See Greater Things Than These

Gospel

John 1:45-51

Gospel Acclamation

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

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. (John 1:45-51)

Introduction

This passage encourages us to seek encounters with Jesus, recognize His divinity, confess our faith, and remain open to ongoing revelations. 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. May we grow in our relationship with Him, guided by humility and a hunger for spiritual understanding. 

Historical Background

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. 

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 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 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.

Theological Context

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.

Learning Lessons

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. 

Poem

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.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, 

You see 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

Related Blogs:

https://guidingthoughtsandinspirations.blogspot.com/2024/08/divine-insight.html

https://on-linewithgod.blogspot.com/2024/08/prayer-for-divine-insight.html

Reflection Source:

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Published

August 24, 2024, 5:36 AM

“The One Thing Lacking”

 

Gospel 

Matthew 19:16-22

Gospel Acclamation

Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.

16 A young man approached Jesus and said, “Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?” 17 He answered him, “Why do you ask me about the good? There is only One who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” 18 He asked him, “Which ones?” And Jesus replied, “You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; 19 honor your father and your mother; and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 20 The young man said to him, “All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?” 21 Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 22 When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

Historical Background

Jesus is traveling through Judea beyond the Jordan, en route to Jerusalem. This is a time of increasing tension and clarity in His teachings about the Kingdom.

The man is described as young, wealthy, and morally upright. Luke calls him a “ruler,” possibly a synagogue official. His public approach to Jesus—running and kneeling—is culturally striking, as Jewish men of status did not run or show such vulnerability.

In cultural lens, wealth was often seen as a sign of divine favor. The man’s question reflects a common Jewish concern: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”—a concept tied to covenant faithfulness and eschatological hope.

Theological Context

Jesus redirects the man’s focus from human goodness to divine perfection: “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone.” This challenges superficial moralism and invites deeper recognition of Jesus’ divine identity.

Jesus lists commandments from the second tablet of the Law (human relationships), then calls the man to radical surrender—sell possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. This is not a universal command, but a diagnostic for this man’s heart.

The passage reveals that eternal life isn’t earned by works but received through surrender. Jesus exposes the idol of wealth and invites the man into relational discipleship, not transactional religion.

Learning Lessons

Goodness is not enough, moral behavior doesn’t guarantee eternal life. Only God is truly good. Discipleship is costly—it demands complete trust and surrender, not just compliance.

Wealth can be a spiritual barrier. Jesus identifies the man’s attachment to possessions as the stumbling block. He kept the commandments but withheld his heart. Jesus sees the heart, He doesn’t condemn the man but lovingly reveals what he lacks.

Poem

“The One Thing Lacking”

He came with zeal, a noble face,  

A ruler rich, yet seeking grace.  

“Good Teacher, tell me what to do,  

To gain the life that’s pure and true.”

“You know the law,” the Savior said,  

“Honor, love, and daily bread.”  

“I’ve kept them all,” the young man cried,  

Yet still he felt unsatisfied.

“One thing you lack,” the Lord replied,  

“Give all away, be sanctified.  

Then follow Me, and you will find  

A treasure that no wealth can bind.”

But sorrow gripped his heart that day,  

He turned in silence, walked away.  

The riches clung, the soul withdrew—  

The cost too high, the faith too few.

O Lord, may we not turn aside,  

But walk with You, our only guide.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, 

Good Teacher and Eternal King, You see beyond my deeds into the depths of my heart. Like the rich young ruler, I often seek to earn what You freely give. 

Help me release my grip on what I treasure more than You. Teach me that goodness is not the goal—You are. Give me courage to follow, even when it costs comfort, pride, or possessions. May I not walk away sorrowful but run toward You with joy. 

You alone are good. You alone are life. I surrender all. Lead me in Your way everlasting. 

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE RICH YOUNG MAN

Matthew 19:16-30

Reflection Source:

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Published

August 18, 2025, 7:56 AM

Consider the Great Things God has Done for you.

 

Gospel

Luke 1:39-56

Gospel Acclamation

Mary is taken up to heaven; a chorus of angels exults. 

39 Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, 40 where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, 42 cried out in a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43 And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” 46 And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; 47 my spirit rejoices in God my savior. 48 For he has looked upon his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: 49 the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. 50 He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. 51 He has shown strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. 52 He has cast down the mighty from their thrones and has lifted up the lowly. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. 54 He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, 55 the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.” 56 Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home. 

Historical Background

Judea was under Roman rule, and messianic expectations were high. The idea of a coming Savior was both spiritual and political—many hoped for liberation from oppression.

This passage takes place shortly after the angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will conceive Jesus. Mary travels to the hill country of Judea to visit her relative Elizabeth, who is also miraculously pregnant with John the Baptist. In Jewish tradition, family ties and hospitality were deeply valued. Mary’s journey (likely 80–100 km) shows her devotion and courage.

Theological Context

Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, recognizes Mary as “the mother of my Lord” (v.43). This affirms Jesus’ divine identity even before His birth. The unborn John leaps in Elizabeth’s womb, symbolizing prophetic joy and recognition of the Messiah.

Mary’s song is a theological masterpiece. It echoes Hannah’s prayer (1 Samuel 2) and celebrates God’s mercy and faithfulness, the reversal of worldly power structures, and the fulfillment of covenant promises to Israel.

Learning Lessons

Mary’s response to God’s call is marked by surrender and praise, not pride or fear. The meeting of Mary and Elizabeth is a sacred moment of mutual encouragement—reminding us of the power of Spirit-filled relationships. 

The Magnificat teaches that God lifts the lowly and humbles the mighty. It’s a call to trust divine justice over worldly status.

Poem

“The Leap and the Song”

In Judea’s hills, two women meet,  

One young, one old, with hearts that beat  

In rhythm with a promise made,  

A Savior in the womb arrayed.

The child within begins to leap,  

A joy too deep for silence to keep.  

Elizabeth, with Spirit’s flame,  

Proclaims the Lord and blesses His name.

Then Mary lifts her voice in praise,  

A song that echoes ancient days.  

The proud brought low, the meek arise,  

God’s mercy shining through the skies.

She sings not just for her own part,  

But for the hungry, humble heart.  

A song of justice, hope, and grace—  

The dawn of love in sacred space.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, 

You were hidden in the womb, yet recognized by the faithful. You stirred joy in the unborn and inspired songs in the humble. Let my heart leap at Your presence, and my soul magnify Your name.

Teach me to trust like Mary, to rejoice like Elizabeth, to sing of Your mercy and justice even when the world feels heavy. Lift the lowly parts of me, and humble the pride that blinds me. Fulfill Your promises in my life, as You did for Israel, with grace that spans generations.

Amen.

Pericope

II: The Infancy Narrative

MARY VISITS ELIZABETH / THE CANTICLE OF MARY

Luke 1:39-45 / 46-56

Reflection Source:

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Published

August 15, 2025, 11:54 AM

Rely on God in Everything

 

Gospel

John 3:7-15

7 Jesus said to Nicodemus: “‘You must be born from above.’ 8 The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” 9 Nicodemus answered and said to him, “How can this happen?” 10 Jesus answered and said to him, “You are the teacher of Israel and you do not understand this? 11 Amen, amen, I say to you, we speak of what we know and we testify to what we have seen, but you people do not accept our testimony. 12 If I tell you about earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? 13 No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.”

Introduction

This passage invites us to reflect on the nature of true faith, the necessity of spiritual awakening, and the boundless love of God expressed through the Son lifted up for our salvation.

Jesus’ intimate nighttime conversation with Nicodemus, reveals the mystery of spiritual rebirth and the depth of God’s saving plan. In these verses, Jesus gently confronts Nicodemus’ confusion, points to the sovereign work of the Spirit, and unveils a prophetic image from Israel’s history that foreshadows His own crucifixion. 

Historical Background

Nicodemus, a Pharisee and respected teacher, approaches Jesus seeking understanding. The Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to the Law, deep study of Scripture, and influence over Jewish religious life. Yet despite his knowledge, Nicodemus struggles to grasp Jesus’ teaching about being “born again.”

Jesus references an event from Numbers 21:4–9, where the Israelites, plagued by venomous serpents, were instructed to look at a bronze serpent lifted on a pole to receive healing. This historical moment becomes a prophetic symbol pointing to Christ Himself.

In Jewish thought, being “lifted up” could mean exaltation or physical elevation. Jesus uses this double meaning to reveal the manner of His death and the glory that would follow.

Theological Context

Jesus’ words, “You must be born again,” emphasize that spiritual rebirth is not optional. Human effort, religious knowledge, or moral discipline cannot produce new life. Only the Spirit can. He teaches that the Spirit’s work is sovereign, mysterious, and powerful. We cannot predict or control Him, but we can respond to His movement.

Nicodemus struggles because he interprets Jesus’ words literally. Jesus challenges him—and us—to move beyond earthly categories and embrace spiritual realities. Just as the bronze serpent was lifted up for the healing of Israel, Jesus would be lifted up on the cross so that all who look to Him in faith may receive eternal life. Salvation is not earned; it is received by looking to Christ.

Jesus introduces the theme that will climax in John 3:16: belief in the Son leads to eternal life. This life is not merely future—it begins now, transforming the heart and renewing the spirit.

Learning Lessons

The distinction between earthly and heavenly things calls for a higher perspective on life and faith, a challenge of comprehending spiritual truths with divine enlightenment.

Jesus emphasizes the need to be “born again” or “born from above,” which signifies a spiritual transformation that is essential to enter the kingdom of God. The metaphor of the wind illustrates the mysterious yet evident work of the Holy Spirit in the process of spiritual rebirth. Just as the Israelites were saved by looking at the serpent, salvation comes through faith in Jesus. 

This underscores God’s love for humanity, demonstrated through the sacrifice of Jesus, which is the basis for our salvation. 

Let us seek a deeper relationship with God through the Holy Spirit, to embrace faith in Jesus for salvation, and to live with an eternal perspective.

Reflection for the Day

Where in your life is Jesus inviting you to “look up” today? Nicodemus came with questions, confusion, and a desire for truth. Jesus did not shame him; He guided him. In the same way, Jesus meets us in our uncertainties and leads us toward deeper revelation.

Perhaps you feel spiritually dry, you’re wrestling with questions, longing for renewal. Jesus’ message remains the same, "look to Me, trust Me, and let My Spirit breathe new life into you".

The world offers many “solutions,” but only Christ offers true healing. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the bronze serpent, we are healed by fixing our eyes on Jesus—lifted up on the cross, risen in glory, and present through the Spirit.

Let today be a moment of surrender. Let the Spirit move freely in you. Let Christ be the One you look to for life.

Poem

Beyond the veil of earthly sight,

Lies a realm of divine light.

A call to rise, to faith ascend,

In Christ alone, our souls depend.

"Born anew," the Savior said,

Not of flesh, but Spirit-led.

Like the wind, unseen, yet clear,

His work within us, ever near.

Look to the cross, where mercy flows,

From Jesus' sacrifice, it arose.

As serpents raised in deserts past,

Our gaze on Him, our lot is cast.

God's love, profound, for us displayed,

On Calvary's hill, our debt He paid.

In this great act, our hope is found,

By faith in Him, we're heaven-bound.

So let us seek, with hearts sincere,

A deeper walk with God so near.

Embrace the faith, His word our guide,

With eternal eyes, in Him abide.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, who bridged the gap twixt heaven and earth. In Your light, we seek a new birth. The earthly fades, the heavenly calls, In Your truth, the spirit enthralls. Born from above, transformed by grace, in Your Spirit, we find our place. Like the wind, You move unseen, yet Your presence fills where we've been.

Upon the cross, You were raised, in that act, our faith is gazed. As Moses lifted up the serpent to view, so in You, all things are made new. Your love for us, so deep, so wide, through Your sacrifice, You've provided. Help us to seek, with hearts open wide, a deeper relationship with You as our guide.

May we embrace faith in You for our salvation, and live with an eternal perspective, a holy vocation. In Your name, we pray,

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

NICODEMUS

John 3:1-21

Gospel Acclamation

The Son of Man must be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.

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Filled with Great Things

Gospel

Luke 1:46-56

46 Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; 47 my spirit rejoices in God my savior. 48 For he has looked upon his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: 49 the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. 50 He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. 51 He has shown the strength of his arm, has scattered the proud in their conceit. 52 He has cast down the mighty from their thrones and has lifted up the lowly. 53 He has the filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he has sent away empty. 54 He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he remembered his promise of mercy, 55 the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.” 56 Mary remained with Elizabeth about three months and then returned to her home.

Historical Background

Mary’s Magnificat is one of the oldest Christian hymns. Scholars see it as one that echoes Hannah’s song in 1 Samuel 2, showing Mary as part of a long line of women whose faith shaped salvation history. 

This passage likely reflects early Jewish-Christian worship, where songs of praise were used to proclaim God’s faithfulness to Israel. Mary speaks as a young Jewish woman living under Roman occupation, yet her words overflow with hope, courage, and trust in God’s reversal of injustice.

Theological Context

The Magnificat reveals God’s preferential love for the lowly — He “lifts up the humble” and “fills the hungry with good things.” The proud are scattered, the mighty are brought down, the poor are raised.

Mary anchors her praise in God’s promises to Abraham and his descendants. As the first disciple, she models perfect trust, humility, and joyful surrender to God’s will. This is not just a personal prayer; it is a proclamation of God’s kingdom breaking into the world through Jesus.

Learning Lessons

Humility opens the door to grace. Mary’s lowliness becomes the space where God works wonders. He sees the unseen, the forgotten, the small, the weary — none are invisible to Him. His justice is active. He is not distant; He is overturning systems of pride and oppression.

Faith is communal. Mary’s song is rooted in Israel’s story — our faith is never lived alone. Her praise transforms perspective. She praises God before the fulfillment of the promise.

Reflection for the Day

Maybe today is an invitation to look at your life the way Mary looked at hers — not through the lens of fear or limitation, but through the lens of God’s faithfulness. 

Where is God lifting you? Where is He inviting you to trust? Where might He be calling you to praise even before the blessing fully arrives?

Let Mary’s voice becomes your own: “My soul magnifies the Lord.” Not because everything is perfect, but because God is present.

My soul leans toward 

Your light, O God,  

like dawn stretching 

across a quiet field.  

You remember the small,  

You lift the tired,  

You fill the empty hands  

that rise to You in hope.  

Let my life become a song—  

a quiet yes,  a steady trust,  

a heart that magnifies Your love.

Prayer to our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus, 

You who chose to come to us in humility and tenderness, teach my heart to sing with Mary today. Let my soul magnify You in all things— in joy and in uncertainty, in strength and in weakness.

Lift what is low within me, scatter what is proud, fill what is empty, and steady what is trembling.

Make my life a place where Your mercy can dwell and where Your love can be seen. Stay with me today, Lord, and shape my heart to trust You more. 

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE CANTICLE OF MARY

Luke 1:46-56

Gospel Acclamation

O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!

Reflection Source:

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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