From Newsgroup: alt.bible

Day 348, 14 December 2025 - 22nd Day of Advent

Today at <a href="https://www.calvarycommunity.ca"> Calvary Community
Church </a> Pastor Barry Regier and his wife Lori-Anne responded to questions on God's Blueprint for PArenting.

Our goal is discipleship

Matthew 22:37-39

37 (Dt 6:5; Lk 10:27) Jesus said to him, " 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.'(Dt 6:5.) 38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 (Lev 19:18; Mt 19:19; Gal 5:14) And the second is like it:
'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' (Lev 19:18.)

[37] Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy
heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
[38] This is the first and great commandment.
[39] And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as
thyself.

Ephesians 6:4

4 (Ge 18:19; Dt 6:7) Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger,
but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

[4] And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up
in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

A) Discpline

"You suggested spanking for defiance and lying, but what are some ways
for disciplining our children?

Focus = training their heart and will, not just behavioural modification.

"How do you handle situations where your souse and you differ in how to disciplie especially when you have two different styles"?

God will hold fathers responsilbe for the health and vitality of the home environment, but both parents have a role in training up their children
in the ways of the Lord.

B) Seperation from Culture

"Parents sometimes shelter their children thinking they must seperate them from the world - but is that actually preparing and equipping them for life?

John 17:15-17

15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world,
but that You should keep them from the evil one.
16 (Jn 17:14) They are not of the world even as I am not of the world.
17 (Jn 15:3; 2Sa 7:28) Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth

[15] I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that
thou shouldest keep them from the evil.
[16] They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
[17] Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

Remember, we represent Jesus Christ, be a blessing to them!"

C) Gender Identity

"How would you suggest teaching our child about gender, especially when it is different than what is being taught in schoos?"

Genesis 1:27

27 So God created man in His own image;
in the image of God He created him;
male and female He created them.

[27] So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he
him; male and female created he them.

Psalm 139:13-15

13 You brought my inner parts into being;
You wove me in my mother's womb.
14 I will praise you, for You made me with fear and wonder;
marvelous are Your works,
and You know me completely.
15 My frame was not hidden from You
when I was made in secret,

[13] For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb.
[14] I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
[15] My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.

Jeremiah 17:9

9 (Ecc 9:3; Mk 7:21-22) The heart is more deceitful than all things
and desperately wicked; who can understand it?

[9] The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who
can know it?

Romans 12:1

1 (1Pe 2:5; Ro 6:13; 6:16) I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies
of God, that you present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy,
and acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service of worship.

[1] I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye
present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

D) Technology, gaming and social media

"What amount of time should kidshave on the phone, Internet,
related games, and social media?"

Tie screen time as part of a reward for chores done or homework completed.

E) Teen Issues

"What advice do you have for dealing with children dating,
cell phone use and driving?"

Matthew 22:37-39

37 (Dt 6:5; Lk 10:27) Jesus said to him, " 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.'(Dt 6:5.) 38 This is the first and great commandment.
39 (Lev 19:18; Mt 19:19; Gal 5:14) And the second is like it:
'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' (Lev 19:18.)

[37] Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy
heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
[38] This is the first and great commandment.
[39] And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as
thyself.

Driving - let them know self-initiative .

"I'm Afraid my child is caught in pronography.
What resources are available to help them?"

Be a safe place for them to be honest.

Ephesians 5:3

3 (Col 3:5; 1Co 6:18; Eph 5:5) And do not let sexual immorality, or any impurity, or greed be named among you, as these are not proper among saints.

[3] But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be
once named among you, as becometh saints;

F) Adulting

"How do I set my kids up for success as they transition to adulthood?
Should I stock their pantry in their first home?"

Key Ability - Resourcefulness .

2 Peter 1:3

3 (1Th 2:12; 2Th 2:14) His divine power has given to us all things that
pertain to life and godliness through the knowledge
of Him who has called us by His own glory and excellence,

[3] According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

Key mindset - Solution-Oriented

Philippians 4:8

8 (Ac 6:3; 10:22) Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever
things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure,
whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report,
if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think on these things.

[8] Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Joshua 1:7-9

7 (Dt 5:32; 28:14) Be strong and very courageous, in order to act
carefully in accordance with all the law that My servant Moses
commanded you. Do not turn aside from it to the right or the left,
so that you may succeed wherever you go.
8 (Ps 19:14; 119:15) This Book of the Law must not depart
from your mouth. Meditate on it day and night so that you may act
carefully according to all that is written in it. For then you will make
your way successful, and you will be wise.
9 (Ge 28:15; Dt 31:7-8) Have not I commanded you?
Be strong and courageous.
Do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord
your God is with you wherever you go."

[7] Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not
from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.
[8] This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth;
but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
[9] Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not
afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

"How do we provice resources for the questions young adults are asking - espically when they feel the church doesn't allow them to search - and how do we parent our adult children when they're making decisions we don't agree with?"

Think of the Prodigal Son
Stages of Parenting

During Childhood - parent from autohrity
During the teen year - parent from relationship
The during adulthood - parent through influence.

Deuteronomy 6:4-9

4 (Jn 17:3; Isa 42:8) Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God. The Lord is one!
5 (Mt 22:37; Mk 12:30) And you shall love the Lord your God with all
your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
6 (Dt 11:18; 32:46) These words, which I am commanding you today,
shall be in your heart.
7 (Dt 11:19; Eph 6:4) You shall teach them diligently to your children
and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk
by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise up.
8 (Ex 13:9; Dt 11:18) You shall bind them as a sign on your hand,
and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes.
9 (Dt 11:20; Isa 57:8) You shall write them on the doorposts
of your house and on your gates.

[4] Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:
[5] And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all
thy soul, and with all thy might.
[6] And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: [7] And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk
of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way,
and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
[8] And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be
as frontlets between thine eyes.
[9] And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

"How do we understnad or support an older child, lie a university-aged son,
who is very closed off, doesn't share much, and doesn't have friends?"

Be intentional. Be curious . Pray for them.

G) Mental Health questions.

"How do we protect children from mental health issues - especially as
a full-time working mom who feels guilty for missing important time with her kids?"

Really hard questions

Mental health is a complex interplay of genetic, biological, psychological,
and environmental factors.

A key role in a parnet is to help child develop resilience.

Encourage questions, stay curious .

H) Extended Family Issues

"How do we nagivate extended family - dysfunctional ways of relating, comparison of grandchildren and favoritism?"

Godly boundaries are good, and often necessary.

2 Timothy 3:1-5

1 (Eze 38:16; 2Pe 3:3) Know this: In the last days perilous times will come.
2 (Php 2:21; Jude 1:16) Men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 (Ro 1:31; 1Ti 3:11) without natural affection, trucebreakers, slanderers, unrestrained, fierce, despisers of those who are good,
4 (1Ti 3:6) traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasures
more than lovers of God,
5 (1Ti 5:8; Mt 7:15) having a form of godliness,
but denying its power. Turn away from such people.

[1] This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
[2] For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
[3] Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
[4] Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of
God;
[5] Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such
turn away.

Galatians 3:13

13 (Dt 21:23; Gal 4:5) Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law
by being made a curse for us-as it is written, "Cursed is everyone
who hangs on a tree"(Dt 21:23.)-

[13] Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse
for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:

Get on the same page as a couple to agree on the values that you intend
to live out as a family - reflecting the Person and character
of JEsus Christ. And then teach your children.

1) Hebrews 7,8,9,10

Hebrews 7

The Priestly Order of Melchizedek

1 (Ge 14:18-20; Mk 5:7) For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest
of the Most High God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings
and blessed him.
2 To him Abraham also gave a tenth part of everything. In the first place,
his name is translated "king of righteousness," and then also he is king
of Salem, which means "king of peace."
3 (Heb 7:6) Without father, without mother, without descent,
having neither beginning of days nor end of life,
but made like the Son of God, he continually remains a priest.
4 (Ac 2:29; Ge 14:20) Now consider how great this man was, to whom even
the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils.
5 Surely the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have
a command to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is,
from their brothers, though they also come from the seed of Abraham.
6 (Ro 4:13; Ge 14:19-20) But this man, whose descent is not numbered among them, received tithes from Abraham and blessed him who had the promises.
7 Without question, the inferior is blessed by the superior.
8 (Heb 5:6; 6:20) In the one case mortal men receive tithes, but in the other he of whom it is witnessed that he is alive receives them.
9 One might say that Levi also, who receives tithes,
paid tithes through Abraham,
10 for he was still in the loins of his father when Melchizedek met Abraham.
11 (Heb 8:7; Gal 2:21) If perfection were attained through the Levitical priesthood (for through it the people received the law), what further need
was there that another priest should rise in the order of Melchizedek,
rather than established in the order of Aaron?
12 For a change in the priesthood necessitates a change in the law.
13 For the One concerning whom these things are spoken pertains to another tribe, from which no man served at the altar.
14 (Isa 11:1; Mic 5:2; Lk 3:33) For it is evident that our Lord descended
from Judah, a tribe concerning which Moses said nothing about priests.
15 This is far more evident when another priest arises in the likeness
of Melchizedek,
16 who becomes a priest not by a law pertaining to ancestry,
but by the power of an endless life.
17 (Ps 110:4; Heb 5:6) For He testifies:
"You are a priest forever,
in the order of Melchizedek."(Ps 110:4.)
18 (Ro 8:3; Gal 4:9) For there is then an annulling of the previous
commandment due to its weakness and uselessness.
19 (Ac 13:39; Heb 4:16) For the law made nothing perfect, but now
a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God.
20 And He was not made a priest without an oath.
21 (Ps 110:4; Heb 7:17) (Other priests were made without an oath,
but this One with an oath by the One who said to Him:
"The Lord has sworn
and will not relent,
'You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.' " (Nu 23:19;
1Sa 15:29; Ps 110:4.))
22 Through this oath Jesus became the guarantor of a better covenant.
23 And the former priests were numerous because they were hindered
from serving because of death.
24 (Heb 7:28; Jn 12:34) But He, because He lives forever,
has an everlasting priesthood.
25 (Ro 8:34; Heb 7:19; Jn 14:6) Therefore He is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, because He at all times lives to make intercession for them.
26 (Heb 8:1; 2Co 5:21) For such a High Priest was fitting for us,
for He is holy, innocent, undefiled, separate from sinners,
and is higher than the heavens.
27 (Heb 9:28; 5:3; 9:12) Unlike those high priests, He does not need to
offer daily sacrifices-first for His own sins and then for the people's,
for He did this once for all when He offered up Himself.
28 (Heb 2:10; 1:2) For the law appoints men who are weak as high priests,
but the word of the oath, which came after the law, appoints a Son who is
made perfect forever.

[1] For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who
met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;
[2] To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem,
which is, King of peace;
[3] Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither
beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God;
abideth a priest continually.
[4] Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch
Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils.
[5] And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of
the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham:
[6] But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of
Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.
[7] And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.
[8] And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of
whom it is witnessed that he liveth.
[9] And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham.
[10] For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him.
[11] If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another
priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after
the order of Aaron?
[12] For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change
also of the law.
[13] For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.
[14] For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe
Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.
[15] And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,
[16] Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life.
[17] For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
[18] For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for
the weakness and unprofitableness thereof.
[19] For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
[20] And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest:
[21] (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by
him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a
priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)
[22] By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.
[23] And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death:
[24] But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable
priesthood.
[25] Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto
God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.
[26] For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
[27] Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice,
first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once,
when he offered up himself.
[28] For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word
of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.

Hebrews 8

Jesus Our High Priest

1 (Heb 1:3; Col 3:1) Now this is the main point of the things that we are saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand
of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
2 a minister in the sanctuary and the true tabernacle, which the Lord,
not man, set up.
3 (Heb 5:1; Eph 5:2) For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts
and sacrifices. Therefore it is necessary that this priest also have
something to offer.
4 For if He were on earth, He would not be a priest,
since there are priests that offer gifts according to the law.
5 (Ex 25:40; Col 2:17) They serve in a sanctuary that is an example
and shadow of the heavenly one, as Moses was instructed
by God when he was about to make the tabernacle,
"See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you
on the mountain."-6 (Pr 3:11-12.)
6 (Heb 7:22; 12:24; 2Co 3:6-11) But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, because He is the Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises.
7 (Heb 7:11; 7:18) For if that first covenant had been faultless,
then no occasion would have been sought for a second.
8 (Jer 31:31-34; Lk 22:20) For finding fault with them, God says:
"Surely the days are coming, says the Lord,
when I will make a new covenant
with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah,
9 (Dt 5:2-3; Jer 31:32) not according to the covenant
that I made with their fathers
in the day when I took them by the hand
to lead them out of the land of Egypt;
because they did not continue in My covenant,
and I rejected them, says the Lord.
10 (Jer 31:33; 2Co 3:3) This is the covenant that I will make
with the house of Israel
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their minds
and write them on their hearts;
and I will be their God,
and they shall be My people.
11 (Isa 54:13; Jn 6:45; 1Jn 2:27) No longer shall every man teach
his neighbour,
and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,'
for all shall know Me,
from the least of them to the greatest. (Isa 54:13.)
12 (Ro 11:27; Isa 43:25) For I will be merciful toward their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."
13 (2Co 5:17) In speaking of a new covenant He has made the first one old.
Now that which is decaying and growing old is ready to vanish away.

[1] Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in
the heavens;
[2] A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.
[3] For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices:
wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.
[4] For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there
are priests that offer gifts according to the law:
[5] Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith
he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.
[6] But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he
is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.
[7] For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.
[8] For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah:
[9] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. [10] For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel
after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and
write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be
to me a people:
[11] And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.
[12] For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and
their iniquities will I remember no more.
[13] In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.

Hebrews 9

The Earthly and Heavenly Sanctuaries

1 (Ex 25:8; Heb 8:2) Then indeed, the first covenant had ordinances for divine services and an earthly sanctuary.
2 (Ex 40:4; 26:35) A tabernacle was made. In the first part of the tabernacle, called the Holy Place, were the candlestick, the table, and the showbread.
3 (Ex 26:31-33; 40:3) Behind the second veil was the second part of the tabernacle called the Most Holy Place,
4 (Ex 26:33; 40:3) which contained the golden censer and the ark of the covenant overlaid with gold, containing the golden pot holding the manna, Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant.
5 (Lev 16:2; Ex 25:17-22; 1Ki 8:6-7) Above the ark were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Concerning these things we cannot now speak in detail.
6 (Nu 28:3) Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests would regularly go into the first part, conducting the services of God.
7 (Lev 16:34; Ex 30:10) But only the high priest went into the second part
once a year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins of the people, committed in ignorance.
8 (Jn 14:6; Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit was signifying through this that the way into the Most Holy Place was not yet revealed, because the first part of the tabernacle was still standing.
9 (Heb 5:1) This is an illustration for the present time, showing that
the gifts and sacrifices offered could not perfect the conscience of those
who worshipped,
10 (Col 2:16; Heb 7:16) since they are concerned only with foods and drinks, ceremonial cleansings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time
of reformation.
11 (Heb 10:1; 2:17) But Christ, when He came as a High Priest of the good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle,
not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation,
12 (Heb 10:4; Da 9:24) neither by the blood of goats and calves,
but by His own blood, He entered the Most Holy Place once for all,
having obtained eternal redemption.
13 For if the blood of bulls and goats, and the ashes of a heifer,
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies so that the flesh is purified,
14 (1Pe 3:18; Heb 6:1; 10:22) how much more shall the blood of Christ,
who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God,
cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
15 (Ro 8:28; 1Ti 2:5) For this reason He is the Mediator of a new covenant, since a death has occurred for the redemption of the sins that were committed under the first covenant, so that those who are called might receive
the promise of eternal inheritance.
16 For where there is a will, there must also of necessity be the death
of the testator.
17 (Gal 3:15) For a will has force after men are dead, since it has no force
at all while the testator lives.
18 So not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood.
19 (Nu 19:6; Heb 9:12) For when Moses had taught every precept to all
the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and goats,
with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book
and all the people,
20 (Mt 26:28; Ex 24:8) saying, "This is the blood of the covenant that God
has commanded you to keep."(Ex 19:12-13.)
21 (Lev 8:15; 8:19) Likewise he sprinkled both the tabernacle and all the vessels of worship with blood.
22 (Lev 17:11) And according to the law almost everything must be cleansed
with blood; without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.

[1] Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service,
and a worldly sanctuary.
[2] For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary.
[3] And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all;
[4] Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
[5] And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly.
[6] Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into
the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
[7] But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not
without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the
people:
[8] The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
[9] Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect,
as pertaining to the conscience;
[10] Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
[11] But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a
greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say,
not of this building;
[12] Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he
entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for
us.
[13] For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:
[14] How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works
to serve the living God?
[15] And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by
means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
[16] For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of
the testator.
[17] For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.
[18] Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.
[19] For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to
the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people,
[20] Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you.
[21] Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the
vessels of the ministry.
[22] And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.

Christ's Sacrifice Takes Away Sin

23 (Heb 8:5; 9:24) It was therefore necessary that the replicas of heavenly things be cleansed with these sacrifices, but that the heavenly things themselves be cleansed with better sacrifices than these.
24 (Heb 8:2) For Christ did not enter holy places made with hands,
which are patterned after the true one, but into heaven itself,
now to appear in the presence of God for us.
25 (Heb 9:7; 10:19) Nor did He enter to offer Himself often, as the high
priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood that is not his own.
26 (Heb 1:2; 7:27) For then He would have had to suffer repeatedly
since the world was created, but now He has appeared once at the end
of the ages to put away sin by sacrificing Himself.
27 (Ge 3:19; 2Co 5:10) As it is appointed for men to die once,
but after this comes the judgment,
28 (Titus 2:13; 1Pe 2:24) so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many, and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to save those who
eagerly wait for Him.

[23] It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with
better sacrifices than these.
[24] For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which
are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
[25] Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others;
[26] For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.
[27] And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the
judgment:
[28] So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

Hebrews 10
1 (Heb 8:5; 9:11) For the law is a shadow of the good things to come,
and not the very image of those things. It could never by the same sacrifices, which they offer continually year after year, perfect those who draw near.
2 Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, since the worshippers, once purified, would no longer be conscious of sins?
3 (Heb 9:7) But in those sacrifices there is an annual reminder of sins.
4 (Heb 10:11) For it is not possible for the blood of bulls
and goats to take away sins.
5 (Heb 1:6; Ge 3:15) Therefore, when He came into the world, He said: "Sacrifices and offerings You did not desire,
but a body You have prepared for Me.
6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin
You have had no pleasure.
7 (Ge 3:15) Then I said, 'See, I have come to do Your will, O God,'
as it is written of Me
in the volume of the book."
8 (Heb 10:5) Previously when He said, "You did not desire sacrifices
and offerings. You have had no pleasure in burnt offerings
and sacrifices for sin,"(Ps 40:6.) which are offered in accordance
with the law,
9 (Heb 10:7) then He said, "See, I have come to do Your will, O God."
(Ps 40:8.) He takes away the first that He may establish the second.
10 (Jn 17:19; Heb 2:11) By this will we have been sanctified through
the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
11 (Heb 5:1; 10:4) But every priest stands daily ministering and repetitively offering the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins.
12 (Heb 1:3) But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins
forever, sat down at the right hand of God.
13 (Heb 1:13; Ps 110:1) Since that time He has been waiting for His enemies
to be made His footstool.
14 (Heb 10:1) For by one offering He has forever perfected
those who are sanctified.
15 (Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit also witnesses to us about this.
For after saying,
16 (Ro 11:27) "This is the covenant that I will make with them
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their hearts,
and in their minds I will write them,"(Jer 31:33.)
17 (Heb 8:12) then He adds,
"Their sins and lawless deeds
will I remember no more."(*Jer 31:34.)
18 Now where there is forgiveness of these,
there is no longer an offering for sin.

[1] For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very
image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year
by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
[2] For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
[3] But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year.
[4] For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
[5] Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and
offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
[6] In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
[7] Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,)
to do thy will, O God.
[8] Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and
offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which
are offered by the law;
[9] Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the
first, that he may establish the second.
[10] By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
[11] And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
[12] But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;
[13] From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
[14] For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are
sanctified.
[15] Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had
said before,
[16] This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I
write them;
[17] And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
[18] Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.

Exhortation and Warning

19 (Eph 2:18; Heb 4:16) Therefore, brothers, we have confidence to enter
the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus,
20 (Heb 9:3; Jn 10:9) by a new and living way that He has opened for us
through the veil, that is to say, His flesh,
21 (Heb 2:17; 1Ti 3:15) and since we have a High Priest over the house
of God,
22 (Eze 36:25; 1Co 6:11; Heb 7:19) let us draw near with a true heart
in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse them
from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 (1Co 1:9; Heb 3:6) Let us firmly hold the profession of our faith
without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
24 (Titus 3:8; Heb 13:1) And let us consider how to spur one another
to love and to good works.
25 (Ac 2:42; Heb 3:13) Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves
together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another,
especially as you see the Day approaching.
26 (Dt 17:12; Heb 6:4-6) For if we willfully continue to sin after
we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains
a sacrifice for sins,
27 (Isa 26:11; Eze 36:5) but a fearful expectation of judgment and fiery indignation, which will devour the adversaries.
28 (Heb 2:2; Dt 19:15) Anyone who despised Moses' law died without mercy
in the presence of two or three witnesses.
29 (Eph 4:30; Heb 2:3) How much more severe a punishment do you suppose
he deserves, who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded
the blood of the covenant that sanctified him to be a common thing,
and has insulted the Spirit of grace?
30 (Dt 32:35-36; Ro 12:19) For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine,"
says the Lord, "I will repay."(Dt 32:35.) And again He says, "The Lord will judge His people."(Dt 32:36.)
31 (Isa 33:14; Lk 12:5) It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands
of the living God.
32 (Heb 6:4; Php 1:29-30) Remember the former days, after you were
enlightened, in which you endured a great struggle of afflictions.
33 (1Co 4:9; Php 4:14) In part you were made a spectacle both by reproaches
and afflictions. And in part you became companions of those who were so
abused.
34 (1Pe 1:4; 2Ti 1:16) For you had compassion on me in my chains and joyfully endured the confiscation of your property, knowing that you have in heaven a better and an enduring possession for yourselves.
35 (Heb 11:26) Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which will be greatly rewarded.
36 (Lk 21:19; Heb 12:1) For you need patience, so that after you have done
the will of God, you will receive the promise.
37 (Rev 22:20; Isa 26:20) For,
"In yet a little while,
He who is to come will come, and will not wait.
38 (Ro 1:17; Gal 3:11) Now the just shall live by faith;
but if anyone draws back,
My soul shall have no pleasure in him."
39 But we are not of those who draw back to destruction,
but of those who have faith to the saving of the soul.

[19] Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
[20] By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
[21] And having an high priest over the house of God;
[22] Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having
our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with
pure water.
[23] Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he
is faithful that promised;)
[24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: [25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of
some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
[26] For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
[27] But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation,
which shall devour the adversaries.
[28] He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
[29] Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy,
who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of
the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
[30] For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
[31] It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
[32] But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;
[33] Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so
used.
[34] For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling
of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.
[35] Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.
[36] For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God,
ye might receive the promise.
[37] For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.
[38] Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul
shall have no pleasure in him.
[39] But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

2) Our Daily Bread for 14 December 2025 Titled
<a href="https://www.odbm.org/en/devotionals/devotional-category /an-empty-juice-box"> An Empty Juice Box </a> by Elisa Morgan

John 7:37-39

Rivers of Living Water

37 (Isa 55:1; Lev 23:36; Nu 29:35) On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, "If anyone is thirsty,
let him come to Me and drink.
38 (Isa 58:11; Jn 4:14) He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said,
out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water."
39 (Ac 2:17; Joel 2:28; Ac 2:33) By this He spoke of the Spirit,
whom those who believe in Him would receive. For the Holy Spirit
was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

[37] In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.
[38] He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
[39] (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not
yet glorified.)

When I led a ministry for moms of preschoolers, we hunted for an image to describe the unending demands that mothers experience. Changing diapers. Wiping noses. Picking up toys. It turns out the image was right in front of us: a disposable juice box collapsed in on itself. Moms can feel like empty juice boxes. That ministry served moms by leading them to the Source
of living water that can fill them to the full - Jesus.

In John 7, Jesus went to the Festival of Tabernacles (v. 10), commemorating God's provision during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. This festival included a water-pouring rite symbolising the fruitfulness that only moisture produces and foreshadowed the spiritual rain the Messiah would bring. Jesus fulfills what the ancient festival anticipated. "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers
of living water will flow from within them" (vv. 37-38).

At times, we can feel like empty containers. Weary from caregiving. Worn from working. Exhausted by everyday responsibilities. The unending demands draw us dry! But when we live in relationship with God, He provides springs of living water within our hearts to refresh and refuel us no matter how many cares
and concerns try to drain us.

Reflect & Pray

What tasks deplete and drain you? How can you take a break from
your daily tasks to experience God's filling Spirit within you?

Dear God, thank You for dwelling in me by
Your Spirit. May I continually draw from the living springs You provide.

<a href="https://reclaimtoday.org/a-prayer-for-the-holy-spirit/">
Discover A Prayer for the Holy Spirit by Reclaim Today.</a>

3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation

Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools

Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 1 Call to the Lord - 2 Samuel 22:3-4

3 (Ge 15:1; Ps 9:9) the God of my strength, in whom I will trust;
my shield and the horn of my salvation,
my fortress and my sanctuary;
my Savior, You save me from violence.
4 (Ps 48:1; 96:4) I call upon the Lord, who is praiseworthy,
and I am saved from my enemies.

3 The God of my rock; in him will I trust:
He is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge,
My saviour; thou savest me from violence.
4 I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised:
So shall I be saved from mine enemies.

In the old Days of Television Western, we could always tell who the enemy was. The bad guys wore black hats; the evil villain had a scar across
his cheek or a patch over one eye. But real life is
not quite so simple . Enemies come in many forms, and often are not easy to recognise. Sin is an enemy; even those we love can seek
to undermine our faith;
modern materialism and distorted values lead us away from biblical principles. These enemies may not seek our death in a physical sense,
but their influence results in spiritual death or, at the very least, immaturity.
Yet God promises to rescue us from our enemies. David describes the Lord as a "rock", a "shield", a "stronghold", and a "refuge". God provides a stable foundation for our faith; he products us from the attacks of the enemy;
he offers a place of rest in battle.
Our battles are usually not physical ones, but rather spiritual
and emotional wars.
We struggle with difficult relationships, the burdens of the past,
the subtle accusations of the devil.
But these enemies can be overcome. David says,
"I call to the Lord, who is worthy of praise" .
When we turn to the Lord, trust his Word, acknowledge his
worthiness, we put our own problems and difficulties in perspective.
We see that God is able to rescue us, and has promised to do so.
And as we respond to his grace by focusing
on him, we abandon trust in ourselves and allow him to do what he promised.

Application

a) What kinds of enemies do I face?

b) How have I tried to deal with those enemies by myself?

c) How can today's verses help me turn to the sources of my rescue?

4) Prosperity verses from Kenneth Copeland

Joshua 1:8

8 (Ps 19:14; 119:15) This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth. Meditate on it day and night so that you may act carefully according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way successful,
and you will be wise.

8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according
to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:

When you are discouraged or Depressed

Matthew 11:25-30

25 (Ps 8:2; Jn 11:41) At that time Jesus said, "I thank You, O Father,
Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things
from the wise and prudent and revealed them to infants.
26 Even so, Father, for it seemed good in Your sight.
27 (Jn 10:15; Mt 28:18; Jn 1:18) "All things are delivered to Me
by My Father, and no one knows the Son, except the Father.
And no one knows the Father, except the Son and he to whom
the Son will reveal Him.
28 (Jn 7:37; 6:37) "Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavily
burdened, and I will give you rest.
29 (Jer 6:16; Jn 13:15) Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me.
For I am meek and lowly in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls.(Jer 6:16).
30 (1Jn 5:3) For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light."
because He has dealt bountifully with me.

The Hidden Revelation
25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father,
Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things
from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.
26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight.
27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man
knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father,
save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden,
and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek
and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Remember God's promises when You pray

The Lord's prayer

Matthew 6:9-13

9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."

9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.


6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)

The Northern Territories of Canada

Yukon

Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69

In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.

Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.

Northwest Territories (NWT)

NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473

The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year. To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million Islamic Centre.

Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.

Nunavut (NU)

NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86

The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory. Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."

Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.

Adding further

30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020

Under the Keep Praying page

When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and, of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.

Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other, "What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."

Peter's Speech at Pentecost

14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'

- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective discipleship movements among Muslim people.

- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.

Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the house."

Ideas for prayer

- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!

My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity

(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)

7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada

http://www.ehc.ca

14th Day of the Month

a) Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation ( Matt 6:10

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

)

b) Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.

Advent day 22

From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle by Joel Heck

"Most of my books are evangelistic, addressed to [those outside the faith].
It would have been inept to preach forgiveness and a Saviour to those who
did not know they were in need of either." - C. S. Lewis

(From "Rejoinder to Dr. Pittenger," God in the Dock, p. 181.)

The Saviour

The name Jesus means "Yahweh saves." His name is his mission. He has come to save us. To say that he is Jesus is to say that he is the Savior, the Evangel, the Good News. Other characters in sacred history carried this name before Jesus of Nazareth, although in a different form,
like Joshua, Hosea and Hoshea.

Lewis was very much concerned about the Good News. He once wrote, "Most of my books are evangelistic." The word "evangelistic" contains within it the word "evangel," which means, literally, "good news." In another place, Lewis stated that the best work he could do was to explain the Christian faith to those on the outside. He compared his work to that of a translator, a person who takes words in one language and translates them into another language. Lewis tried to translate biblical ideas into the language of the ordinary person. Some of his books translated the good news, others smuggled that news under the cover of fantasy. Still other writings of his spoke very directly. That you are reading these words is a testimony to his success.

More important than Lewis' success and fame, however, is the success of his evangelistic purpose. When we trust in this Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins, we have what he came to give-eternal life.

Jesus, Saviour, pilot me. And give me your Spirit
to speak that same word to others. Amen.

"She will bear a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS,
for He will save His people from their sins."

Matt. 1:21


From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

The Covenant Promise

to perform the mercy promised to our fathers
and to remember His holy covenant,

-Luke 1:72


How pertinent it is that on this last Sunday of Advent we read the beautiful song of Zechariah, in which he proclaims the marvelous news about God raising up a Saviour and predicts that his son John will be a prophet of the Most High. We will highlight the first component today and the second tomorrow.

How grateful we are that God fulfilled his promises to Abraham
and to others that he would save them from their enemies!

Not only does Zechariah review those covenant pledges, but he proceeds to encourage all of us who note this completion that now we can serve our God "without fear" and "in holiness and righteousness" for the rest of our lives.

What a freedom God's mercy and holy covenant bestow upon us! No matter what "enemies" hate us, our Mighty Savior liberates us in his celestial purity
to advance what God is doing.

Prayer

Thank you, God, that the coming of the Promised One enables
us to serve you in holiness. Amen.

Read Luke 1:67-79.

67 His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit
and prophesied, saying,
68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
for He has visited and redeemed His people,
69 and has raised up a horn of salvation for us
in the house of His servant David,
70 as He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets of long ago,
71 that we should be saved from our enemies
and from the hand of all who hate us,
72 to perform the mercy promised to our fathers
and to remember His holy covenant,
73 the oath which He swore to our father Abraham,
74 to grant us that we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies,
might serve Him without fear,
75 in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our lives.
76 "And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest;
for you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways,
77 to give knowledge of salvation to His people
by the remission of their sins,
78 through the tender mercy of our God,
whereby the sunrise from on high has visited us;
79 to give light to those who sit in darkness
and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the way of peace."

From The Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ADVENT
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ANXIETIES!

Lift up your heads, O you gates;
and be lifted up, you everlasting doors,
that the King of glory may enter. PSALM 24:7

Today's Scripture reminds me again that Advent is an ongoing journey
of UH-OHs and AH-HAs in our lives. Someone once quipped that
'If you like bungee-jumping, you'll love Advent!" How true. how true!

Psalm 24 brings out the anxieties of life. but only if we read it as
something that we got to do rather than something that we get to do.
We are asked, 'Who will the Lord come to lift up, to save ?" And we are told. "Those who have clear hands and pure hearts." Well, that leaves me out.
Wow. what an UH-OH moment!
But there's more ... lots more. Dietrich Bonhoeffer once said. 'A prison
cell, in which one waits, hopes and is completely depended on the fact
that the door of freedom has to be opened from the outside, is not a bad picture of Advent!" And that's what the psalmist is talking about!

Lift up our heads, we are told, because the King of Glory. Jesus Christ himself, is coming! The door to life has been opened . .. from the outside
And so we do lift up our heads, as we also lift up other people.
Once again, today. the UH-OH anxieties of life have been overcome
by the AH-HAs of Advent! The prison door is open . . . come and see
the Empty Tomb!
Lord, continue to lift us up in the midst of our own anxieties
Send your Spirit to calm us, cleanse us and cuddle us in your Word.
And as you do, empower us to lift others up as well.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!

Read Psalm 24

Psalms 24
A Psalm of David.
1 The earth belongs to the Lord, and its fullness,
the world, and those who dwell in it.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) For He has founded it on the seas,
and established it on the floods.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Who may ascend the hill of the Lord?
Who may stand in His holy place?
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) He who has clean hands and a pure heart;
who has not lifted up his soul unto vanity,
nor sworn deceitfully.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) He will receive the blessing from the Lord,
and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) This is Jacob, the generation of those who seek Him, who seek Your face. Selah
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) Lift up your heads, O you gates;
and be lifted up, you everlasting doors,
that the King of glory may enter.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Who is this King of glory?
The Lord strong and mighty,
the Lord mighty in battle.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Lift up your heads, O you gates;
lift up, you everlasting doors,
that the King of glory may enter.
10) Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Who is He-this King of glory?
The Lord of Hosts,
He is the King of glory. Selah

From <a href="https://oneagleswings.ca"> On Eagle's wings</a>

16 (Lk 2:32; Job 3:5) The people who sat in darkness
saw great light.
And on those who sat in the land of the shadow of death,
light has dawned."

[16] The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat
in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.
Matthew 4:16 (MEV/KJV)
The summer of 2023 we traveled to Tuktoyaktuk and Ft. McPherson.
We were hosting two Bible Camps on behalf of On Eagles Wings.
Daylight in June is twenty-four hours a day. Despite the full-time
sunlight however, we saw darkness. The day after we arrived a
young man took his life.
Darkness lives in our minds, it takes our hope and joy. As we
gathered in a baseball field, the community shared their
understanding of the sorrow. Too many had lost their children to
suicide. Darkness is not only on the outside, it grows inside.
We need the light of Christ in our hearts and minds showing us the
truth that we are never alone, and always unconditionally loved.
My seat partner on the flight home was going to Edmonton to meet
Pope Francis. Five of her friends were invited, but she alone had the
courage to get on the plane. As she shared her past struggles and
heartbreak, she gave thanks for her daughters. She was grateful
that they had a good life with their father.
Light can, and does, fill our lives as we draw close to the never
ending love of God. The joy of opening to receive that light
becomes the miracle. This lady had no bitterness, just a grateful
heart that her loved ones were happy. I could feel the light shining
in her and gave thanks that I was blessed to share with her.

Beverly Kazoleas
Bible Camp Volunteer

Conclusion:

Pry to Get on the same page with God to agree on the values
that you intend to live out as a family - reflecting the Person
and character of JEsus Christ. And inflence those around you.

Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to have spiritual meat and not milk
and to Him who can save your soul.

Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, thank You for dwelling in me by
Your Spirit. May I continually draw from the living springs You provide."

Pray to the Lord and pray to the Lord to protect you from your enemies.

Pray to the Lord and pray that theWord of the Lord will not depart from you.

Pray to the Lord and pray to give you burdens to the Lord.

Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together, and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.

Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.

Pray for God's kingdom to come in your home, neighbourhood, city or community, and in our nation

Pray for those who serve with denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.

- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!

Pray that God will convict the hearts of Canadians of the false
idea that all moral choices are equal and without consequences

Pray that people's hearts would be opened to see the folly
of denying God's supremacy

God, give us the patience to trust your promises. Amen.

Jesus, Saviour, pilot me. And give me your Spirit to speak that
same word to others. Amen.

Pray: Thank you, God, that the coming of the Promised One enables
us to serve you in holiness. Amen.

Pray: Lord, continue to lift us up in the midst of our own anxieties
Send your Spirit to calm us, cleanse us and cuddle us in your Word.
And as you do, empower us to lift others up as well.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!

<a href="https://ourdailybread.ca/god-became-a-man/">
Christ is the reason for the season </a>

Gracious, loving and merciful Creator, may we remain steadfast in
your love. May we be strong and courageous embracing the light of
Christ, letting go of the fear that becomes our darkness. Fill us with
the light and faith to do the impossible.

Pray that Christian converts from Islam in Burundi will be
strengthened through their fellowship with other believers.

Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.

Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
--
Member - Liberal International This is doctor@nk.ca Ici doctor@nk.ca
Yahweh, King & country!Never Satan President Republic!Beware AntiChrist rising! Look at Psalms 14 and 53 on Atheism ;
Merry Christmas 2025 and Happy New Year 2026
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