The Staff --- designed, shaped, and adapted especially to fit the needs of sheep. Normally a long slender stick often with crook/hook on end. Selected with care by Shepherd: shaped, smoothed, and cut to best suit own personal use. Used only for sheep benefit.
The Staff --- Essentially a symbol of concern and compassion Shepherd has for sheep.
The Staff --- Comfort to Shepherd whereby he leans on it for support and strength.
The Staff --- Draws sheep into intimate relationship i.e. lifts newborn lambs, brings to its mother if become separated); draws sheep to shepherd for intimate examination. (very useful for the shy and timid that normally tend to keep at distance from Shepherd)
The Staff --- used to guide sheep.


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Blessed Assurance




Further Review
Jehovah-Nissi --- The Lord Our Banner
Banner --- A military term referring to symbol or insignia that identifies an army. An example, the American Flag. May be used to describe anything used to identification by a group.
Related Blog: The Standard

Video: It's Mighty Nice

Part 7 --- The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah-Shammah)

Psalm 23 --- One of the most well-known passage of scriptures which is often referenced in times of distress to provide a person a measure of comfort and assurance. It's time for deeper reflection on what this passage really is conveying about the relationship between God and Man.


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"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me."



Significant Points



Sheep addresses the shepherd in this passage; becomes intimate discourse of deep affection. There's intimate contact between shepherd and sheep.

Dangers: Rampaging rivers in flood; avalanches, rock slides; poisonous plants, predators; storms of sleet, hail, and snow.

Shepherd heads towards high country with the summer range.
Shepherd leads flock gently and persistently.

The way of the valley: well-watered route; gentlest grades; generally where richest feed, best forage is found along route. 


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Never Alone

Courtesy of  Walter Hawkins



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Further Review


Jehovah-Shammah  --- The Lord is There


Related Blog: One More Valley

Related Blog: Guidance

Romans 8:35, 37-39 --- "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword...No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."


Hebrews 13:5-6 --- "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."








Part 6: The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah-Tsidkenu)

Psalm 23 --- One of the most well-known passage of scriptures which is often referenced in times of distress to provide a person a measure of comfort and assurance. It's time for deeper reflection on what this passage really is conveying about the relationship between God and Man.



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"He leadeth me beside in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake."


Significant Points


 
Sheep are creatures of habit, self-willed, indifferent, stiff-necked, stubborn; follow same trails until become ruts; graze same hills until become desert wastes; pollute own ground until become corrupt with parasites/diseases.

Sheep can gnaw at grass until roots are damaged. Damaged roots mean loss of fertility and exposure of land to all ravages of erosion; area becomes infested with worms, nematodes, scab, become thin, wasted, and sickly.

Shepherd must make sure over-grazing does not take place at any particular  location. Shepherd must maintain meticulous control and guidance. Sheep requires careful handling and detailed direction.Sheep cannot be left to struggle for themselves, left to go own way, left to whims of own destructive habits.

Shepherd keeps the flock on the move, must have pre-determined plan of action -- deliberate planned rotation from one grazing ground to another.

Shepherd's name/reputation depends upon how effectively/efficiently he keeps sheep moving onto wholesome new fresh forage.

Shepherd must have intimate knowledge of pasture: knows advantage, drawback, aware where the feed is poor.

Hirelings manages poorly, are indifferent, and ignorant.

Sheep are excited when led into fresh pasture. (Progressive forward movements onto new ground requires fresh attitudes)

 

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Justified by Faith


by Tramaine Hawkins






Further Reading


Jehovah Tsidkenu: The Lord Our Righteousness


Related Blog: Grazing in the Dirt



Friday, March 23, 2012

Teachable Moment: Grace and Reconciliation

The tragic death of Trayvon Martin has clearly brought forth passionate discourse among all Americans specifically regarding 'stand your ground' laws enacted in 31 states.

What's more reprehensible is the murder of James Craig Anderson. The death of these two young men brought the spectre of racism to the forefront of American consciousness.

What's strikingly resonating is the idea that no matter what is done there's no respect i.e. acceptance nor appreciation of each other as a person and bigotry continues.  It's not just regarding the achievements of African-Americans, but also among Caucasians who may feel constant need to atone for the sins of others. Ultimately, this state of affairs is a cycle that only exacerbates the problem through continued resentment and bitterness.

After the speeches, rallies, and marches this teachable moment should remind everyone of the familar words:

"But there is something that I must say to my people who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice. In the process of gaining our rightful place we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred...We cannot walk alone. As we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead."   --- Martin Luther King, Jr "I Have A Dream" Speech


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Overcoming bitterness requires forgiveness. There's much misunderstanding regarding forgiveness.

Forgiveness does not imply untoward actions are condone or less reprehensible.
Forgiveness does not preclude justice.

Forgiveness provides freedom. It's "forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before" (Philippians 3:13, KJV) When speaking of forgetting it's not about mere recollection of memory but rather 'letting go' of the pain and resentment associated with the memory. Indeed, unwillingness or failure to forgive is anchoring oneself to the past and preventing oneself from moving forward.

Forgiveness may be dificult for many people, there may be no doubt as to the truth of this. Forgiveness often occurs through a process of time.
Forgiveness is recognition of the truth "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23)

Forgiveness is a measure of God's grace (unmerited favor)


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Grace and Mercy





Further Review


A Family Forgives

A Community Forgives

Thoughts on Trayvon Martin & James Craig Anderson


USATODAY: Understanding Forgiveness

Bible: Forgiveness


Related Blog: Part 2: Movin' from the 'Hood

Related Blog: Part 5 --- The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah-Ropheka



Video: Cup of Bitterness

Video: Moving Forward

President Obama's Statement


Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Part 5 --- The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah-Ropheka)

Psalm 23 --- One of the most well-known passage of scriptures which is often referenced in times of distress to provide a person a measure of comfort and assurance. It's time for deeper reflection on what this passage really is conveying about the relationship between God and Man.


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"He restoreth my soul"
  
Significant Points


Sheep may be cast or cast down i.e. sheep has turned over on its back, cannot get up again by itself.

Sheep will bleet for help sometimes; generally sheep lies there lashing there about in frightened frustration. Sheep may die.

Shepherd must be watchful, careful, and make sure all sheep can be upon its feet. Shepherd first thought when sheep is missing, 'sheep is cast somewhere, must search, set it on its feet again.'

Sheep may become cast if heavy in lamb.

Predators know that cast sheep is easy prey and death is near. Cast sheep is serious problem for shepherd; sheep is helpless, close to death, vulnerable to attack.

Often the fat sheep are most easily cast; heavy, fat, or long-fleeced sheep may often be cast.

Sheep struggles; gases build up in rumen: as expand , there's retardation andd cutting off of blood circulation to extremities of body especially the legs.

If weather is very hot or sunny cast sheep can die within few hours. If weather is cool, cloudy, or rainy cast sheep may survive for several days.

Multiple loss to shepherd if sheep is an ewe with lambs; unborn lambs perish too; young and sucklings become orphans.

Restoring the sheep: roll sheep on its side (relieves pressure of gases in rumen). If sheep been down for long time Shepherd must lift sheep onto feet, straddle sheep with Shepherd's legs, hold sheep erect, rubbing limbs to restore circulation to legs. Restoration takes time.

When sheep started to walk again often stumbled, staggered, collapsed in heap once more.

While working on cast sheep, Shepherd talks to it -- language that combined tenderness and rebuke; compassion and correction.

Little by little sheep gains equilibrium, starts to walk steadily, surely; dashes to join others. Set free from fears and frustrations. Given another chance  to live a little longer.


Sheep become cast when: seek to rest in rounded hollows of ground; look for 'easy, cozy' place; looking for position where there are no hardships, no need for endurance, no demand upon self-discipline.

Sheep become cast when too fat. Over-fat sheep not most healthy, most productive; not as agile, nimble. Over-fat sheep receive less grain to correct problem. Shepherd's aim: strong, sturdy, energetic sheep; not fat, flabby, weak sheep. Shepherd imposes diet or 'discipline'

Sheep become cast when has much wool (often matted with mud, manure, burrs).
Note --- Levitical Priesthood: the High Priest was not allowed to wear wool in Most Holy Place.


Remedy: Shearing (clean) with cutting tool, not always pleasant process. Sheep do not really enjoy being sheared; represents  some hard work for Shepherd. Sheep are relieved, after shearing no threat of being cast down.



'I'm Healed'

By Donald Lawrence

Further Review


Psalm 43:5 --- "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God."

III John 1:2 --- "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth."

Healing Bible Verses

Jehovah-Ropheka --- The Lord who Healeth Thee

Video: Restoring the Years





Part 4 --- The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah El-Chaiyai)

Psalm 23 --- One of the most well-known passage of scriptures which is often referenced in times of distress to provide a person a measure of comfort and assurance. It's time for deeper reflection on what this passage really is conveying about the relationship between God and Man.


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"He leadeth me beside still waters"


Significant Points

Sheep thrive in semi-arid country. Sheep requires water.
Sheep need to be led to clean, pure water or else sheep will drink from polluted potholes whereby shhep become infected by internal parasites: nematodes, liver flukes, and other disease germs.
Water determines vitality, strength, vigor of sheep; essential to its health and well-being.
Water for sheep from 3 main sources: dew on grass, deep wells, and springs/streams.
Sheep composed of about 70% water (average)
Sheep needs to drink (practically speaking, take in, accept, believe)
Sheep can go months, especially if weather is not too hot, without actually drinking.
Thirst indicates need to have water supply replenished from source outside its self. When thirsty sheep becomes restless.
Shepherd knows where best drinking places are located; an often occurrence, the Shepherd with much effort and industry has provided the watering places.
Shepherd leads sheep to own wells; may be enormous hand-hewn caverns. Flock led down into cistern where cool, clean, and clear water awaits.
Sheep, by habit, rise before dawn, start to feed. If bright moonlight, sheep grazes at night.
Sheep graze just before/after dawn. Shepherd rises early to be out with flock, make sure flock benefits from early grazing.
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'Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us'

Further Review
Psalm 42:2 --- "My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God."
Jehovah El-Chaiyai --- The Lord God of My Life

Monday, March 12, 2012

A Remarkable Woman (Tribute)


 
"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies."
--- Proverbs 31:10 ---



 
When President Obama presented the concept of 'team of rivals' as a model for his administartion, there was some skepticism. As time passed the increased confidence in individual members was derived from the confidence in Obama's judgement to lead, with one exception. Valerie Jarrett.

The confidence in and admiration of Valerie Jarrett is absolute and independent of any positive regard towards President Obama.

Whether on CNN, Charlie Rose, Meet the Press, C-Span, or Bloomberg TV it's always enjoyable listening to her discuss policy and politics. In the public and private sectors she confronts misogynistic attitudes not in unseemly manner but with grit (and it's not cheesy) and grace.   

A Woman of Excellence



Further Reading


Valerie B. Jarrett is a Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama. She is also the Chair of the White House Council on Women and Girls.

Prior to joining the Obama Administration, she was the Chief Executive Officer of The Habitat Company. She also served as Co-Chair of the Obama-Biden Presidential Transition Team, and Senior Advisor to Obama's presidential campaign.

Ms. Jarrett has held positions in both the public and private sector, including the Chairman of the Chicago Transit Board, the Commissioner of Planning and Development for the City of Chicago, and Deputy Chief of Staff for Mayor Richard M. Daley. She also practiced law with two private law firms.

 Jarrett also served as a director of corporate and not for profit boards, including Chairman of the Board of the Chicago Stock Exchange, Director of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and Chairman of the University of Chicago Medical Center Board of Trustees.

Jarrett received her B.A. from Stanford University in 1978 and her J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School in 1981.

Source: www.whitehouse.gov




Saturday, March 10, 2012

Part 3 --- The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah-Shalom)

Psalm 23 --- One of the most well-known passage of scriptures which is often referenced in times of distress to provide a person a measure of comfort and assurance. It's time for deeper reflection on what this passage really is conveying about the relationship between God and Man.

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"He maketh me to lie down in green pastures"

Significant Points

Sheep do not lie down down unless four requirements are satisfied/achieved:

Sheep must be free from fear --- due to their timidity.
A startled sheep running in fear can cause other sheep to run in fear not waiting to see the cause of fright.

Sheep is helpless, timid, and feeble. Only recourse is running.

Sheep can lose via abortions unborn lambs when chased by predators.

Shepherd dispels the fear, panic and terror of the unknown; His knowing presence makes the difference.

Sheep must be free from friction (rivalry) with others of their kind --- due to social behavior within flock.
Within flock there's an establishment of dominance/status; 'butting order'.

Sheep may 'boss' other sheep. The 'boss' generally is arrogant, cunning, domineering; maintains position by butting/driving sheep from best grazing or favorite bedgrounds. Others succeed the 'boss' in precise order. Other sheep establish and maintain  exact position in flock using tactics as butting and thrusting.

Continuous conflict produces edginess, tension, discontentment, restlessnessirritability, and weight loss. Shepherd's presence and the attraction towards the presence of Shepherd cause sheep to forget rivalries, cease fighting. Shepherd's presence made difference in sheep behavior.

Less aggressive sheep more restful, contented, and quiet; 'first' in area of Shepherd's intimate affection.

Sheep must be free from torment by flies, parasites (pests) --- due to desire for relaxation and rest.
Shepherd applies various types of insect repellants to sheep; dips sheep to clear fleece of ticks; makes sure the availability of trees and bushes for a refuge/release from tormentors. Shepherd must take time, labor, and expensive chemicals to do the job thoroughly.

Shepherd must be among sheep daily to keep close watch on sheep behavior. As soon as there is the least evidence that sheep is disturbed, Shepherd must take steps to provide relief. The aim: Keeping flock quiet, contented, and at peace.

Sheep must be free from hunger --- due to need of finding food.
Most breeds of sheep flourish best in dry semi-arid areas/terrains; susceptible to fewer hazards of health and parasites where climate is dry.

Green pastures are not natural nor common. Green pastures are product of tremendous labor, time, and skill in land use. Green pastures are the result of clearing rough rocky land; tearing out brush, roots, and stumps; deep plowing, careful soil preparation; seeding, planting special grains and legumes; irrigating with water, cultivating with care the crops of the forage.

Sheep require green pastures for production of heavy milk flow. [Lambs could reach 100 pounds within 100 days from birth from feeding in green pastures (a common occurrence).

In green pastures sheep could  fill up quickly, lie down quietly, rest, and ruminate.
Ill-fed sheep lack vigor, vitality, are discontented, languish, and unsatisfied.

Agriculturally, 'milk and honey flow' refers to the peak season of spring and summer when pastures  are at their most productive stages. Livestock that feed on forage, bees thatvisit blossoms are said to be producing corresponding 'flow' of milk and honey. Land flowing with milk or honey is a land of rich green  luxuriant pastures.

Shepherd clears life of rocks of stony disbelief, tear out rocks of bitterness, break up hard proud human heart set like sun-dried clay; sows seed of the Word; waters with dew  and rain of own presence by the Holy Spirit; tends, cares, cultivates the life and longing to see it become rich, green and productive. Shepherd surprise how sheep chose inferior forage at times.
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In summary, Sheep must be free from fear, tension, agitations/aggravations, and hunger.
Only the Shepherd can provide freedom. Shepherd must be diligent.

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Wonderful Peace


Further Review



Psalm 91:3 --- "Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence."
II Corinthians 4:8-9 --- "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed."

Jehovah Shalom --- The Lord Our Peace

Jehovah-El Hanne'eman --- Lord the Faithful God


Part 2 --- The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah-Jireh)

Psalm 23 --- One of the most well-known passage of scriptures which is often referenced in times of distress to provide a person a measure of comfort and assurance. It's time for deeper reflection on what this passage really is conveying about the relationship between God and Man.


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"I shall not want."

Significant Points

Sheep is contented

Sheep is not lacking or deficient

Discontented sheep is obstinate and cause other sheep to follow example; if continues, shepherd destroys (butchers) sheep to save rest of flock.


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God is

by James Cleveland



Further Review


Related Blog --- Don't Forget

Matthew 6:26-33 --- "Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?" 

"Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?"
"Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

Philippians 4:19 --- "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
Jehovah El Shaddai --- The All Sufficient One, The God Who Is More Than
Enough

Jehovah-Jireh ---The Lord Our Provider











Part 1 --- The Lord is My Shepherd (Jehovah-Rohi)



Psalm 23 --- One of the most well-known passage of scriptures which is often referenced in times of distress to provide a person a measure of comfort and assurance. It's time for deeper reflection on what this passage really is conveying about the relationship between God and Man.


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"The Lord is my shepherd."

Significant Points

Implies an existence of a relationship.


Shepherd as owner or manger
Shepherd's characteristics: gentle, kind, intelligent, brave, and selfless.
Shepherd's care produces sheep who flourish and thrive contentedly.


Hireling's care produces sheep who struggle, starve, and suffer endless hardship.


Sheep require, more than other class of livestock, endless attention and meticulous care.
Sheep has mass mind (mob instincts).
Sheep's characteristics: fears and timidity.


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The Lord is My Shepherd

 by Cissy Houston





Further Review



Related Blog: Grazing in the Dirt

Psalm 100:3 --- "Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture."

Jehovah-Rohi --- The Lord, My Shepherd.

Jehovah-El Elyon ---  The God Most High
 
Jehovah Elohay/El – Elohay- Israel --- The Lord, My God/The Personal God of Israel
 
Jehovah Eloheenu --- The Lord, Our God



Friday, March 9, 2012

The Standard

"He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches (bodies of believers)" --- Revelations 3:22


There is much discussion concerning the standard of God. It has caused much division and Confusion! due to the lack of understanding regarding the identity of God's standard. Confusion! is simply a state or condition marked by lack of understanding.

What is a standard? A standard is a term of identification.

What identifies believers in the Lord God? Jesus Christ, the expressed character of God, in the flesh. Jesus Christ is the identification, the one that separates the holy and unholy; the godly and ungodly. Jesus is the standard of holiness.

It's not by power, nor by might; It is not the vain philosophies of man. It is the Word of God that brings forth salvation. Confusion! and Division ceases when man's life abides by the standard of the Lord God Almighty --- the Word of God.
The name on the building is not important, but the life that is taught and lived through man. There are many religious organizations that have proclaim the Word of God but have not abide by every word of God.

"But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and truth." 

 --- John 4:23-24 ---

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The Church's One Foundation



Further Reading

John 1:1-14 --- Jesus Christ, the Word of God, made flesh.

Matthew 4:4 --- "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouthof God."

John 13:35 --- "By this shall men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."
Confusion! and Division ceases when man's life abides by the standard of the Lord God Almighty --- the Word of God.

Romans 3:23 --- "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God."

Related Blog --- Part 5 --- Significant Mothers (Jerusalem)

Related Blog --- Voice of Unity

Video --- I Need You to Survive

Video --- Living Word









Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Part 5 --- Significant Mothers (Jerusalem)

There are Five Key Mothers of the Bible who provide understanding about many issues towards practical application. By no means is the following an exhaustive explanation. Be advised it just may whet your appetite for more.


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Jerusalem is the mother of Perfection i.e. Maturation (Galatians 4:26) Jerusalem provides understanding that acknowledging the sovereignty of God is boundless; freedom and life. Understanding Jerusalem requires realization that in the scriptures Jerusalem is often referred to in a allegorical sense. From the Garden of Eden to the Present day the most consistent theme is the sovereignty of God and His relationship with humans.

Significant Point --- Acknowledging the sovereignty of God, in spirit and truth, is beyond religiously adhering to rules, rites, creed, and traditions; denominational affiliations; ethnicity/national origin; walls of an edifice; mere formalism; is not conditional proposition; it's beyond time.

"He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches (bodies of believers)" --- Revelations 3:22


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"Sovereign"






Further Review

Benjamin Frankilin --- " I have lived sir a long time; and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth, that God governs in the affairs of men! And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probably that an empire can rise without his aid? – We have been assured, sir, in the writings, that ‘except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.’ I firmly believe this; and I also believe, that without his concurring aid, we shall succeed in this political building no better than the builders of Babel: we shall be divided by our little partial local interests, our projects will be confounded, and we ourselves shall become a reproach and a by-word down to future ages. And what is worse, mankind may hereafter, from this unfortunate instance, despair of establishing government by human wisdom, and leave it to chance, war, and conquest."

MLK, Jr Sermon: The Three Dimensions of a Completed Life

Psalm 37:37 --- "Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace."

Matthew 5:48 --- "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect."

Ephesians 4:11-16 --- "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."

II Corinthians 5:17  --- "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."






"Alleluia; Salvation, and Glory, and Honour, and power, unto the Lord our God." --- Revelations 19:1

Saturday, March 3, 2012

Process

Vision = Process + Goal


"Where there is no vision, the people perish."  --- Proverbs 29:18



America is at a crossroads. There are many goals presented regarding national challenges, but what is needed is a national vision. It's not just what is done but how it's done. It's the process.
 
Complementary Partnership/Interdisciplinary Collaboration
 
  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concerned about reducing the debt/deficit, but the question is how do we do it?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concerned about the quality of education in the nation, but how do we achieve excellence in education?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concerned about environment preservation and energy independence, but how do we do it?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concerned about fair trade policies, business growth, and job creation, but how do we promote it?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concerned about homeland security and strong military, but how do we advance it?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concerned about inadequate immigration policies, but how do we improve it?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concerned about affordable health care for all nation's citizens, but how do we achieve it?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concerned about the future solvency of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, but how do we ensure it?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concern about, believe strongly in the U.S. Constitution and its principles of freedom and rights, but how do we uphold its principles and maintain balance?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concerned about the role of government the effects and its effect on civil liberties, but how do we achieve balance?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concern about the socio-economically disadvantaged, youth, seniors, and other 'special populations' in soceity, but how do we address their needs?

  • There are many individuals on both sides of the political spectrum who are concern about discrimination and human rights, but how do we achieve balance?
C'mon, enough of the platitudes and slogans that may make good sound-bites for media consumption but do not contribute towards realistic pragmatic solutions to complex problems.

C'mon, enough of just creating lists of talking points, principles, objectives, or goals.

C'mon it's time to understand vision... a vision that will lead US forward.


It's time to stop whining and complaining about our problems, and answer the question of ---

"How do we move forward towards realistic pragmatic sustainable solutions?"



Furthur Review

Related Blog: Understanding Vision

Related Blog: The Conscience of the Nation

Part 4: Significant Mothers (Mary)




Friday, March 2, 2012

Part 4 --- Significant Mothers (Mary)

There are Five Key Mothers of the Bible who provide understanding about many issues towards practical application. By no means is the following an exhaustive explanation. Be advised it just may whet your appetite for more.

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Mary is the Mother of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:21) Mary provides understanding of the relationship between law and grace.
Studying Mary provides:
  • for an opportunity to develop deep appreciation for the significance of Hope.
  • for an opportunity to develop confidence from knowing identity. 
  •  realization that suffering serves a purpose and is a process.
  •  realization that obedience involves submission and trust. 
  • realization that there's a difference between authority and power.

Significant Point --- According to some theologians and lay Christians, 'The Transfiguration on the Mount' may offer insight into the dual aspects of Christ ministry.

Moses represents positional authority; declarative authority (predominant use of spoken/written word; social/public status) Elijah represents situational authority; expressive authority (predominant use of experience and understanding relationships) Though a person may express both authority types due to natural overlap, balance and discipline are required to be effective.

Significant Point --- When dealing with controversies involving the sect, Pharisees, it required balance and discipline between law and grace. Upholding the law is not just merely declaring the law, but adhering to the spirit of the law through principled understanding and practical application. This is the essence of empathy.

"Without Laws, there's Anarchy. Without Justice, there's Oppression."

Significant Point ---

Mohandas Gandhi: As a reformer he understood the principles of authority and the understanding how to use them. He was a man of principle. There was realization that advocating independence for India was not enough if British rule would merely be replaced by Indian aristocracy. He sought reforms that millions of Indians cared about and would actively support. There was realization that independence involves dignity of life. He gained understanding through his experience with villagers. As a result many Indians believed he was 'fighting for them'.  At times he had to rebuke people of his own ethnicity, yes even those in leadership, who were tempted to act in froward manner. There was demonstration of humility, yet through determination refused to succomb to fear and intimidation. There was balance expressed in submitting to British jurisdictional authority i.e. not resisting arrest while challenging the unjust status quo --- laws and practices; and the British right to have such authority over the Indians.


Martin Luther King Jr: As a reformer he understood the principles of authority and the understanding how to use them. He was a man of principle. At times he had to rebuke people of his own ethnicity, yes even those in leadership, who were tempted to act in froward manner. There was demonstration of courage when innocent children were killed, yet through determination refused to succomb to fear and intimidation. There was realization advocating for equality went beyond public accommodations. He sought reforms that millions of Americans cared about and would actively support. There was realization that equality involves dignity of life. There was balance expressed in submitting to American jurisdictional authority i.e. not resisting arrest while challenging the unjust status quo --- laws and practices; and the American right to allow such injustices.




Mother Teresa: She demonstrated talent for organizing people to act for common purpose. There was demonstration of courage and faith as she dealt with personal issues, yet through determination refused to succomb to fear and intimidation. She was a principled woman. Accolades were not motivator, but pragmatism and compassion. There was realization that value of every human is about the dignity of life.There seems to have been strong aptitude for more expressive authority.





Princess Diana: She demonstrated talent for inspiring people to act for common purpose. There was demonstration of courage and faith as she dealt with personal issues, yet through determination refused to succomb to fear and intimidation. Accolades were not motivator, insomuch many acts of compassion and goodwill were done in a manner unheralded by the media; without public fanfare. The motivator was principled pragmatism and compassion. There seems to have been strong aptitude for more delarative authority.






These two women seem to complement each other in terms of authoritative strength.




Further Review


Matthew 17:1-8  --- 'The Transfiguration on the Mount'

John 10:10 --- "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

Book --- Governing by Network: The New Shape of the Public Sector
Authors:  Stephen Goldsmith, William D Eggers


Video: The Wave of the Future: Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Video: Making it Work

Building Partnerships