#behold the bridegroom

[ourladyofthebrokenspine]

Behold the Celestial Bridegroom Cometh Nikolaos Gyzis, 1895

[oncedelivered]

Behold, the Bridegroom Comes!

This is the 18th in a series of excerpts from What Every Christian Should Know About the Return of Jesus, released by High Street Press and available at Amazon.com.  There are well over a hundred parables in the Bible, but the most beloved are the 30-plus parables Jesus shares with us. While he’s not the first to use this form of teaching, Jesus endows his parables with unparalleled originality…

[symbolism-art-history]

Behold the Celestial Bridegroom by Nikolaos Gyzis (1842 - 1901)

[venustapolis]

Behold the Celestial Bridegroom Cometh (Nikolaos Gyzis, 1895)

[ilreleonewikiart]

TDIOBCB challenge - day 22:

Aegon and Daenaera's wedding in 136 AC

"The highly anticipated union between Prince Aegon Targaryen and Lady Daenaera Velaryon was a grand spectacle, unparalleled and captivating the hearts of all fortunate enough to bear witness. The Dragonpit, the sole edifice in the entire capital city capable of accommodating the nearly seventy thousand guests, overflowed with exuberance and anticipation as the two young lovers made their entrance. (…) The clamour was momentarily silenced by the resounding roar of a dragon, signifying the arrival of the bridegroom. The world seemed to hold its breath as Crown Prince Aegon Targaryen, adorned in a simple yet regal ensemble of dark blue velvet and golden filigree, strode into the Dragonpit.(…) Innumerable songs and artworks would emerge in the years that followed, all striving to immortalize that precise instant when every soul, from the foremost to the rearmost, pivoted to behold the entrance of the youthful and graceful bride. Nevertheless, words alone proved feeble in capturing the awe-inspiring spectacle that unfolded within those grand walls on that spring morning. The bride, the only child of the late Lady Laena, with her flawless visage adorned with clear, brilliant blue eyes and a cascade of the purest silver hair, appeared as if plucked from the pages of a tome, her very presence an embodiment of beauty.  (…) But it was the magnificent gown she wore, concealed mostly beneath her house's sigil-adorned cloak, that attracted all the bulk of the attention, stirring deep envy and boundless admiration among many a lady and noblewoman. It was clear to all, even the most unrefined, that the gown was an exemplar of craftsmanship and quality; a far cry from the pedestrian attire donned by noblewomen in the countryside, woven from fabrics procured from merchants of dubious repute, in their delusion of appearing as capital ladies. This exquisite creation was hewn from genuine and precious white silk sourced from the distant isle of Leng, wich under the sun's gaze, gleamed with blue and silver hues, akin to summer sea waves. The fabric, inherently precious, was adorned throughout with intricate undulating silver embroideries, reminiscent of the tranquil ebb and flow of ocean tides, a testament to the artistry of Myrish weavers; even the jewellery was of an exceptional nature, forged from the most precious shells, the whitest mother-of-pearl, and the most delicate corals, all procured from the shores of Driftmark, specially presented by her cousin, the Lord, for this momentous occasion. (…) The prince and his princess looked ethereal, as if they were celestial beings brought down to grace the mortal realm. The splendor of the late morning light, filtered through the large oval opening in the center of the colossal stone dome above them, bathed them in a radiant glow, making them shine like stars in the night sky. The mere sight of the kiss they exchanged sent the whole arena into raptures."

 - from TDIOBCB chp 2

(warning: these illustrations are inspired by an AU Divergence and have nothing to do with canon (book or tv show) events and are not meant to be reposted outside of their contest)

[wildflower-otome]

[Translation] Shuuen no Virche EpiC:lycoris - Scien Brofiise - Salvation Epilogue After Story

Source: Shuuen no Virche -EpiC:lycoris- Otomate Sweet Box Story Book -L'histoire de Lycoris- Note: Spoilers for Scien's Virche de la Coda -Émotion- Salvation Epilogue below.

Ep. Scien - Gaze that beholds beautiful colours

‘I love you, my Death. My first and life-long love is solely yours—.’

Back in the days when I had first begun to take a panoramic view on the world, I never imagined the time would come when I would say such a thing.

* * *

‘In that sense, your existence is like a miracle. There is nothing in this world that I do not understand, and yet you far exceeded anything I could have predicted.’

‘Y-You’re exaggerating things.....there’s nothing particularly special about me.’

In bed after spending a plentiful amount of time making love, keeping her trapped within my arms, I was devotedly cherishing my future wife.

One, two, three—. I kissed her neck, making flowers bloom on her white skin.

‘S-Scien, you’re going to leave marks......’

‘That is the idea. At this point, I doubt you’re going to have a change of heart, but somehow or other, it would appear I enjoy marking you as mine. —You needn’t worry though; I’m placing them so they won’t be visible.’

‘Wh-When you put it that way, I’ve got no choice but to happily accept them then.’

‘And you? What will you do to me?’

When I asked her teasingly, she looked to have been taken by surprise. 

‘Um, well then.....would you allow me to touch your hair? I really enjoy touching your hair, Scien....’

‘Do as you wish. .....Still, aren’t you usually the one that does my hair anyway?’

‘Touching your hair to tie it up and simply touching it are—slightly different things.’

Just as she’d said, she seemed to be in high spirits as she touched my hair.

‘I’d only just been letting it grow longer out of laziness but if it makes you happy, I’ll keep it at this length.’

‘Thank you, it would. .....I’m really looking forward to seeing what kind of hairstyle you’ll have for our wedding ceremony.’

‘That should be my line.’

As she pulled the bed sheets in, wearing them about her like a dress, she continued.

‘.....It won’t be long now until the wedding.’

‘Yes. I’ll be sure to make it a day befitting our new journey.’

—That’s right. In just a few days’ time, we would no longer be merely engaged, but husband and wife.

‘Baby-making was also part of the plan, but perhaps it would be best to take our time and enjoy our married life first. .....I’ll need to study up on how to act properly as a husband too. It wouldn’t do to keep on focusing solely on my research like I have up until now.’

‘I’m plenty happy, even with things as they are now.....’

‘I won’t let you say that. I intend on making you even happier than you are now.’

‘...............-’

I couldn’t help but chuckle at the now reddened face of my future wife.

‘I’ve only just begun, so don’t go getting embarrassed already, alright? I still haven’t loved you nearly enough yet. Once we’re married, that’s when I plan on really getting started.’

‘R-Right. I won’t lose either—I’ll show you just how much I can love you too, Scien.’

‘You really have gotten bolder, haven’t you? But that’s more than fine with me.’

After laughing a little.....I took her hand and kissed her ring-wearing finger.

* * *

—Love is nothing more than foolishness. A bug that gets in the way of rational thinking.

I didn’t plan on rejecting my past self, who had once said such things.

It was for that reason I had, in my previous body, remained true to my belief that I would not love anyone until the very end.

—That’s right, I would never regret even the sins I had committed.

Because it had been that very heartlessness that had allowed me to meet my future wife.

* * *

 ‘Are you ready?’

In a single room at the church.

As the bridegroom, I asked the question of the girl in the pure white dress—no, of the woman who, in just a few hours, would be my future wife.

‘Yes. Mam helped me get changed.’

‘I see. I had thought for sure that woman would prattle on about it “Not being too late to change your mind” or some such nonsense.....’

‘Heheh, you’re completely right. But she did hug me in the end.....and told me to “Be happy.”’

‘.....That goes without saying. I suppose she is going to be my mother-in-law, more or less. I'll have to go and pay her a visit from time to time.’

‘Thank you. Once the ceremony is over, would it be alright if we went and told Adolphe and the others still dressed like this?’

‘I don’t mind. That was my plan too.’

I gazed at the veiled face that was now even whiter than before.

‘—I like the look on your face. Your expression tells me that you have no doubts about becoming happy.’

‘.....I’m glad you think so. Until just a while ago, I might have worried about whether it was right for me to be the only one to become happy..... But now, I will no longer hesitate to become happy with you, Scien. I.....won’t say that it’s in place of Adolphe and the others, but for the sake of the future they weren’t able to reach—I will become happy and never forget them.’

‘I would expect nothing less of my wife.’

Deciding to save kissing for the main event, I patted her golden hair to show my approbation.

.....From far away I heard the voice of the priest bidding us to enter.

Now was the true end of the time we spent together as mere lovers.

‘—Let’s go.’

‘Yes-.....!’

I took my wife’s hand as we began to walk at the same speed.

Heading for a future in which we would age and live out our life spans together.

‘—Let us become the happiest married couple in the whole wide world. That will be the greatest proof of my love that I can give you as your husband.’

Even without romance or love, I would be able to advance on towards the next frontier.

But at the very least, the person who I was right now was glad I had been able to meet my wife.

‘Ah, what a—’

I was completely different to how I was in the past.

‘—fascinating and dear world this is.’

Everything had appeared barren to my eyes before, but because of the existence of a single woman, it was all now dyed in beautiful colours—.

[anastpaul]

One Minute Reflection – 30 November – The Feast of St Andrew, Apostle of Christ – Readings: Romans 10: 9-18; Matthew 4: 18-22 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/ “At once they left their nets and followed Him.” – Matthew 4:20 

REFLECTION – “Andrew was the first of the Apostles to acknowledge the Lord as his teacher. … He abandoned John the Baptist’s teaching to attend the school of Christ. … He sought the true Light in the shining of the lamp (Jn 5:35). Beneath its dampened glow he prepared himself for Christ’s splendour. … Teacher though he was, John the Baptist became servant and herald of the Christ, Who stood before him: “Behold,” he said, “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (Jn 1:29). Behold Him Who delivers us from death; behold Him Who destroys sin. As for me, I was sent, not as the bridegroom but as the one who accompanies Him (Jn 3:29). I came as servant, not as lord.” Struck by these words, Andrew left his former teacher and hurried towards the One he was announcing. … He hurried towards our Lord, his longing manifesting itself in his bearing … drawing John the Evangelist with him. Both abandon the lamp and make their way towards the Sun. Andrew is the first plant in the Garden of Apostles, it is he who opens the door to Christ’s teaching, the first to gather fruit in the field the Prophets had tilled. … He was the first to recognise Him, of Whom Moses said: “A prophet like me, will the Lord your God raise up for you; to Him you shall listen” (Dt 18:15). … He recognised the One, Whom the Prophets foretold and brought Peter, his brother, to Him. He showed Peter the treasure which as yet, he did not know: “We have found the Christ (Jn 1:41) the One we have been longing for. We were waiting for His coming: now come and experience His Presence.” … Andrew leads his brother to Christ … – it was his first miracle!” – Basil of Seleucia (Died c468) Archbishop.

(via One Minute Reflection – 30 November – ‘Andrew was the first of the Apostles to acknowledge the Lord as his teacher. …’ – AnaStpaul)

[hieromonkcharbel]

Behold, the Bridegroom comes at midnight; and blessed is that servant whom He shall find watching, but unworthy is he whom He shall find heedless. Beware, therefore, O my soul, lest you be weighed down with sleep, lest you be given up to death, and be shut out from the kingdom. But rouse yourself and cry: "Holy, Holy, Holy are You O God; through the Theotokos have mercy on us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

Meditating on that fearful day, O my soul, watch, keep your lamp alight and filled with oil; for you do not know when the voice shall come to you saying: "Behold the Bridegroom."Beware, therefore, O my soul, lest You fall into slumber and be left outside, knocking, as were the five virgins; but wakefully watch, that You may come to meet Christ with good oil, and He shall bestow upon you the divine chamber of His glory.

Now and ever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

O Virgin Theotokos, the unassailable wall and confirmation of salvation, we supplicate you: destroy the counsels of the enemies, change the sorrows of your people into joy, protect your city, be the ally of rulers, encourage all who are yours, strengthen your faithful ones, and pray for the peace of the world; for you, O Theotokos, are our hope.

[fear-not-beloved]

Here I offer a brief summary of John’s greatest insights into the spiritual life that have much to teach us today about the universal human experience of God.

First, he teaches that the love of God exists before us, whether we accept it or reject it. God is the one who loves first, who created us in love and for love. And so, God is always the first lover, the perfect lover and source of all love. This is the love that we are subject to. It precedes us and burns before us. As John explains, the Holy Spirit is “an infinite fire of love . . . that surpasses all the fires of the world” (Living Flame of Love, 2.2).

Second, this love of God is not static but goes in search of the Beloved: “In the first place, it should be known that if anyone is seeking God, the Beloved is seeking that person much more” (Living Flame of Love, 3.28). This is the nature of love. Where God is concerned, “love is never idle; it is in continuous movement” (Living Flame of Love, 1.8). God engages us with his probing love and woos us through what John calls spiritual affection: “Through spiritual affection God refreshes, delights, and gladdens the soul” (Spiritual Canticle, 11.3).

Third, when God’s love finds us, it is not content to encounter us and leave us outside itself. Like two lovers who meet and whose first reaction is to embrace, so the love of the Trinity opens out before us, embracing us and enfolding us within God’s very life: “He loves the soul within himself” (Spiritual Canticle, 32.6).

Fourth, when we are embraced by God, we begin to change. A painful process begins whereby, in his light, we see more clearly our vices, imperfections, and sins. The fire of God’s love wounds us, burning away our ego and pride, slowly changing us to become more like him. Though painful, the process is a kind of divine alchemy whereby the love of God we encounter divests us of all that impedes our call to total self-giving, so that eventually our whole existence becomes fused with God’s life. This is what divine love does—changing our love to become more perfectly like his: “O night that has united the Lover with his beloved, transforming the beloved in her Lover” (The Dark Night, 5). By contemplating that love and allowing ourselves to be loved, our spirits are enflamed and woken up. As John teaches: “Contemplation is nothing but a hidden, peaceful, loving inflow of God, which, if not hampered, fires the soul in the spirit of love” (The Dark Night, 1.10.6).

Fifth, this purgative process reaches its climax when we become completely united to his divine life, burn gently, and rest within himself. Then we will become fully divine by participating in his life as gift. God’s aim is to make us “gods by participation,” as he is God by nature—like fire turning everything to fire (The Dark Night, 2.20.5). Because loving another means allowing them to be themselves, God’s love does not dissolve us into itself. John beautifully compares this to the light of a star which still shines in the noon sky even though its light is subsumed into the light of the sun. So will be the soul’s union with God (Spiritual Canticle, 22.3). The closest we can come to understand this consummation in love is with the marriage of a bride and groom and the consummation of their love. God is the Bridegroom and his people are the Bride. Consistent with Scripture, John prays, “May the most sweet Jesus, Bridegroom of faithful souls, be pleased to bring all who invoke his name to this marriage” (Spiritual Canticle, 40.7).

Lastly, the fruits of this nuptial union with God are abundant and show themselves in human lives—remarkable delight, cooperation with God’s grace, cessation of imperfections, heroic virtue, peace, and refreshment. The beauty of God enraptures our soul as we begin to resemble the goodness and beauty of the One who loves us: “That I may be absorbed in your beauty . . . transformed in your beauty that we may be alike in beauty, and both behold ourselves in your beauty” (Spiritual Canticle, 36.5). This beauty is always vibrant for the soul and is “like a song that is new, of great jubilation, enfolded in the gladness of its happy state” (The Living Flame of Love, 2.36).

Fr. Billy Swan, St. John of the Cross and the Divine Alchemy

[orthodoxydaily]

Behold the Bridegroom

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Jesus Heals a Paralytic

1 And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. 2 And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” 3 And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” 4 But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? 5 For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? 6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” 7 And he rose and went home. 8 When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.

Jesus Calls Matthew

9 As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him.

10 And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 13 Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”

A Question About Fasting

14 Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” 15 And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast. 16 No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch tears away from the garment, and a worse tear is made. 17 Neither is new wine put into old wineskins. If it is, the skins burst and the wine is spilled and the skins are destroyed. But new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.”

A Girl Restored to Life and a Woman Healed

18 While he was saying these things to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” 19 And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. 20 And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, 21 for she said to herself, “If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.” 22 Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. 23 And when Jesus came to the ruler's house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, 24 he said, “Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. 25 But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. 26 And the report of this went through all that district.

Jesus Heals Two Blind Men

27 And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” 28 When he entered the house, the blind men came to him, and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” 29 Then he touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” 30 And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, “See that no one knows about it.” 31 But they went away and spread his fame through all that district.

Jesus Heals a Man Unable to Speak

32 As they were going away, behold, a demon-oppressed man who was mute was brought to him. 33 And when the demon had been cast out, the mute man spoke. And the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” 34 But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.”

The Harvest Is Plentiful, the Laborers Few

35 And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38 therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” — Matthew 9 | English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Cross References: Leviticus 15:25; Numbers 15:28; Numbers 15:30; Numbers 27:17; 1 Kings 22:17; 2 Chronicles 35:25; Ezra 4:13; Job 32:19; Psalm 139:2; Psalm 146:8; Isaiah 35:6; Isaiah 65:5; Jeremiah 8:22; Jeremiah 9:17; Hosea 6:6; Matthew 1:1; Matthew 4:13; Matthew 4:23-24; Matthew 5:16; Matthew 5:46; Matthew 8:2; Matthew 8:4; Matthew 8:10; Matthew 8:13; Matthew 8:25; Matthew 9:26; Matthew 10:1; Matthew 10:25; Matthew 11:18; Matthew 12:22-23; Matthew 13:1; Matthew 14:36; Mark 2:5; Mark 2:12; Mark 2:18-19; Mark 2:21-22; Mark 3:10; Mark 5:40; Mark 9:27; Luke 5:33-34; Luke 10:2; John 4:35; Acts 9:40; Acts 14:9; 2 Corinthians 9:12

Matthew 9 Chapter Summary

Key Events in Matthew 9

1. Jesus heals a paralytic 9. calls Matthew from the receipt of custom; 10. eats with tax collectors and sinners; 14. defends his disciples for not fasting; 20. cures the sick woman; 23. raises Jairus' daughter from death; 27. gives sight to two blind men; 32. heals a mute man possessed of a demon; 36. and has compassion on the multitude.

[hiswordsarekisses]

🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

No more parroting theology,

no more empty amen’s,

no more heartless prayers,

and wandering from church building to church building

without an ounce of oil.

The Bride is shedding everything that is not purely of Him and putting on our wedding garments. (Unknown)

“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. “And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. “Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.” Matthew‬ ‭25‬:‭1‬-‭13‬

“Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him the glory. For the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready.” Revelation‬ ‭19‬:‭7‬

[steveezekiel]

WISE MEN WHO LEARNED THINGS FROM STARS 2

2 JESUS WAS BORN IN THE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM IN THE COUNTRY OF JUDEA. It was the time when Herod was king of that part of the country. Soon after Jesus was born, SOME WISE MEN WHO LEARNED THINGS FROM STARS CAME TO JERUSALEM FROM THE EAST.

2 THEY ASKED, “Where is the King of the Jews Who has been born? WE HAVE SEEN HIS STAR IN THE EAST. WE HAVE COME TO WORSHIP HIM.”

Matthew 2:1-2 (New Life Version)

1 Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea, during the time when Herod was king. SOON AFTERWARD, SOME MEN WHO STUDIED THE STARS CAME FROM THE EAST TO JERUSALEM

2 AND ASKED, “Where is the baby born to be the king of the Jews? WE SAW HIS STAR WHEN IT CAME UP IN THE EAST, AND WE HAVE COME TO WORSHIP HIM.”

Matthew 2:1-2 (Good News Translation)

1 When [After] Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea during the time when Herod was king, SOME WISE MEN [astrologers; magi; a class of wise men and priests who practiced astrology] FROM THE EAST CAME TO JERUSALEM.

2 THEY ASKED, “Where is the baby who was born to be the king [or newborn king] of the Jews? WE SAW HIS STAR IN THE EAST [or when it rose] AND HAVE COME TO WORSHIP HIM [pay him homage].”

Matthew 2:1,2 (Expanded Bible)

• No one would receive anything or be able to do anything except It is given to him or her from above, heaven:

26 AND THEY CAME TO JOHN AND SAID TO HIM, “Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified—behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!” 27 JOHN ANSWERED AND SAID, “A MAN CAN RECEIVE NOTHING UNLESS IT HAS BEEN GIVEN TO HIM FROM HEAVEN. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I AM NOT THE CHRIST,’ BUT, ‘I HAVE BEEN SENT BEFORE HIM [I am not the Messiah. I am only here to prepare the way for him].’ 29 HE WHO HAS THE BRIDE IS THE BRIDEGROOM; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is fulfilled. 30 HE MUST INCREASE, BUT I MUST DECREASE. 31 HE WHO COMES FROM ABOVE IS ABOVE ALL; HE WHO IS OF THE EARTH IS EARTHLY AND SPEAKS OF THE EARTH. HE WHO COMES FROM HEAVEN IS ABOVE ALL" (John 3:26-31 NKJV).

- John the Baptist was the one talking in the above passage of the Bible. Some of his disciples came to him, talking about the ministry of Jesus Christ, with the intention that he would react negatively. He told them, whatever the person is doing, he must have been given the grace or ability or enablement from above—heaven—to do it. He did not allow any offence.

- Jesus' Star is different in glory to that of John the Baptist, and John knew that; thus, he said: "HE MUST INCREASE, BUT I MUST DECREASE" (John 3:30 NKJV).

- Thus, If you are envying someone else's greatness and afterwards planning and making efforts to supplant or displace him or her, plotting to bring them down; such a thing would not do you any good.

- The person must have received the help to do whatever he or she is doing from God, thus, there is no point trying to bring them down.

• That being said, you as a believer has a responsibility to protect or put your star under the covering of God (Psalm 91:1).

- Any number of those who are not of God have had their stars tampered with or manipulated by those who are in the occults; those who are agents of the devil.

- Some are meant to be great in life, but those who operate with the supernatural power of the dark kingdom, the devil's kingdom, had seen their stars and had tampered with them.

- Those magis or astrologers or stargazers who came to pay homage and gifted to Baby Jesus discovered that His Star was not the one they could tamper with. Instead, they came to worship Him (Matthew 2:2).

- Even when Herod heard about it, he was troubled and all Jerusalem with him (Matthew 2:3). If It was an ordinary star, without a special glory, they would not have been moved or disturbed.

• Many people were also born with a glorious star, and they are meant to be great, but the enemy, the devil, through his human agents had tampered with their stars, thus, they could not fulfil the purpose of their being—God's purpose or plan for their lives.

- If the enemy succeeded in tampering with your star, It means he has succeeded over your life.

- Your star is God's glory, fortune or aroma, that attracted favour or good things to your life. People are attracted to you, and vice versa, you are attracted to others, based on the brightness of your star—how glorious your star is.

- The truth is, men or humans do not have equal stars. Stars are differed in glory (1 Corinthians 15:40,41).

- The people who would be attracted to you; be intimate with you, work with you, be your acquaintances, and as well as those who would help or favour you; would be the people who's your star and theirs are compatible or are agreed—capable of existing together in harmony: "CAN TWO WALK TOGETHER, UNLESS THEY ARE AGREED?" (Amos 3:3 NKJV).

• You will not fail in Jesus' name.

- Should there be any ailment in your body, receive your healing now in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.

- Whatever the hold of the enemy in your life, such is broken and completely destroyed and never to rise again, in Jesus' mighty name.

Peace!

TO BE CONTINUED

STEPS TO SALVATION

• Take notice of this:

IF you are yet to take the step of salvation, that is, yet to be born-again, do it now, tomorrow might be too late (2 Corinthians 6:1,2; Hebrews 3:7,8,15).

a. Acknowledge that you are a sinner and confess your Sins (1 John 1:9); And ask Jesus Christ to come into your life (Revelation 3:20).

b. Confess that you believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is Lord, and that you confess it with your mouth, Thus, you accept Him As your Lord and Saviour (Romans 10:9,10).

c. Ask that your name be written in the Book of Life (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:8).

- If you took the steps As highlighted above, It means you are saved—born-again. Join a Word based church in your area and Town or city, and be part of whatever they are doing there. Peace!

[roman-catholic-mass-readings]

19th January >> Mass Readings (USA)

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (C)

(Liturgical Colour: Green. Year: C(I))

First Reading Isaiah 62:1–5 The bridegroom rejoices in his bride.

For Zion’s sake I will not be silent, for Jerusalem’s sake I will not be quiet, until her vindication shines forth like the dawn and her victory like a burning torch.

Nations shall behold your vindication, and all the kings your glory; you shall be called by a new name pronounced by the mouth of the LORD. You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the LORD, a royal diadem held by your God. No more shall people call you “Forsaken,” or your land “Desolate,” but you shall be called “My Delight,” and your land “Espoused.” For the LORD delights in you and makes your land his spouse. As a young man marries a virgin, your Builder shall marry you; and as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride so shall your God rejoice in you.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 96:1–2, 2–3, 7–8, 9–10

R/ Proclaim his marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands. Sing to the LORD; bless his name.

R/ Proclaim his marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Announce his salvation, day after day. Tell his glory among the nations; among all peoples, his wondrous deeds.

R/ Proclaim his marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Give to the LORD, you families of nations, give to the LORD glory and praise; give to the LORD the glory due his name!

R/ Proclaim his marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Worship the LORD in holy attire. Tremble before him, all the earth; say among the nations: The LORD is king. He governs the peoples with equity.

R/ Proclaim his marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Second Reading 1 Corinthians 12:4–11 One and the same Spirit distributing them individually to each person as he wishes.

Brothers and sisters: There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit; there are different forms of service but the same Lord; there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit. To one is given through the Spirit the expression of wisdom; to another, the expression of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another, faith by the same Spirit; to another, gifts of healing by the one Spirit; to another, mighty deeds; to another, prophecy; to another, discernment of spirits; to another, varieties of tongues; to another, interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit produces all of these, distributing them individually to each person as he wishes.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Gospel Acclamation cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:14

Alleluia, alleluia. God has called us through the Gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel John 2:1–11 Jesus did this as the beginning of his signs at Cana in Galilee.

There was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the wedding. When the wine ran short, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “Woman, how does your concern affect me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servers, “Do whatever he tells you.” Now there were six stone water jars there for Jewish ceremonial washings, each holding twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus told them, “Fill the jars with water.” So they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, “Draw some out now and take it to the headwaiter.” So they took it. And when the headwaiter tasted the water that had become wine, without knowing where it came from —although the servers who had drawn the water knew—, the headwaiter called the bridegroom and said to him, “Everyone serves good wine first, and then when people have drunk freely, an inferior one; but you have kept the good wine until now.” Jesus did this as the beginning of his signs at Cana in Galilee and so revealed his glory, and his disciples began to believe in him.

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

[incomingalbatross]

Thinking about the choice to stay being the heart of love

“Behold I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world.” St. Matt. xxviii. 20. Thus our loving Shepherd, who has given His life for us who are His sheep, would not separate Himself from us by death. Behold Me, He says, beloved sheep, I am always with you; for you I have remained on earth in this Sacrament; here you find Me whenever you please, to help and console you by My presence; I will not leave you until the end of the world, as long as you are on earth. The Bridegroom, says St. Peter of Alcantara, wished to leave His Bride company, that she might not remain alone during so long an absence; and therefore He left this Sacrament, in which he Himself, the best companion He could leave her, remains.

—St. Alphonsus Ligouri, Visits to the Most Holy Sacrament and the Blessed Virgin Mary

[josefavomjaaga]

Letter from Marie Louise to her father

Written shortly after the "handover" ceremony in Sankt Peter close to Braunau. For this ceremony, a wooden building, divided into three parts (French - neutral - Austrian), had been constructed, usually referred to as the "three pavillions" or "three barracks". The leaders of the two delegations, Berthier and Trautmannsdorf, both signed the contract before the bride was handed over to the buyer bridegroom's delegation.

Dearest Papa! Forgive me for not immediately writing to you yesterday, as I should have done, but the journey, which was a little tiring and long, prevented me from doing so. Through Prince Trautmansdorf I have found another opportunity to write to you once more sincerely, and I am happy to seize it to assure you that I am constantly thinking of you and always will.

"Sincerely" here probably means "without measuring my words because I'm being spied upon by my new entourage".

God has given me the strength to endure happily even the last painful blow, the separation from all my loved ones, in Him alone I have all my trust, He will help me and give me courage, and I will find my reassurance in the consolation of having done my duty to you by making this sacrifice. Yesterday I arrived in Ried very late, still preoccupied with the thought that I might be separated from you forever. Today I arrived at two o'clock in the French camp in the barracks at Braunau, after staying in the Austrian barrack for some time, I moved to a throne in the neutral barracks, after the papers had been read, all my people kissed my hand, at that moment I really didn't know what I was doing, a cold shiver overcame me and I became so upset that the Prince of Neufchatel began to cry.

Which must have been a sight to behold: Berthier crying tears of emotion while his new empress starts to panic and desperately looks around for the emergency exit.

Prince Trautmansdorf handed me over to him [...]

... and a kleenex, too ...

[...] and my entire court was presented to me, oh God, what a difference between the French and Viennese ladies! --- The Queen of Naples came to meet me in the other room, I embraced her, and showed myself remarkably friendly towards her, but I do not quite trust her, I believe that it was not zeal for service alone that was the cause of her journey.

That's a very interesting first assessment of Caroline Murat. Marie Louise may have been less naive than she made herself out to be.

She travelled with me to Braunau, and here I had to hold a two-hour toilette, I assure you that I am already as perfumed as all the other French women.

Apparently, the difference mentioned above was largely attributable to odour.

The Emperor Napoleon has sent me a splendid golden robe, but he has not yet written to me - if I had to leave you, I would much rather be with him than travelling with all those ladies.

That's one thing that will remain true for a large part, I believe. With the one exception of the duchess de Montebello, she did not really appreciate the ladies of the French court (and Louise Lannes she apparently appreciated to some extent because she was not much suited for life at court).

Oh God, how I regret not being able to still spend the happy days with you, only now am I learning to appreciate them. I assure you, dearest Papa, that I am very sad and cannot yet console myself. I hope your catarrh will be completely over; I include you in my prayers every day. Forgive my poor scribbling, but I have so few moments to myself, I will kiss your hands a thousand more times and have the honour of being Dearest Papa! Your most submissive and obedient daughter Louise Braunau 16th March 1810

(Source: Helfert "Maria Louise, Erzherzogin von Österreich, Kaiserin der Franzosen", Wien 1873)