Mary Wondered, Marveled But Was Not Confused, Because Her Faith Was Beyond Wavering!

 "So, they came hurriedly and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the feeding trough.  On seeing HIM, they related what they had been told about the child; and all were astonished on hearing the shepherds.

As for Mary, she treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.

The shepherds then returned, giving glory and praise to GOD for all they had heard and seen, just as the angels had told them.

On the eight day, the circumcision of the baby had to be performed; HE was named JESUS, the name the angel had given HIM before HE was conceived." - Luke 2:16-21 

(Mary treasured all these words, because every event of her life was for her the way GOD revealed HIS plans to her, and all the more so now that she was living with JESUS.  She wondered, marveled but was not confused, because her faith was beyond wavering.  However, she too had to discover the ways of salvation slowly and painfully.  She pondered on these things until the time of the Resurrection and Pentecost when all the words and deeds of JESUS became clear.)   

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Reject The Antichrist

 "My dear children, it is the last hour.  You were told that an antichrist would come; but several antichrists have already come, by which we know that it is now the last hour.

They went out from us, though they did not really belong to us.  Had they belonged to us, they would have remained with us.  So, it became clear, that not all of us were really ours.

But you have the anointing from the Holy One.  So that all of you have true wisdom.

I write to you, not because you lack knowledge of the truth, but because you already know it, and lies have nothing in common with the truth." - 1 John 2:18-21 

(To be sure we are walking in the light, we must reject the antichrist and remain steadfast in the faith and in what faith teaches.  The believers of John's days knew that before the glorious return of CHRIST, an antichrist would appear.  John says: the person who denies that JESUS is the CHRIST already is an antichrist.  Today there are still many people who make a distinction: on one hand the JESUS, lost in the mist of legend and on the other hand an idealized CHRIST adored by believers.  John says: "The one who has come in history, HE HIMSELF is eternal GOD."

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Duties Towards Parents

 "For the LORD established that children should respect their father; HE confirmed the right of the mother over her children.

Whoever honors his father atones for his sins; he who gives glory to his mother prepares a treasure for himself.

Whoever honors his father will receive joy from his own children and will be heard when he prays.

Whoever glorifies his father will have a long life.  Whoever obeys the LORD gives comfort to his mother.  He serves those who brought him to birth as he would serve the LORD.

My child, take care of your father in his old age, do not cause him sorrow as long as he lives.

Even if he has lost his mind, have patience; do not be disrespectful to him while you are in full health.

For kindness done to one's father will never be forgotten, it will serve as reparation for your sins." - Sirach 3:2-7. 12-14 

(This is the best commentary on Moses' commandment concerning children's responsibilities toward their parents.  To honor our parents means to respect, to be understanding and to offer material assistance in their difficulties.)

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JESUS Is Presented In The Temple

 "When the day came for the purification according to the law of Moses, they brought the baby up to Jerusalem to present HIM to the LORD, as it is written in the law of the LORD: Every firstborn male shall be consecrated to GOD.  And they offered a sacrifice as ordered in the law of the LORD: a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.

There lived in Jerusalem, at this time, a very upright and devout man named Simeon; the Holy Spirit was in him.  He looked forward to the time when the LORD would comfort Israel; and he had been assured, by the Holy Spirit, that he would not die before seeing the Messiah of the LORD.  So, he was led into the temple by the Holy Spirit at the time the parents brought the child JESUS to do for HIM according to the custom of the law.  

Simeon took the child in his arms and blessed GOD, saying,

'Now, O LORD, YOU can dismiss YOUR servant in peace,

for YOU have fulfilled YOUR word

and my eyes have seen YOUR salvation,

which YOU display for all the people to see.

Here is the light YOU will reveal to the nations,

and the glory of YOUR people Israel.'

HIS father and mother wondered at what was said about the child.  Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, HIS mother, 'Know this: your Son is a sign; a sign established for trhe falling and rising of many in Israel, a sign of contradiction; and a sword will pierce your own soul so that out of many hearts thoughts may be revealed.'" - Luke 2:22-35 

(Mary and Joseph went to the temple to fulfill a ritual of the Jewish religion [Leviticus 12:8].  JESUS being a firstborn male must be consecrated to GOD [Exodus 13:1].

Simeon and Ana like Mary and Joseph belong to the "small remnant of Israel."  This minority of GOD's people live their faith in humility and faithfulness to the prophets' teaching: GOD knows how to make HIMSELF known to them.

What is the meaning of the sword that will pierce Mary's soul?  It indicates Mary's grief upon seeing her Son die on the cross.  It also signifies that Mary will suffer because she will not always understand what her Son does.  The best shared love will not prevent each from remaining a mystery to the other, and more so for GOD than for anyone else.  GOD does not watch our fidelity from heaven, but rather seeks us [HE tries us in the sense of asking us to reveal ourselves].  The love of the FATHER will be Mary's cross just as it would be for JESUS.

CHRIST is GOD's light which enlightens people, but which also blinds and confuses them at times.  HE is a sign that is opposed, but this is a mystery--those who oppose HIM are not always the worst.  There are some people who believe in CHRIST, but do not follow HIM.  Unable to see HIS light they do not know that it condemns them.  There are good people who do not believe because GOD wills that they seek the light their whole life long.)

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Escape To Egypt

 "After the wise men had left, an angel of the LORD appeared in a dream to Joseph, and said, 'Get up, take the child and HIS mother, and flee to Egypt and stay there until I tell you, for Herod will soon be looking for the child in order to kill HIM.'

Joseph got up, took the child and HIS mother and left that night for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod.  In this way, what the LORD had said through the prophet was fulfilled: I called MY Son out of Egypt.

When Herod found out that he had been tricked by the wise men, he was furious.  He gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its neighborhood who were two years old or under.  This was done, according to what he had learned from the wise men about the time when the star appeared.

In this way, what the prophet Jeremiah had said was fulfilled: A cry is heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation: Rachel weeps for her children.  She refuses to be comforted, for they are no more." - Matthew 2:13-18 

(In relating the story about the slaughter of innocent children and the flight into Egypt, Matthew quotes two verses from the prophets Hosea and Jeremiah about the trials and sufferings of GOD's people in past times.  JESUS must live in exile and anguish, as did HIS ancestors.  Persecution begins with HIS birth and will follow HIM till HIS death.  Mary [and Joseph to a lesser degree] was associated with JESUS' sufferings and saving mission.

Christian tradition has always held that the "Innocents" associated with the Passion of CHRIST without having wished it also shared in HIS glory without having merited it.  This invites us to be mindful of the fact that the mysterious love of GOD envelops millions of massacred children and other hundreds of millions killed before seeing the light of day.  What should we think of so many stifled possibilities?  Individuals and society responsible for this disaster suffer the consequences; but GOD has all destinies in hand, HE knows them in in advance, and no one by destroying life is able to limit GOD's generosity.  No matter how much innocent blood the enemies of the Gospel spill, they will not be able to extinguish the Church or to block GOD's plans.)

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Life Became Visible

 "This is what has been from the beginning, and what we have heard and have seen with our own eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, I mean the Word who is Life...

The Life made itself known.  We have seen Eternal Life and we bear witness; and we are telling you of it.  It was with the FATHER and made HIMSELF known to us.

So, we tell you what we have seen and heard that you may be in fellowship with us, and us with the FATHER and with HIS Son, JESUS CHRIST.

And we write this that our joy may be complete." - 1 John 1:1-4

(John will not speak about miracles, or revelations, or secrets jealously kept by some members.  The truth that HE relates to us is both simpler and more divine than all this: GOD, the Eternal Life, has come to live with us.

Life became visible.  Do not look for miracles or miraculous powers.  Do not expect fantastic revelations about the beyond.  Life was revealed as the gift of the FATHER, the rebirth of a humanity without hope, the divine smile, the unexpected visit of the one seeking to share HIKS life with humans [Proverbs 8:31].  We will not find life merely in books, but through communion with those who have seen and experienced it before us, and who became HIS Church.)

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Confident Prayer In Distress

 "Give heed to my plea and make haste to rescue me.  Be a rock of refuge for me, a fortress for my safety.

For YOU are my rock and my stronghold, lead me for YOUR name's sake.

Into YOUR hands I commend my spirit; YOU have redeemed me, O YAHWEH, faithful GOD.

I will rejoice and be glad in YOUR love, for YOU have seen my affliction; YOU know the agony of my soul.  

My days are in YOUR hand.  Deliver me from the hand of my enemies, from those after my skin.

In the shelter of YOUR presence, YOU hide them from human wiles; YOU keep them in YOUR dwelling, safe from the intrigues of wagging tongues."

- Psalm 31:3-4. 6. 8. 16. 21

(This psalm has so many nuances and so many different perspectives that, whoever prays with it, can remain wherever he feels more comfortable.  At the end of the psalm, love prevails.

The psalmist appears to be in a state of desperation.  At times, we too can identify ourselves with such a situation.  However, he does not give up hope when he asks the LORD to. "Save me in YOUR love" in the very last words.  There also are prophetic words in this psalm as JESUS HIMSELF in Luke 23:46 utters the words, "Into YOUR hands I commend MY spirit."  JESUS once again shows us the way, even at the last hour.  Our hope and trust in the LORD can be restored by repeatedly praying with this psalm.)

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"YOU Are MY Son, I Have Begotten YOU Today."

 "GOD has spoken in the past to our ancestors through the prophets in many different ways, although never completely; but, in our times, HE has spoken definitively to us through HIS Son.

HE is the one GOD appointed heir of all things since, through HIM, HE unfolded the stages of the world.

HE is the radiance of GOD's glory and bears the stamp of GOD's hidden being, so that HIS powerful word upholds the universe.  And after taking away sin, HE took HIS place at the right hand of the divine Majesty in heaven.

So, HE is now far superior to angels, just as the name HE received sets HIM apart from them.  To what angel did GOD say: YOU are MY Son, I have begotten YOU today?  And to what angel did HE promise: I shall be a FATHER to HIM, and HE will be a Son to ME?  On sending HIS firstborn into the world, GOD says: Let all the angels adore HIM." - Hebrews 1:1-5

(The addressees of this letter were formed by a religion in which the role of the high priest, consecrated by GOD, was essential.  The author wants to show that now JESUS is the only high priest on whom people can depend.  The starting point of his argument is the unique dignity of JESUS, not a prophet or a supernatural personage like so many others, but rather, the Son of GOD.  Every word of this verse asserts that JESUS is unique, GOD born of GOD [John 1:1-14].)

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The Magnificent Promises Of GOD

 "I will sing forever, O YAHWEH, of YOUR love, and proclaim YOUR faithfulness from age to age.

I will declare how steadfast is YOUR love, how firm your faithfulness.

YOU said, 'I have made a pledge to MY servant.  I establish his descendants forever; I build his throne for all generations.'

He will call on me, 'YOU are my FATHER, my GOD, my Rock, my Savior.'

I will make him the firstborn, the highest of the kings of the earth."

- Psalm 89:2-3. 4-5. 27. 29

(Those very powerful words "love" and "faithfulness" occur in this psalm not without a purpose.  JESUS has explained to us in no uncertain terms throughout the Gospel the power of these words.  If only these could become part of our daily agenda, then we can assure ourselves of happiness here on earth and eternity.

Here is a good psalm to pray in times of national or international conflict.  If a human being is injured, GOD is injured.  The love of GOD is faithful.  Despite everything, the love of GOD cannot turn back.)

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I Send My Messenger To Prepare The Way

 "Now I AM sending MY messenger ahead of ME, to clear the way; then, suddenly, the LORD, for whom you long, will enter the Sanctuary.  The envoy of the Covenant which you so greatly desire, already comes, says YAHWEH of hosts. Who can bear the day of HIS coming and remain standing when HE appears?  For HE will be like fire in the foundry and like the lye used for bleaching.

HE will be as a refiner or a fuller.  HE will purify the sons of Levi and refine them, like gold and silver.  So YAHWEH will have priests who will present the offering as it should be.  Then YAHWEH will accept with pleasure the offering of Judah and Jerusalem, as in former days.

'I AM going to send you the prophet Elijah before the day of YAHWEH comes, for it will be a great and terrible day.  He will reconcile parents with their children, and the children with their parents, so that I may not have to curse this land when I come.'" - Malachi 3:1-4. 23-24 

(Now I AM sending MY messenger.  To those complaining that GOD does not reveal HIS justice, nor reward sufficiently those who serve HIM, Malachi responds by declaring that the LORD will come soon.  HE announces the coming of a messenger of GOD who will be responsible for preparing the way for HIM, and that will be the sign of HIS coming soon.)

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Hannah's Prayer

 "And this is the song of Hannah:

The bow of the mighty is broken,

but the weak are girded with strength.

The well-fed must labor for bread,

but the hungry need work no more.

The childless wife has borne seven children,

but the proud mother is left alone.

YAHWEH is LORD of life and death.

HE brings down to the grave and raises up.

YAHWEH makes poor and makes rich,

HE brings low and HE exalts.

HE lifts up the lowly from the dust,

and raises the poor from the ash heap;

they will be called to the company of princes,

and inherit a seat of honor.

The earth to its pillars belongs to YAHWEH

and on them HE has set the world."

- 1 Samuel 2:1. 4-5. 6-7. 8

(In her thanksgiving song, Hannah makes herself the spokesperson of all the despised people of the world.

YAHWEH is the GOD who saves the abandoned.  HE rejects those who put their trust in their arm and in their bow, in the food assured for their household, i.e., in themselves and their possessions.  HE manifests HIS glory in shifting the differences existing between people [as in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, Luke 16:25].  YAHWEH brings down to the grave and raises up.  The song of Hannah has a prophetic vision.  Like Hannah, we ought to be proud of our GOD, even more than in the material progress of our society which blesses the rich and the powerful.

This text condemns those who seek to advance in society and promote their own welfare with the sole purpose of ensuring their family's future.  One who sides with the weak will be saved.  Whereas others feel ashamed of their poor background, as laborers or farmers or of the undeveloped condition of their country, the believer knows that the poor and the hungry contribute to the salvation of the world.  Where everything is wanting, it is easier to discover the value of human persons, and to understand that no world is worthy of humankind except one where food and dignity are given to all.)

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Cry Out With Joy, O Daughter Of Zion; YAHWEH, The King Of Israel, Is With You; Do Not Fear Any Misfortune!

 "Cry out with joy, O daughter of Zion; rejoice, O people of Israel!  Sing joyfully with all your heart, daughter of Jerusalem!

YAHWEH has lifted your sentence and has driven your enemies away.  YAHWEH, the King of Israel is with you; do not fear any misfortune.

On that day, they will say to Jerusalem: Do not be afraid nor let your hands tremble, for YAHWEH your GOD is within you, YAHWEH, saving warrior.  HE will jump for joy on seeing you, for HE has revived HIS love.  For you HE will cry out with joy, as you do in the days of the feast.

I will drive away the evil I warned you about, and you will no longer be shamed." - Zephaniah 3:14-18 

(Cry out with joy, O daughter of Zion; YAHWEH, the King of Israel, is with you; do not fear any misfortune!  In the Gospel of Luke, the same words are addressed to Mary at the Annunciation: "Rejoice, the LORD is with you.  Do not fear, Mary, you will bear the Savior" [Luke 1:28].)

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The Virgin Is With Child

 "Once again YAHWEH addressed Ahaz, 'Ask for a sign from YAHWEH your GOD, let it come either from the deepest depths or from the heights of heaven.'

But Ahaz answered, 'I will not ask, I will not put YAHWEH to the test.'

Then Isaiah said, 'Now listen, descendants of David.  Have you not been satisfied trying the patience of people, that you also try the patience of my GOD?  Therefore, the LORD HIMSELF will give you a sign:

The Virgin is with child and bears a son and calls HIS name Immanuel. - Isaiah 7:10-14 

(The prophecy about the Virgin giving birth is one of the most important in the Scriptures even though it leaves some questions unanswered.

Isaiah is giving a sign to king Ahaz, to his heirs, David's descendants, and to all who live in a world devastated by sin, and this sign points to CHRIST.  Just as in the earthliest Paradise we have the image of a woman, or of the son of a woman who will crush the serpent's head, here we have another image, that of the virgin with her son, 'GOD-with-us.  Immanuel suffers for HIS brothers' and sisters' sins, and that is why HE can reconcile us with GOD.)

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Samson's Birth Foretold

 "There was a man of Zorah of the tribe of Dan, called Manoah.  His wife could not bear children.  The angel of YAHWEH appeared to this woman and said to her, 'You have not borne children and have not given birth, but see, you are to conceive and give birth to a son.  Because of this, take care not to take wine or any alcoholic drink, nor to eat unclean foods from now on, for you shall bear a son who shall be a Nazirite of YAHWEH from the womb of his mother.  Never shall his hair be cut for he is consecrated to YAHWEH.  He shall begin the liberation of the Israelites from the Philistine oppression.'

The woman went to her husband and told him, 'A messenger of GOD who bore the majesty of an angel spoke to me.  I did not ask him where he came from, nor did he tell me his name.

But he said to me: 'You are to conceive and give birth to a son.  Henceforth, you shall not drink wine or fermented drinks, nor eat anything unclean, for your son shall be a Nazirite of GOD from the womb of his mother until the day of his death.'

The woman gave birth to a son and named him Samson.  The boy grew and YAHWEH blessed him.  Then the Spirit of YAHWEH began to move him when he was in Mahane Dan between Zorah and Eshtaol." - Judges 13:2-7. 24-25 

(Samson is said to have been miraculously born of a barren couple.  This was in accordance with GOD's ways, as seen in the case of Abraham's son [Genesis 18], and in the case of Samuel [1 Samuel 1], and still later John the Baptist [Luke 1:5].

The child must be a Nazirite, i.e., consecrated to GOD, according to a very ancient rite in the Scriptures [Numbers 6:1].  This consecration to GOD is the source of his strength.

Samson seems to have been a man from the countryside who had extraordinary strength and fought on his account against the Philistines.  Legend attributes to him numerous feats.)

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JESUS CHRIST Is The Son Of GOD

 "From Paul, a servant of JESUS CHRIST,

an apostle called and set apart for GOD's Good News,

the very promises HE foretold through HIS prophets in the Scriptures

regarding HIS Son, who was born in the flesh a descendant of David,

and has been recognized as the Son of GOD endowed with Power,

upon rising from the dead through the Holy Spirit.

Through HIM, JESUS CHRIST our LORD, and for the sake of HIS name,

we received grace, and mission in all the nations for them to accept the faith.

All of you, the elected of CHRIST, are part of them;

you, the beloved of GOD in Rome, called to be holy:

May GOD our FATHER and the LORD JESUS CHRIST give you grace and peace."

- Romans 1:1-7 

(Recognized as the Son of GOD.  Another possible translation: constituted or designated as Son of GOD.  That does not mean that JESUS was not the Son of GOD before HIS resurrection, but HE was so really one of us that nothing of HIS divinity showed.  On the day of resurrection, the Spirit of GOD "invaded" HIS human nature: from now on HE is present and active in our history as the Son of GOD.)

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The Blessing Of Jacob

 "Gather around, sons of Jacob.  And listen to your father Israel!

Judah, your brothers will praise you!

You shall seize your enemies by the neck!

Your father's sons shall bow before you.

Judah, a young lion!

You return from the prey, my son!

Like a lion he stoops and crouches,

and like a lioness, who dares to rouse him?

The scepter shall not be taken from Judah,

nor the ruler's staff from between his feet,

until he comes to whom it belongs,

and who has the obedience of the nations." 

- Genesis 49:2. 8-10 

 

(Jacob's blessings do not go to his sons but to the twelve tribes bearing their names.  The future destiny of these tribes will vary greatly.  Jacob's blessing is a way of saying that these destinies were known to GOD beforehand and that they were part of HIS plan of salvation which benefits everyone but does not give the same gift to everyone. 

The two tribes of Judah and Joseph dominate.  This ancient prophecy seems to say that Judah would live apart from others until the coming of "the one the people would obey."  This text, however, is not clear in the original manuscripts.  Did they wish only to celebrate the coming of king David, or was it the announcement of a great destiny for the kingdom of Judah, or was it the expectation of a savior-king?  Actually, the kings of the people of GOD and JESUS after them were to come from this tribe.  Judah here is considered as the heir of the promises made to Abraham and Jacob.)

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GOD Calls Everyone

 "This is what YAHWEH says:

Maintain what is right and do what is just, for MY salvation is close at hand, MY justice is soon to come.

Blessed is the mortal who does these things, and perseveres in them, who does not defile the Sabbath and who refrains from evil.

Let no foreigner say, 'Surely YAHWEH will exclude me from HIS people.'  Neither let the castrated man say, 'I have become a mere dry tree.'

YAHWEH says to the foreigners who join HIM, serving HIM and loving HIS name, keeping HIS Sabbath unprofaned and remaining faithful to HIS Covenant:

I will bring them to MY holy mountain and give them joy in MY house of prayer.  I will accept on MY altar their burnt offerings and sacrifices, for MY house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations. 

Thus says the LORD YAHWEH, who gathers the exiles of Israel: There are others I will gather besides those already gathered." - Isaiah 56:1-3. 6-8 

(The Jewish law--reflecting the thinking of the times--excluded foreigners in certain circumstances, as well as eunuchs, [castrated men] from their religious assemblies.

The prophet reveals that such exclusion is not endorsed by GOD.)

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"I AM Sending MY Messenger Ahead Of YOU To Prepare YOUR Way."

 "When John's messengers had gone, JESUS began speaking to the people about John.  And HE said, 'What did you want to see, when you went to the desert?  A reed blowing in the wind?  What was there to see?  A man dressed in fine clothes?  But people who wear fine clothes and enjoy delicate food are found in palaces.  What did you go out to see?  A prophet?  Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.  For John is the one foretold in Scripture in these words: I AM sending MY messenger ahead of YOU to prepare YOUR way.  No one may be found greater than John among those born of women; but I tell you, the least in the kingdom of GOD is greater than he.

All the people listening to HIM, even the tax collectors, had acknowledged the will of GOD in receiving the baptism of John, whereas the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, in not letting themselves be baptized by him, ignored the will of GOD.'" - Luke 7:24-30 

(When John's messengers had gone.  Most of John's disciples continued to follow him and did not acknowledge JESUS.  JESUS did not accuse them, instead HE praised John and situated HIMSELF in respect to John.

A prophet and more than a prophet.  JESUS clearly takes a stand in favor of John, yet John was the subject of many reservations in respected circles.  No one [the Gospel uses the Jewish term: among those born of woman, that simply means: no one] could be found greater than John.  For the common people John was the greatest contemporary figure.  JESUS agreed with them for this reason: John introduced the Savior and the kingdom of GOD.

The least in the kingdom of GOD is greater than he: in the sense that JESUS' disciples entered the kingdom that John only announced.  However holy John may have been, he was not given the knowledge of GOD that permeated JESUS.  Actually, JESUS emphasized the superiority, not of HIS disciples as compared to John, but of HIS own mission when compared with that of John.

John said that each one had to straighten out his life.  JESUS rather insists that all efforts are useless if a person does not believe in the FATHER's love.  John's disciples used to fast; JESUS disciples will know how to forgive.  John attracted to the desert those who knew how to let go of conveniences that they were accustomed to; JESUS lives among people and heals their wounds.  The baptism of John signified a person's willingness to give up his vices, while the baptism of JESUS bestows the Spirit of GOD.)

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"Fortunate Are Those Who Meet ME, And Are Not Offended By ME."

 "John's disciples informed him about all these things.  So, John called two of his disciples, and sent them to the LORD with this message, 'Are YOU the one we are expecting, or should we wait for another?'  These men came to JESUS and said, 'John the Baptist sent us to ask YOU: Are YOU the one we are to expect, or should we wait for another?'

At that time, JESUS healed many people of their sicknesses and diseases; HE freed them from evil spirits, and HE gave sight to the blind.  Then HE answered the messengers, 'Go back and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind sees again, the lame walk, lepers are made clean, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, and the poor are given good news.  Now, listen: Fortunate are those who meet ME, and are not offended by me." - Luke 7:18-23 

(The situation has been reversed.  John appeared as a great prophet, while JESUS began preaching in John's wake but without the same impact [3:18-20].  Now John is in prison and JESUS is known as a healer.  Has John doubts in prison?  It is possible even if he had hold some of his followers that JESUS would take his place.  It might be more accurate to interpret his question as a pressing invitation: "If YOU are the one who is to come, why so much delay?"  

John's disciples did witness the cures, but the cures are not everything and JESUS adds: the poor hear good news because real evangelization restores hope and leaves people renewed.

The blind see, the lame walk...  The prophets foretold these signs [Isaiah 35:5] that were really something new, because in the past GOD usually manifested HIMSELF as a powerful savior.  These healings pointed to the liberation that JESUS was bringing: not punishment of sinners [which was a great part of John the Baptist's preaching] but, before all else, reconciliation suited to healing a world of sinners, of violent and resentful people.

Fortunate are those who meet ME, and are not offended by ME.  And fortunate are those who do not doubt CHRIST's salvation after seeing the fruits of evangelization.  Fortunate are those who do not say: this way is too slow.  The Gospel shows its richness in giving life to people, in restoring hope to those who have experienced weakness and sin.  It is necessary to have seen and understood that this is most important.

It does not matter if the world seems to continue to surrender to the forces of evil.  The presence of liberated people compels others to define themselves in terms of good and evil and this makes the world grow.

With this, JESUS answers the disciples of John, men who are self-sacrificing and concerned for the triumph of GOD's cause.  Perhaps they are so absorbed in their search for justice that they fail to recognize GOD's powerful working in JESUS' actions, which appeared so gentle and mild.)

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The Parable Of The Two Sons

 "JESUS went on to say, 'What do you think of this?  A man had two sons.  He went to the first and said to him, 'Son, go and work today in my vineyard.'  And the son answered, 'I don't want to.'  But later he thought better of it and went.  Then the father went to his other son and said the same thing to him.  This son replied, 'I will go, sir,' but he did not go.

Which of the two did what the father wanted?'  They answered, 'The first.'  And JESUS said to them, 'Truly, I say to you: the publicans and the prostitutes are ahead of you on the way to kingdom of heaven.  For John came, to show you the way of goodness, and you did not believe him; but the publicans and the prostitutes did.  You were witnesses of this, but you neither repented nor believed him.'" - Matthew 21:28-32 

(This parable refers to the refusal of the chief priests to recognize John the Baptist as a messenger of GOD.  

A good number of sinners were converted by John's preaching and confessed their sins.  Such people were well disposed to receive the message of JESUS that opened for them the kingdom of GOD and showed them the true face of GOD the FATHER.  Because of that, they were ahead of the priests, who were indifferent to John's call, for they felt neither the desire nor the need to change.

Every parish that carries out a mission experiences the same thing: many uncommitted Christians will neither work as missionaries, nor receive them, believing they do not need conversion.)

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JESUS' Authority

 "JESUS had entered the temple and was teaching, when the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the Jewish authorities came to HIM, and asked, 'What authority have YOU to act like this?  Who gave YOU authority to do all this?'

JESUS answered them, 'I will also ask you one question.  If you answer ME, then I will also tell you by what authority I do these things.'  Where did John's baptism come from?  From heaven or from people?'

They discussed this among themselves, saying, 'If we say, 'From heaven,' HE will say, 'Then why did you not believe him?'  And if we say, 'The baptism of John was merely something human', we've got to beware of the people, for all consider John to be a prophet.'  So, they answered JESUS, 'we do not know.'

And JESUS said to them, 'Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.'" - Matthew 21:23-27 

(JESUS is what we would call today a simple layman.  HE respects the priests of the people of GOD and their high priest.  HE shows however that if they want others to be accountable, for their part they must be ready to take a stand on the things of GOD when the people need this.  They had been and were unwilling to give such a response in the case of John the Baptist.)

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Patience In Suffering

 "Be patient then, beloved, until the coming of the LORD.  See how the Sower waits for the precious fruits of the earth, looking forward, patiently, to the autumn and spring rains.  You, also, be patient, and do not lose heart, because the LORD's coming is near.

Beloved, do not fight among yourselves and you will not be judged.  See, the judge is already at the door.  Take for yourselves, as an example of patience, the suffering of the prophets, who spoke in the LORD's name." - James 5:7-10 

(What was taking place in the poor civilization of James' time is happening again today.  The prosperity of a quarter of the world depends on the system that leaves two billion people in misery.

In our countries money destroys hope in the Christian meaning of the word; life is considered as a fortune to be enjoyed by oneself, without accepting responsibilities, beginning with the transmission of life.  Far removed from us, the safeguarding of our privileges involves, like a series of cascades, the unjust death of millions of people because of famine, oppression and wars.)

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Plea For The Return Of GOD's Favor

 "O YAHWEH of hosts, how long will YOUR anger burn against the prayers of YOUR people?

YOU have fed them with the bread of woe and have given them tears to drink in their sorrow.

YOU have made us the scorn of our neighbors and the laughingstock of our oppressors.

Restore us, O GOD of hosts; make YOUR face shine upon us, that we may be saved."

- Psalm 80:5-8

(The psalmist dares to ask 'why'?  The prophet Amos could provide the answer: thirty years before this time, HE had scourged the luxury and oppression of the ruling classes [Amos 6:4-7].  But we have to sympathize with the psalmist.  He has learnt the lesson that to brood over sins committed is a worthless exercise.

The shining face of GOD is remembered in John 14:9 and in Hebrews 1:3; also, in the Gospels at the time of the transfiguration [cf. Matthew 17:2; cf. 2 Corinthians 4:6].  The gaze of GOD saves, also in our present time.) 

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The Holy One Of Israel

 "Thus says YAHWEH, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I, YAHWEH, your GOD, teach you what is best for you; I lead you in the way that you must go.

Had you paid attention to MY commandments, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea.

Your descendants would have been like the sand, and those born of your stock like its grains, their names never cut off nor blotted out from MY presence." - Isaiah 48:17-19 

(In this text, the prophet looks at Israel's past, reminding us of what we read about the lost Paradise.  If they had obeyed, GOD's desire to lavish HIS blessings upon them would have been fulfilled, as well as GOD's promises to Abraham.

But GOD will intervene again as the Redeemer of HIS people.)

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Orchestra Of Praise To GOD, King Of The World

 "Sing to YAHWEH a new song, for HE has done wonders; HIS right hand, HIS holy arm, has won victory for HIM.

YAHWEH has shown HIS salvation, revealing HIS justice to the nations. HE has not forgotten HIS love, nor HIS faithfulness to Israel.  The farthest ends of the earth all have seen GODs saving power.

All you, lands, make a joyful noise to YAHWEH, break into song and sing praise, with melody of the lyre and with music of the harp.

With trumpet blast and sound of the horn, rejoice before the King, YAHWEH!

Let the sea resound and everything in it, the world and all its people.

Let rivers clap their hands, hills and mountains sing with joy before YAHWEH, for HE comes to rule the earth.  HE will judge the world with justice, and the peoples, with fairness."

- Psalm 98:1-8

(Our LORD founded the kingdom of GOD on earth; and yet we pray: 'YOUR kingdom come.'  The work of our redemption has been accomplished, but we still pray for this salvation, to be perfected throughout the world: GOD has come; but we look for HIS final coming, to take possession of HIS kingdom.

Sing to the LORD a new song.  Humanity has found the way to liberation and salvation.  It is in the coming of CHRIST, GOD-made-man and in HIS resurrection.

For the LORD come down to earth, showed us HIS love and also by HIS death and resurrection, the path to eternal salvation.)

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Come To ME, All Of You!

 "'Come to ME, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take MY yoke upon you and learn from ME, for I AM gentle and humble of heart; and you will find rest.  For MY yoke is easy; and MY burden is light.'" - Matthew 11:28-30 

(Come to ME: I will not relieve you of your load but by placing MY yoke on you, I give you the means of carrying the load.

JESUS plays with the two words yoke and load, for the Jews used to call "load" the divine teachings imparted to pupils, and "yoke" the balancing of the teacher's sentences, which should be learned by heart.

JESUS, the patient and humble teacher, enables us to see the mercy of GOD in our lives and in our own cross.  HE shows us the love of GOD even in the requirements of the law.  Only GOD is good; and good is the authority of CHRIST.)

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The Parable Of The Lost Sheep

"What do you think of this?  If someone has a hundred sheep and one of them strays, won't he leave the ninety-nine on the hillside, and go to look for the stray one?  And I tell you, when he finally finds it, he is more pleased about it, than about the ninety-nine that did not go astray.  It is the same with your FATHER in heaven.  Your FATHER in heaven doesn't want even one of these little ones to perish." - Matthew 18:12-14 

(The parable of the one hundred sheep is also found in the Gospel of Luke [15:1].  It teaches us several things: JESUS' special concern for sinners and those who stray and, therefore, the missionary dimension of HIS apostolate.  In fact, JESUS came "to seek and save the lost" [Luke 19:10], "I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners" [Matthew 9:13].  This attitude should impel our parishes and Christian communities to constantly reach out to the unchurched and marginalized, instead of just working with those who already are in touch with the Church.)

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"What Wonderful Things We Have Seen Today!"

 "One day, JESUS was teaching, and many Pharisees and teachers of the law had come from every part of Galilee and Judea, and even from Jerusalem.  They were sitting there, while the power of the LORD was at work to heal the sick.  Then some men brought a paralyzed man who lay on his mat.  They tried to enter the house to place him before JESUS, but they couldn't find a way through the crowd.  So, they went up on the roof, and, removing the tiles, they lowered him on his mat into the middle of the crowd, in front of JESUS.

When JESUS saw their faith, HE said to the man, 'My friend, your sins are forgiven.'  At once the teachers of the law and the Pharisees began to wonder.  'This man insults GOD!  Who can forgive sins, but GOD alone?'

But JESUS knew their thoughts and asked them, 'Why are you reacting like this?  Which is easier to say: 'Your sins are forgiven' or 'Get up and walk'?  Now you shall know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.'  And JESUS said to the paralyzed man, 'Get up, take your mat and go home.'  At once, the man stood before them.  He took up the mat he had been lying on and went home praising GOD.

Amazement seized the people, and they praised GOD.  They were filled with a holy fear, and said, 'What wonderful things we have seen today!'" - Luke 5:17-26 

(There were many Pharisees and teachers of the law.  The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were not against JESUS yet, but being men who had received much religious formation, they were the first to wonder about JESUS' religious claims: was HE only a faithful believer respectful of GOD's law or was HE promoting a new sect?  JESUS took advantage of their presence to show that HE was not simply a disciple of Moses and the prophets, but the master of them all.

We easily understand why the teachers of the law were scandalized.  How could this man without studies or title, stand up to them as if he were a teacher?  They were looking for the coming of a GOD who would confirm their teaching and acknowledge their merits.  JESUS, however, was in the midst of common folk and did not pay attention to the authority of the masters of the law who looked down on them.  Since the teachers of the law could not believe, their only recourse was to oppose JESUS.)

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Glorify GOD For HIS Mercy

 "And we know that whatever was written in the past, was written for our instruction, for both perseverance and comfort, given us by the Scripture, sustain our hope.  May GOD, the source of all perseverance and comfort, give to all of you, to live in peace in CHRIST JESUS, that you may be able to praise, in one voice GOD, FATHER of CHRIST JESUS, our LORD.

Welcome, then, one another, as CHRIST welcomed you for the glory of GOD.  Look: CHRIST put HIMSELF at the service of the Jewish world, to fulfill the promises made by GOD to their ancestors; here, you see GOD's faithfulness.  The pagans, instead, give thanks to GOD for HIS mercy, as Scripture says: Because of that, I will sing and praise YOUR name among the pagans." - Romans 15:4-9 

(In this twofold attitude of GOD toward the Jews and the "nations," that is to say non-Jews.  Paul sees a manifestation of the two great qualities that prophetic tradition attributes to GOD: grace and fidelity.  What Paul is saying here certainly goes beyond the case of Jews and non-Jews.  Two applications of this can be given.

First, for the Christian community.  As JESUS stated to the Pharisees, we know that no elitist group by itself constitutes JESUS' Church.  It can only be in the truth if it constantly has two groups, on one hand, those who have matured in fidelity, inheriting the faith and sacrifices of their parents and persevering in the community and on the other hand, those who come from the outside and who have undergone a strong personal conversion.  Naturally, this creates conflicts, and it requires sacrifices from everyone, but this is where GOD likes to work.

In addition, this text helps us to understand that GOD only reveals HIMSELF to a minority while at the same time, GOD was saving all human beings.)

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The Coming Prosperity

 "O people of Zion, who dwell in Jerusalem, you will weep no more.  When you cry, HE will listen; when HE hears, HE will answer.

When the LORD has given you the bread of anguish and the water of distress, HE, your teacher will hide no longer.  Your own eyes will see HIM, and your ear will listen to HIS words behind you: 'This is the way, walk in it.'

HE will then give rain for the seed you sow and make the harvest abundant from the crops you grow.  On that day your cattle will graze in wide pastures.  Your beasts of burden will eat silage tossed to them with pitchfork and shovel.

For on the day of the great slaughter, when fortresses fall, streams of water will flow on every mountain and lofty hill.

The light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun seven times greater, like the light of seven days, when YAHWEH binds up the wounds of HIS people and heals the bruises inflicted by HIS blows." - Isaiah 30:19-21. 23-26 

(GOD loves us and teaches us.  This poem speaks of all the marvels to be discovered when meeting GOD through tears.)

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JESUS Cures Two Blind Men

 "As JESUS moved on from there, two blind men followed HIM, shouting, 'Son of David, help us!'  When HE was about to enter the house, the blind men caught up with HIM; and JESUS said to them, 'Do you believe that I AM able to do what you want?  They answered, 'Yes, sir!'

Then JESUS touched their eyes and said, 'As you have believed, so let it be.'  And their eyes were opened.  Then JESUS gave them a stern warning, 'Be careful that no one knows about this.'  But as soon as they went away, they spread the news about HIM through the whole area." - Matthew 9:27-31 

(Two blind men followed HIM shouting.  In what manner, if they were blind?  Stumbling and being carried by others perhaps.  When you sin, shout to the LORD and keep on looking for CHRIST.)

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House Built On Rock

 "Not everyone who says to ME, 'LORD!  LORD!' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of MY heavenly FATHER.

'Therefore, anyone who hears these words of MINE, and acts according to them, is like a wise man, who built his house on rock.  The rain poured down, the rivers flooded, and the wind blew and struck that house.  But it did not collapse, because it was built on rock.  But anyone who hears these words of MINE, and does not act accordingly, is like a fool who built his house on sand.  The rain poured, the rivers flooded, and the wind blew and struck that house; it collapsed, and what a terrible collapse that was!'" - Matthew 7:21. 24-27 

(Many will say to ME that day.  Matthew probably quotes this sentence pointing out to the charismatic prophets who disturb his communities by not obeying precepts that are addressed to everyone.

Whether we teach or work miracles, these abilities and ministries given us for the good of the community do not assure us that we are in the grace of GOD.  True faith works through love [Galatians 5:6] and moves us to fulfill all the law: James 2:8.

Anyone who hears these words of MINE.  JESUS means those who listen to HIS words and are converted: they believe themselves already saved.  If they do not use their initial enthusiasm to build their lives on solid foundations, such as scriptural meditation, generosity, resistance to evil inclinations, sharing in the Christian community--then everything will tumble down later.)

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I Will Make You Fishers Of Men

 "As JESUS walked by the lake of Galilee, HE saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen.  HE said to them, 'Come, follow ME; and I will make you fish for people.'

At once they left their nets and followed HIM.

HE went on from there and saw two other brothers, James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John, in a boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets.  JESUS called them.

At once, they left the boat, and their father, and followed HIM." - Matthew 4:18-22 

(At once, they abandoned their nets and followed HIM, which means leaving their family and work they began to live with HIM.  Like the masters of religion in HIS time, like the rabbis, JESUS instructed HIS first disciples, teaching them what they were to pass on to others in the Church.

They did not yet know what the Reign of GOD would mean but they trusted JESUS to guide them.  This for them was the beginning of faith.)

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JESUS Gives Thanks To The FATHER

 "At that time, JESUS was filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit, and said, 'I praise YOU, FATHER, LORD of heaven and earth, for YOU have hidden these things from the wise and learned and made them known to little ones.  Yes, FATHER, such has been YOUR gracious will.  I have been given all things by MY FATHER, so that no one knows the Son except the FATHER, and no one knows the FATHER except the Son, and he to whom the Son chooses to reveal HIM.'

Then JESUS turned to HIS disciples and said to them privately, 'Fortunate are you to see what you see, for I tell you, that many prophets and kings would have liked to see what you see but did not see it; and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.'" - Luke 10:21-24 

(What are these things that GOD has revealed to the little ones but the mysterious power of the Gospel to transform people and show them the truth?  The apostles marvel at the power coming from the name of JESUS [Mark 16:17].  JESUS underlines the defeat of the Adversary, Satan.

The learned and the clever think they know, but do not know what is essential.  They speak of a God who is no more than a shadow of the true GOD as long as they do not recognize him in JESUS.  They do not know where the world is heading because they do not see how GOD's power is working wherever JESUS is being proclaimed.

Little ones live their faith in simple ways, but they know that none of their sacrifices are lost.  It is JESUS who reveals the FATHER to us and, knowing HIM in truth, we also share in HIS control over events.  Our desires and our prayers are powerful because we have come to the center from which GOD directs the forces saving humankind: because we work for eternity, our names are already written in heaven.

To evangelize does not mean to try to sell the Gospel but rather to prove its power to heal people from their demons.  We need not become activists in order to accomplish that.  We must admit that we have no power in these things and we must give thanks to GOD who enabled us to see, to hear and to communicate HIS salvation.

Fortunate are you to see...  Stop being envious of famous people, kings and prophets of the past.  You who are alive now, and who are neither kings nor prophets, have been given the better part.)

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The LORD's Glory Will Be Shelter

 "On that day the Shoot of YAHWEH will be beautiful and glorious; and the fruit of the earth will be honor and splendor for the survivors of Israel.

Those who are left in Zion and remain in Jerusalem will be called holy, and who are recorded among the living in Jerusalem,

when the LORD washes away the filth of the women of Zion and purges Jerusalem of the bloodstains in its midst with the blast of searing judgment, the blast of fire.

Then will YAHWEH create over the whole site of Mount Zion and over its assemblies a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of fire by night.

For the glory of YAHWEH will be a canopy and a pavilion for all, a shade from the scorching heat by day, a refuge from the storm and rain." - Isaiah 4:2-6 

(In the turbulent history of nations, GOD allows a small and insignificant people to take shape.  From among them a chosen group called "Remnant" appears and takes root.  As a pyramid is gradually reduced to a point, so is this remnant reduced, until it becomes only one man, the Savior.  Here, HE is called the fruit of the earth.  HE is also called Shoot, because HE will be the sprout for the new humanity.

Above Mount Zion which symbolizes the Church, GOD will be a shade from the scorching heat by day.

- HE will provide rest for the weary: "Come to ME and I will refresh you" [Matthew 11:28].

- The new trends in the world can harm the unwary and the isolated but not those who live in the church community.)

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Children Of The Light

 "You know what hour it is.  This is the time to awake, for our salvation is, now, nearer than when we first believed; the night is almost over, and day is at hand.  Let us discard, therefore, everything that belongs to darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.  As we live in the full light of day, let us behave with decency, no banquets with drunkenness, no promiscuity or licentiousness, no fighting or jealousy.  Put on, rather, the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and do not be led by the will of the flesh nor follow its desires." - Romans 13:11-14 

   

(You know what hour it is.  This is the time to awake.  Paul was just recalling the duties of a Christian in this world, and he already turns to the opposite direction: beware of settling down in this world.  The Christian is always awaiting the coming of CHRIST.

During the first thirty years of the Church, all waited for the imminent return of JESUS.  When it became clear to them that history was being extended, they began thinking more of each one's last end: it was then that they would meet CHRIST.  In the present century we have come to realize that history is going towards an end and that we not only have to be ready for the last hour, but that we must also work for the evangelization of the world.  The Gospel is the power that, directly or indirectly, brings all human history to maturity; by living holy and responsible lives we hasten the coming of the kingdom of GOD [2 Peter 3:11-12].)

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I, John, Saw And Heard All This.

 "Then, he showed me the river of life, clear as crystal, gushing from the throne of GOD, and of the Lamb.  In the middle of the city, on both sides of the river, are the trees of life, producing fruit twelve times, once each month, the leaves of which are for healing the nations.

No longer will there be a curse; the throne of GOD and of the Lamb will be in the city, and GOD's servants will live in HIS presence.  They will see HIS face, and HIS name will be on their foreheads.  There will be no more night.  They will not need the light of lamp, or sun, for GOD, HIMSELF, will be their light, and they will reign forever.

Then, the angel said to me, 'These words are sure and true; the LORD GOD, who inspires the prophets, has sent HIS angel, to show HIS servants what must happen soon.'

'I AM coming soon!  Happy are those who keep the prophetic words of this book.'" - Revelation 22:1-7 

(And they will reign forever.  This is the final word, and it is the seventh time it is said in Revelation.

I, John, saw and heard all this.  Thus, Scripture concludes, and we can recall the parable of the workers hired for the LORD's vineyard [Matthew 20].  The work in which prophets and writers participated in the course of a day is over.  In the first hour the visions with which Genesis begins, and which briefly present the divine vocation of people and the purpose of the world, were written.  In the final hour, John, after knowing CHRIST, the Morning Sun, has just seen humanity preparing to share the glory of GOD.

It is the final hour, the expected coming of CHRIST.  We know, however, that the final hour may be extended and that the Groom may come late in the night: Christians are watchful, firm in their hope, even as they face the Power of Darkness.)

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