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
Thursday, November 04, 2010
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
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