Sisters and Brothers,
This Friday, we will have a special guest, Maria, to join us the study.
As we are coming to the beginning of Advent, Fr. Marvin is going to talk about the history and background of Advent.
According to present [1907] usage, Advent is a period beginning with the Sunday nearest to the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle (30 November) and embracing four Sundays. The first Sunday may be as early as 27 November, and then Advent has twenty-eight days, or as late as 3 December, giving the season only twenty-one days.
The preparation for the feast of the Nativity of Our Lord was not held before the feast itself existed, and of this we find no evidence before the end of the fourth century, when, according to Duchesne [Christian Worship (London, 1904), 260], it was celebrated throughout the whole Church, by some on 25 December, by others on 6 January.
Regardless the origin of Advent, it is a joyful time waiting for the Lord's coming.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Thursday, November 11, 2010
11/12, 1 Corinthians CH4
Sisters and Brothers,
We are continuing St. Paul's first letter to Corinthians this week.
In chapter 4, St. Paul talks about judging people. On one hand, we shouldn't judge others for the Lord is the one judged. On the other hand, we should not be concerned being judged by people. As Paul said, "I do not even pass judgment on myself, .., the one judge me is the Lord". As long we live to the Lord's step, we will receive praise from God when time comes.
Isn't this is so true? Aren't all the fame short lived? You don't have any when God sends you the the world and you can't bring any when God calls you back. We not only shouldn't judge other people, we shouldn't concern too much how other people judge us.
I like the way St. Paul urges us to imitate him. What a clear and direct instruction. Sounds simple, but, in reality, it is very difficult to accomplish. How many people can do even one tenth of Paul's virtue. Luckily, like Paul said, he come s to us with love and gentle spirit. Isn't it comforting? May we follow Paul's step, be a servant of Christ and steward of God.
in Christ,
Dan
We are continuing St. Paul's first letter to Corinthians this week.
In chapter 4, St. Paul talks about judging people. On one hand, we shouldn't judge others for the Lord is the one judged. On the other hand, we should not be concerned being judged by people. As Paul said, "I do not even pass judgment on myself, .., the one judge me is the Lord". As long we live to the Lord's step, we will receive praise from God when time comes.
Isn't this is so true? Aren't all the fame short lived? You don't have any when God sends you the the world and you can't bring any when God calls you back. We not only shouldn't judge other people, we shouldn't concern too much how other people judge us.
I like the way St. Paul urges us to imitate him. What a clear and direct instruction. Sounds simple, but, in reality, it is very difficult to accomplish. How many people can do even one tenth of Paul's virtue. Luckily, like Paul said, he come s to us with love and gentle spirit. Isn't it comforting? May we follow Paul's step, be a servant of Christ and steward of God.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, November 04, 2010
11/5 1 Corinthians 3 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
After celebrating all saint and all soul days, we are continuing on St. Paul's first letter to Corinthians.
In chapter 3, Paul continues to emphasize Jesus the one to follow. We, as Jesus' followers, are all equal, regardless what we do. As Paul said, Paul planted and Apollos watered. Neither the one who plants nor the one waters is anything. They are ministers like God's co-workers. No one is greater, neither inferior, to one another. Only God causes the growth.
Paul also explains our relationship to God. For we are the temple of God and the spirit of God dwells in us. This explains if we destroy God's temple, God will destroy us. Obviously, we will need to take care this God's temple and allow the spirit to be with us.
Let us empty ourselves and let the Holy Spirit dwells in us. So we will follow the foot step of Jesus and be an imitator of St. Paul.
in Christ,
Dan
After celebrating all saint and all soul days, we are continuing on St. Paul's first letter to Corinthians.
In chapter 3, Paul continues to emphasize Jesus the one to follow. We, as Jesus' followers, are all equal, regardless what we do. As Paul said, Paul planted and Apollos watered. Neither the one who plants nor the one waters is anything. They are ministers like God's co-workers. No one is greater, neither inferior, to one another. Only God causes the growth.
Paul also explains our relationship to God. For we are the temple of God and the spirit of God dwells in us. This explains if we destroy God's temple, God will destroy us. Obviously, we will need to take care this God's temple and allow the spirit to be with us.
Let us empty ourselves and let the Holy Spirit dwells in us. So we will follow the foot step of Jesus and be an imitator of St. Paul.
in Christ,
Dan
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
10/22 1 Corinthians 1-2
Sisters and Brothers,
After finishing Exodus from Old Testament, we are continuing the first letter from Paul to Corinthians.
Paul established this Christian community in about year 51, on his second missionary journey. While Paul was in Ephesus on his third journey, he received disquieting news about Corinth. The community there was displaying open factionalism, as certain members were identifying themselves exclusively with individual Christian leaders and interpreting Christian teaching as a superior wisdom for the initiated few. Not only that, many other questions regarding the Christian teaching were raised and false teachings were spread with ill practice.
To treat this wide spectrum of questions, Paul wrote this letter from Ephesus about the year 56. The letter illustrates well the mind and character of Paul. Certain passages of the letter are of the greatest importance for the understanding of early Christian teaching on the Eucharist and on the resurrection of the body.
Paul's authorship of 1 Corinthians, apart from a few verses that some regard as later interpolations, has never been seriously questioned. Some scholars have proposed, however, that the letter as we have it contains portions of more than one original Pauline letter. We know that Paul wrote at least two other letters to Corinth in addition to the two that we now have; this theory holds that the additional letters are actually contained within the two canonical ones. Most commentators, however, find 1 Corinthians quite understandable as a single coherent work.
The first problem Paul addresses is that of divisions within the community. Although we are unable to reconstruct the situation in Corinth completely, Paul clearly traces the divisions back to a false self-image on the part of the Corinthians, coupled with a false understanding of the apostles who preached to them and of the Christian message itself. As Paul wrote, “I urge you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree in what you say, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and in the same purpose.” “For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with the wisdom of human eloquence, so that the cross of Christ might not be emptied of its meaning.”
Even nowadays, we are still facing the same issue in our society. We are often unconsciously falling into the trap of boasting. As Paul wrote, “Rather, God chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise, and God chose the weak of the world to shame the strong, and God chose the lowly and despised of the world, those who count for nothing, to reduce to nothing those who are something, so that no human being might boast before God.
In chapter 2, Paul continued to explain that the wisdom is from God but not human being. “When I came to you, brothers, proclaiming the mystery of God, 1 I did not come with sublimity of words or of wisdom.” “I came to you in weakness and fear and much trembling.” And this wisdom cannot be acquired by revealed by God through Holy Spirit. Paul made his argument that none of the rulers knew, otherwise, they would not have crucified the Lord our God.
With this understanding in mind, we human beings can be categorized into two different persons, a natural person or a spiritual person. “The natural person does not accept what pertains to the Spirit of God, for to him it is foolishness, and he cannot understand it, because it is judged spiritually. The spiritual person, however, can judge everything but is not subject to judgment by anyone. For the spiritual persons share God’s own capacity to judge, they will not criticize nor boast.
Doesn’t this sound easy, to obtain God’s wisdom for God is gracious and merciful? But the key is to empty our hard and let the Holy Spirit to lead us. Imagine, can we put anything into a bottle that is full? Let’s us empty ourselves so we can receive God’s wisdom through the Holy Spirit.
In Christ,
Dan
After finishing Exodus from Old Testament, we are continuing the first letter from Paul to Corinthians.
Paul established this Christian community in about year 51, on his second missionary journey. While Paul was in Ephesus on his third journey, he received disquieting news about Corinth. The community there was displaying open factionalism, as certain members were identifying themselves exclusively with individual Christian leaders and interpreting Christian teaching as a superior wisdom for the initiated few. Not only that, many other questions regarding the Christian teaching were raised and false teachings were spread with ill practice.
To treat this wide spectrum of questions, Paul wrote this letter from Ephesus about the year 56. The letter illustrates well the mind and character of Paul. Certain passages of the letter are of the greatest importance for the understanding of early Christian teaching on the Eucharist and on the resurrection of the body.
Paul's authorship of 1 Corinthians, apart from a few verses that some regard as later interpolations, has never been seriously questioned. Some scholars have proposed, however, that the letter as we have it contains portions of more than one original Pauline letter. We know that Paul wrote at least two other letters to Corinth in addition to the two that we now have; this theory holds that the additional letters are actually contained within the two canonical ones. Most commentators, however, find 1 Corinthians quite understandable as a single coherent work.
The first problem Paul addresses is that of divisions within the community. Although we are unable to reconstruct the situation in Corinth completely, Paul clearly traces the divisions back to a false self-image on the part of the Corinthians, coupled with a false understanding of the apostles who preached to them and of the Christian message itself. As Paul wrote, “I urge you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree in what you say, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and in the same purpose.” “For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with the wisdom of human eloquence, so that the cross of Christ might not be emptied of its meaning.”
Even nowadays, we are still facing the same issue in our society. We are often unconsciously falling into the trap of boasting. As Paul wrote, “Rather, God chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise, and God chose the weak of the world to shame the strong, and God chose the lowly and despised of the world, those who count for nothing, to reduce to nothing those who are something, so that no human being might boast before God.
In chapter 2, Paul continued to explain that the wisdom is from God but not human being. “When I came to you, brothers, proclaiming the mystery of God, 1 I did not come with sublimity of words or of wisdom.” “I came to you in weakness and fear and much trembling.” And this wisdom cannot be acquired by revealed by God through Holy Spirit. Paul made his argument that none of the rulers knew, otherwise, they would not have crucified the Lord our God.
With this understanding in mind, we human beings can be categorized into two different persons, a natural person or a spiritual person. “The natural person does not accept what pertains to the Spirit of God, for to him it is foolishness, and he cannot understand it, because it is judged spiritually. The spiritual person, however, can judge everything but is not subject to judgment by anyone. For the spiritual persons share God’s own capacity to judge, they will not criticize nor boast.
Doesn’t this sound easy, to obtain God’s wisdom for God is gracious and merciful? But the key is to empty our hard and let the Holy Spirit to lead us. Imagine, can we put anything into a bottle that is full? Let’s us empty ourselves so we can receive God’s wisdom through the Holy Spirit.
In Christ,
Dan
Friday, October 15, 2010
10/15 Bible Study for kids - book to Tobit
Sisters and Brothers,
We are hosting a special Bible study for the kids this Friday. The theme of the study is from Old Testament, the book of Tabit.
This is a fascinating story about a devout and wealthy Israelite name Tobit. He was suffered from the reverse of fortunate due to his blindness caused by the birds’ drop. Tobit was pleading the Lord to let him die. In the mist of pleading, he recalled that he had large sum formerly deposited n far-off Media. Then he sent off his son, Tobiah, to retrieve the money. Eventually, Tobiah brought back the money and cured Tobit’s blindness.
Often time, we don’t understand why God makes us suffering. For we think we are the good men, like Tobit. However, God made this happen to make his glory known. Just like God sent Raphael to assist Tobiah and obtain the cure for Tobit.
Let’s share this wonderful story with our kids. For we may not know God’s plan, as long we put our trust in him, God will take care of us. Thanks be to God.
In Christ,
Dan
We are hosting a special Bible study for the kids this Friday. The theme of the study is from Old Testament, the book of Tabit.
This is a fascinating story about a devout and wealthy Israelite name Tobit. He was suffered from the reverse of fortunate due to his blindness caused by the birds’ drop. Tobit was pleading the Lord to let him die. In the mist of pleading, he recalled that he had large sum formerly deposited n far-off Media. Then he sent off his son, Tobiah, to retrieve the money. Eventually, Tobiah brought back the money and cured Tobit’s blindness.
Often time, we don’t understand why God makes us suffering. For we think we are the good men, like Tobit. However, God made this happen to make his glory known. Just like God sent Raphael to assist Tobiah and obtain the cure for Tobit.
Let’s share this wonderful story with our kids. For we may not know God’s plan, as long we put our trust in him, God will take care of us. Thanks be to God.
In Christ,
Dan
Wednesday, October 06, 2010
10/8 Introduction to 1 Corinthians
Sisters and Brothers,
For the past few months, we have been reading the book of Exodus. At the end of September, we come to the end of this book.
After we journey through Exodus, we are switching back to new Testament. Starting this month, we will begin with St. Paul's letter to Corinthians. It is one of the most well known letters from Paul. Not only its' popularity, this letter is probably one of the most important teaching from God through Paul's testimony.
We are very lucky to have Fr. Marvin to come this Friday and give us an introduction. Let us cleansing our heart and let God's words dwell within us.
in Christ,
Dan
For the past few months, we have been reading the book of Exodus. At the end of September, we come to the end of this book.
After we journey through Exodus, we are switching back to new Testament. Starting this month, we will begin with St. Paul's letter to Corinthians. It is one of the most well known letters from Paul. Not only its' popularity, this letter is probably one of the most important teaching from God through Paul's testimony.
We are very lucky to have Fr. Marvin to come this Friday and give us an introduction. Let us cleansing our heart and let God's words dwell within us.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, September 09, 2010
9/10 Exodus 34 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
Traditionally, Labor Day marks the end of summary. Starting Friday, we officially being Fall session of our Bible study.
Coincidently, the scripter of chapter 34 describes the commandment again. After smashing and breaking the previous stone tablet, God had Moses to cut out two stone tablets for thy to write the commandment. We are taking this opportunity to refresh God’s law and re-examine how well we had followed them.
One may think there are a lot of repeats and redundancies in the instruction. Ironically, we human beings are relatively short memory. We constantly need the reminder and refreshment in what we need to do and what we need to follow. There is no question about this statement for we are making the same mistakes over and over again. This fact is seen clearly in the Bible story as well as our daily life.
Let’s review the Lords’ commandment once again and re-examine ourselves. Through scripture reading, may the Holy Spirit give us guidance in understanding God’s words. But most of all, open our eyes to recognize our sins and be repent.
In Christ,
Dan
Traditionally, Labor Day marks the end of summary. Starting Friday, we officially being Fall session of our Bible study.
Coincidently, the scripter of chapter 34 describes the commandment again. After smashing and breaking the previous stone tablet, God had Moses to cut out two stone tablets for thy to write the commandment. We are taking this opportunity to refresh God’s law and re-examine how well we had followed them.
One may think there are a lot of repeats and redundancies in the instruction. Ironically, we human beings are relatively short memory. We constantly need the reminder and refreshment in what we need to do and what we need to follow. There is no question about this statement for we are making the same mistakes over and over again. This fact is seen clearly in the Bible story as well as our daily life.
Let’s review the Lords’ commandment once again and re-examine ourselves. Through scripture reading, may the Holy Spirit give us guidance in understanding God’s words. But most of all, open our eyes to recognize our sins and be repent.
In Christ,
Dan
Thursday, August 26, 2010
8/27 Exodus 32 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
As new school year starts, we are continuing our journey on book of Exodus.
This Friday, we will start with chapter 32. The first paragraph describes a common weakness of human being. We tend to look for some kind of leadership to follow, regardless whether they are God’s will. When Moses is gone, the people of Israel wanted to have something to reply on. As a result, they made golden calf and worship it.
Obviously, this act offends God and people got punished. Apparently, God used Moses to assemble Levites and slay all the offenders. One thing interesting is about Aaron. It is not clear why Aaron is not punished. One is reasoning that Aaron was forced by the people to make this molten calf. Although this argument may be reasonable but I think there is more to it. God’s mercy is much greater than we can think. It is God who forgives Aaron, no matter what he did. And not only Aaron, we all have a special place in God’s mind and we will be forgiven as long as we are repent.
May God have mercy on us and give us wisdom to see our sin and repent.
in Christ,
Dan
As new school year starts, we are continuing our journey on book of Exodus.
This Friday, we will start with chapter 32. The first paragraph describes a common weakness of human being. We tend to look for some kind of leadership to follow, regardless whether they are God’s will. When Moses is gone, the people of Israel wanted to have something to reply on. As a result, they made golden calf and worship it.
Obviously, this act offends God and people got punished. Apparently, God used Moses to assemble Levites and slay all the offenders. One thing interesting is about Aaron. It is not clear why Aaron is not punished. One is reasoning that Aaron was forced by the people to make this molten calf. Although this argument may be reasonable but I think there is more to it. God’s mercy is much greater than we can think. It is God who forgives Aaron, no matter what he did. And not only Aaron, we all have a special place in God’s mind and we will be forgiven as long as we are repent.
May God have mercy on us and give us wisdom to see our sin and repent.
in Christ,
Dan
Monday, August 16, 2010
8/20 Exodus 29 to 31
Sisters and Brothers,
After reviewing all the instructions of how the worship place needs to be built, we are continuing on scriptures that how the worship needs to be done.
Chapter 29 describes how to consecrate the priest, mainly for Aron. With that, “the Lord will consecrate the meeting tent and the alter and dwell in the mist of the Israelites”. What a promise from God to his people.
Chapter 30 describes how the incense should be made. We see the significant of incense to worship the Lord. The cultural important of using incense is clearly seen. Without surprise, there lies potential misunderstanding of the usage of incense among Chinese community. It is easy to be misled that using incense represents the worship of idols. In reality, it is a gesture of respect to those who gone to our Lord. A symbol to remind us those departures, although not with us on earth, but all in the kind of God waiting for us to join them after our journey on earth.
Not surprising, chapter 32 describes the famous golden calf. As Aron said, “You know well enough how prone the people are to evil”. With all the instructions Lord show his people, the same ritual was misused to worship the idol. No wonder Moses assembled all the Levites and slave all the kinsmen that violated the order. Sounds really cruel but wakening. We may be subject to the same cruelty if we are not to follow the Lord’s order. May our God have mercy on me and pull me out the wrong path.
in Christ,
Dan
After reviewing all the instructions of how the worship place needs to be built, we are continuing on scriptures that how the worship needs to be done.
Chapter 29 describes how to consecrate the priest, mainly for Aron. With that, “the Lord will consecrate the meeting tent and the alter and dwell in the mist of the Israelites”. What a promise from God to his people.
Chapter 30 describes how the incense should be made. We see the significant of incense to worship the Lord. The cultural important of using incense is clearly seen. Without surprise, there lies potential misunderstanding of the usage of incense among Chinese community. It is easy to be misled that using incense represents the worship of idols. In reality, it is a gesture of respect to those who gone to our Lord. A symbol to remind us those departures, although not with us on earth, but all in the kind of God waiting for us to join them after our journey on earth.
Not surprising, chapter 32 describes the famous golden calf. As Aron said, “You know well enough how prone the people are to evil”. With all the instructions Lord show his people, the same ritual was misused to worship the idol. No wonder Moses assembled all the Levites and slave all the kinsmen that violated the order. Sounds really cruel but wakening. We may be subject to the same cruelty if we are not to follow the Lord’s order. May our God have mercy on me and pull me out the wrong path.
in Christ,
Dan
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
8/13 Exodus Chapter 25 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
With the Lord's commandments written on our heart, we are continue our journey on the forth part of Exodus, the dwelling and its furnishings.
Starting chapter 25, a lot of detailed description on how the religious rituals need to be done. We see the beauty of these details, and on the other hand,the cumbersome rules to follow. Isn't life that way as well. Often time, we complained the flatness of daily living and looked for some excitements. During our endless searching, we also come to envy those who live a simple life. How can we be so self-conflicting? No wonder we have so much difficulty understanding this part of scripture.
May the Lord give us wisdom and guide us through out our journey in understanding your word, most of all, follow your commends.
in Christ,
Dan
With the Lord's commandments written on our heart, we are continue our journey on the forth part of Exodus, the dwelling and its furnishings.
Starting chapter 25, a lot of detailed description on how the religious rituals need to be done. We see the beauty of these details, and on the other hand,the cumbersome rules to follow. Isn't life that way as well. Often time, we complained the flatness of daily living and looked for some excitements. During our endless searching, we also come to envy those who live a simple life. How can we be so self-conflicting? No wonder we have so much difficulty understanding this part of scripture.
May the Lord give us wisdom and guide us through out our journey in understanding your word, most of all, follow your commends.
in Christ,
Dan
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Cornerstone photo sharing
--- Click on the picture for whole album in the Picasa web or downloads.
Thursday, August 05, 2010
8/6 Exodus Chapter 22 to 24
Sisters and Brothers,
After stating ten commandments, the scripture continues to stat the law of the Lord in every prospect, trusts, loans, social order, religious rules, reward of fidelity.
Many description may sounds odd today. However, by considering the society back them, many rules start to make sense. The meat of these scripture is not necessary the exact content but the spirit behind them. Have we completely put our trust in Lord and let the Holy spirit to lead us and understand this part of passage? Easy say than done, of course.
Chapter 24 starts to describe all the rituals. The first is the ratification of the covenant. And God handed Moses the stone tablets. The stone tablet contains God's commandments and instruction. Sadly, we don't have such stone tablet today. It would have been a beautiful symbol of God' law and powerful proof of God's commands. And luckily, we have the Bible that everyone can read and follow. Let's read, mediate, and live God's command as Bible say so.
in Christ,
Dan
After stating ten commandments, the scripture continues to stat the law of the Lord in every prospect, trusts, loans, social order, religious rules, reward of fidelity.
Many description may sounds odd today. However, by considering the society back them, many rules start to make sense. The meat of these scripture is not necessary the exact content but the spirit behind them. Have we completely put our trust in Lord and let the Holy spirit to lead us and understand this part of passage? Easy say than done, of course.
Chapter 24 starts to describe all the rituals. The first is the ratification of the covenant. And God handed Moses the stone tablets. The stone tablet contains God's commandments and instruction. Sadly, we don't have such stone tablet today. It would have been a beautiful symbol of God' law and powerful proof of God's commands. And luckily, we have the Bible that everyone can read and follow. Let's read, mediate, and live God's command as Bible say so.
in Christ,
Dan
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
7/23 Exodus Chapter 19 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
What a dramatic scenery when Lord came down to Mountain Sinai. And what a pity none of the Israelites can go up to see the Lord except Moses. On the flip side, what a honor for Moses to see God face to face. No one can see the Lord again after Moses.
Really? Really! At least for fifteen hundred years until Jesus come. Best yet, disciples saw God's human form as Jesus, son of God, and listened to his teaching. Isn't it a lot better than handing out the ten commandments at the time of Moses? And God not only appeared himself in the human form, he also promised the salvation to all human races, not limiting to the chosen one, Jews.
in Christ,
Dan
What a dramatic scenery when Lord came down to Mountain Sinai. And what a pity none of the Israelites can go up to see the Lord except Moses. On the flip side, what a honor for Moses to see God face to face. No one can see the Lord again after Moses.
Really? Really! At least for fifteen hundred years until Jesus come. Best yet, disciples saw God's human form as Jesus, son of God, and listened to his teaching. Isn't it a lot better than handing out the ten commandments at the time of Moses? And God not only appeared himself in the human form, he also promised the salvation to all human races, not limiting to the chosen one, Jews.
in Christ,
Dan
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
7/16 Exodus 17 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
Once again, we are continuing on Exodus this Friday.
After Israelite left Egypt, God has been directing each steps for them. Repeatedly, we read Israelite complains every inconvenience encountered. And repeatedly, God provided comfort and fulfill their request. In chapter 17, we even read the God is fighting Amalek for Israelite. Of course, Israelite praised the Lord after each success and request being grant.
Despite God infinite grace, the messenger Moses has been stretch thin. Every single distribute is going through Moses. In chapter 18, we read Moses is consulting his father-in-law for advise. The scripture writer actually pave he way for ten commandments in chapter 20.
An classical dispute for our reconciliation sacrament is probably derived from this passage. After the ten commandments, God gave us rules to follow and the advocate is no longer needed. But in reality, although the communication channel is wise open between God to us, there is nothing wrong to have advocate despite God is for sure knowing our wishes.
It is interesting argument that can go either way. Let's pray to the Lord our God to give us wisdom in overcoming this obstacle. May God unite all Christians to we will follow thy will than our own steps.
in Christ,
Dan
Once again, we are continuing on Exodus this Friday.
After Israelite left Egypt, God has been directing each steps for them. Repeatedly, we read Israelite complains every inconvenience encountered. And repeatedly, God provided comfort and fulfill their request. In chapter 17, we even read the God is fighting Amalek for Israelite. Of course, Israelite praised the Lord after each success and request being grant.
Despite God infinite grace, the messenger Moses has been stretch thin. Every single distribute is going through Moses. In chapter 18, we read Moses is consulting his father-in-law for advise. The scripture writer actually pave he way for ten commandments in chapter 20.
An classical dispute for our reconciliation sacrament is probably derived from this passage. After the ten commandments, God gave us rules to follow and the advocate is no longer needed. But in reality, although the communication channel is wise open between God to us, there is nothing wrong to have advocate despite God is for sure knowing our wishes.
It is interesting argument that can go either way. Let's pray to the Lord our God to give us wisdom in overcoming this obstacle. May God unite all Christians to we will follow thy will than our own steps.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Exodus 15 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
After the July 4th holiday, we are getting back to our regular Bible Study schedule and continue on Exodus chapter 15.
Chapter 15 appears to be the praising from Israelis after God has saved them multiple times. The poetic writing captures the facts of major activities.
The second part of chapter 15 comes back to the typical history/story telling style. Again, God uses his power to perform miracle by purifying water with wood. As we read on to chapter 16, more miracles were performed.
Through out the Exodus that describing Israelite journey to the promised land, countless miracles God had preformed to save his people. As we are journeying our life on earth, believe or not, God also uses his power to project us through out our journey. We may not see it as miracle, or even unnoticed, our savior is indeed at work.
Let's also praise to the Lord and thanks God for everything thy did.
in Christ,
Dan
After the July 4th holiday, we are getting back to our regular Bible Study schedule and continue on Exodus chapter 15.
Chapter 15 appears to be the praising from Israelis after God has saved them multiple times. The poetic writing captures the facts of major activities.
The second part of chapter 15 comes back to the typical history/story telling style. Again, God uses his power to perform miracle by purifying water with wood. As we read on to chapter 16, more miracles were performed.
Through out the Exodus that describing Israelite journey to the promised land, countless miracles God had preformed to save his people. As we are journeying our life on earth, believe or not, God also uses his power to project us through out our journey. We may not see it as miracle, or even unnoticed, our savior is indeed at work.
Let's also praise to the Lord and thanks God for everything thy did.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Exodus 14 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
After studying the passover last week, we are continue on the story of Exodus.
Again, we see the power of Lord or God. At one hand, he made Pharaoh obstinate and had him sent his soldiers to pursue Israelites. On the other hand, he casted the dark clouds to hinder the Egyptians pursue and protected his people Israelites.
Chapter 14 is one of the most dramatic story that Moses opened up the water and let Israelites marching across the sea. Before God uses Moses to open the sea, people were untruest and regret following Moses. The reaction is kind of understandable for situation like this. As Human are weak and there is no strength without God. We also see dark side of human being.
In the old Testament, God uses his power to perform miracle and shows his people he is the true God. I sometimes wonder why God is no longer showing his power and lead his people? I may never know and there may never be an answer. Our earthy life is so short and our view is so narrow, we can not see the plan and fact God had done for us. Miracles are probably happening every day but we just aren't part of them. Even we were, we may never noticed.
Let's pray to the Lord our God to give us wisdom and open our eyes. As God had told us: "Blessed are those who have not see and have believed".
in Christ,
Dan
After studying the passover last week, we are continue on the story of Exodus.
Again, we see the power of Lord or God. At one hand, he made Pharaoh obstinate and had him sent his soldiers to pursue Israelites. On the other hand, he casted the dark clouds to hinder the Egyptians pursue and protected his people Israelites.
Chapter 14 is one of the most dramatic story that Moses opened up the water and let Israelites marching across the sea. Before God uses Moses to open the sea, people were untruest and regret following Moses. The reaction is kind of understandable for situation like this. As Human are weak and there is no strength without God. We also see dark side of human being.
In the old Testament, God uses his power to perform miracle and shows his people he is the true God. I sometimes wonder why God is no longer showing his power and lead his people? I may never know and there may never be an answer. Our earthy life is so short and our view is so narrow, we can not see the plan and fact God had done for us. Miracles are probably happening every day but we just aren't part of them. Even we were, we may never noticed.
Let's pray to the Lord our God to give us wisdom and open our eyes. As God had told us: "Blessed are those who have not see and have believed".
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Exodus Chapter 12 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
This week, we are continueing on chapter 12. Famous event for the Iselies and the setting up of the first covnant.
Through the wonder and marical God produced, we will learn how small we are comparing to the creater.
in Christ,
Dan
This week, we are continueing on chapter 12. Famous event for the Iselies and the setting up of the first covnant.
Through the wonder and marical God produced, we will learn how small we are comparing to the creater.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Exodus Chapter 7 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
This week, we are continue our journey of how God saved his people from Egypt.
God had chosen Moses to be his servant and have Moses to command Pharaoh to let his people go. In spite of Moses' s protest, God insists Moses to accept the assignment and had Aron to help him in talking.
The famous ten plagues described in the Exodus seem to be similar to certain natural phenomena of that country; but they are represented as supernatural at least in their greater intensity and in their occurring exactly according to Moses' commands.
Nine times, the Lord made Pharaoh obstinate and would not let Israelites go. Here are these nine plagues:
Water to blood, Frog, Gnat, Flies, death of livestock, festering boil, hail, locust, Darkness
Often time, we made mistake and endured the suffer but our hearts are still obstinate. Let's pray to the Lord teaching us be mindful. Repent in time before the tenth plague falls on us.
in Christ,
Dan
This week, we are continue our journey of how God saved his people from Egypt.
God had chosen Moses to be his servant and have Moses to command Pharaoh to let his people go. In spite of Moses' s protest, God insists Moses to accept the assignment and had Aron to help him in talking.
The famous ten plagues described in the Exodus seem to be similar to certain natural phenomena of that country; but they are represented as supernatural at least in their greater intensity and in their occurring exactly according to Moses' commands.
Nine times, the Lord made Pharaoh obstinate and would not let Israelites go. Here are these nine plagues:
Water to blood, Frog, Gnat, Flies, death of livestock, festering boil, hail, locust, Darkness
Often time, we made mistake and endured the suffer but our hearts are still obstinate. Let's pray to the Lord teaching us be mindful. Repent in time before the tenth plague falls on us.
in Christ,
Dan
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
5/21 Exodus 4 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
Last week, Fr. Marvin let our study and talked about the ten commandments.
It is clear the 10 commandments are the very basic rules God want us to follow. During the time Jesus was with his disciples, he often cited these commandments as the requirement to enter the kingdom of God. Exodus chapter 20 lists them all
20:1-6, the Lord our God is the only true God to worship
20:7, shall not take the Lord in vain
20:8, keep sabbath day
20:12, honor your father and mother
20:13, not kill
20:14, not commit adultery
20:15, not steal
20:16, not bear false witness
20:17, not covet your neighbor's house
20:17, not covet your neighbor's wife and possessions
This week, we are continuing onto chapter 4. God pick Moses to free this people from Egypt. From the scripture, we see how God uses his power in the land of Egypt. Although God is merciful, thy is also determined. There is no way except God's way.
Let us dwell in these passage and try to understand God will in our daily life.
in Christ,
Dan
Last week, Fr. Marvin let our study and talked about the ten commandments.
It is clear the 10 commandments are the very basic rules God want us to follow. During the time Jesus was with his disciples, he often cited these commandments as the requirement to enter the kingdom of God. Exodus chapter 20 lists them all
20:1-6, the Lord our God is the only true God to worship
20:7, shall not take the Lord in vain
20:8, keep sabbath day
20:12, honor your father and mother
20:13, not kill
20:14, not commit adultery
20:15, not steal
20:16, not bear false witness
20:17, not covet your neighbor's house
20:17, not covet your neighbor's wife and possessions
This week, we are continuing onto chapter 4. God pick Moses to free this people from Egypt. From the scripture, we see how God uses his power in the land of Egypt. Although God is merciful, thy is also determined. There is no way except God's way.
Let us dwell in these passage and try to understand God will in our daily life.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, May 06, 2010
5/7 Exodus
Sisters and Brothers,
After finished book of Genesis last week, we are continuing into the book of Exodus. This is the second book of Pentateuch.
From Greek word, exodus means departure. The whole book is narrated in the departure of Israelite from Egypt. God uses Moses to deliver numerous miracles and have him to lead Israelite across Red Sea to Mount Sinai. In there, Israelite, the descendants of Jacob, entered a special covenant with the Lord.
Through Moses, God gave to the Israelite the law, ten commandments. By following these moral, civil, and ritual legislation, we will to become holy and the promise of Savior for all mankind would be fulfilled.
in Christ,
Dan
Cited from New American Bible
After finished book of Genesis last week, we are continuing into the book of Exodus. This is the second book of Pentateuch.
From Greek word, exodus means departure. The whole book is narrated in the departure of Israelite from Egypt. God uses Moses to deliver numerous miracles and have him to lead Israelite across Red Sea to Mount Sinai. In there, Israelite, the descendants of Jacob, entered a special covenant with the Lord.
Through Moses, God gave to the Israelite the law, ten commandments. By following these moral, civil, and ritual legislation, we will to become holy and the promise of Savior for all mankind would be fulfilled.
in Christ,
Dan
Cited from New American Bible
Thursday, April 29, 2010
The ending of Genesis
Sisters and Brothers,
We are approaching the end of Genesis.
Finally, the whole Israeli moved done to Egypt. Although Joseph was in such a high rank in Egypt, he was still wanting to go back to God's promised land. Before Joseph die, he put the sons of Jacob under oath and continue, "When God thus takes care of you, you must bring my bones up with you from this place" 45:25
It is not hard to understand why Israeli was suppressed by Egyptian. In their custom, the Egyptians don't even sit to eat with Jews. When Joseph was in favor with The Pharaoh, Egyptians won't do anything to the Jews. After Joseph's death, and mostly likely the old Pharaoh's death, situation changed. On top of that, all the Israeli's were more prosper than the Egyptians. Naturally, jealous gets in people's mind and started to persuade Pharaoh to do different things.
This is not new to our daily life. We all experienced one way or the other similar situation. Sometimes we get frustrated and even angry. Why God puts me in such a test for I am faithful. The story of Genesis and Exodus give a perfect answer. God never put us on any easy life. When you prosper, situations come to test you. Doesn't matter whether it comes from Satan or our Lord. We will need be faithful and endure the tests just like Israeli's in Egypt. Sooner or later, the Lord will send saver to free us, like Moses freed the Israelis from Egypt.
in Christ,
Dan
We are approaching the end of Genesis.
Finally, the whole Israeli moved done to Egypt. Although Joseph was in such a high rank in Egypt, he was still wanting to go back to God's promised land. Before Joseph die, he put the sons of Jacob under oath and continue, "When God thus takes care of you, you must bring my bones up with you from this place" 45:25
It is not hard to understand why Israeli was suppressed by Egyptian. In their custom, the Egyptians don't even sit to eat with Jews. When Joseph was in favor with The Pharaoh, Egyptians won't do anything to the Jews. After Joseph's death, and mostly likely the old Pharaoh's death, situation changed. On top of that, all the Israeli's were more prosper than the Egyptians. Naturally, jealous gets in people's mind and started to persuade Pharaoh to do different things.
This is not new to our daily life. We all experienced one way or the other similar situation. Sometimes we get frustrated and even angry. Why God puts me in such a test for I am faithful. The story of Genesis and Exodus give a perfect answer. God never put us on any easy life. When you prosper, situations come to test you. Doesn't matter whether it comes from Satan or our Lord. We will need be faithful and endure the tests just like Israeli's in Egypt. Sooner or later, the Lord will send saver to free us, like Moses freed the Israelis from Egypt.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, April 22, 2010
4/23 Genesis 46 and on
Sisters and Brothers,
This week, we are continue with the story of Genesis.
Jacob comes the Egypt after knowing Joseph is still alive and well there. In the mean time, when Jacob arrives Beer-sheba, God reveal to him his plan. Not only visiting Joseph, God asked Jacob move to Egypt and ensure God will go down with him.
It takes a lot of courage and trust to make such a move. For God had promised Jacob the land of Canaan, how could he ask Jacob to go down different path, especially Egypt? "Since all shepherds are abhorrent to the Egyptians" 46:34. Obviously, Egypt was not the first place Jacob would have picked to move his entire family even during the famine. Not only Jacob moved his there, eventually, he died in Egypt.
Come to think about our lives, isn't the same? We thought we figured out what God's planned for us. As we are working hard to pursue "God's plan", often time, we detoured to the different path. How do we know the new path is really God's plan or not? Obviously, it could be quite different from the original plan but eventually, we will get to the place. May not be the way we thought would be. Just like Jacob died in Egypt instead.
Let us pray to the Lord always give us the guidance. And may the Holy Spirit provides us wisdom to help us choosing the right detour path.
in Christ,
Dan
This week, we are continue with the story of Genesis.
Jacob comes the Egypt after knowing Joseph is still alive and well there. In the mean time, when Jacob arrives Beer-sheba, God reveal to him his plan. Not only visiting Joseph, God asked Jacob move to Egypt and ensure God will go down with him.
It takes a lot of courage and trust to make such a move. For God had promised Jacob the land of Canaan, how could he ask Jacob to go down different path, especially Egypt? "Since all shepherds are abhorrent to the Egyptians" 46:34. Obviously, Egypt was not the first place Jacob would have picked to move his entire family even during the famine. Not only Jacob moved his there, eventually, he died in Egypt.
Come to think about our lives, isn't the same? We thought we figured out what God's planned for us. As we are working hard to pursue "God's plan", often time, we detoured to the different path. How do we know the new path is really God's plan or not? Obviously, it could be quite different from the original plan but eventually, we will get to the place. May not be the way we thought would be. Just like Jacob died in Egypt instead.
Let us pray to the Lord always give us the guidance. And may the Holy Spirit provides us wisdom to help us choosing the right detour path.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, April 15, 2010
4/16 Genesis 42 to 45
Sisters and Brothers,
This week, we are continuing our journey on the book of Genesis.
As the famine is getting worse, Jacob's family were also suffering at Canann. Like the rest of people in the region, they went to Egypt for the food. Apparently, they were under the mercy of Joseph.
You would think Joseph would have taken the opportunity for revenge. On the contrary, he put all the food and money back in his brothers' bag. Although, he did put out some obstacles in front of his brothers. It is quite understandable considering what he went through. The interesting thing was Joseph asked his brother to leave Simeon behind at Egypt. This was probably his tactic to have his brother come back, especially with Benjamin whom Joseph hasn't seen. For Joseph, it is big struggle between wanting to see his family and putting down his face to forgive his brothers.
In chapter 45, Joseph finally told his brothers who he is. And he put out the astounding statement
"So it was not really you but God who had me come here; and he has made of me a father to Pharaoh, lord of all his household, and ruler over the whole land of Egypt"
It takes a lot of courage to put down one's face like Joseph. And it is a lot of love to forgive ones like Joseph's brother.
Let us pray to the Lord our God to give us wisdom and courage. So we can learn and practice love and forgiveness.
in Christ,
Dan
This week, we are continuing our journey on the book of Genesis.
As the famine is getting worse, Jacob's family were also suffering at Canann. Like the rest of people in the region, they went to Egypt for the food. Apparently, they were under the mercy of Joseph.
You would think Joseph would have taken the opportunity for revenge. On the contrary, he put all the food and money back in his brothers' bag. Although, he did put out some obstacles in front of his brothers. It is quite understandable considering what he went through. The interesting thing was Joseph asked his brother to leave Simeon behind at Egypt. This was probably his tactic to have his brother come back, especially with Benjamin whom Joseph hasn't seen. For Joseph, it is big struggle between wanting to see his family and putting down his face to forgive his brothers.
In chapter 45, Joseph finally told his brothers who he is. And he put out the astounding statement
"So it was not really you but God who had me come here; and he has made of me a father to Pharaoh, lord of all his household, and ruler over the whole land of Egypt"
It takes a lot of courage to put down one's face like Joseph. And it is a lot of love to forgive ones like Joseph's brother.
Let us pray to the Lord our God to give us wisdom and courage. So we can learn and practice love and forgiveness.
in Christ,
Dan
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
4/9 Genesis 39 to 41
Sisters and Brothers,
This coming Friday is our first Bible study for the Easter season. Genesis 39 to 41 fits well to this churchcal calendar.
As we are reading this part of Genesis, we see Joseph was just a slave when he arrived in Egypt. But soon, he began to have a successful career. The promise that God gave to Abraham reflects on Joseph.
However, the road to success is not without ups and downs. Even though God is with Joseph, God still put all the possible tests to Joseph.
Coming to Egypt as a slave, Joseph was doing well at Potiphar's house. But not very long, life took a turn. Potiphar's wife lied to accuse Joseph raped her and him to jail.
While in jail, the chief jailer put Joseph in charge. We clearly see how God put Joseph in test as well as his blessing on him. And during the jail time, there was an opportunity or Joseph to get out. For Joseph had foretold Pharaoh's chief cupbearer's release and hoping he would help Joseph. But nothing happen. That was a big setback for Joseph and would have been devastated for most of the people.
Let's be faithful and accept God's assignment, for good and bad. For he knows our destiny and we are his people.
in Christ,
Dan
This coming Friday is our first Bible study for the Easter season. Genesis 39 to 41 fits well to this churchcal calendar.
As we are reading this part of Genesis, we see Joseph was just a slave when he arrived in Egypt. But soon, he began to have a successful career. The promise that God gave to Abraham reflects on Joseph.
However, the road to success is not without ups and downs. Even though God is with Joseph, God still put all the possible tests to Joseph.
Coming to Egypt as a slave, Joseph was doing well at Potiphar's house. But not very long, life took a turn. Potiphar's wife lied to accuse Joseph raped her and him to jail.
While in jail, the chief jailer put Joseph in charge. We clearly see how God put Joseph in test as well as his blessing on him. And during the jail time, there was an opportunity or Joseph to get out. For Joseph had foretold Pharaoh's chief cupbearer's release and hoping he would help Joseph. But nothing happen. That was a big setback for Joseph and would have been devastated for most of the people.
But the story really tells God's mysterious plan. Instead of letting Joseph out easily, God had him stay in jail for two more years. For God is setting up the stage for Joseph to interpreted Pharaoh's dream. That interpretation eventually raised Joseph out of the jail and became famous in Egypt.
This is a wonderful story and gives us a perfect example of God's plan. He will put us to test before he pour down his blessing. When we in distress or whatever low point in life, God is with us. And we never know what kind of tests he will put us thorough before his next assignment. Unlike Jesus, he know the next step. However, he was also gone through the suffering of died on the cross before raised on high.
This is a wonderful story and gives us a perfect example of God's plan. He will put us to test before he pour down his blessing. When we in distress or whatever low point in life, God is with us. And we never know what kind of tests he will put us thorough before his next assignment. Unlike Jesus, he know the next step. However, he was also gone through the suffering of died on the cross before raised on high.
Let's be faithful and accept God's assignment, for good and bad. For he knows our destiny and we are his people.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, March 25, 2010
3/26 Genesis 34 and on
Sisters and Brother,
This week, we are continuing on chapter 34.
As a classical story for eye-on-eye, Dinah's brothers, Simeon and Levi, slaughter all the males in the city in revenge of Shechem's act on Dinah. Although the act may not be considered appropriate in today's standard, the action taken by Levi seems to inline with the function of Israel's 12 tribes. For Levi enforces the law and we see that in the book of Joshua.
Holy week starts next week although the world doesn't stop. Everything goes on regularly. The work schedule remains the same, the school activities remain the same, tax due day remains the same. How are we going to make next week "holy" remains in me. Let's pray to the Lord and may him guide us to follow his foot step. May we all fill with "holiness", at least one week a year.
in Christ,
Dan
This week, we are continuing on chapter 34.
As a classical story for eye-on-eye, Dinah's brothers, Simeon and Levi, slaughter all the males in the city in revenge of Shechem's act on Dinah. Although the act may not be considered appropriate in today's standard, the action taken by Levi seems to inline with the function of Israel's 12 tribes. For Levi enforces the law and we see that in the book of Joshua.
Holy week starts next week although the world doesn't stop. Everything goes on regularly. The work schedule remains the same, the school activities remain the same, tax due day remains the same. How are we going to make next week "holy" remains in me. Let's pray to the Lord and may him guide us to follow his foot step. May we all fill with "holiness", at least one week a year.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, March 04, 2010
3/5 Bible Study with Fr. Marvin
Brothers and Sisters,
As we are second week into this year's Lenten season, Fr. Marvin will lead us in this week's study.
Mt 5:43-48
Jesus said to his disciples:
“You have heard that it was said,
You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.
But I say to you, love your enemies,
and pray for those who persecute you,
that you may be children of your heavenly Father,
for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good,
and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.
For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have?
Do not the tax collectors do the same?
And if you greet your brothers and sisters only,
what is unusual about that?
Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
Lk 6:36-38
Jesus said to his disciples:
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
How can we be perfect as we are just human beings? How can we be merciful as our heavenly Father? We all know we should love our enemies, not judging, stop condemning, and be forgiving. It is easier to say than done. Is love itself enough to get us going? As St. Paul said, "faith, hope, and love, and the love is the most important". But how? How can we be loving as our Father?
in Christ,
Dan
As we are second week into this year's Lenten season, Fr. Marvin will lead us in this week's study.
Mt 5:43-48
Jesus said to his disciples:
“You have heard that it was said,
You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.
But I say to you, love your enemies,
and pray for those who persecute you,
that you may be children of your heavenly Father,
for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good,
and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.
For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have?
Do not the tax collectors do the same?
And if you greet your brothers and sisters only,
what is unusual about that?
Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
Lk 6:36-38
Jesus said to his disciples:
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
“Stop judging and you will not be judged.
Stop condemning and you will not be condemned.
Forgive and you will be forgiven.
Give and gifts will be given to you;
a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing,
will be poured into your lap.
For the measure with which you measure
will in return be measured out to you.”
How can we be perfect as we are just human beings? How can we be merciful as our heavenly Father? We all know we should love our enemies, not judging, stop condemning, and be forgiving. It is easier to say than done. Is love itself enough to get us going? As St. Paul said, "faith, hope, and love, and the love is the most important". But how? How can we be loving as our Father?
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, February 25, 2010
2/26 Genesis 27 and Beyond
Brothers and Sisters,
Continue from last week, we are getting to the end of Isaac and the beginning of Jacob.
The story of Genesis 27 is hard to understand by any moral standard. The footnote of New American Bible gives a good explanation:
"What Jacob did in deceiving his father and thereby cheating Esau out of Isaac's deathbed blessing is condemned as blameworthy, not only by Hosea (Hosea 12:4) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 9:3), but also, indirectly, by the Yahwist narrator of the present story, who makes the reader sympathize with Esau as the innocent victim of a cruel plot, and shows that Jacob and his mother, the instigator of the plot, paid for it by a lifelong separation from each other. The story was told because it was part of the mystery of God's ways in salvation history--his use of weak, sinful men to achieve his own ultimate purpose."
The purpose of this passage is clear. God made good use of his people regardless who they are. Things are not possible for us are possible for God. The real justice is not done through any form of man made enforcement. Not judge but be judged through Christ our Lord.
Genesis 28 is well know bed time story for the kid. How God is protecting his people and guarding them during their sleep. In return, Jacob setup the memorial stone and made his vow. How many time we have been under God's wing and received thy projection? But how many time we have been done something in return even symbolically? Let's take a moment to look back how God had saved us in the past. May God have mercy on us and lead us to the right path.
in Christ,
Dan
Continue from last week, we are getting to the end of Isaac and the beginning of Jacob.
The story of Genesis 27 is hard to understand by any moral standard. The footnote of New American Bible gives a good explanation:
"What Jacob did in deceiving his father and thereby cheating Esau out of Isaac's deathbed blessing is condemned as blameworthy, not only by Hosea (Hosea 12:4) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 9:3), but also, indirectly, by the Yahwist narrator of the present story, who makes the reader sympathize with Esau as the innocent victim of a cruel plot, and shows that Jacob and his mother, the instigator of the plot, paid for it by a lifelong separation from each other. The story was told because it was part of the mystery of God's ways in salvation history--his use of weak, sinful men to achieve his own ultimate purpose."
The purpose of this passage is clear. God made good use of his people regardless who they are. Things are not possible for us are possible for God. The real justice is not done through any form of man made enforcement. Not judge but be judged through Christ our Lord.
Genesis 28 is well know bed time story for the kid. How God is protecting his people and guarding them during their sleep. In return, Jacob setup the memorial stone and made his vow. How many time we have been under God's wing and received thy projection? But how many time we have been done something in return even symbolically? Let's take a moment to look back how God had saved us in the past. May God have mercy on us and lead us to the right path.
in Christ,
Dan
Friday, February 19, 2010
2/19 - Genesis 創世紀 Chapter 25 and beyond
Dear Friends and Families,
How are you? Happy New Year. Wish everyone have a good time during the Chinese New Year.
Tonight (2/19 Friday) we are going to discuss Genesis 創世紀 Chapter 25 and beyond. Bettina is going to lead the discussion and prepare the snacks.
For the earlier reminder on next Friday (2/26), Sherry will lead.
See you all tonight.
God Bless us all.
How are you? Happy New Year. Wish everyone have a good time during the Chinese New Year.
Tonight (2/19 Friday) we are going to discuss Genesis 創世紀 Chapter 25 and beyond. Bettina is going to lead the discussion and prepare the snacks.
For the earlier reminder on next Friday (2/26), Sherry will lead.
See you all tonight.
God Bless us all.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Thursday, February 04, 2010
2/5 Genesis 23
Brothers and Sisters,
As we continue the journey on book of Genesis, we are getting close to the end of Abraham's life.
Chapter 23 describes the end of Sarah's life. And how Abraham arranged her burial. One important thing is Abraham bought the land from Hittites. It was the first land Abraham owned in Canaan. Since God had promised Abraham this land, Abraham was confident his descendants will return this place.
Chapter 24 describes how Abraham arranged the marriages for Issac. We can reason why Abraham prefer none-Canaanite due to Hebrew custom. But more important, Abraham wanted Issac's wife to be a woman who would help Issac to serve God.
In this chapter, we also learn how Abra hm's servants trusted in him and his God. For we are the servants of the Lord, this sets an example for us to follow. May we all be the faithful servants of the Lord our God.
in Christ,
Dan
As we continue the journey on book of Genesis, we are getting close to the end of Abraham's life.
Chapter 23 describes the end of Sarah's life. And how Abraham arranged her burial. One important thing is Abraham bought the land from Hittites. It was the first land Abraham owned in Canaan. Since God had promised Abraham this land, Abraham was confident his descendants will return this place.
Chapter 24 describes how Abraham arranged the marriages for Issac. We can reason why Abraham prefer none-Canaanite due to Hebrew custom. But more important, Abraham wanted Issac's wife to be a woman who would help Issac to serve God.
In this chapter, we also learn how Abra hm's servants trusted in him and his God. For we are the servants of the Lord, this sets an example for us to follow. May we all be the faithful servants of the Lord our God.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, January 28, 2010
1/29 Jesus and Passover Lamb
Passover Lamb (Correlation between Old and New Testaments) -- Fr. Marvin Deutsch, M.M.
The feast of the Passover was central to the Jewish faith. Each family sacrificed a lamb, the blood of which was painted on the door posts. The Angel of death Passed over these homes but not over the homes of the Egyptians. All the first born of the Egyptians died. The Jews were saved from the slavery of Egypt. The Jews renewed this event once every year....
When Jesus was 40 days old, he was brought to the temple to be bought back. All the first born had to be bought back in this way. It was a continual reminder of the importance of the Passover feast. (Luke 2:22)
The Jews celebrated this feast every year. It was during this celebration that Jesus when 12 years old, stays behind in the temple to declare his purpose. (Luke 2:41-52)
It is also central to the Christian Faith. Jesus is the New Passover.
He had to die on the eve of the Passover feast. He had to die in Jerusalem. He died while the lambs were being prepared for the feast. He was to become the New Lamb.
Jesus anticipated the feast of the Passover by celebrating it with his apostles on Thursday evening rather than on Friday evening.
Jesus is our Passover Lamb. By his blood we are saved from the Angel of death -eternal damnation in hell. We are saved from the slavery of sin.
We celebrate our Passover not only during Holy Week but every time we offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. At the consecration, the body and blood of Christ becomes present and is offered to the Father for us.
Read Exodus 12: 1-14
Luke 22:7; 14-20
When the day ofthe Feast ofthe Unleavened Bread arrived, the day for sacrificing the Passover lamb, he sent out Peter and John, instructing them, "Go make preparations for us to eat the Passover... When the hour came, he took his place at table with the apostles. He said to them, "1 have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, for, I tell you that from this time on I shall not drink ofthe fruit ofthe vine until the kingdom ofGod comes." Then he took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them saying, "This is my body which will be given for you; do this in memory ofme." And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you." Jesus becomes the new Lamb which is continually offered for us
John 1:29 -the Testimony ofJohn the Baptist"
Behold the Lamb ofGod who takes away the sin ofthe world
Revelation 7:13
Then one ofthe elders spoke up and said to me, "Who are these wearing white robes, and where did they come from? I said to him, "My Lord, you are the one who knows." He said to me, "These are the ones who have survived the time ofgreat distress; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood ofthe Lamb. "
Brothers and Sisters,
This week. Fr. Marvin Deutsch will lead us in the discussion of the Passover lab in the book of Exodus. How this passover lamb relates to Jesus who is the lamb of God.
Exodus 12, The Lord commend the whole Israel how to prepare the lamb for sacrifice in order to avoid the Angle of death. God saved Israeli and free them from Egypt.
Gospel of John 1:12, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world." God sent his own son to save us from our sin. Jesus, the perfect sacrifice without blemish, has fulfill God's promise, died for us. He is the lamb for us to offer to the Lord our God.
Let us praise the Lord or God. As Christ our Passover lamb, Jesus, has taken away the sin for us. Hallelujah.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, January 21, 2010
1/22 Genesis 20
Brothers and Sisters,
This week, we are continuing with the Chapter 20.
The story described in chapter 20 may happened well before chapter 18 that God promised Abraham/Sara a son. Apparently, whether the biblical events are in chronological order is not focus for the author.
The story takes us to the time when Abraham settled in Gerar. At the time, Abimelech who was the king of Gerar, laid eyes on Sara and took her. From the story, we realized how God is protecting his children even in such an desperate situation. The story also showed how weak Abraham is for he lie to Abimelech just to survive. Let's be honest, we probably all do when push comes to the shelf. However, God loves us regardless our sin. As long as we trust in him, God will lead our way out of trouble.
Once again, the author of Genesis uses Hagar to show God's mercy and takes care of his people. By sending messenger to show the well to Hagar, God kept his promise and never abandon us.
The highlight of part of story is God's test on Abraham. By asking Issac for the sacrifice, God put the most difficult test to his servant. Arguable, this is probably even harsher than the test for Job. How can God ask Issac for the sacrifice for Thy had just given him to me, Abraham must have been thinking back and forth. Apparently, Abraham overcome the struggle and decided obeying God's commend as a good servant. As a result, not only Abraham passed God's test, God reward him to be the father of great nation.
Often time, we are struggling and felt mistreated. How are we able to see through God's test and be his good servant. May God give us wisdom and courage to face whatever challenge he impose on us. And let us be an obeying servant.
in Christ,
Dan
This week, we are continuing with the Chapter 20.
The story described in chapter 20 may happened well before chapter 18 that God promised Abraham/Sara a son. Apparently, whether the biblical events are in chronological order is not focus for the author.
The story takes us to the time when Abraham settled in Gerar. At the time, Abimelech who was the king of Gerar, laid eyes on Sara and took her. From the story, we realized how God is protecting his children even in such an desperate situation. The story also showed how weak Abraham is for he lie to Abimelech just to survive. Let's be honest, we probably all do when push comes to the shelf. However, God loves us regardless our sin. As long as we trust in him, God will lead our way out of trouble.
Once again, the author of Genesis uses Hagar to show God's mercy and takes care of his people. By sending messenger to show the well to Hagar, God kept his promise and never abandon us.
The highlight of part of story is God's test on Abraham. By asking Issac for the sacrifice, God put the most difficult test to his servant. Arguable, this is probably even harsher than the test for Job. How can God ask Issac for the sacrifice for Thy had just given him to me, Abraham must have been thinking back and forth. Apparently, Abraham overcome the struggle and decided obeying God's commend as a good servant. As a result, not only Abraham passed God's test, God reward him to be the father of great nation.
Often time, we are struggling and felt mistreated. How are we able to see through God's test and be his good servant. May God give us wisdom and courage to face whatever challenge he impose on us. And let us be an obeying servant.
in Christ,
Dan
Thursday, January 14, 2010
1/15 Genesis 18
Brothers and Sisters,
This week, we are starting with the book of Genesis, chapter 18.
As Sarah laughed to herself not believing in what is going to happen, God spoke
"Why did Sarah laugh and say, 'Shall I really bear a child, old as I am? Is anything too marvelous for the LORD to do? At the appointed time, about this time next year, I will return to you, and Sarah will have a son."
Nothing is impossible to God. For human is not possible, everything is possible to God. We are to learn obeying God's call. Although they might seem to be ridiculous and impossible to us.
The story turned 180 degree. We come to see how merciful God is. Abraham's repeating challenge to God's intended plan for the people in Sodom and Gomorrah. Arguable Abraham is not obeying God's will. Deep down, this passage shows the kindness of our God. He is willing to spare the whole city for one single good person.
Let's praise to Lord our God for he is kind and merciful.
in Christ,
Dan
This week, we are starting with the book of Genesis, chapter 18.
As Sarah laughed to herself not believing in what is going to happen, God spoke
"Why did Sarah laugh and say, 'Shall I really bear a child, old as I am? Is anything too marvelous for the LORD to do? At the appointed time, about this time next year, I will return to you, and Sarah will have a son."
Nothing is impossible to God. For human is not possible, everything is possible to God. We are to learn obeying God's call. Although they might seem to be ridiculous and impossible to us.
The story turned 180 degree. We come to see how merciful God is. Abraham's repeating challenge to God's intended plan for the people in Sodom and Gomorrah. Arguable Abraham is not obeying God's will. Deep down, this passage shows the kindness of our God. He is willing to spare the whole city for one single good person.
Let's praise to Lord our God for he is kind and merciful.
in Christ,
Dan
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
1/8 Genesis 15
Happy New Year Brothers and Sisters,
We will start our 2010 Bible Study with Genesis Chapter 15
Genesis Chapter 15
The promises in the covenant
Abraham's faith in God's promises was regarded as an act of righteousness. Simply to say, Abraham expressed the "right" attitude of man toward God. That is trusting God with all your mind and all your hart. In return, God credited this to Abraham by giving him title to the fulfillment of God's promises.
This is a very important verse. We cannot please God because of our own efforts. We can only please God if we trust him. Then God made a covenant with Abraham to give the land to his descendants. This covenant is different from other covenants. As a covenant, someone on each side made promises. But in this one, only God made promises. Abraham did not make any promises. Abram just had to trust God. God would do everything else.
Genesis Chapter 16
God has heard
Three times we read that the angel of the Lord spoke to Hagar. It shows that God really cared about Hagar. Everything that he said was really important. God was sending her back to Sarai. That would be difficult for Hagar. She needed to receive confidence from God that it was right. God’s promise about many *descendants would encourage her. This was a wonderful promise for a woman who was just a slave.
Genesis Chapter 17
The covenant
This chapter is very important. God changed Abram’s name to Abraham. God also changed his wife’s name from Sarai to Sarah. God told Abraham more about his promises. God told Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. So Abraham would not only be the father of just one nation! Abraham was already living in the country that God promised to him. God added that he had promised ‘the whole country’ to Abraham. God told Abraham that there would be kings in his family. And God told him that Sarah, his old wife, would be the mother of his child. God said that this covenant will last always.
In two ways, God showed clearly that he had made the covenant. He gave new names to Abram (Abraham) and Sarai (Sarah). And he ordered the male members of their family to receive circumcision. That would show that they were joining into the *covenant with God.
God Bless
We will start our 2010 Bible Study with Genesis Chapter 15
Genesis Chapter 15
The promises in the covenant
Abraham's faith in God's promises was regarded as an act of righteousness. Simply to say, Abraham expressed the "right" attitude of man toward God. That is trusting God with all your mind and all your hart. In return, God credited this to Abraham by giving him title to the fulfillment of God's promises.
This is a very important verse. We cannot please God because of our own efforts. We can only please God if we trust him. Then God made a covenant with Abraham to give the land to his descendants. This covenant is different from other covenants. As a covenant, someone on each side made promises. But in this one, only God made promises. Abraham did not make any promises. Abram just had to trust God. God would do everything else.
Genesis Chapter 16
God has heard
Three times we read that the angel of the Lord spoke to Hagar. It shows that God really cared about Hagar. Everything that he said was really important. God was sending her back to Sarai. That would be difficult for Hagar. She needed to receive confidence from God that it was right. God’s promise about many *descendants would encourage her. This was a wonderful promise for a woman who was just a slave.
Genesis Chapter 17
The covenant
This chapter is very important. God changed Abram’s name to Abraham. God also changed his wife’s name from Sarai to Sarah. God told Abraham more about his promises. God told Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. So Abraham would not only be the father of just one nation! Abraham was already living in the country that God promised to him. God added that he had promised ‘the whole country’ to Abraham. God told Abraham that there would be kings in his family. And God told him that Sarah, his old wife, would be the mother of his child. God said that this covenant will last always.
In two ways, God showed clearly that he had made the covenant. He gave new names to Abram (Abraham) and Sarai (Sarah). And he ordered the male members of their family to receive circumcision. That would show that they were joining into the *covenant with God.
God Bless
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)