Saturday, February 1, 2020

Reflection - O Holy Night

Source (book): "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Chapter 13, "O Holy Night", Page 133.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


Why is that, in the presence of Jesus, we experience the 'thrill of hope' (Stanza 1) and learn to 'lowly bend' before Him (Stanza 2)?
PHOTO: Why is that, in the presence of Jesus, we experience the 'thrill of hope' (Stanza 1) and learn to "lowly bend" before Him (Stanza 2)?
The birth of Christ brings a "thrill of hope", and the world can rejoice because a "new and glorious morn" appeared on the horizon when Christ was born (Stanza 1). There is now hope for the lost and tired world. When Christ was born, "the soul felt its worth" (Stanza 1). This is significant, because it means that God has not given up on us. For Him to send His only begotten Son means that despite being marred by sin, our souls still bear the image of God (Genesis 1:27), giving us dignity as His creations. We are "noble ruins", in the words of Christian author and Professor Mark R. McMinn. We are the reason why Christ came to earth. He came to save us (because we are ruined) and to do so because we have inherent dignity (because God created us). This gives hope and dignity to all, even those rejected or forgotten by the world. Thus we need to open our ears to "hear the angel voices" (Stanza 1) and fall on our knees in worship before Christ who came to save the world. It was a "night divine" (Stanza 1), because the Son of God was born that night.

The second stanza reminds us of the visit of the magi from the East. They were led by the special star in the sky, which was the sign of the birth of the divine King of Israel (and Saviour of the world). The star's light is compared to the light of faith that falls on our hearts (2 Corinthians 4:6), that leads us to stand before Christ with glowing hearts. Like the magi, we too are called to gather around Christ to worship Him. We are to recognise Him as the King of kings, our (corporate and personal) king before whom we must "lowly bend" (Stanza 2). It is the only proper response to one who was born in a lowly manger for our sake, to save us and to become our friends. In our trials and difficult moments He understands us, for He took on our humanity and knows what it is like to suffer trials and temptations. "Because he himself suffered when he was tempted" (Hebrews 2:18). He "knows our need" and is "to our weaknesses not stranger" - not our moral weaknesses, for He was without sin, but He knows how temptation feels, and what weariness and tiredness can do to us. The King of glory is also our close friend.


What do these phrase mean for you personally?
'Thrill of hope' (Stanza 1)
Despite the darkness—of literature, of human nature, of the "Wuhan Coronavirus" (at the time of writing there is 9,692 confirmed infected and 213 deaths in China) spreading throughout the world—we have God’s promises. That the Son will return, that all oppression shall cease.

We are facing a world still so bent on power, making seemingly impossible theological and historical claims. We are still unable to put aside our differences and work together more. We are still rejecting helps amidst the escalating deaths, as the clock ticks and the virus spreading moment by moment.

However, there is still hope for the lost and tired world because God has not given up on us.

 
"Lowly bend" before Him (Stanza 2)
He knows our weariness and tiredness. In our trials and difficult moments He understands us, for He took on our humanity and knows what it is like to suffer trials and temptations. We faced shortage of surgical masks and those stuck in Wuhan are desperate to come out. Our best efforts may not be enough, and despite all the encouragements we are still in despair. This is one of those time which we should humbly acknowledge our limitations and seek the help of our creator who has brought us into existence.

May the invitation to kneel at the manger and to sing praise at the top of our lungs remind us all of that bright hope.

The King of glory is also our close friend. A friend in need is really a friend indeed.


Why is it that experiencing Christ in this way should transform how we treat others?
The third stanza speaks of the social consequences of our redemption. The purpose of our salvation (achieved on the cross through the death of Christ - a truth assumed in this hymn) is to rid us of our sin within and among us. We are reminded of how Christ summarised the entire law in terms of wholehearted love for God and love for our neighbours (Matthew 22:37-40). Thus, "his law is love" (Stanza 3). He commanded His disciples (and all of us) that we must love one another (John 13:34-35). And if we obey Him, there will be peace not only in our hearts, but also among us. Truly, as Stanza 3 declares, the gospel is peace - it was sung by the Christmas angels who declared "peace to those on whom his favour rests" (Luke 2:14).

In Christ's name, slavery and "oppression shall cease" (Stanza 3). Both Cappeau and Dwight held strong anti-slavery convictions, which come through in the words, "Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother" (Stanza 3). The Israelites who were slaves in Egypt were freed by God through Moses. It is so easy for freed slaves to enslave others in turn due to selfish greed and lack of concern for the poor (Nehemiah 5:5). While it has been said that the New Testament does not condemn slavery (as it was practised in the first century) outright, we must not fail to notice Paul's advice to his friend and fellow believer Philemon on how to treat his escaped slave who had also become a believer. "Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever - no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother" (Philemon 15-16, emphasis added).

Paul also insisted that slave trading was "ungodly and sinful" and "contrary to the sound doctrine that conforms to the gospel concerning the glory of the blessed God" (1 Timothy 1:9-11). It is unbelievable how people have historically used the Bible to legitimise the sinful practice of slavery, which goes against the very gospel of Jesus Christ. It took reformers like the British Christian parliamentarian William Wilberforce (1759-1833) to relentlessly pursue the emancipation (the freeing of someone from slavery) of slaves and secure the abolition of slavery in the nineteenth century. In an age where slavery exists in new forms (grossly unfair employment practices and the oppression of labourers who are literally held in bondage) it falls upon our Christian conscience to do something about it.

We are challenged to consider how we live. Scripture probes our hearts: "What kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives" (2 Peter 3:11). Our talk must be proven by our walk.

For all that Christ has achieved for us, we can wholeheartedly ("all within us", Stanza 3) praise and worship Him, not only now, but forevermore - for His blessing will remain eternally.


Can you think of any changes in attitude and action you need to make in any of your relationships?
Especially in our relationship with God, to humbly acknowledge our sinful nature, repent from our wrongdoing, and follow the commands and instructions to lead the righteous life which He wants us to have.

By our own efforts, there will be serious limitations. We therefore pray for His help that His wrath will not fall on us, but His Holy Spirit will come and help all of us to accept the offer of Salvation, so that we can have joy and real rest for eternity in heaven together with Him.

Picture posted by Beato Giovanni Battista Scalabrini on 26 December 2019
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O Holy Night
PHOTO: "O Holy Night" (poem) was written by Placide Cappeau (1808-1877) upon the request of a parish priest who wanted a Christmas poem. He approached his friend Adolphe Charles Adam (1803-1856) to set the poem to music. John Sullivan Dwight (1813-1893) translated Adam's French carol into English to create the popular "O Holy Night".
Picture posted by Timetoast timelines
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O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of our dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Till He appear'd and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! O hear the angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here come the wise men from the Orient land.
The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friend.
He knows our need, to our weaknesses no stranger,
Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!
Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother;
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever,
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
His power and glory evermore proclaim.

(Source: Gems of English Songs: A Collection of Very Choice Songs, Duets and Quartets; with an Accompaniment for the Piano-forte [Boston: Oliver Ditson, 1875], 206-208)

History of the Carol [1]
French wine merchant and poet, Placide Cappeau (1808-1877), wrote a poem "Minuit, Chrétiens" ("Midnight, Christians") in 1847. When he was eight, Cappeau was accidentally shot in his right hand by a friend, and he had to have it amputated. Nevertheless, he did not allow this to hamper his studies as a lawyer and business as a wine merchant. He was also a literary person who wrote many poems, his most famous being the one that eventually became the hymn "O Holy Night". He wrote it upon the request of a parish priest who wanted a Christmas poem. According to Cappeau, he wrote the French poem on 3 December 1847 in a stage coach on the way to Paris. Upon reaching Paris, he approached his friend Adolphe Charles Adam (1803-1856) to set the poem to music. Adam was a French composer who was well-known for several ballets and operas. He wrote music to fit Cappeau's poem and called the carol "Cantique del Noel" ("The Christmas Song") which was sung at the midnight mass on Christmas Eve 1847 in the city of Roquemaure.

The carol became controversial in France, mainly because of opposition from church leaders who were critical of Cappeau (whom they accused of having socialist ideas and who later disavowed [deny any responsibility or support for] his faith) and Adam (who was rumoured to be Jewish; there were anti-Semitic elements in French).

However, this Christmas carol was well-received elsewhere and became famous. Adam's French carol was translated by American Unitarian minister, John Sullivan Dwight (1813-1893). Though trained at Harvard Divinity School and ordained as a minister, Dwight had turned his interest and attention to music, founding Dwight's Journal of Music in 1852. In 1855, he translated Adam's French carol into English to create the popular "O Holy Night".

According to some sources, "O Holy Night" was one of the earlier musical pieces to be broadcast on radio. Reginald Fessenden (1866-1932), a Canadian, was said to have broadcast a programme from his Brant Rock, Massachusetts, station to ships at sea on 24 December 1906. Fessenden played Handel's "Largo" on a phonograph. Then he played "O Holy Night" on his violin and sang the last stanza. Finally, he read Luke 2:14 and wished his listeners a Merry Christmas. The carol thus became the first one to be broadcast live.

There is also a popular story that on Christmas Eve in 1870, during the Franco-Prussian War, a French soldier got out of his trench and began singing the original French version of "O Holy Night". The German soldiers on the other side did not shoot at him; instead, a German soldier climbed out to sing Martin Luther's German Christmas carol "Vom Himmel hoch da komm ich her" ("From Heaven Above To Earth I Come"). Apparently, soldiers on both sides of the trenches also sing "Stille Nacht! Heilige Nacht!" ("Silent Night, Holy Night").

The hymn became popular in the late twentieth century, partly because it was sung by many well-known artistes.



Placide Cappeau (1808-1877)
PHOTO: Placide Cappeau (1808-1877) wrote the original French version of "O Holy Night".  Adolphe Charles Adam (1803-1856) set the poem to music.
Picture posted by Galaxy Music Notes

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https://galaxymusicnotes.com/pages/how-o-holy-night-became-a-christmas-carol



Biblical Insights from the Carol [1]
The hymn is about the birth of Jesus and how that event resulted in the redemption of the human race. In Stanza 1, reference is made to the night Jesus was born - a "holy night" ("our dear Saviour's birth", Stanza 1). The stanza speaks of this special night where the stars were "brightly shining" - a reference to the one star that led the magi to where Jesus was (Matthew 2:2, 10). New light was shining on a "weary world" - darkened by "sin and error" and "pining" for redemption.



This special night where the stars were 'brightly shining' - a reference to the one star that led the magi to where Jesus was.
PHOTO: This special night where the stars were "brightly shining" - a reference to the one star that led the magi to where Jesus was. New light was shining on a "weary world" - darkened by "sin and error" and "pining" for redemption.
Picture saved by Mesc to CHRISTMAS #1 - 200 Pins in CHRISTMAS

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https://www.pinterest.ru/pin/445574956879446070/



Why is that, in the presence of Jesus, we experience the 'thrill of hope' (Stanza 1) and learn to "lowly bend" before Him (Stanza 2)? What do these phrase mean for you personally? Why is it that experiencing Christ in this way should transform how we treat others? Can you think of any changes in attitude and action you need to make in any of your relationships?

Why is that, in the presence of Jesus, we experience the 'thrill of hope' (Stanza 1) and learn to "lowly bend" before Him (Stanza 2)?

The birth of Christ brings a "thrill of hope", and the world can rejoice because a "new and glorious morn" appeared on the horizon when Christ was born (Stanza 1). There is now hope for the lost and tired world. When Christ was born, "the soul felt its worth" (Stanza 1). This is significant, because it means that God has not given up on us. For Him to send His only begotten Son means that despite being marred by sin, our souls still bear the image of God (Genesis 1:27), giving us dignity as His creations. We are "noble ruins", in the words of Christian author and Professor Mark R. McMinn. We are the reason why Christ came to earth. He came to save us (because we are ruined) and to do so because we have inherent dignity (because God created us). This gives hope and dignity to all, even those rejected or forgotten by the world. Thus we need to open our ears to "hear the angel voices" (Stanza 1) and fall on our knees in worship before Christ who came to save the world. It was a "night divine" (Stanza 1), because the Son of God was born that night.



The birth of Christ brings a 'thrill of hope', and there is now hope for the lost and tired world. God has not given up on us.
PHOTO: The birth of Christ brings a "thrill of hope", and there is now hope for the lost and tired world. God has not given up on us. He came to save us (because we are ruined) and to do so because we have inherent dignity (because God created us). This gives hope and dignity to all, even those rejected or forgotten by the world.
Picture posted by Johnny Flash

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https://www.openresources.org/download/the-thrill-of-hope/



The second stanza reminds us of the visit of the magi from the East. They were led by the special star in the sky, which was the sign of the birth of the divine King of Israel (and Saviour of the world). The star's light is compared to the light of faith that falls on our hearts (2 Corinthians 4:6), that leads us to stand before Christ with glowing hearts. Like the magi, we too are called to gather around Christ to worship Him. We are to recognise Him as the King of kings, our (corporate and personal) king before whom we must "lowly bend" (Stanza 2). It is the only proper response to one who was born in a lowly manger for our sake, to save us and to become our friends. In our trials and difficult moments He understands us, for He took on our humanity and knows what it is like to suffer trials and temptations. "Because he himself suffered when he was tempted" (Hebrews 2:18). He "knows our need" and is "to our weaknesses not stranger" - not our moral weaknesses, for He was without sin, but He knows how temptation feels, and what weariness and tiredness can do to us. The King of glory is also our close friend.

 

The magi from the East were led by the special star in the sky, which was the sign of the birth of the divine King of Israel (and Saviour of the world).
PHOTO: The magi from the East were led by the special star in the sky, which was the sign of the birth of the divine King of Israel (and Saviour of the world). The star's light is compared to the light of faith that falls on our hearts, that leads us to stand before Christ with glowing hearts. Like the magi, we too are called to gather around Christ to worship Him. We are to recognise Him as the King of kings, our (corporate and personal) king before whom we must "lowly bend".
Picture posted by Christian Siriano@CSiriano on 10 March 2018 at 2:46 AM

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https://twitter.com/csiriano/status/972181821780844544?lang=ar


What do these phrase mean for you personally?
'Thrill of hope' (Stanza 1)
Despite the darkness—of literature, of human nature, of the "Wuhan Coronavirus" (at the time of writing there is 9,692 confirmed infected and 213 deaths in China) spreading throughout the world—we have God’s promises. That the Son will return, that all oppression shall cease. [2]


A top infectious disease expert and the Ministry of Health (MOH) have said that the public should not rely on N95 masks to guard against the Wuhan virus, even as they fly off the shelves at pharmacies.
PHOTO: Despite the darkness—of literature, of human nature, of the "Wuhan Coronavirus" spreading throughout the world—we have God’s promises. That the Son will return, that all oppression shall cease.
Picture posted by Korin Miller on 27 January 2020

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbnLa32olnrXBL6iZdlc0DhC5-JJpWNk332af-bHfLqwmJZZ6VHVGhD7CoxzHEO6w6eS0GM1nD2rj6NUzRTzo3_exGJeGXgfD9qtFFPjQoSeAf6QXqYLv2S5tTdcRI1BWpsgq0eMP9HrI/s1600/face-mask-coronavirus-1580141982_1.png
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https://www.prevention.com/health/a30677242/can-face-mask-prevent-coronavirus/
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/01/public-should-use-surgical-masks-not.html



We are facing a world still so bent on power, making seemingly impossible theological and historical claims. We are still unable to put aside our differences and work together more. We are still rejecting helps amidst the escalating deaths, as the clock ticks and the virus spreading moment by moment.

However, there is still hope for the lost and tired world because God has not given up on us.



We are facing a world still so bent on power, making seemingly impossible theological and historical claims.
PHOTO: We are facing a world still so bent on power, making seemingly impossible theological and historical claims. We are still unable to put aside our differences and work together more. We are still rejecting helps amidst the escalating deaths, as the clock ticks and the virus spreading moment by moment.
However, there is still hope for the lost and tired world because God has not given up on us.
Picture by Mona Hatoum/Agostino Osio, Courtesy Fondazione Querini Stampalia Onlus, Venice
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"Lowly bend" before Him (Stanza 2)
He knows our weariness and tiredness. In our trials and difficult moments He understands us, for He took on our humanity and knows what it is like to suffer trials and temptations. We faced shortage of surgical masks and those stuck in Wuhan are desperate to come out. Our best efforts may not be enough, and despite all the encouragements we are still in despair. This is one of those time which we should humbly acknowledge our limitations and seek the help of our creator who has brought us into existence.



He knows our weariness and tiredness.
PHOTO: He knows our weariness and tiredness. In our trials and difficult moments He understands us, for He took on our humanity and knows what it is like to suffer trials and temptations. This is one of those time which we should humbly acknowledge our limitations and seek the help of our creator who has brought us into existence.
Picture posted by Sonala on 02 Bay 2012 - Sadness End: Pocahontas
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https://www.deviantart.com/sonala/art/Sadness-End-Pocahontas-299539161



May the invitation to kneel at the manger and to sing praise at the top of our lungs remind us all of that bright hope. [2]

The King of glory is also our close friend. A friend in need is really a friend indeed.

 

The King of glory is also our close friend. A friend in need is really a friend indeed.
PHOTO: The King of glory is also our close friend. A friend in need is really a friend indeed. May the invitation to kneel at the manger and to sing praise at the top of our lungs remind us all of that bright hope.
Picture posted by Viral on 04 August 2018 - Experiencing God as Supreme Best Friend

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https://www.foodforthoughts.co.in/images/happy-friendship-day-wishes-image.jpeg
https://www.foodforthoughts.co.in/happy-friendship-day-wishes/



Why is it that experiencing Christ in this way should transform how we treat others?
The third stanza speaks of the social consequences of our redemption. The purpose of our salvation (achieved on the cross through the death of Christ - a truth assumed in this hymn) is to rid us of our sin within and among us. We are reminded of how Christ summarised the entire law in terms of wholehearted love for God and love for our neighbours (Matthew 22:37-40). Thus, "his law is love" (Stanza 3). He commanded His disciples (and all of us) that we must love one another (John 13:34-35). And if we obey Him, there will be peace not only in our hearts, but also among us. Truly, as Stanza 3 declares, the gospel is peace - it was sung by the Christmas angels who declared "peace to those on whom his favour rests" (Luke 2:14).



Why is it that experiencing Christ in this way should transform how we treat others?
PHOTO: Why is it that experiencing Christ in this way should transform how we treat others?
There are social consequences of our redemption. The purpose of our salvation (achieved on the cross through the death of Christ - a truth assumed in this hymn) is to rid us of our sin within and among us. We are reminded of how Christ summarised the entire law in terms of wholehearted love for God and love for our neighbours (
Matthew 22:37-40). And if we obey Him, there will be peace not only in our hearts, but also among us.
Picture saved by Thomas McDaniel to angels - Gif Paradise

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In Christ's name, slavery and "oppression shall cease" (Stanza 3). Both Cappeau and Dwight held strong anti-slavery convictions, which come through in the words, "Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother" (Stanza 3). The Israelites who were slaves in Egypt were freed by God through Moses. It is so easy for freed slaves to enslave others in turn due to selfish greed and lack of concern for the poor (Nehemiah 5:5). While it has been said that the New Testament does not condemn slavery (as it was practised in the first century) outright, we must not fail to notice Paul's advice to his friend and fellow believer Philemon on how to treat his escaped slave who had also become a believer. "Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever - no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother" (Philemon 15-16, emphasis added).



In Christ's name, slavery and 'oppression shall cease'.
PHOTO: In Christ's name, slavery and "oppression shall cease". "Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother".  Paul's advice to his friend and fellow believer Philemon on how to treat his escaped slave who had also become a believer. "Perhaps the reason he was separated from you for a little while was that you might have him back forever - no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother" (Philemon 15-16).
Picture posted by Suzanne Leopold
 
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https://livingmavens.com/blogs/blog/emotional-freedom-technique


Paul also insisted that slave trading was "ungodly and sinful" and "contrary to the sound doctrine that conforms to the gospel concerning the glory of the blessed God" (1 Timothy 1:9-11). It is unbelievable how people have historically used the Bible to legitimise the sinful practice of slavery, which goes against the very gospel of Jesus Christ. It took reformers like the British Christian parliamentarian William Wilberforce (1759-1833) to relentlessly pursue the emancipation (the freeing of someone from slavery) of slaves and secure the abolition of slavery in the nineteenth century. In an age where slavery exists in new forms (grossly unfair employment practices and the oppression of labourers who are literally held in bondage) it falls upon our Christian conscience to do something about it.



It is unbelievable how people have historically used the Bible to legitimise the sinful practice of slavery, which goes against the very gospel of Jesus Christ.
PHOTO: It is unbelievable how people have historically used the Bible to legitimise the sinful practice of slavery, which goes against the very gospel of Jesus Christ.  In an age where slavery exists in new forms (grossly unfair employment practices and the oppression of labourers who are literally held in bondage) it falls upon our Christian conscience to do something about it.
Picture posted by Shutterstock, Inc.
 
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We are challenged to consider how we live. Scripture probes our hearts: "What kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives" (2 Peter 3:11). Our talk must be proven by our walk.

For all that Christ has achieved for us, we can wholeheartedly ("all within us", Stanza 3) praise and worship Him, not only now, but forevermore - for His blessing will remain eternally.


Can you think of any changes in attitude and action you need to make in any of your relationships?
Especially in our relationship with God, to humbly acknowledge our sinful nature, repent from our wrongdoing, and follow the commands and instructions to lead the righteous life which He wants us to have.



Especially in our relationship with God, to humbly acknowledge our sinful nature, repent from our wrongdoing, and follow the commands and instructions to lead the righteous life which He wants us to have.
PHOTO: Especially in our relationship with God, to humbly acknowledge our sinful nature, repent from our wrongdoing, and follow the commands and instructions to lead the righteous life which He wants us to have.
Picture posted by gfycat.com

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By our own efforts, there will be serious limitations. We therefore pray for His help that His wrath will not fall on us, but His Holy Spirit will come and help all of us to accept the offer of Salvation, so that we can have joy and real rest for eternity in heaven together with Him.



By our own efforts, there will be serious limitations.
By our own efforts, there will be serious limitations.
PHOTO: By our own efforts, there will be serious limitations. We therefore pray for His help that His wrath will not fall on us, but His Holy Spirit will come and help all of us to accept the offer of Salvation, so that we can have joy and real rest for eternity in heaven together with Him.
Picture posted by another world, VASILY S.
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Dear Lord,
Dear Lord,
PHOTO: Dear Lord, We learn that the birth of Christ brings a ‘thrill of hope’ and the world can rejoice because a ‘new and glorious morn’ appeared on the horizon when Christ was born. There is now hope for the lost and tired world because You have not given up on us. This is significant when You send Your only begotten Son despite we being marred by sin, our souls still bear the image of God, giving us dignity as Your creations. We are the reason why Christ came to earth. He came to save us (because we are ruined) and to do so because we have inherent dignity (because God created us). This gives hope and dignity to all, even those rejected or forgotten by the world.

Just like the magi from the East who were led by the special star in the sky, which was the sign of the birth of the divine King of Israel (and Saviour of the world). The star's light is compared to the light of faith that falls on our hearts that leads us to stand before Christ with glowing hearts. Like the magi, we too are called to gather around Christ to worship Him. We are to recognise Him as the King of kings, our (corporate and personal) king before whom we must ‘lowly bend’. It is the only proper response to one who was born in a lowly manger for our sake, to save us and to become our friends. In our trials and difficult moments He understands us, for He took on our humanity and knows what it is like to suffer trials and temptations.

Despite the darkness—of literature, of human nature, of the ‘Wuhan Coronavirus’ spreading throughout the world—we have God’s promises. That the Son will return, that all oppression shall cease. Thank You there is still hope for the lost and tired world because You have not given up on us.

We faced shortage of surgical masks, and those stuck in Wuhan are desperate to come out. Our best efforts may not be enough and despite all the encouragements we are still in despair. This is one of those time which we should humbly acknowledge our limitations and seek Your help.

You have commanded Your disciples (and all of us) that we must love one another. We want to obey You, so that there will be peace not only in our hearts, but also among us.

Our conscience prompt us to pray for Your help to free those suffering from the new forms of slavery which is grossly unfair employment practices and the oppression of labourers who are literally held in bondage.

We pray for Your help to walk our talk to live a holy and godly lives. We pray that we humbly acknowledge our sinful nature, repent from our wrongdoing, and follow the commands and instructions to lead the righteous life which You wants us to have. By our own efforts, there will be serious limitations. We therefore pray for Your help.

Thank You for sending Jesus Christ to suffer and die for us so that we can have the offer of Salvation, and also our sins can be forgiven through His blood shed on the cross.

Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!

Picture posted by Jean Claude on 11 Aug at 12:25
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https://jeanclaude.forumgratuit.org/t20116-nouvelles-belles-images
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/01/uncle-in-hot-water-after-taking-body.html


Reflection - O Holy Night
Question from source (book): "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Chapter 13, "O Holy Night", Page 133.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012





Also from the same author, Robert M. Solomon

"Faithful to the end", A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon

'Faithful to the end', A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon<br>
Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html


"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-i.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-iv.html



Reference
[1] From "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Copyright © 2017 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-981-11-6752-2, Chapter 13, "O Holy Night", Page 125-133.

[2] Howard Schaap (in all things), Advent: A Thrill of Hope, posted on 03 December 2019, https://inallthings.org/advent-a-thrill-of-hope/


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John 13:34-35 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+13%3A34-35&version=NIV

Luke 2:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+2%3A14&version=NIV

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Matthew 11:28-29 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11%3A28-29&version=NIV

Matthew 22:37-40 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+22%3A37-40&version=NIV

Nehemiah 5:5 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Nehemiah+5%3A5&version=NIV

Philemon 15-16 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philemon+15-16&version=NIV