Small Beginnings to Great Endings

 “The Kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed 

that a person took and sowed in a field. 

It is the smallest of all the seeds, 

yet when full-grown it is the largest of plants."

(Matthew 13:31-32)

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lᴏʀᴅ rejoices to see the work begin …” Zechariah 4:10 NLT

Everything in life starts small. People, trees, houses, relationships, and even faith. But when something—even a microscopic something—is loved, nurtured, and cultivated, that small beginning begins to grow exponentially. A garden is planted one inch of dirt at a time. A book is written one word at a time. (Life.Church). 

It all adds up; never discount your efforts, because small efforts build big things. One word doesn't make a novel, but one word does begin a novel, and from that small beginning everything else follows (Laurell K. Hamilton)

The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and starting on the first one (Mark Twain).

Small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprises (Demosthenes). A diligent hawker today, can be a great tycoon tomorrow (Ernest Agyemang Yeboah). Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step (Laozi). If you plan to excel in big things, you have to develop the habit in the small ones (LeCrae).

According to the ancient Chinese proverb, A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step (John F. Kennedy). Small beginnings are the launching pad to great endings (Joyce Meyer).

“Thus out of small beginnings greater things have been produced by His hand that made all things of nothing, and gives being to all things that are; and, as one small candle may light a thousand, so the light here kindled hath shone unto many...” ― William Bradford, Bradford: Of Plymouth Plantation

Published:

July 26, 2024, 2:55 AM

July 26, 2023, 8:29 AM

Reconcile All Things

In Him all the fullness was pleased to dwell, 

and through Him to reconcile all things for Him, 

making peace by the Blood of His cross 

through Him, whether those on earth or those in heaven. 

COLOSSIANS 1:19-20

Christ Jesus is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For in Him were created all things in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. He is the head of the Body, the Church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He himself might be preeminent. (Col 1:15-18)

Jesus said, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? Or what can one give in exchange for his life? For the Son of Man will come with his angels in his Father’s glory, and then He will repay everyone according to his conduct.  (Mt 16:24-27)

Learn not to go beyond what is written, so that none of you will be inflated with pride (1 Cor 4:6). Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect (Rom 12:2). By the mercies of God, offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship (Rom 12:1). 

The Lord is just in all His ways and holy in all His works. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. (Ps 145:17-18) He fulfills the desire of those who fear Him; he hears their cry and saves them (Ps 145:19). May my mouth speak the praise of the Lord, and may all flesh bless His holy name forever and ever. (Ps 145:21)

O God, You are my God whom I seek; for You my flesh pines and my soul thirsts like the earth, parched, lifeless and without water. (Ps 63:2). Your kindness is a greater good than life; my lips shall glorify You. Thus will I bless You while I live; lifting up my hands, I will call upon Your name. (Ps 63:4-5) You are my help, and in the shadow of Your wings I shout for joy. My soul clings fast to You; Your right hand upholds me. (Ps 63:8-9)

Published:

September 03, 2023, 8:27 AM

Nothing to Something

God chose the lowly 

and despised of the world, 

those who count for nothing, 

to reduce to nothing 

those who are something. 

(1 Corinthians 1:28)

Human wisdom and strength are not the basis for God’s calling. God can use anyone, regardless of their background or abilities, to fulfill His plans. He often chooses the unlikely and the humble to accomplish His purposes. We should not be discouraged by our perceived weaknesses or lack of status. 

Instead, we should cultivate humility, recognizing that our worth and abilities come from God. This helps us avoid pride and boasting in our own achievements. Our boasting should be in the Lord, not in ourselves. When we achieve something, we should give credit to God, acknowledging His role in our successes. This keeps our focus on God and fosters a spirit of gratitude.

Christ is our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. The diversity within the body of Christ is intentional and valuable. We should rely on Christ for our spiritual growth and transformation. This means seeking His guidance, following His teachings, and trusting in His work in our lives.

Divine Calling

Human wisdom and strength, not the basis for His call,

God uses anyone, the great and the small.

Regardless of background, abilities, or fame,

He chooses the humble to glorify His name.

In our weaknesses, we should not despair,

For God’s mighty hand is always there.

Cultivate humility, let pride take flight,

Our worth and abilities come from His light.

Boast not in achievements, but in the Lord,

Give Him the glory, our true reward.

In every success, acknowledge His grace,

Keep focus on God, in gratitude embrace.

Christ is our wisdom, our righteousness true,

Sanctification and redemption, all found in You.

The body of Christ, diverse and grand,

Each part intentional, by His hand planned.

Rely on Christ for growth and transformation,

Seek His guidance, follow His foundation.

Trust in His work, His teachings embrace,

In His love and wisdom, find your place.

Prayer for Humility and Divine Guidance

Heavenly Father,

We come before You, acknowledging that human wisdom and strength are not the basis for Your calling. You can use anyone, regardless of their background or abilities, to fulfill Your divine plans. You often choose the unlikely and the humble to accomplish Your purposes.

Lord, help us not to be discouraged by our perceived weaknesses or lack of status. Instead, cultivate in us a spirit of humility, recognizing that our worth and abilities come from You. Guard our hearts against pride and boasting in our own achievements.

May our boasting always be in You, Lord, and not in ourselves. When we achieve something, remind us to give credit to You, acknowledging Your role in our successes. Keep our focus on You, fostering a spirit of gratitude within us.

Christ, You are our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. We thank You for the diversity within the body of Christ, which is intentional and valuable. Help us to rely on You for our spiritual growth and transformation.

Guide us, Lord, to seek Your wisdom, follow Your teachings, and trust in Your work in our lives. May we always find our place in Your love and wisdom.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: Disorders in the Corinthian Community, A. Divisions in the Church

THE CORINTHIANS AND PAUL

1 Corinthians 1:26-31

First Reading | 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

26 Consider your own calling, brothers and sisters. Not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27 Rather, God chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise, and God chose the weak of the world to shame the strong, 28 and God chose the lowly and despised of the world, those who count for nothing, to reduce to nothing those who are something, 29 so that no human being might boast before God. 30 It is due to him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God, as well as righteousness, sanctification, and redemption, 31 so that, as it is written, whoever boasts, should boast in the Lord.

Background:

1 Corinthians 1:26-31 is a passage where Paul addresses the Corinthian believers, emphasizing God’s wisdom and the nature of their calling. 

Context and Background

1. The City of Corinth: Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth, commerce, and moral decadence. It was a melting pot of cultures and religions, which often led to various social and moral issues within the church.

2. The Corinthian Church: The church in Corinth was founded by Paul during his second missionary journey. It was composed of a diverse group of people, including Jews and Gentiles, many of whom were from lower social classes.

3. Purpose of the Letter: Paul wrote this letter to address divisions and issues within the church. The Corinthians were struggling with pride, boasting, and a misunderstanding of spiritual wisdom and power.

Key Themes in 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

1. God’s Choice: Paul reminds the Corinthians that not many of them were wise, powerful, or of noble birth when they were called by God. Instead, God chose the foolish, weak, and lowly things of the world to shame the wise and strong.

2. Humility and Boasting: The purpose of God’s choice is to prevent any human boasting. Paul emphasizes that no one should boast in their own wisdom or strength but in the Lord alone.

3. Christ as Our Wisdom: Paul highlights that Christ has become for us wisdom from God, as well as righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. This underscores that all spiritual blessings and growth come from Christ, not from human effort.

Practical Application

For believers today, this passage encourages humility and reliance on God’s wisdom rather than our own. It reminds us that our value and identity are found in Christ, and that we should boast only in what He has done for us.

Learning Lessons:

1. God’s Sovereign Choice. Lesson: God often chooses the unlikely and the humble to accomplish His purposes. Application: We should not be discouraged by our perceived weaknesses or lack of status. God can use anyone, regardless of their background or abilities, to fulfill His plans.

2. Humility Over Pride. Lesson: Human wisdom and strength are not the basis for God’s calling. Application: We should cultivate humility, recognizing that our worth and abilities come from God. This helps us avoid pride and boasting in our own achievements.

3. Boasting in the Lord. Lesson: Our boasting should be in the Lord, not in ourselves. Application: When we achieve something, we should give credit to God, acknowledging His role in our successes. This keeps our focus on God and fosters a spirit of gratitude.

4. Christ as Our Source. Lesson: Christ is our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. Application: We should rely on Christ for our spiritual growth and transformation. This means seeking His guidance, following His teachings, and trusting in His work in our lives.

5. Unity in Diversity. Lesson: The diversity within the body of Christ is intentional and valuable. Application: We should appreciate and embrace the different gifts and backgrounds of fellow believers. This promotes unity and strengthens the church community.

Practical Steps:

Reflect on Your Calling: Consider how God has worked in your life despite your weaknesses. This can deepen your faith and trust in His plans.

Practice Gratitude: Regularly thank God for His blessings and guidance. This helps shift the focus from self to God.

Encourage Others: Recognize and affirm the unique contributions of others in your community. This builds up the body of Christ and fosters a supportive environment.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Abundance in All Things

God is able to make every grace abundant for you, 

so that in all things, always having all you need, 

you may have an abundance for every good work. 

(2 Corinthians 9:8)

There is much abundance of grace that requires a good work. The current system and workflow can no longer effectively address the growing demands. 

Father in heaven, You are the only one who provides for all my needs and with much joy in my heart, I give You praise. May your heart and wisdom be upon me always so that I will not be misguided by the temptations of the world but remain focus on your will and purpose. Thank You so much for enriching me in every way so that I may be generous in giving. With much love and thanksgiving, I pray, in Jesus Name. Amen.

See Greater Things Than These

“Do you believe because I told you 

that I saw you under the fig tree? 

You will see greater things than this.” 

(John 1:50)

Jesus’ ability to see Nathanael under the fig tree before their physical meeting highlights His divine insight. We learn that Jesus knows us intimately, even our secret thoughts and struggles. He sees beyond our external appearance. Sometimes, our preconceptions or doubts can hinder us from experiencing divine revelations. Our faith journey involves recognizing Jesus as more than a teacher or prophet. He is the Son of God, our Savior. As believers, we can expect ongoing revelations and deeper understanding of God’s plan for our lives. Let’s approach Scripture with an open and humble heart, ready to receive ongoing revelations, wisdom and guidance from God’s Word. May we grow in our relationship with Jesus, guided by humility and a hunger for spiritual understanding. 

Divine Insight

Beneath the fig tree’s shade, unseen by mortal eyes, 

Nathanael wrestled with doubts, his heart in disguise. 

Yet Jesus, the Word made flesh, knew his inner strife, 

His secret musings, the depths of his life.

Beyond mere appearances, beyond the earthly veil, 

Christ’s gaze penetrated, His love would prevail. 

For He is more than teacher, more than prophet’s role, 

The Son of God, our Savior, who makes broken hearts whole.

In our faith journey, let’s shed our preconceived views, 

Open our hearts wide to the truths God will infuse. 

Revelations await us, wisdom from His Word, 

As we hunger for understanding, our souls deeply stirred.

So let us approach Scripture with humility and grace, 

Ready to receive divine whispers in every sacred space. 

May our relationship with Jesus ever grow, 

Guided by His insight, His love, and the Spirit’s flow.

A Prayer for Divine Insight

Lord Jesus, who sees beyond the veil of our hearts, You know us intimately, our secret thoughts and parts. Under the fig tree’s shade, Nathanael was seen, A revelation of Your grace, where doubts had been.

Grant us eyes to see as You see, beyond the surface, To recognize You not merely as a teacher or purpose. You are the Son of God, our Savior, divine and true, Revealing mysteries, guiding our faith anew.

May our preconceptions yield to Your wisdom’s light, As we hunger for understanding, seeking insight. Open our hearts, Lord, with humility and grace, Ready to receive Your Word, in every sacred space.

Guide us, O Christ, on this journey we tread, Deeper into Your love, where our souls are fed. May we grow in relationship, hungering for more, Led by Your divine insight, forever adored.

Amen. 

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

THE FIRST DISCIPLES

John 1:35-51

Gospel Acclamation

Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.

Gospel | John 1:45-51

45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one about whom Moses wrote in the law, and also the prophets, Jesus, son of Joseph, from Nazareth.” 46 But Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come  from Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” 47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him.” 48 Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” 49 Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” 50 Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” 51 And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see the heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.

Background:

Nathanael’s Encounter with Jesus: Philip, one of Jesus’ disciples, excitedly tells Nathanael that they have found the One Moses wrote about in the Law and the prophets: Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. Nathanael’s initial response is somewhat skeptical. He questions, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” (John 1:46). Nazareth was not particularly distinguished, and its inhabitants were known for their orthodox Jewish beliefs. However, Nathanael agrees to meet Jesus.

The Fig Tree Encounter: When Jesus sees Nathanael approaching, He says, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” (John 1:47).

Jesus recognizes Nathanael’s character. Unlike Jacob (the supplanter), Nathanael is an Israelite who seeks God through prayer and sincerity (Hosea 12:4). Nathanael is astonished that Jesus knew him even before they met. Jesus reveals His divine insight by saying, “I saw you under the fig tree” (John 1:48).

Nathanael’s Confession: Nathanael responds, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” (John 1:49). His confession acknowledges Jesus as the promised Messiah-King (Psalm 2:2, 6, 12).

Jesus’ Assurance: Jesus commends Nathanael’s faith and assures him that he will witness even greater things. He says, “Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man” (John 1:51). This reference to Jacob’s ladder (Genesis 28:12) emphasizes Jesus’ divine connection between heaven and earth.

In summary, Nathanael’s encounter with Jesus reveals the depth of Jesus’ knowledge, His identity as the Son of God, and the promise of greater revelations to come. It’s a beautiful passage that invites us to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and seek a personal relationship with Him. 

Learning Lessons:

Openness to Encounter: Nathanael’s willingness to meet Jesus despite his initial skepticism teaches us the importance of being open to encountering God. Sometimes, our preconceptions or doubts can hinder us from experiencing divine revelations. Let’s approach God with an open heart and mind.

Divine Insight and Recognition: Jesus’ ability to see Nathanael under the fig tree before their physical meeting highlights His divine insight. We learn that Jesus knows us intimately, even our secret thoughts and struggles. He sees beyond our external appearance.

Confession of Faith: Nathanael’s confession, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God!” reflects a profound realization of Jesus’ identity. Our faith journey involves recognizing Jesus as more than a teacher or prophet. He is the Son of God, our Savior.

Greater Revelations Await: Jesus promises Nathanael greater things, symbolized by the vision of angels ascending and descending. As believers, we can expect ongoing revelations and deeper understanding of God’s plan for our lives.

Humility and Teachability: Nathanael’s willingness to learn from Jesus models humility and teachability. Let’s approach Scripture with a humble heart, ready to receive wisdom and guidance from God’s Word.

In summary, John 1:45-51 encourages us to seek encounters with Jesus, recognize His divinity, confess our faith, and remain open to ongoing revelations. May we grow in our relationship with Him, guided by humility and a hunger for spiritual understanding. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

You will See Greater Things

Jesus answered and said to him, 

“Do you believe because I told you 

that I saw you under the fig tree? 

You will see greater things than this.” 

JOHN 1:50

Jesus sees you in your darkest hour. He knows your pain and sorrow. He is the one who can heal and restore, the hope, the joy, the tomorrow. Jesus sees you in your brightest day. He shares your happiness and gratitude. He is the one who can bless and multiply, the grace, the peace, the attitude. Jesus sees you in your every moment. He cares for your soul and spirit. He is the one who can guide and empower, the faith, the love, the merit.

In Jesus, you shall see greater things than what this world can offer you. He is the source of life and truth, the way, the light, the king of kings. You shall see greater things than miracles and signs and wonders. He is the one who loves and cares, the friend, the shepherd, the savior. You shall see greater things than what your eyes can comprehend. He is the alpha and omega, the first, the last, the very end.

Jesus decided to go to Galilee, and he found Philip. And Jesus said to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the town of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one about whom Moses wrote in the law, and also the prophets, Jesus, son of Joseph, from Nazareth.” But Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him.” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see the sky opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” (John 1:43-51)

Jesus is the love of your life. He gave his life for you on the cross. He is the one who paid the price, the gift, the ransom, the loss. He rose again from the grave. He is the one who conquered death, the power, the victory, the brave. He lives in you by His spirit. He is the one who makes you whole, the truth, the beauty, the merit.

Love not in word or speech but in deed and truth for words are cheap and speeches are vain but deeds are real and truth is plain. Words can hurt and speeches can deceive but deeds can heal and truth can relieve. Words can fade and speeches can bore but deeds can last and truth can soar.

This is the message you have heard from the beginning: we should love one another, unlike Cain who belonged to the Evil One and slaughtered his brother. Why did he slaughter him? Because his own works were evil, and those of his brother righteous. Do not be amazed, then, brothers and sisters, if the world hates you. We know that we have passed from death to life because we love our brothers. Whoever does not love remains in death. Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life remaining in him. The way we came to know love was that he laid down his life for us; so we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If someone who has worldly means sees a brother in need and refuses him compassion, how can the love of God remain in him? Children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth. Now this is how we shall know that we belong to the truth and reassure our hearts before him in whatever our hearts condemn, for God is greater than our hearts and knows everything. Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence in God. (1 John 3:11-21)

The Lord is good: the Lord, whose kindness endures forever. He is the one who shows us mercy and grace, the rock, the refuge, the shelter. He is the one who keeps His promises and covenants, the faithful, the true, the giver. He is the one who loves us with an everlasting love, the Father, the Son, the Spirit.

Serve the Lord with gladness for He is worthy of all praise. He is the one who made us and saved us, the creator, the redeemer, the grace. He is faithful and good who sustains us and guides us, the provider, the protector, the food. He is holy and awesome, the one who reigns over us and loves us, the king, the lord, the bridegroom.

Sing joyfully to the Lord, all you lands; serve the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful song. Know that the Lord is God; he made us, his we are; his people, the flock he tends. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, his courts with praise; Give thanks to him; bless his name. The Lord is good: the Lord, whose kindness endures forever, and his faithfulness, to all generations. (Psalm 100:1-2, 3, 4, 5)

Lord Jesus, I thank You for Your love and grace that You have shown me in my life. You are the one who gives me hope and faith, the way, the truth, the life. I trust You for your plan and purpose that you have prepared for me. You are the one who leads me and guides me, the shepherd, the friend, the key. I ask You for Your power and presence that You would fill me with Your spirit. You are the one who enables me and equips me, the helper, the teacher, the gift. I believe You for Your promise and prophecy that I shall see greater things. You are the one who reveals to me and inspires me, the vision, the glory, the king. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

THE FIRST DISCIPLES

John 1:35-51

III: Love for One Another

AVOIDING SIN / CONFIDENCE BEFORE GOD

1 John 3:4-18 / 19-24

Fourth Book of Psalms 90-106

PROCESSIONAL HYMN

Psalm 100:1-5

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing Chat

You shall see greater things than these . . .

"Because I said to you, 

I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? 

You shall see greater things than these."

JOHN 1:50

Jesus is the fulfillment of all that is written by the prophets. He is the Son of God, your Master and Teacher, and the King of all! He alone can change what seems to be bad into something that is good.

He knows you, who you are, and where you are coming from. What you need to know and learn is who He really is and what He can do for you. Decide when to make your next move but always see to it to follow Jesus.

Focus on the Lord and you will see even greater things unfold in your very eyes. With Him, the gates of heaven are always open for you.

Lord, you are my teacher, the Son of God and the King of all!

It is not about me, but it is all about you in whom all good things come. May your wisdom and lordship rule over my life now and forever.

With much awe and reverence, I humbly pray in Jesus Name. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

THE FIRST DISCIPLES

John 1:35-51

Published:

August 24, 2013, 11:35 AM