The Cross in Christmas! (Part 2)
"She brought forth her firstborn son, and she wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid Him in a feeding trough." Luke 2:7
"Joseph took the body (of Jesus), and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock." Matthew 27:59-60
There is nothing more beautiful than the Christmas story and the news of the birth of Jesus Christ our Lord.
I welcome you to the manger on that blessed Holy Night to see the Child lying in a manger. Now let your mind move forward thirty three years later, and let's blend the two to see the story in context.
See the Baby Jesus clean and washed in His mother's arms.
Now see Him crucified, covered in blood and nailed to the cross as His weeping mother watches.
See the Baby Jesus and look at those tiny Hands and fingers.
Now see Him touching the leper, the eyes of the blind and breaking the loaves of bread. Oh, see those hands holding a rugged cross and then see them nailed to the cross with the ringing of hammer against the nail!
See the Baby Jesus with rosy cheeks and soft tender skin.
Now see Him parched from the desert sun as He fasts and prays for forty days. Oh, the soft face now dripping blood as He prays in agony in the Garden. Hear the slap from angry hands upon His face during His trial and beatings. His face now covered with spit and blood!
See the Baby Jesus with his little bits of hair covering His head.
But now witness that head with the crown of thorns cutting through the skin to the scull and causing even more blood and humiliation.
See the lips of this Baby Jesus part and cry out for feeding as His mother comforts Him. Stand still and hear this Man speak: Words of life, and Words like no one has ever spoken. Hear Him saying "Thy sins are forgiven thee", "Arise and walk", "Lazarus come forth!" Years from that moment of birth those same lips cry out "I Thirst", "My God, My God why hast Thou forsaken Me?" And there was 'NO ONE' to comfort Him!
See the chest of this Baby Jesus rise and fall as He breaths His first breaths.
Hear the cry from the cross, "Father into Thy Hands I commend My Spirit", and there is no more breath... just death!
See those feet of this Baby Jesus soft and tender and ever so sweet.
Look now and see this same Jesus walking from village to village preaching and teaching and healing and loving and traveling throughout the land. Now, see those same feet pierced with nails holding Him to the cross!
See the beautiful back of that Baby Jesus.
Oh, we must turn our heads from the awful, horrible view of the Roman scourge ripping skin and tearing flesh with each swing of the whip.
On and on I could go looking at the beauty of that Baby Jesus, and the cost of our redemption by Him who never knew sin, yet became sin for us.
But I leave you with this:
"His Face was disfigured beyond that of any man and His appearance marred beyond human likeness." Isaiah 52:14
All of this for you and I. Jesus arose and ascended to heaven and lives and rules over all things, and is ready to hear your prayer and the prayer of anyone calling on His Name.
There is a mission for us to 'go and tell'; for the glorious news of Jesus to be shared with every person on earth. This is why Jesus came. It is for us now to get the thrilling news out.
I challenge you to get "The Cross" DVD and book and give it this Christmas. Share a gift that can last forever. Give Jesus!
The story of "The Cross" is one of the world's greatest adventures which appeals to both young people and adventurers, and is inspiring and uplifting as well. Give it to your best friends with love. They will love the stories and come to see Jesus and the cross in a new way. They will see the cross as a reflection of the love of God. They will see and feel the love of Jesus.
This is the perfect gift for hurting or struggling people, as well as a challenging gift to people ministering and doing mission and outreach work.
It will also help lead you in sharing Jesus with others and living out your mission and calling.
I am praying for every person that views this movie.
God bless you all.
Arthur and Denise Blessitt
Luke 18:1
www.8x.com
www.blessitt.com
www.thecrossfilm.com
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
My Heart's Desire by Gloria SullivanGloria SullivanMake sure I am in right standing with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Examine my heart, repent of
Gloria SullivanMake sure I am in right standing with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Examine my heart, repent of my sins. Walk in love, forgiveness, and to win as many souls for the Kingdom of God. I have to complete the assignment upon my life. When Jesus here on earth, His goal was to do nothing but the will of His Father. Our commitment must be only His will. Jesus is no longer is walking on earth. We are His body; He is our head. That means our lips are the lips of Jesus. Our hands are His hands; our eyes, His eyes;our hope, His hope. "As my Father hath sent me, even so I send you," are His instructions. "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."
Going through a test can be very difficult. I have to walk it out, knowing that the Lord is with me. Praying for direction, listening, and obeying the Word of God.
Listen to the Holy Spirit to guide me in all truth. Mainly, telling someone about Jesus. People needs to know that Jesus said in His Word, every knee is going to bow, every tongue is going to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord! My citizenship is not on earth, its in heaven. I am a visitor on this earth, doing Kingdom work. To evangelize the unreached people for the Kingdom of God. My heart cries out for a "lost soul." I have souls on my mind. To help fulfill the Great Commission....
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The Great Commission reveals the reason God has left us here in this world, the main activity of the Church until Jesus returns as the King of Kings to gather us to Himself. He desires us to go everywhere proclaiming the love of God to a lost world. Exercising His authority and demonstrating His power, we are to preach the Gospel, make disciples, baptize and teach people to obey all the commands of Christ. I want to see people saved.
Thank you for knowing my heart's desire is to pray for people to be saved! The Word says God will give you your heart's desire; my heart's desire is to keep on winning Souls for the Kingdom of God. You win a soul, others win a soul. Let's believe this generation will be reached for Christ. Pray for my entire family to be saved. God always chooses the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. He shows His might only on the behalf of those who trust in Him. Humility is the place where all Christian service begins.
I got to get my lesson before my professor gives me a bad grade. Have a bless day on this Lord's day!
Love you, Auntie!
December 2 at 11:14am · Delete
Write a comment...
Going through a test can be very difficult. I have to walk it out, knowing that the Lord is with me. Praying for direction, listening, and obeying the Word of God.
Listen to the Holy Spirit to guide me in all truth. Mainly, telling someone about Jesus. People needs to know that Jesus said in His Word, every knee is going to bow, every tongue is going to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord! My citizenship is not on earth, its in heaven. I am a visitor on this earth, doing Kingdom work. To evangelize the unreached people for the Kingdom of God. My heart cries out for a "lost soul." I have souls on my mind. To help fulfill the Great Commission....
See More
The Great Commission reveals the reason God has left us here in this world, the main activity of the Church until Jesus returns as the King of Kings to gather us to Himself. He desires us to go everywhere proclaiming the love of God to a lost world. Exercising His authority and demonstrating His power, we are to preach the Gospel, make disciples, baptize and teach people to obey all the commands of Christ. I want to see people saved.
Thank you for knowing my heart's desire is to pray for people to be saved! The Word says God will give you your heart's desire; my heart's desire is to keep on winning Souls for the Kingdom of God. You win a soul, others win a soul. Let's believe this generation will be reached for Christ. Pray for my entire family to be saved. God always chooses the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. He shows His might only on the behalf of those who trust in Him. Humility is the place where all Christian service begins.
I got to get my lesson before my professor gives me a bad grade. Have a bless day on this Lord's day!
Love you, Auntie!
December 2 at 11:14am · Delete
Write a comment...
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Salvation
The Most Important Decision You Will Ever Make
Salvation, or the decision to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior is, without question, the most important decision anyone can make. For as one decides to accept or reject Jesus, they are literally deciding their eternal destiny. If you haven't yet received the free gift of salvation paid for on the cross by Jesus Christ, the second person of the Holy Trinity, then don't wait another second, do it now. After all, why would you commit yourself to hell, when you could live a life of blessing through Him both on this earth and eternally in heaven? But Jesus will never make you choose Him. He never forced anyone. You see, He wants you to come to Him voluntarily, of your own free will.
Perhaps you are wondering how mankind found himself in the position of needing salvation. The answer is, there was a debt created by man for his separation from and disobedience to God, the debt was the penalty of death. It was owed since the covenant between Adam, Eve, and God was broken by man. Man had a perfect and deathless existence provided for him by God. However, man chose sin instead, and incurred it's penalty, death. We see this in the 3rd chapter of Genesis. But God Himself came and clothed Himself as man and paid the price of death once and for all, that you can enter His family, that's God's family, and His grace eternally. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." (John 3:16)
Contrary to some theologians, it's not of primary importance that you immediately understand all the finer theological points of how mankind lost his dominion, incurred the debt of death, and became justified to God - the explanation above will suffice for the moment. If you are considering making Jesus Lord of your life, what you do need to know is that He wants you to take Him at His word, to know that He is who He says He is, and He did what He said He did. (By the way you have His word on it in writing, it's the Word of God, the Bible).
God (that's the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) wants you to accept that He, Jesus, is the risen and living Savior, that He died on the Cross for your sins, was dead buried and resurrected, and that the debt you owed for your sins is paid in full. But you have to accept Him. You have to come to Him voluntarily. You have to say "Jesus, be the Lord of my life. I accept your gift of salvation."
It's up to you how you spend your life both now and eternally. Will you spend it in His service with Him running your life, guiding, directing, and blessing you now and eternally in heaven? Or will you continue to spend your life here under the domination and control of the ruler of this world, the devil, and later, eternally in hell? That's the choice. God says, choose life. (Deuteronomy 30:19)
And now, by accepting Him as your personal Lord and Savior, you enter the family of God with full rights and privileges. That's right, you will have rights and privileges as a family member. And, like an earthly family, you will also have an inheritance, but from Christ‚ literally. You'll also spend the rest of your life understanding the magnitude of all that inheritance consists of. Isn't that a wonderful thought!
Are you ready to make Jesus Lord of your life? Then say this prayer with me:
"Lord Jesus, I believe you died on the cross for my sins. I believe that you were dead, buried, and resurrected and live today. I receive You Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior. Guide me Jesus and direct my life. I receive your gift of salvation that you paid for on the cross. All that I have and all that I am I give to You. Come live Your Life through me."
If you prayed this prayer and meant it, welcome to the family of God. But this is just the beginning of your relationship with God. Be sure to pray and read His Word daily. And in your prayer time, spend some time listening for and to God. It's fine to tell Him what you need and what's on your mind...you're supposed to, but be sure also to ask and listen to what's on His mind. Remember, He is Lord. That means the responsibility for directing your life is now His.
In Jesus' Name
Salvation, or the decision to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior is, without question, the most important decision anyone can make. For as one decides to accept or reject Jesus, they are literally deciding their eternal destiny. If you haven't yet received the free gift of salvation paid for on the cross by Jesus Christ, the second person of the Holy Trinity, then don't wait another second, do it now. After all, why would you commit yourself to hell, when you could live a life of blessing through Him both on this earth and eternally in heaven? But Jesus will never make you choose Him. He never forced anyone. You see, He wants you to come to Him voluntarily, of your own free will.
Perhaps you are wondering how mankind found himself in the position of needing salvation. The answer is, there was a debt created by man for his separation from and disobedience to God, the debt was the penalty of death. It was owed since the covenant between Adam, Eve, and God was broken by man. Man had a perfect and deathless existence provided for him by God. However, man chose sin instead, and incurred it's penalty, death. We see this in the 3rd chapter of Genesis. But God Himself came and clothed Himself as man and paid the price of death once and for all, that you can enter His family, that's God's family, and His grace eternally. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." (John 3:16)
Contrary to some theologians, it's not of primary importance that you immediately understand all the finer theological points of how mankind lost his dominion, incurred the debt of death, and became justified to God - the explanation above will suffice for the moment. If you are considering making Jesus Lord of your life, what you do need to know is that He wants you to take Him at His word, to know that He is who He says He is, and He did what He said He did. (By the way you have His word on it in writing, it's the Word of God, the Bible).
God (that's the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) wants you to accept that He, Jesus, is the risen and living Savior, that He died on the Cross for your sins, was dead buried and resurrected, and that the debt you owed for your sins is paid in full. But you have to accept Him. You have to come to Him voluntarily. You have to say "Jesus, be the Lord of my life. I accept your gift of salvation."
It's up to you how you spend your life both now and eternally. Will you spend it in His service with Him running your life, guiding, directing, and blessing you now and eternally in heaven? Or will you continue to spend your life here under the domination and control of the ruler of this world, the devil, and later, eternally in hell? That's the choice. God says, choose life. (Deuteronomy 30:19)
And now, by accepting Him as your personal Lord and Savior, you enter the family of God with full rights and privileges. That's right, you will have rights and privileges as a family member. And, like an earthly family, you will also have an inheritance, but from Christ‚ literally. You'll also spend the rest of your life understanding the magnitude of all that inheritance consists of. Isn't that a wonderful thought!
Are you ready to make Jesus Lord of your life? Then say this prayer with me:
"Lord Jesus, I believe you died on the cross for my sins. I believe that you were dead, buried, and resurrected and live today. I receive You Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior. Guide me Jesus and direct my life. I receive your gift of salvation that you paid for on the cross. All that I have and all that I am I give to You. Come live Your Life through me."
If you prayed this prayer and meant it, welcome to the family of God. But this is just the beginning of your relationship with God. Be sure to pray and read His Word daily. And in your prayer time, spend some time listening for and to God. It's fine to tell Him what you need and what's on your mind...you're supposed to, but be sure also to ask and listen to what's on His mind. Remember, He is Lord. That means the responsibility for directing your life is now His.
In Jesus' Name
Pastor Stabbing
November 02, 2009 Hide Comments (0 comments) Add Comment Print Article E-mail to a Friend
Pastor Returns to Pulpit After Severe Stabbing
from The Christian Post
A Detroit-area pastor who was severely stabbed over 30 times in his home this past summer returned to the pulpit of his church Sunday to talk about the experience that almost left him dead.
"When you've gone through something that we have gone through, you begin to see things in a different light," the Rev. Kevin Ramsby told the congregation at Revival Tabernacle Church in Highland Park, according to Click On Detroit.
"There are so many others hurting in our community, not just because of violence, with the economy and layoffs and jobs," he added. "The message I am sharing today is a message of God's faithfulness."
According to reports, an intruder broke into Ramsby's home around 3 a.m. on Aug. 4 and stabbed him repeatedly during the altercation that ensued. Ramsby's wife and children were out of town at the time of the attack. The pastor had also been out of town but returned home ahead of his family.
"The stab wounds were so many, and so severe that Pastor Kevin lost consciousness and was left for dead by the perpetrator," reported staff at Ramsby's Assemblies of God church shortly after the incident.
"With nothing less than what we know to be the strength and power of the Lord, when the intruder went to another room of the house, Pastor Kevin came to and miraculously gained strength to get himself out of the house and crawl to his neighbors who quickly responded to his cry for help," they continued. "How great is our God?"
On Sunday, Ramsby recalled how his small intestines had come out through one of the knife cuts he sustained.
"I literally had to carry my small intestine," he said.
After Highland Park police and medical emergency teams arrived on the scene, Ramsby was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he underwent immediate surgery. Ramsby had sustained injuries and lacerations to his back, face, neck, and abdominal areas, but fortunately suffered no damage to major arteries or to his lungs.
Ramsby said it was God who saved his life that night.
Though Ramsby arrived in critical condition, the pastor's condition was upgraded to stable after about eight hours and doctors were reportedly able to repair the intestinal damage that he sustained.
Since then, Ramsby has been healing rapidly, released from the hospital on Aug. 18.
He had since been resting in an undisclosed dislocation while the state police searched for the suspect behind the break-in and stabbing.
According to reports, police have identified the attacker as 41-year-old Wesley Mclemore, who is still at large.
Though the attack nearly left Ramsby dead, the Pentecostal preacher said he has forgiven his attacker and would not mind meeting to pray with him once he's arrested.
According to Click On Detroit, Revival Tabernacle Church founder Tim Dilena said Ramsby's message is something many in the church and community need to see.
© The Christian Post all rights reserved.
Pastor Returns to Pulpit After Severe Stabbing
from The Christian Post
A Detroit-area pastor who was severely stabbed over 30 times in his home this past summer returned to the pulpit of his church Sunday to talk about the experience that almost left him dead.
"When you've gone through something that we have gone through, you begin to see things in a different light," the Rev. Kevin Ramsby told the congregation at Revival Tabernacle Church in Highland Park, according to Click On Detroit.
"There are so many others hurting in our community, not just because of violence, with the economy and layoffs and jobs," he added. "The message I am sharing today is a message of God's faithfulness."
According to reports, an intruder broke into Ramsby's home around 3 a.m. on Aug. 4 and stabbed him repeatedly during the altercation that ensued. Ramsby's wife and children were out of town at the time of the attack. The pastor had also been out of town but returned home ahead of his family.
"The stab wounds were so many, and so severe that Pastor Kevin lost consciousness and was left for dead by the perpetrator," reported staff at Ramsby's Assemblies of God church shortly after the incident.
"With nothing less than what we know to be the strength and power of the Lord, when the intruder went to another room of the house, Pastor Kevin came to and miraculously gained strength to get himself out of the house and crawl to his neighbors who quickly responded to his cry for help," they continued. "How great is our God?"
On Sunday, Ramsby recalled how his small intestines had come out through one of the knife cuts he sustained.
"I literally had to carry my small intestine," he said.
After Highland Park police and medical emergency teams arrived on the scene, Ramsby was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he underwent immediate surgery. Ramsby had sustained injuries and lacerations to his back, face, neck, and abdominal areas, but fortunately suffered no damage to major arteries or to his lungs.
Ramsby said it was God who saved his life that night.
Though Ramsby arrived in critical condition, the pastor's condition was upgraded to stable after about eight hours and doctors were reportedly able to repair the intestinal damage that he sustained.
Since then, Ramsby has been healing rapidly, released from the hospital on Aug. 18.
He had since been resting in an undisclosed dislocation while the state police searched for the suspect behind the break-in and stabbing.
According to reports, police have identified the attacker as 41-year-old Wesley Mclemore, who is still at large.
Though the attack nearly left Ramsby dead, the Pentecostal preacher said he has forgiven his attacker and would not mind meeting to pray with him once he's arrested.
According to Click On Detroit, Revival Tabernacle Church founder Tim Dilena said Ramsby's message is something many in the church and community need to see.
© The Christian Post all rights reserved.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
President Obama Inaugural Address by Chris Hass
President Barack Obama's Inaugural Address
By Christopher Hass - Jan 20th, 2009 at 1:47 pm EST
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As prepared for delivery:
My fellow citizens:
I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.
Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.
So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.
That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.
These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land - a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.
Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.
In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted - for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things - some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.
For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.
For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.
For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sanh.
Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.
This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions - that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.
For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act - not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.
Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions - who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.
What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them - that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works - whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account - to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day - because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.
Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control - and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart - not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.
As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.
Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.
We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort - even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.
For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.
To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West - know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.
To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.
As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment - a moment that will define a generation - it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.
For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.
Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends - hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism - these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility - a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.
This is the price and the promise of citizenship.
This is the source of our confidence - the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.
This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.
So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:
"Let it be told to the future world...that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."
America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.
By Christopher Hass - Jan 20th, 2009 at 1:47 pm EST
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As prepared for delivery:
My fellow citizens:
I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.
Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.
So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.
That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.
These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land - a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.
Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.
In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted - for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things - some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.
For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.
For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.
For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sanh.
Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.
This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions - that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.
For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act - not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.
Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions - who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.
What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them - that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works - whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account - to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day - because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.
Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control - and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart - not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.
As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.
Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.
We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort - even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.
For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.
To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West - know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.
To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.
As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment - a moment that will define a generation - it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.
For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.
Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends - hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism - these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility - a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.
This is the price and the promise of citizenship.
This is the source of our confidence - the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.
This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.
So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:
"Let it be told to the future world...that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."
America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.
The Spirit of Truth
Cast off the works of darkness! Put on the armour of light. That is our protection. Jesus is coming, and Jesus want us to present our whole body. Don't take second best anymore. Come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Live for God for the rest of your life. John16:3 The Spirit of truth came (Holy Spirit), and would guide us into all truth. The greatest Gift to have is a hearing "EAR," from God. Something in your life can be dead. Jesus will stand in our lives, and work things out. Don't give up over that situation in your life. Call on the Name of the Lord! You will be saved!
When you get born again. God will give you the ability to hear His voice. Ask God for a hearing ear, to hear God's voice. Pray for all of our men and women in the Military, for safety, protection, and their families. Father God bring them back home safe. We are thankful for all of them, and their families. We love you, and support all that you do for your country.
Be careful when talking on the telephone. Everybody is not for you, and they proclaimed to be saved. Some of these saved people are working against you. They called themselves comes in the Name of Jesus!
We have to try the spirit by the spirit and see if it is of God. These type of evil people have another agenda, and they will do a John 10:10 on you. They come to steal, kill and destroy. What a friend you have in Jesus. We do have to trust some people in this world, but be guided by the Holy Spirit.
When you get born again. God will give you the ability to hear His voice. Ask God for a hearing ear, to hear God's voice. Pray for all of our men and women in the Military, for safety, protection, and their families. Father God bring them back home safe. We are thankful for all of them, and their families. We love you, and support all that you do for your country.
Be careful when talking on the telephone. Everybody is not for you, and they proclaimed to be saved. Some of these saved people are working against you. They called themselves comes in the Name of Jesus!
We have to try the spirit by the spirit and see if it is of God. These type of evil people have another agenda, and they will do a John 10:10 on you. They come to steal, kill and destroy. What a friend you have in Jesus. We do have to trust some people in this world, but be guided by the Holy Spirit.
Friday, November 20, 2009
"Be Not Troubled When A Famine Come"
Matthew 24: 1- In the midst of all of these things, be not troubled! You will hear of Wars, but be not troubled!24:7 Famine hitting the land. Pestilence of rats out of controlled. Earth Quakes hitting around the world. These are the beginning of sorrow! vs. 9. vs. 10: Many people are getting offended. Who has offended you, and blocked your anointing? Don't drink the poison! Don't let the bitterness take roots! Offense will arise 24:11, many false prophets shall arise.
Enduring to the end. Stay in Faith, regardless of what's going on in your life. There has to be Endurance.
Amos 8:11-12 A Famine of the Word. People are going and trying to find the Word, and could not find it. Will you endure to the end? What will separate you from the Word! Stay in Faith, and endure to the end! Will it be offense?
Line up with the Word! Your emotions are dominating the Word of God. Psalm 82:1-6 They are trying to do the right thing, but they are going to continue to walk in darkness. The attack is an attack on your faithfulness! Quitting is not an option. The attack from the devil is an attack on your faithfulness! Stand on the Word! Don't pull back from God! Pray and confess, and walk in love like you never before.
Rom. 10:1-2, Churches have a great zeal of God, but not vital knowledge, this leaves you empty. 10:3 Submit to God. You can be sincere in the things you do, but be
sincerely wrong. Don't stop tithing! Don't stop coming to church! ENDURE!!! Get your Faith stirred up!
2nd Peter 1:1-3 Simon Peter an Apostle to Jesus Christ.vs. 3 His divine Power. God has given us all things. vs 4 Be Partakers. The Word of God will grant you access to what you need, that lines up with the Word. Life is better in the Word! Get what you need when you get God's divine nature!
Enduring to the end. Stay in Faith, regardless of what's going on in your life. There has to be Endurance.
Amos 8:11-12 A Famine of the Word. People are going and trying to find the Word, and could not find it. Will you endure to the end? What will separate you from the Word! Stay in Faith, and endure to the end! Will it be offense?
Line up with the Word! Your emotions are dominating the Word of God. Psalm 82:1-6 They are trying to do the right thing, but they are going to continue to walk in darkness. The attack is an attack on your faithfulness! Quitting is not an option. The attack from the devil is an attack on your faithfulness! Stand on the Word! Don't pull back from God! Pray and confess, and walk in love like you never before.
Rom. 10:1-2, Churches have a great zeal of God, but not vital knowledge, this leaves you empty. 10:3 Submit to God. You can be sincere in the things you do, but be
sincerely wrong. Don't stop tithing! Don't stop coming to church! ENDURE!!! Get your Faith stirred up!
2nd Peter 1:1-3 Simon Peter an Apostle to Jesus Christ.vs. 3 His divine Power. God has given us all things. vs 4 Be Partakers. The Word of God will grant you access to what you need, that lines up with the Word. Life is better in the Word! Get what you need when you get God's divine nature!
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