Thoughts Selected

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 10 of 10

2012-02-10T19:09:00.007-05:00

Alas, we were coming close to the end of our pilgrimage in Israel. Our luggage was all packed and on the bus, and when we left Mount Carmel we headed for Tel Aviv to spend our final night there at the Grand Beach Hotel.

We arrived at the Grand Beach Hotel as the sun was going down and did not see much of Tel Aviv but I saw enough of that city to like it. Tel Aviv is beautiful and is sometimes described as the White City or the Shining City. The buildings are all white and they glistened in the late afternoon sun. Its shimmering whiteness was attractive to me, and for this reason the next time I visit Israel (which I hope will be soon), I want to see more of Tel Aviv.

There is something peculiar about the last few hours we spend in a strange place. As much as we like being in the place, when those last few hours arrive our minds begin to make a right about turn. We begin to think about home-sweet-home.

Next morning, we were up early for breakfast and anticipation of the flight home and saw a little more of Tel Aviv as we drove through the city to the Ben Gurion Airport. I left Israel with one major complaint, though. I did not see enough of Tel Aviv.

It was somewwhat sad saying “goodbye” to our bus driver Obadiah (Ovad) and tour guide Doron. They were great companions of ours for the past 10 days and they had helped make our pilgrimage to the Holy Land a pleasant and fulfilling one.

At last we boarded the plane for the long flight home, and in my heart I said “Goodbye Israel, I will be back again some day…I hope soon.”

What did my trip to Israel accomplish for me? What impact did that trip make on my Christian roots? Firstly, it satisfied a longing in me to visit the Holy Land. Seeing the place where Jesus was born, where He walked, died and resurrected have given me a sense of achievement and spiritual fulfillment. It was a longstanding dream come true. And now I can attach some images to both Old and New Covenant stories.

Would I recommend the trip to anyone else? Yes, I surely would. Israel is an interesting place to visit. Seeing the place where the three major world religions (Islam, Judaism and Christianity) and the Druzes, march through time together, side by side…

There is a lot to see and do in Israel and I hope you will make the trip soon.

I guess I have caught the Jerusalem syndrome, in a peculiar way. Since I have come back, my head is full of Israel: its multiculturalism, its variety of languages, food, and last but not least its bartering of prices for merchandise. That place is so much in my mind that I have started my studies in the Hebrew language again, and Israelology in general, even Aramaic (the language that Jesus spoke).

We made friends with a couple from Toronto: George and Faye Springle. And it is nice to touch base with them now and then to reminisce about our trip.

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper that love thee” (Psalm 122:6) “…but peace shall be upon Israel (Psalm 125:5) “Yea, thou shalt see thy children’s children, and peace upon Israel” (Psalm 128:6).

The peace of Israel is on its way. Though it may tarry, it will surely come. Despite all that is going on, let us remember that "God’s thoughts and His ways are not our thoughts and ways" and His timing is not our timing either. A wise man once said: “God’s mill grinds slow but sure...” And oh, don’t bother to look for that saying in the Bible for it is not there!

God bless you, Israel, till we meet again...

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 9 of 10

2012-02-10T18:55:00.004-05:00

From Galilee we drove to Capernaum, a place that Jesus visited often and saw the site of an ancient synagogue, and the site of the house of Peter. Then we visited the Mount of Beatitudes, the place where Jesus gave His Sermon on the Mount, and drove up the Golan Heights to Caesarea Phillipi.

There is something about the Holy Land that does a work on you, yet one visit is like the seeing the tip of an iceberg. There is s-o-o-o much to see and do. I hope you will make the trip soon.

It was a full day of activities and we were more than happy to be back at our hotel and look forward to dinner, another teaching by Pastor Peter Youngren, and a well-deserved rest for the night. Next day, we visited Megiddo and Mount Carmel, where the prophet Elijah defeated the worshippers of Baal.

At last, our visit to Megiddo, one of King Solomon’s walled cities in ancient Israel. This place holds a history of ancient palaces, fortresses and temples, and history tells us that King Solomon built a palace there.

Megiddo (which is a Hebrew word) is mentioned in the Book of Revelation as Armageddon (which is Greek) and is said to be the site where the final battle of good and evil will be fought. I collected several small stones on Megiddo to remind me of that final battle, and have placed them in my collection of souvenirs from Israel.

Tradition tells us that on Megiddo there are remains of at least 20 ancient cities built one on top of the other. This tells us that much destruction and rebuilding happened here on Megiddo. You know, when we really stop to think of history, there has been a lot going on in the world from the beginning of time till now! We seem to get caught up with just a small portion of time and it takes a jolt to remind us that the world has been busy for thousands of years, and this becomes more real to us as we visit ancient lands.

From Megiddo we continued to Haifa and ascended Mount Carmel, the place where Elijah defied the 450 prophets of Baal. And in memory of that outstanding bit of biblical history there is an impressive statue of the prophet Elijah with his sword raised to heaven in triumph over one of the fallen Baal prophets.

However, I learned much more about Mount Carmel. Imagine my surprise when our tour guide told us that the name “Mount Carmel” refers not only to one mountain, which was the one we stood upon (the most important one to visitors in the country), but a range of mountains. In my simple thinking I always thought the name “Mount Carmel” referred to just one mountain. And herein lies the beauty of actually going to historic places and seeing them for oneself.

At the top of the mountain where there is the statue of Elijah, there is also a lot of activity: souvenir shops, chapels and a panoramic view of surrounding areas. I tell you the view from that high place is something else. It is simply beautiful.

Since ancient times Mount Carmel has been known as a sacred place. For example, legends tell that Pythagoras, sixth century Greek mathematician visited Mount Carmel and spoke of it as “the most holy of mountains…” I felt I could have stayed there for hours on Mount Carmel, drinking in its breathtaking beauty, cool breezes and sacred legends which are many.

The name “Mount Carmel” always held an attraction for me and for this same reason I named my ministry after it, e.g. New Vision Ministry of Mount Carmel, in remembrance of Elijah’s great defeat of the 450 prophets of Baal. I have always been enthused by that biblical account. In it, Elijah affirmed his allegiance to Yahweh, God of Israel who rained His fire from heaven upon his altar of sacrifice though much water was poured upon it. Talk about drama and victory! Read all about it at 1 Kings 18:20-46.

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 8 of 10

2011-10-14T13:01:00.004-05:00

Next morning, breakfast at The Rimonim Hotel was something I will always remember. At the table where Errol and I sat we were privileged to watch the sun rise across the Sea of Galilee.

The fresh, early morning breeze and the rays of the sunrise reflecting on the water and shimmering through the trees were like dancing jewels, and produced a peaceful effect. I wondered: Was it a morning as beautiful as this when Jesus prepared “bread and fish” for His disciples? Did the sunrise reflect on the water just the same and shimmer through the trees just the same when He welcomed his disciples on the beach to “come and dine…?”
Was the water just as peaceful and calm?

After breakfast, Doron took us on a boat trip on the Sea of Galilee. This was something I will always remember. We enjoyed beautiful sunshine, a soft breeze and the knowledge that this was a place Jesus often visited during His lifetime on earth. And at one point, in the middle of the sea, Pastor Peter called for a time of worship and asked the captain of the boat to make a stop. The boat came to a stop and we enjoyed a time of choruses and prayer. But to tell you the truth, I was nervous. In my mind, I was wondering whether the captain, Pastor Peter, the crew and everyone else knew what they were doing.

Remember, I mentioned before that I am afraid of large bodies of water, and as beautiful as the Sea of Galilee is, I would not have liked to go down into it. Besides that, with Jesus not being around physically to help me walk on water as He did with Peter (Matt. 14:29), I knew I would never more be in the land of the living! However, I managed to survive the time of worship even though the boat was rocking from side to side.

We read much about Jesus and the Galilee. And if there was any place I felt His presence it was at the Jordan River and in the region of the Sea of Galilee. To walk in the places where Jesus walked and sail on the sea where Jesus sailed gave me a feeling of awe and humility. Hearing about the Sea of Galilee is one thing, reading about it is another, and actually being there is yet another thing.

I tell you, if ever you visit Israel, and I hope that you will, please make it a must to sail on the Sea of Galilee and visit the Jordan River.

Next, Doron took us to Kibbutz Ginossar where we viewed an ancient boat that dates back to the 1st century AD. This boat was discovered in 1986 on the shore of the Sea of Galilee and experts claimed that this was the type of boat used by people in first century times not only for fishing but also for transport from one side of the lake to the other. A big question is: “Could Jesus have sailed in that boat?” Who knows? We can only speculate, yet it was helpful to us to look closely at an object dating to the time Jesus walked in Galilee and might have used.

Doron, our guide, jokingly warned us not ever to leave the region without eating St. Peter’s fish. He said our trip to the Galilee would be incomplete without tasting that delicious fish and took us to the Ein Gev Fish Restaurant for a sumptuous meal of St. Peter’s fish, chips, and vegetables, complete with Israeli fixings. My goodness, what a spread of food! I tell you, Israel is a vegetarian’s and fish eater’s paradise.

Doron’s insistence about St. Peter’s fish reminded me of a saying in Trinidad about a local fish called “the cascadura” that goes this way: “Those who eat the cascadura will, a native legend says, wheresoever they may wander, end in Trinidad their days.” I wondered if it is the same with St. Peter’s fish and I wondered: Will I end my days in Galilee?

From Galilee we drove to Capernaum, a place that Jesus visited often and saw an ancient synagogue, and the site of the house of Peter. Then we visited the Mount of Beatitudes, the place where Jesus gave His Sermon on the Mount, and drove up the Golan Heights to Caesarea Phillipi.

There is something about the Holy Land that does a work on you, yet one visit is like the seeing the tip of an iceberg. There is s-o-o-o much to see and do. I hope you will make the trip soon.

It was a full day of activities and we were more than happy to be back at our hotel and look forward to dinner and a well-deserved rest for the night. Next day, we visited Mount Carmel where the prophet Elijah defeated the worshippers of Baal.

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 7 of 10

2011-09-30T19:00:00.011-05:00

In a massive restoration project for the land of Israel, since 1902 more than 280 million trees have been planted, and to help this project, in connection with the government of Israel, Pastor Peter Youngren has launched the Grace Biblical Forest.
Pastor Peter upholds that the planting of the Grace Biblical Forest “is a unique opportunity to be part of a deeply meaningful, prophetic fulfillment” (Isaiah 32), and he is planting 100,000 trees, many of which are fruit-bearing. To this end, Errol and I grasped the opportunity to leave a tree planted in Israel in our names. So we have a tree, basking in the sunshine of Israel and serving a worthwhile purpose in that land which means much to us.

We drove through the Jordan (Rift) Valley to Beit She’an, an ancient city that has existed since the time of King Saul and visited the remains of a Roman theatre (circa 1 AD) that has been excavated there. On that day it was blazing hot, and as usual, at every place we visited, I looked for two things: a cool, shady spot and a place to sit, but this time I did not find either of that, so I just had to deal with the heat as I admired the view.

I could just imagine the grandeur of Beit She’an and the Roman theatre in its hey day 6,000 years ago. The theatre boasted a semi-circular design cut into the hillside and seated 7,000 people in rows of limestone seats. In my imagination I could see the crowds and sporting events, and other entertainment of the day. In that place in particular, we were so close to ancient history, we could almost touch it.

There are still ongoing excavations taking place in Beit She’an. You can see the remains of the theatre in one of today’s pictures….who knows what else will be unearthed! If ever you go to Israel, Beit She’an should be a must-visit place on your list.

Another must-visit place on your list should be Nazareth Village, which is very interesting! This is a village scene created in Nazareth that shows the way the community looked in Jesus’ early years. It is a live scenario that really gave us the feel of first century living, with a show-and-tell atmosphere. Visit their website here www.nazarethvillage.com.

It is not as hectic Church of the Holy Sepulchre or the Church of the Nativity or even the Via Dolorosa, but it is a quiet, rural setting with shepherds and grazing sheep. However, there was much uphill climbing on rocky, rough terrain.

Imagine how it was in those days…no supermarkets, no refrigeration for food, no fast foods, and all work was manual with home-made equipment and carpentry tools, and every meal was prepared from scratch.

At Nazareth Village, men and women wore traditional first-century garb, moving around gracefully as they demonstrated how chores were done in those early days. They showed us how wool was spun, dyed and woven to make clothing. The cloths were dyed with onion skins for brown colours, and specific fruits for other colours.

They showed how garments were made, how wine was made, how grain was ground, how olives were pressed to extract oil, and how sheep were raised. It was a step into the past to catch a glimpse of how life was in Jesus’ boyhood days.

Another interesting stop on that day was at Cana of Galilee where Jesus did His first miracle of turning water into wine at a wedding. Frankly, I always wonder why Jesus bothered to turn water into wine for the guests at the wedding. He could have easily told them to go home because the wine had run out…

We saw Mary’s Well where tradition says that Mary, while fetching water from the well, received the announcement from the angel Gabriel that she would bring forth Jesus, our Saviour. The well is fed from a spring called Mary’s Spring. And though the place of the annunciation is not recorded in the Bible, the traditional account is very ancient.

Then there was baptism in the Jordan River. One can never imagine the feeling of being at the very river where Jesus was baptized and the Spirit descending like a dove upon Him. We might not know the exact spot of Jesus’ baptism, but we know it was the Jordan River, and knowing this does something to the believer’s soul. I lost count of how many were baptized by Pastor Peter Youngren in the Jordan on that day, but I know there were many. In some places the Jordan is just a mere stream but at the place for baptism it is a mighty river.

We spent that night at the Rimonim Hotel and were in time for the May 14th celebration of Israel’s 63 years as a nation. It was great to be in time for celebrating Israel’s national birthday with her. As I reflected on the occasion, I realized that Errol and I chose the right time to visit Israel: just at her national birthday. At a park near our hotel there was a lot of celebration going on. Partygoers had a great time in the park all night having fun, fireworks, singing and dancing.

That evening, after dinner, we had another dynamic teaching by Pastor Peter and eagerly looked forward to the next day when we would be going on a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee!

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 6 of 10

2011-09-22T11:42:00.009-05:00

Day 6, Sunday, was our free day. We were not taken to visit sites anywhere and were told we could spend the day in any way we chose. I planned on reading, relaxing and catching up on my journalling and emails to home.

Our guide, Doron, had encouraged us to visit Ben Yehuda Street and do some shopping. He also told us how to get there by bus or taxi. He said some of the most expensive and beautiful merchandise in Jerusalem can be found on Ben Yehuda Street.

However, Errol and I did not go to Ben Yehuda Street, but later, when I heard from three women about beautiful fabrics they bought there, I wished I had made the effort to go shopping on Ben Yehuda Street. Carla, Sherry and Karen talked about the store owner knowing a lot about fabrics and accessories and they asked him how he knew so much about fabrics. He told them it was because his wife used to sew a lot and this is how he learned about it. She is no longer in the land of the living but left him a legacy of knowledge about the merchandise he sells.

I have an addiction for beautiful fabrics, and though I have a ton of fabrics at home in every design, colour and texture, a couple pieces more, especially from Israel, would not have hurt my inventory. Oh, how I wish I had gone to shop at Ben Yehuda Street!

Anyway, Ben Yehuda Street is on my list for my next visit to Israel, which I hope will be soon.

Errol and I were not the only ones who did not go to Ben Yehuda Street. We met with others and chatted with them about our past week and shared about what our pilgrimage to the Holy Land meant to us. As for me, it was the living reality of a long-time dream about 20 years in the making. I have always been attracted to the culture and language of Israel and it felt good to be in the land related to the Patriarchs and Prophets of old and where Jesus walked, taught and did His many healings and miracles.

We talked also about the Jerusalem Syndrome, which Pastor Peter Youngren told us about quite early in our pilgrimage, and had laughingly warned us not to catch the “disease.” The Jerusalem Syndrome is some sort of psychotic disorder, which many pilgrims experience on their visit to Israel. They imagine weird ideas about themselves relating to biblical characters and historical places, maybe it is because of being in the environment where so much biblical history took place. This does a spin in the human psyche of most individuals, weaving a fantasy in their minds causing them to think in an inadvertent way. For example, we heard of one man on Mount Carmel who thought he was Elijah re-visiting the area. This is just one small incident.

Jerusalem is a charismatic place, and I use the term “charismatic” in a loving way. As a pilgrim, being in that city takes a hold on you. It grows on you. Maybe it is because of one’s biblical knowledge and it gives the reality of being close to places God performed His mighty works, especially in Old Covenant times.

The pursuit of tracking events in ancient Jerusalem is a magnificent obsession and many pilgrims, including myself, can never seem to get enough of it. However, I did not catch the Jerusalem Syndrome but caught a cold because of not being dressed warmly enough early one morning.

Remember in my first post there is a photo of a man with a camel and he is carrying a stick? He was soliciting patrons to take a picture either standing next to the camel or sitting on it for a fee of $20.00. The thing is, in order to climb on the camel it had to kneel. The poor animal’s knees were sore from kneeling on asphalt and stone and I could not see how anyone would be a party in putting the animal through that distress. For this reason, even though it meant “bread and butter” for his owner’s table, I did not take a picture with the camel.

More about our pilgrimage next week...

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 5 of 10

2011-09-15T21:34:00.004-05:00

This was our day to visit three of the most distinctive sites in Israel: Qumran, Masada and the Dead Sea. So right after breakfast we boarded our bus and headed to our destination, which meant driving through the Judean desert. Parts of the area are barren with much sand and rocks, yet other parts are irrigated with water and boast beautiful date palms and other lush greenery.

At last, we got to Qumran and our guide pointed out to us the exact cave where the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered by a Bedouin lad in 1947. The area is mountainous and bleak and said to be the place where the ancient Essenes lived. The Essenes were a strict Jewish sect of religious people that existed during the time of Christ. They practiced a simple lifestyle and celibacy was a part of it, and isolated themselves in the area where we stood.

Many scholars claim that the Essenes were the ones who wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls.

One person from our bus was delighted to find a piece of pottery about the size of a loonie and vowed he would keep it as a souvenir. That set some of us on a search for broken pieces of pottery, but alas we found none, and soon it was time for us to leave that area.

After Qumran, we headed for Masada and the Dead Sea. Somehow I do not like the name “Dead Sea.” Couldn’t they have called it something else?

En route to Masada, we visited a gift shop that sold cosmetics made from black mud and other vital minerals from the Dead Sea. I might have bought something if I could have been assured it would take 20 years off my looks but could not be convinced, and did not buy any of the cosmetics but resorted to other gifts.

On that day, it was hot. I do not remember how many degrees the temperature was, but it was h-o-t, and being on top of a mountain, it seemed like we were closer to the sun and hotter than usual. Masada is a plateau atop a high mountain of stone and we ascended to its summit by cable cars, and though all around us were mountains and caves, bleak and quiet, yet it was b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l. I tell you, Israel is a beautiful place.

Doron, our guide, told us the history of Masada and the account of the 960 Jews who perished in self-inflicted mass murder/suicide rather than succumb to the Romans. I was much impressed by the way Doron told the story, bringing it to life. One could almost see the tragedy taking place and feel the emotions of the people in that place.

Doron is well-gifted with the magic of story-telling and kept us spell-bound as we listened. I had learnt about the tragedy of Masada at Bible college and never dreamt I would be standing there on Masada one day, hearing the story again in a detailed, picturesque manner and seeing the ruins of Herod’s palaces, bath houses, swimming pool, even a synagogue. It was truly a moving story and a magnificent sight. The history of Masada and the way Doron told it have left an indelible mark in my mind

Now, on to the Dead Sea. Years ago, whenever I heard of the Dead Sea, I often wondered why a sea should be called dead, but I’ve come to understand the reason. That sea is called dead because of the high content of salt in its water that prevents any fish or other aquatic creatures to live there. Those who know about seas and their levels tell us that the Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth, as a matter of fact its elevation is 417 feet below sea level.

Doron, our guide, told us that King David once hid from Saul in the area of the Dead Sea, called Ein Gedi, and in my analytical mind I began wondering, in every area my sight would focus: was it in this area that David hid? Or was it in that area where there are a lot of trees? Or could it be in that cave nearby, or behind the rocks?

A multitude of people trekked to the Dead Sea, some seeking to be more youthful, some to be more healthy and I am sure, some for the mere experience of floating in the water.
However, when they came out, I looked to see if any of them were more youthful but they all seemed the same as before they went into the water, nevertheless, I heard some individuals say they felt invigorated and that was good.

Somehow I was not impressed to go into the water but appreciated the stunning view from afar. But then again, I had my reasons: I am not a water buff, I am afraid of large bodies of water and besides that, I did not want to get my feet wet, so I did not go into the Dead Sea. Call me chicken if you want, I'll take that!

I understand the Dead Sea is shrinking. Maybe it would not be in existence in the next hundred years, so who knows, if you want to experience its legendary therapeutic waters, and float in a sea where you can never sink, you should hurry on to Israel and take some baths in Israel’s Dead Sea.

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 4 of 10

2011-09-04T21:01:00.006-05:00

After a sumptuous breakfast at our hotel, we boarded our bus and our first visit was to Yad Vashem, Israel’s memorial museum to the six million Jews who perished in the Nazi holocaust that begun in 1933. This place is an impressive collection of thousands of artifacts that relate to the times the Jews sojourned in Europe, for example, photographs, carrying cases and a host of memorabilia, also an eternal flame burning in memory of those who perished.

In memory of the tragedy of the holocaust, the museum has been given a name biblically which is Yad Vashem, derived from Isaiah 56:5.

In a trip to Israel, Yad Vashem is a distinctive place to visit. However, though some people, including myself were enthused with all the information given, yet for others it was too painful to withstand, and they walked away.

Yad Vashem is a sure testimony of Israel never to forget the Nazi holocaust and to pass that information to their future generations, just as they have done with the account of their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land in Old Testament times.

Then on we went to the Israel Museum in which there is a vast collection of arts, archaelogy and ancient scrolls and fragments of other writings. The museum has dedicated an entire wing called the Shrine of the Book to the housing of the Dead Sea scrolls found at Qumran in 1947 by a young Bedouin shepherd. To witness those ancient treasures somehow gave me the feeling of being present when they were created.

At the Israel Museum there is an outdoor scale model of the city of Jerusalem, showing houses, buildings and the Temple of Jerusalem as far back as AD 66. These models provide an accurate view of how Jerusalem looked in those times. Our tour guide mentioned that should there be any bit of new information coming in, the model is adjusted, but so far it is up to date and accurate with all information and traditions received. This work of art and skill is truly something to be seen.

I stand amazed to see how much Israel has accomplished in the mere 63 years the country has become a state. When I consider the Judean desert with its flourishing greenery in parts of it, aided by its intricate irrigation system and a museum filled with historical writings, massive excavations and the rebuilding of ancient structures, I have to agree with the Bible that Israel is truly blessed of the Almighty.

Then off we went to the Church of the Nativity (the place where tradition tells us that Jesus was born). However, before going there, our guide took us to a pastoral setting where there are caves, and we were told it was most likely such a place that Jesus was born. This was done so that we would get an idea of what the nativity cave looked like in those days.

The Church of the Nativity is a 6th century building which is said to be built over a cave.

This is a huge building, part of which is the church and part is a souvenir shop, selling holy oils, candles, religious pictures, olive wood carvings, etc. and to enter the part that is the church, pilgrims have to stoop low to walk through a doorway only 1.2 meters high that is cut in a stone wall. And as ususal, there was a noisy crowd of people, with flashing cameras and a lot of pushing and shoving to enter the church through the low doorway.

As one enters the church through the low doorway there is a grotto (cave) with a large silver star on its marble floor, marking the spot where Jesus is said to have been born. On the floor of the grotto there are the words “Hic de virgine Maria Jesus Christus natus est” meaning in Latin, “Here Jesus Christ was born to the Virgin Mary.”

As pilgrims entered the church, many could be seen, stooping low to kiss the star that marks the spot where Jesus was said to be born. In my mind’s eye, I imagined the cave as I had seen it at the previous pastoral setting and mentally placed it at that spot.

And as usual, with any Roman Catholic or Greek Orthodox church, the décor at the Church of the Nativity is very ornate, with beautiful hanging lamps, lighted candles and biblical pictures which all serve their purpose in creating a religious atmosphere. All this made me think “this would be a beautiful place to sit and meditate on the birth and life of Christ…if only there was time and opportunity to be quiet…” It would have been so much more meaningful and satisfying.

At the hotel, we ended the day with a great dinner and a wonderful teaching by Pastor Peter Youngren

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 3 of 10

2011-08-18T06:49:00.010-05:00

This was our day to walk the Via Dolorosa -- the way that Jesus walked to His crucifixion, and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. For years I had heard of this road of suffering and imagined it to be a tree-lined street of some kind but the Via Dolorosa turned out to be very different. This is a bustling, dusty, narrow, brick-paved alleyway, lined with colourful bazaars and market places, and teeming with shoppers for merchandise of every sort. However, we trudged along the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

And along the way we could see marked places that commemorate important accounts of Jesus’ journey to His crucifixion, which are the Stations of the Cross, well known to the Roman Catholic tradition.

Here we were, a bunch of pilgrims, hustling with our tour guide to see the place where the Roman Catholic tradition says Jesus’ was crucified and his body laid to rest. As usual, there were throngs of noisy people at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and we had to strive to hear every bit of information that Doron gave.

This is a busy place. People filled the courtyard and the church, pushing and shoving to see this place where it is said that Jesus was buried. Some could be seen kissing a rectangular slab of stone on the ground that is said to cover the place where Jesus’ body was laid. Some were sombre-faced and in tears as they contemplated Jesus’ death.

And in the midst of all that commotion, robed monks were making procession inside the building and chanting liturgies in Latin. As I listened, trying to catch some of the words they were singing, it brought back cherished memories of my Roman Catholic convent school days when we often had to chant various liturgies in Latin. The inside of the building is filled with beautiful paintings of biblical scenes of angels and Jesus crucifixion.

The ornate beauty of the building and the Latin liturgies, complete with a myriad of lighted candles, provide a religious ambiance to the place and is not to be easily forgotten.

And I thought: “if only the place was not so noisy, and with crowds going to and fro, it would make a wonderful place for meditation on the Passion of Christ. It would have been more meaningful if we were allowed to take our time walking the Via Dolorosa and to have moments of peace and quiet upon entering the church rather than hurrying along, and having to cope with noisy crowds." However, that is how it was and time was of the essence.

What are my thoughts about the two major sites where it is said that Jesus is buried? I am torn between the Garden Tomb at Gordon’s Calvary and this place, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. There is evidence both “for” and “against” both locations but I have come to the conclusion that the important thing for us is to recognize the reality with the crucifixion, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ and not be hung up on exact locations of same.

However, I can now envision the 14 Stations of the Cross as a help and means of meditation on the Passion of Christ rather than the actual journey of Christ to His crucifixion.

After a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre we headed for the Wailing Wall, otherwise known as the Western Wall, which is Judaism’s most holy site. Tradition tells us that this wall is the only remaining portion of the Temple that was destroyed in the first century and it has become a belief that prayers offered up to the LORD in that place will be answered by Him.

I thought to myself: “Israel is an interesting place to visit. In the midst of the chanting of prayers in Latin at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre one could hear the Muslims not far away, blaring out the afternoon call to prayer while at the same time, at the Western Wall, Jewish men, most of them with prayer shawls, were rocking their bodies in rhythmic motion as they did their prayers and devotions to the LORD.”

Our next visit was to Hezekiah’s Tunnel, which is a 1,750 feet tunnel carved through solid rock to divert a watercourse from one side of the city of Jerusalem to the other (2 Kings 20:20, 2 Chronicles 32:30). We walked through that tunnel, which is an intricate water system and a maze of dark pathways and stairs built by the Israelites in the year 700 B.C. under King Hezekiah in an effort to ensure safety and an adequate water supply in a time of siege from the Assyrians.

In the route that we were led we could hear sounds of water but did not wade through it. We took the landlubbers’ route, walking on a dry path. In some areas the place is so narrow that we could only walk in single file. This gives it a “closed-in” feeling and is not recommended for people with claustrophobia.

Trudging through Hezekiah’s Tunnel has taught me lessons of faith and determination. In my analytical thinking, the Israelites’chiselling through solid rock to form a pathway to safety and security reminded me of the times in our lives when we cut through stony, everyday experiences.

It reminded me of walking through those stony times…those times that seem to have no end. It has taught me that in those tough times our main focus should be just to keep on trudging through those paths till we come out at the other end. Friends, if you can walk through Hezekiah’s Tunnel and emerge from it with a smile on your face, you can walk through any hard place or experience to a desired end (Jeremiah 29:11).

Hezekiah’s Tunnel is definitely one of the places to visit on a tour of Jerusalem. This place is an astounding, engineering feat and gives a sense of awe to witness the skill and strength of the ancient Israelites in their time of need. The tunnel stands today as a monument of determination, strength and skill and is one of the highlights of a tour of Jerusalem.

With such a heavy trek for the day, dinner at the hotel and a good night rest were more than welcome.

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 2 of 10

2011-08-09T15:55:00.014-05:00

All bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, we boarded our bus right after breakfast and our first stop was Gordon’s Calvary, which is a place that tradition tells us was known for executions of offenders in ancient Israel. The reason this place is called Gordon’s Calvary is because it was discovered by a British military leader named General Charles Gordon in the 19th century and named after him.

Gordon’s Calvary is a rocky cliff with an over-hang in the shape of a skull with two holes that resemble eye sockets. The entire area comprises a rocky cliff at the edge of an ancient cemetery, a well-tended garden below with beautiful flowers and trees, and a tomb that is hewn out of a rock. Tradition tells us that Gordon was convinced that this was the place where Jesus was crucified and that his body was placed in the nearby tomb, as mentioned at Mark 15:43-46. That tomb is now called the Garden Tomb and is the focus of thousands of visitors each year.

The garden is peaceful and is ideal for meditation and prayer, and our group participated in a communion service there given by our host, Pastor Peter Youngren.

Something of note is that Gordon’s Calvary is in direct controversy with the Church of Holy Sepulchre, which is built on a spot where the Roman Catholic tradition says Jesus was crucified and buried. There will be more about this place later on.

Next we visited the Upper Room, sometimes called the Room of the Last Supper, or the Cenacle (the word “cenacle” is derived from the Latin word “cena”meaning “dinner”). This second-storey room is a large hall and for most of the day it is filled with people going to and fro to see this place where we are told that Jesus ate His last Passover meal with His disciples, and this meal turned out to be the beginning of the Lord’s Supper for followers of Jesus.

The Upper Room is supported by three huge pillars and boasts an arched design in the ceiling -- definitely Gothic in style of architecture. The ceiling is ornate and is a masterpiece. Gazing in awe at this room brought my mind to another masterpiece: that famous painting of the Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci that has inspired thousands of people all over the world.

This place, situated on Mt. Zion in Jerusalem is also the location that tradition says was the site of three other major occurrences in the life of Jesus: this is where Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, also where He made an appearance to His disciples after His resurrection, and the place where the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus’ disciples (Acts 1:13, 2:1-4), and making the beginning of the New Testament church.

While we were there we witnessed another group of tourists, some of them in an emotional frenzy and could hardly stand. They were shouting, singing, praying and being slain in the Spirit. I was excited to be touching on biblical history in a real way and expected a rushing wind and tongues of fire resting on those worshippers as it happened in the Book of Acts, however no such thing took place.

Next we visited King David’s Museum, which is in the same building on a lower level. In this museum there is a large sarcophagus covered in red velvet and adorned with the Star of David upon it; there is also a sign saying “King David’s Tomb” and there were separate entrances for men and women to view the tomb. As can be expected, there was a crowd there as well.
We wandered around the various rooms, trying to keep in touch with Doron, our tour guide, while making our way around a lot of Jewish people who were saying prayers.

Carpenters were busy doing renovation work in various parts of the building and their constant hammering were in competition with the voice of our tour guide and this did not make it easy for us to follow what he was saying. However, all in all, just being in the presence of King David’s tomb was enough for most of us.

As I stood at the tomb, two of my favourite psalms came to mind; they were Psalm 23 and Psalm 91, which tradition tells us were written by King David. I thought also about the hero stories of that “man who was after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22), his conquest of Goliath, his issues with Saul, and other biblical accounts, then I began to wonder “Am I standing at the place where King David’s bones lie? Or is it merely a place built in memory of that great king?”

I did not have to think long. A man from another group made the remark that he did not think the remains of King David were in that sarcophagus but were somewhere else and this sarcophagus was just a structure erected in memory of him…well, so much for that!

As usual, in the courtyard, vendors did a brisk business, selling everything from postcards to hats, and you know, I bought a hat, something very necessary to beat the heat in Israel.
Next stop was a visit to the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu. It is a beautiful, modern structure on Mount Zion in Jerusalem, which tradition tells us has been built on the ruins of the house of Caiaphas, the High Priest to whom Jesus was brought for trial. In Israel, it is common to see buildings that were built on top of other old structures and the amazing thing is that the builders made a great job of doing that.

I am always amazed at the structures of the ancient world, how great buildings were created without the use of modern equipment. We have to say those builders were even more talented than those of today because of their lack of the sophisticated equipment we now have at our disposal.

If my knowledge of Latin serves me right the word "Gallicantu" means “singing or crowing rooster” and while on tour of the building something funny happened. As Doron, our tour guide was recalling the story to us about Peter’s denial of Christ and how the cock crowed three times, a cock crowed somewhere in the vicinity. And before long there was a lot of cock crowing taking place. Seems like there has always been a lot of chicken-rearing in Jerusalem.

At this church we were shown a pit below the building, which tradition says had served as a holding place for Jesus before He was taken to Pilate.

Back at our hotel, the Crowne Plaza, we enjoyed a wonderful dinner and before retiring for the night we had another great teaching by Pastor Peter Youngren.

Reflections on My Trip to Israel - Day 1 of 10

2011-07-06T23:09:00.017-05:00

Day One -- At Last, A Visit to the Holy Land

At last, I was on my way to visit the Holy Land. For years I dreamed of it, but somehow always kept on procrastinating about the trip. However, I have always been attracted to the culture of Israel, and fascinated by the Hebrew language, so much so that at Bible College I did a couple courses in the Hebrew language and some studies in Israelology. And I thank God for having done them.

Last year the trip nearly happened but did not, and this year it nearly did not happen. But it did. It happened when I heard of the Grace TV Israel Tour with Pastor Peter Youngren as host of the tour, and since I know of Pastor Peter’s church which is the Toronto International Celebration Church, I decided this was the time and seized the opportunity.

I went on this trip with a lot of expectation. I had been thinking “at last I will walk in places where Jesus walked, and see places where He healed the sick and did His miracles.” After a three-hour wait on arrival at the airport to check in, at last my husband, Errol and I boarded an El Al aircraft on May 3rd bound for Tel Aviv on a nonstop flight. And as I settled myself in my seat and buckled up, deep in my heart I said: “Oh Israel, here I come…”

I was told the flight would be 11 to 12 hours long and wondered how I would endure sitting in one position for that long, then I remembered that when I went to England some years ago the trip was 8 hours, so what if it is only 4 hours more! Anyway, I managed. The drone of the engines seemed like it would never end. And all we could do was just wait and wait for the touch-down.

Eventually we arrived at the Ben Gurion Airport at 7:05 a.m. next day to a crisp morning, slightly cool, and with beautiful sunshine. It felt great to stand on terra firma once again and our 10-day bus tour started immediately.

There we were met by our bus drivers and tour guides. Our company of tourists filled three buses and my husband and I were assigned to Bus #3. From the beginning we felt we were in the hands of two competent helpers. Our bus driver was Obadiah (Ovad), who did an excellent job in manoeuvring steep hills and deep curves, and our tour guide was Doron Hoffman who is passionate about his work He did an excellent job in showing us around and narrating the information we came to Israel to hear. Also, he was not short on filling our ears with humour all along the way, which made our trip a memorable one.

Thank God, the buses were comfortable and airconditioned. Our first stop was the Mount of Olives. We began with a sweeping view of the Old City of Jerusalem and surrounding area, and a visit to the Mount of Olives and Garden of Gethsemane. Here, Doron, our tour guide gave us a picturesque, historical overview of the Old City and surrounding area.

I had heard that a visit to Israel involved a lot of walking and that we should wear comfortable shoes, but to say that the tour involves a lot of walking is an understatement. Jerusalem is a city of hills, walls, stones and more stones, large and small, and it really does involve more that a lot of walking. It is an experience of climbing hills and walking on rough terrain, and I found it to be quite a challenge for the first two days. However, I did much better than I expected for the rest of the tour.

I was determined to master the trip and by the grace of God, I did. However, in the process, I have discovered the secret to being able to do long bouts of walking, and it is this: just keep on
w-a-l-k-i-n-g.

I am not one for much walking and when our tour guide explained that the walk to the Garden of Gethsemane was a very steep and challenging one from where we were, and that those who felt they could not walk would be taken there by the bus that was music to my ears.

However, the bus drove the few of us who stayed on it to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus spent his last few hours on earth in agony and prayer to His Father in heaven (Matthew 26:36-56) and there we caught up with those who walked.

At the Garden of Gethsemane, we walked and walked through pathways in the garden, absorbing the beauty of every tree, shrub and flower while trying to catch every word and hold on to every description of what we saw, as given by Doron, our guide.

The garden is filled with gnarled, old olive trees, most of them hundreds of years old, though most likely none of the trees were as old as before the time of Jesus’ death, because we are told that during the siege of Jerusalem in 70 AD, the Romans destroyed all the trees in the area for use as fire wood and for the purpose of the siege itself.

As I looked at those olive trees, I thought to myself “if only those trees could talk, they would have much to say.” And as I reflected on the beauty and calmness of the garden, I was reminded me of the words of that popular, spiritual song: “I came to the Garden alone, while the dew was still on the roses” and thought of how it might have been in the time of Jesus’day.Was the garden just as beautiful, peaceful and calm?

I wondered: “What did Jesus contemplate during His last few hours?” Did He think of you and me? Did He look beyond the cross He knew He would have to endure to the glories of heaven? But then again, I remembered that we have only to look to the Book of John, chapters 16 and 17 for the answer.

Another place of interest to the tourist is the Church of the Agony, also named The Church of All Nations (so named because it was built with financial support from 12 different countries) which stands next to the Garden of Gethsemane and is a beauty to behold.

Then off we were to a fabulous lunch of Israeli cuisine and then to the Crowne Plaza Hotel to relax for the rest of the day. After dinner that evening, we enjoyed a dynamic teaching by Pastor Peter Youngren before retiring for the night in anticipation for the next day.

It's All About Your Breakthrough

2010-08-24T19:59:00.003-05:00

Imagine for a moment that you are held CAPTIVE in a castle or tower of some kind
and someone comes by and offers you a key to set yourself FREE...
Would you take that key and become free? If not, why not?
____________________________

Dear Friend:

Take responsibility for change in your life and become the person your were created to be ...

New Vision Ministry invites you to attend the workshop It’s All About Your Breakthrough, which will take place at the Barbara Frum Library at 20 Covington Road in the Bathurst St. & Lawrence Ave. area on Saturday, October 16th 2010, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Speakers will be:

Monica Hernandez, Ph.D., D-CPC
Helen Pearman Ziral, Ph.D., MA, MEd
...and others

Dr. Monica Hernandez is a Certified Psychotherapist Counsellor and Life Coach. Dr. Helen Pearman Ziral is a Human Relations and Communication Specialist.

Topics include:
• Breaking addictions, dysfunctions and compulsive disorders
• Breaking patterns of codependency, dependency and the enabling habit
• The journey from brokenness to wholeness
• Personality is self-created
• Total restructuring for change
• De-cluttering mind, body and spirit
...and much more

You will leave this workshop with keys that can help you breakthrough destructive patterns
of thinking and living

Cost of the workshop is $30.00 at the door
Early registration (by October 9, 2010) $25.00

P.S. Be an early bird and register today. The cost of the workshop It’s All About Your Breakthrough includes take-away handouts and worksheets that would help you evaluate yourself and give you strategies and exercises to work on for your personal breakthrough.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
REGISTRATION FORM
Yes, please register me for the workshop: It’s All About Your Breakthrough
Mrs./Miss/Ms..........................................................................................................
Address: Street.......................................................................................................
City..................................Province.....................Postal Code................................
Phone: Home..........................Business...................................................................

Early registration (by October 9, 2010): $25.00

TO REGISTER BY MAIL, please mail completed form to:
New Vision Ministry
P.O. Box 47554
1530 Albion Road, Etobicoke, Ontario, M9V 5H4
Telephone: (416) 744-9745 Email: info@newvisionministry.org

It's All About Breakthrough...

2010-06-19T22:58:00.008-05:00

Dear Reader:

Let me tell you an amusing story. Maria, an inquiring young woman, wanted to know everything about the mastery of life, nature and the universe. She was eager to learn. Most of all, because of long-standing inner conflicts, Maria wanted to know how to deal with her stress and emotional pain. Obsessed with her passion to master her challenges in life, she travelled to a guru in a distant land who set her up in a cave, and gave her a lot of books to read and study.

Every morning Guru came to check on Maria’s progress and asked: “Have you been reading?” And she replied: “O yes, I have been reading and studying but I have not yet found the secret to overcoming my emotional pain.”

And Guru would continue: “Have you learned the secret about the mastery of life, nature, and the universe yet? Have you learnt how to handle your emotional pain and stress yet ...”

“Not yet...” would be Maria’s reply, and Guru would lift a stick and strike her with it.

The pattern was the same everyday. Guru visited the young woman in the cave, asked her the same questions and she gave the same bottom-line answer: “I have not yet found the secret of overcoming my emotional pain.” And Guru would strike her with his stick.

Early one morning, Guru visited Maria and asked her the usual questions and she gave him the usual answers. However, Maria knew what was coming next and felt she could not deal with one more whack of Guru’s stick. And just as Guru raised his stick to strike Maria, she swiftly reached up and grabbed it.

Suddenly realizing what she had done, Maria became afraid of what might happen next...

However, Maria was shocked to hear Guru say: “Congratulations. You have done well. You have found the answer. You now have the secret.” And Guru affirmed the secret to the mastery of life with these words: “People must grab a hold of that which inflicts pain before it can strike.”

Friend, you and I can agree that Guru’s striking Maria with the stick reflects the
stressful events we allow to inflict emotional pain upon us, but the truth is: we can master that part of our lives and enjoy harmony, peace and well-being.

Do you have unchained negative emotions? We all display them from time to time, but the important thing to consider is how often we have them and how long we allow them to plague our minds. I can tell you of ways to help shorten their stay - - even stop them before they begin to inflict blows upon us. Remember Maria’s triumph in the story above?

You can enjoy a balanced way of life

"Breaking Through the Barriers" is a workbook, which is a practical guide to overcoming fear, instability, worry, anxiety, guilt, emotional hurts, depressive moods and other hurdles in life. This book is written for your emotional health.

This book, written from a counselling /life-coaching point of view with biblical references, insights and spiritual exercises can be a helpful resource to you in gaining triumph over fear, anger, instability, guilt, emotional hurts, depressive moods, procrastination and much more.

Besides its seven lessons, this book is loaded with reflections, prayer, meditations and timeless gems to keep you motivated on your journey towards breakthrough and beyond. As a matter of fact, this book shows how to stop emotional hurts before they start. And its life-changing principles can help you develop positive attitudes so you can enjoy balance and stability in your everyday experiences.

And best of all, the information in this book is easy to understand and practice.

You were meant to have dominion over the earth and by applying the life-changing principles of "Breaking Through the Barriers" you will be able to identify emotional barriers in your life and learn how to deal with them If you are emotionally stressed, these teachings will be useful to you. And a powerful tool that can help you is "My Personal Reminder" (MPR). With practice, you will be able to establish MPR and have it serve you effectively. Many people have benefited from this simple spiritual exercise.

Are you overwhelmed by fear, worry and anxiety? Maybe guilt and instability? And what about depressive moods and procrastination? Even anger? Also tears and sad feelings. Maybe your emotional hurt goes way back into your childhood. However, you will learn how to confront these challenges and break through your emotional shackles.

In "Breaking Through the Barriers" you will learn strategies that can change your personality, and eventually, your life. They will renew your mind and help you feel good about yourself. In other words, you can achieve self-mastery or temperance as it is called in the Scriptures. In the pages of this book you will receive find 49daily readings and reflections that offer fresh insights and inspirations; these exercises are meant to motivate you and change your change your way of life for the better.

This book will help you develop a better understanding of what life is all about. Also, you will understand your shortcomings and learn how to deal with them. Its information will help you gain wisdom and strength. In short, you will gain greater balance in body, mind and spirit, and develop orderly habits.

This book is suitable not only for personal use, but also for small, life-enrichment group study.

"Breaking Through the Barriers"
A Practical Guide to Overcoming Personal Challenges

ISBN 0-9736270-0-X
100 pages 8 1/2 x11, spiral bound
Cost: $39.95 (including shipping and handling)
Mail orders only to U.S. and Canada

A PDF download of the book is available at http://www.newvisionministry.org/breaking-through-the-barriers.html - cost $25.00

For immediate mailing to U.S. and Canada, place your order now at:
http://www.newvisionministry.org/breaking-through-the-barriers.html

Or send a certified cheque or money order with your order to:

New Vision Ministry
P.O. Box 47554
1530 Albion Road
Etobicoke, Ontario, M9V 5H4
CANADA

Sincerely,

Monica Hernandez, Ph.D.
Counsellor/Life Coach

P.S. Stop missing out on your sense of well-being and happiness. As you apply the principles and strategies given in "Breaking Through the Barriers," you can gain peace of mind, spiritual freedom and the abundant life that is meant for you.

Lessons For Today

2010-04-06T19:27:00.008-05:00

Welcome to Lessons for Today, an audio-book for those who seek spiritual triumph over life’s everyday challenges.

This audio-book is a collection of 15 Scripture-based vignettes that teach, counsel, and inspire. These are practical Christian messages that are meant to enrich your everyday living.

The vignette titles are as follows:
(1) The Principle of Change, (2) The Power Of Belief,
(3) What Have You In the House? (4) Diamonds In The Rough, (5) Discipline and Temperance, (6) Wisdom and Understanding, (7) Write Yourself A Vision Plan, (8) To Thine Own Self Be True, (9) Break the Hurrying Habit, (10) Flourish Where You Are Planted, (11) Dealing With Decisions, (12) The Art of True Giving and Receiving,
13) Be Your Brother’s Keeper, (14) Settle Your Differences Quickly, (15) Discover Inner Peace and an epilogue: Thoughts and Words to Live By.

Our human experience
Our human experience is filled with barren places and crooked paths. However, the Scriptures indicate that God is in the exchange business. He is willing to take the fallen state of His children and give His beauty in exchange, which is restoration, peace of mind, love, truth and orderliness. In other words, He is offering His abundance and freedom for mankind’s lack and limitations.

Many people are dealing with life-dominating problems, and questioning God’s providence and care, wondering why they should have to undergo their challenges. However, prayer and meditation on Scripture will give some insight into God’s ways, while a change of attitudes and mindsets could be of added help towards a sense of balance and better living.

What will you find in “Lessons for Today?”
In this the First Series, you will find lessons that address various everyday challenges, and show how they can be overcome by using practical and biblical principles. For example, the following topics are addressed:
● breaking unwanted habits,
● developing assertiveness,
● stability, spiritual discipline,
● prosperity, discovering inner peace,
● reaching other goals

Our Mission
Our mission is to share with you a way of life that would enhance your everyday experience, therefore at the end of each lesson, five Question Helps and seven Scripture Helps are given. Both these Helps are reflected in the lesson, also Personal Reflections and Timeless Gems that are relevant to the lesson are given.

It is our hope that as you make use of these teachings and their various helps, the Spirit of God will bless you with insights and impartations from Himself, and we encourage you to journal these spiritual revelations.

This audio book is meant for easy listening
This audio-book, is read to you by its author, Monica Hernandez of New-Vision Ministry of Mount Carmel, an independent institution for Christian education. All Scriptures are quoted from the Authorized King James Version of the Bible except where noted otherwise, and is meant for easy listening.

This writer has seen the wonder-working power of God heal the sick, transform people addicted to false appetites into fervent followers of Him, and turned around unpleasant circumstances. These have all taken place through seeking God’s counsel, with fervent prayer and meditation. The practice of meditation and prayer, and seeking God’s counsel are still the most profound ways of changing one’s life.

This audio-book Lessons for Today goes out with the hope that its lessons will be catalysts to bring about change into the lives of its listeners.

Special Offer“Lessons For Today” is a series of 15 vignettes on 4 CDs which can normally be yours for a ministry gift of $30.00. We are offering the series for a gift of $22.00 till May 31st, 2010.

You can either make your order online at www.newvisionministry.org at our e-store or
send us a cheque payable to New Vision Ministry at the following address:

New Vision Ministry
P.O. Box 47554,
1530 Albion Road,
Etobicoke, Ontario, M9V 1V5
Canada

A Quotation By Archbishop Romero

2010-04-04T21:03:00.001-05:00

I found this great quote by Archbishop Romero, who was assassinated 30 years ago, and thought I would share it with you:

It helps, now and then, to step back and take a long view.
The kingdom is not only beyond our efforts, it is even beyond our vision.
We accomplish in our lifetime only a tiny fraction of the magnificent enterprise that is God's work.
Nothing we do is complete, which is a way of saying that the kingdom always lies beyond us.
No statement says all that could be said.
No prayer fully expresses our faith.
No confession brings perfection.
No pastoral visit brings wholeness.
No program accomplishes the church's mission.
No set of goals and objectives includes everything.
This is what we are about.
We plant the seeds that one day will grow.
We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise.
We lay foundations that will need further development.
We provide yeast that produces far beyond our capabilities.
We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that.
This enables us to do something, and to do it very well.
It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, a step along the way, an opportunity for the Lord's grace to enter and do the rest.
We may never see the end results, but that is the difference between the master builder and the worker.
We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs.
We are prophets of a future not our own.

Bringing Water Out of A Rock

2009-07-08T17:33:00.002-05:00

Written by Monica Hernandez on July 8, 2009
_____________________________________

I feel I know how Moses felt when he went with his brother, Aaron, before the Lord, pleading for water for the children of Israel. I can sense his anger and frustration in looking after a bunch of stiffnecked people, who were complaining all the time. This was not the first time Moses had to go to the Lord on behalf of the people, but this time he was distraught.

And the Lord commanded Moses to “speak unto the rock before the eyes of the people” (Numbers 20:8), but in disobedience, Moses smote the rock instead. He was angry and he showed it.

In our everyday language today, we would say: “Moses lost it...” However, the water came out of the rock abundantly and the people and their beasts drank.

Today, in our search for meaning, let us consider what that incident tells us and how we can apply its message to our lives at this time.

This Old Covenant account of water flowing from a rock reminds us of times when God comes through for us out of rock-like situations, for example, financial troubles, family discord and times of confusion, indecision and pain.

However, we note that the Lord did not tell Moses what to say to the rock. He only said: “Speak unto the rock and it shall give forth his water...” Could it be that the Lord meant: the same thing you say to me, tell it to the rock?

Are there rock-like situations in your life? The presence and power of God lie within every rock-like issue that you are facing and when you speak God’s truth to those situations, you confirm to yourself that His presence and providence are there.

There is creative power in the spoken word for the Scriptures tell us that “death and life are in the power of the tongue...” What words are you speaking into your life?

Words are powerful because they are expressions of the heart. And when the heart is attuned to God and the bounties of His kingdom, the words that we speak will be capsules and confirmation for God's creative power.

And when you are attuned to the Spirit of God, as you examine the thoughts you hold in your heart concerning your affairs, it will make you more accountable to the truth of God’s providence. It will help you consider that if God can cause water to flow abundantly out of a rock, would He not cause His presence to flow abundantly as “waters of life” into your rock-like affairs and transform them?

Speak to the rock-like situations in your life telling them that God is faithful and true to change their course and deliver you out of them.

May God bless you as you speak His providence into your life, never doubting His goodness and power.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: The Scriptures tell us that “there is life and death in the power of the tongue.”

PRAYER: “God's Word quickens me and opens a way for me where there seems to be no way, and I thank God for His Word active in my spirit, soul, body and affairs. Amen.”

—Monica

************************************
BREAKING THROUGH THE BARRIERS
************************************
Ask about the workbook "Breaking Through the Barriers" which can be a helpful resource to you in overcoming instability, fear, worry and anxiety, guilt, depressed moods, emotional hurts and much more. To get more information on this book, send an email to monica@newvisionministry.org.

*******************
PRAYER SUPPORT
*******************
Are you facing challenges? In need of prayer support? Send us an email about your prayer needs and we will come into agreement with you for the wonder-working power of God in your life. Email: prayer@newvisionministry.org.

No Turning Back...

2009-07-01T23:06:00.005-05:00

Written by Monica Hernandez on July 1, 2009
___________________________________________

Last Sunday, at church, we sang the chorus “I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back...” and it was a rousing start for the service. And though that was not the only chorus we sang, that one about “no turning back” stayed with me for a long time.

Did you ever notice that some of these choruses have a way of touching our emotions differently to the way the older hymns do? I love the old hymns like “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” and “Blessed Assurance” and others like that. When we sing those songs they transport us to a certain mood or atmosphere of worship that cannot be denied, yet when we sing the choruses, they do their own work by putting us into a more zesty mood for the Lord - a mood more for vigilance, more spiritual motivation and feelings like that.

And after we sang and I sat listening to the sermon, “No Turning Back” stayed with me even till after church and it moved my mind into many places. It took me to the Old Testament story of Lot and his wife, fleeing cities about to be destroyed and Lot’s wife looked back. The Bible says she looked back from behind Lot and turned into a pillar of salt. I believe that story holds some principles for us in a practical way - more than just an Old Testament account of something that happened.

Today, being led out of the bondage of what the world offers, we could very well be in the position of Lot’s wife if we look back and yield to the temptations we are leaving behind, because of its appealing sights and sounds or because of a memory that is enticing and overwhelming. The sights and sounds seem fresh in memory and we might long to experience those memories again.

What can we do about that? We can deal with those thoughts and feelings by renouncing them, casting down those imaginations that seek to exalt themselves (2 Corinthians 10:5.

I thought too about the children of Israel in the wilderness, regretting that they had left Egypt where there were many good things to eat, despite the fact they would have been in bondage to a harsh taskmaster. And I wondered about us singing “No Turning Back” in such in a zesty way - how many of us really gave thought and commitment to what we were singing?

Once you have given your life to Christ and He begins leading you in His way, is there something worthwhile to turn back to? In the world with all its appeal, is it worth it to turn back to what goes on there? The truth is that there is nothing worhwhile. Why turn back and have to face the bondage, troubles and deceit of this world alone?

It is true we yet live in the world, and though our Master said: “I am in the world but not of it; I have overcome the world,” we cannot say that to a full extent - not to the extent Jesus could say it, but the beauty of it all is that “in Christ” we can say the same thing - only in Him. In company with Him and through Him, and not wanting to turn back to what this world offers, we could say that we are overcomers, till our Father’s plan is fulfilled and it becomes an actuality.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: On my spiritual journey, my motto shall be: “Ever forward, never backward.”

PRAYER: “Dear Lord, help me to keep my gaze on you, following wherever you may lead me. Amen.”

—Monica

************************************
BREAKING THROUGH THE BARRIERS
************************************
Ask about the workbook "Breaking Through the Barriers" which can be a helpful resource to you in overcoming instability, fear, worry and anxiety, guilt, depressed moods, emotional hurts and much more. To get more information on this book, send an email to monica@newvisionministry.org.

*******************
PRAYER SUPPORT
*******************
Are you facing challenges? In need of prayer support? Send us an email about your prayer needs and we will come into agreement with you for the wonder-working power of God in your life. Email: prayer@newvisionministry.org.

Create A Life Worth Living

2009-06-25T22:34:00.000-05:00

Written by Monica Hernandez on June 25, 2009
____________________________________________

Today we mourn the loss of two icons in the entertainment industry: Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson, who was preparing for a comeback on stage after a long sabbatical.

And I received an email from a dear friend who wanted me to shed some light on the realities of life and death. He wrote: “...we are told to plan for our future, but here is something difficult for me to understand; why should we suddenly pass away even in the midst of our dreams and goals for our future? Doesn’t God understand? Why does He not allow us to complete our plans and be able to enjoy what we envision?”

The truth is that we do not have any control over the length of our days on planet earth, yet we do have some degree of control over the choices we make in our daily living. Though we are never sure how our plans may turn out, yet we need to make them and work towards making our dreams come true. Other than that, we would be like feathers in a storm and that is no good for us. This is one of the realities of life.

And though we do not have all the answers to the sudden passing away of people we love and admire, and others too, yet it helps us to reflect on our own lives and celebrate who we are and what we can do to be a living example of good in this life.

Further, it helps to point our thoughts to our Creator, and look at ourselves and consider how we can make our lives worthwhile to Him and His Kingdom, the world at large, our family, friends and our generation, and trust God to bring it to pass.

What are your thoughts on this? I invite your comments...

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: Today is the first day of the rest of my life and I vow to make my life worth living.

PRAYER: “Dear God, help me to discern your will for my life and help me to follow through. Amen.”

—Monica

******************
PRAYER SUPPORT
******************
Are you facing challenges? In need of prayer support? Send us an email about your prayer needs and we will come into agreement with you for the wonder-working power of God in your life.
Email: prayer@newvisionministry.org Telephone: 416-744-9745.

Lessons From Samson and Delilah - Rule Your Spirit

2009-06-18T15:29:00.002-05:00

Written by Monica Hernandez on June 18, 2009
_________________________________________________

At Proverbs 16:32, the Scriptures tell us that “he that rules his spirit is better than he that takes a city.” This speaks of discipline or self-control, which is a fruitage of the Spirit, and is a quality we all need to build. And as we carefully examine this matter, we see that ruling our spirit involves knowing what is priority and having the discipline to execute it.

Yet, truthfully, we cannot build discipline in our lives all by our selves but God can help by accomplishing it in us, if we ask Him and follow through on His directions.

Consider Samson. It is clear that concerning his relationship with Delilah, Samson was not thinking of consequences. Sadly, he lacked discipline. Just so, in many instances of our lives, we too, lack discipline. And in contemplating this story, it is wise that we consider challenging circumstances in our lives and consequences for our thoughts, feelings, attitudes and behaviour.

What can we learn from Samson’s lack of self-control? In this life we often encounter Delilah-like people who present themselves to us in various ways and one of them is to distract us from doing what is right. They try to lure us away from our good intentions in various ways and for just as many reasons. Those Delilah characteristics cause us to lose our focus and give up our most treasured possession: our position as believers and followers of Christ.

How can we build self-control? Is this easy to do by ourselves? In Samson’s moments of need, he knew he could not muster up strength on his own and also knew it was wise to ask God for it. Just the same, God would have helped him gain self-control if he had considered it a priority and earnestly asked for wisdom, discernment and self-control in his life, long before his tragedy struck.

Is there something you know you ought to be doing in your life? Is there some direction you know you ought to be following? Is there some special gift or anointing God has placed in your life? Are you ruling your spirit and nurturing that anointing or are you like Samson, not ruling his spirit, and not being a good steward of what God had blessed him with? As you contemplate these questions, prayerfully ask the Spirit of God to guide and counsel you.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: When we discipline ourselves and nurture God's anointing on our lives, He rewards us for our faithfulness (Luke 19:17).

PRAYER: "Lord, grant me the discernment to know what is right and the strength to do it. Help me Lord, to cultivate discipline in all areas of my life. Amen."

—Monica

******************
PRAYER SUPPORT
******************
Are you facing challenges? In need of prayer support? Send us an email about your prayer needs and we will come into agreement with you for the wonder-working power of God in your life.
Email: prayer@newvisionministry.org Telephone: 416-744-9745.

Lessons From Samson and Delilah - Samson’s Prayer

2009-06-11T14:15:00.002-05:00

Written by Monica Hernandez on June 11, 2009
____________________________________________

Samson prayed a remarkable prayer. In the midst of his trials, he called unto the Lord and said: “O Lord God, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once...” (Judges 16:28).

Samson knew that God was the Source of his great strength and knew the secret of its sustenance. He also knew he could not erase that unguarded moment when he lost his anointing to Delilah’s questioning, but he knew that he could make up for his mistake by humbly calling on God to “remember him” in a time when he wished to demonstrate his strength again.

God was faithful and honoured Samson's prayer.

Does God ever forget His children? There are times when we think God has forgotten us, be it about our skills and talents, prosperity, healing or just His presence, but He never forgets us and is always near us, awaiting our recognition. What we might call God’s forgetfulness is our forgetfulness of who God is and what He can do. Sometimes, too, we are the ones who forfeit His blessings through carelessness and taking His gifts for granted. When in trouble and distress, if only we would reach out to Him in earnest prayer, He will make His presence known. Remember that He is faithful and His mercies are new every morning

In essence, Samson was saying: “O Lord, bless me again...let me feel your presence in my weakness one more time...”

Are you now going through a time when you think God has forgotten you? Truly, though you are sensing a lack of His presence, He has not forgotten you. However, when like Samson, you earnestly call on Him, He will again manifest His presence in ways you might hardly imagine today.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: When we earnestly seek God, He re-visits his gifts. God can restore to me whatever gifts I seem to have lost.

PRAYER: “Heavenly Father, remember me with every spiritual gift You have given me in times
past. Restore them unto me, I pray. In Jesus' name I ask it. Amen.”

—Monica

******************
PRAYER SUPPORT
******************
Are you facing challenges? In need of prayer support? Send us an email about your prayer needs and we will come into agreement with you for the wonder-working power of God in your life.Email: prayer@newvisionministry.org Telephone: 416-744-9745.

Lessons From Samson and Delilah - Samson's Plight

2009-06-04T21:27:00.004-05:00

Written by Monica Hernandez on June 4, 2009
___________________________________________

I must apologize for not keeping my postings up to date in the past few weeks. Part of it is that I was away from late March to April in sunny Trinidad in the Caribbean, and since I came back, I find myself being bombarded by several distractions and obligations that got the better of me. However, here I am today with some lessons I have learned from the story of Samson and Delilah.

Some time ago, I did an in-depth study of the principles within that story and gained some insights about them, which I will share with you, my readers, in the weeks to come. I feel sure you know the story, and even if you don’t, you can read all about it in the Book of Judges, chapter 16.

Samson was a man of great physical strength given to him by God to defeat the Philistines but he lost it by giving in to pressure from Delilah to tell her the secret of his strength and what would deplete it. Delilah was persistent, and in a weak moment, Samson gave in to her pressure. He revealed the secret of his strength and Delilah won the battle. She told Samson's secret to her people, and Samson was captured and made a prisoner to the Philistines.

Samson knew his great strength was a gift from God but he took it for granted and failed to protect it from the people he was supposed to defeat. When he yielded to Delilah's questioning he lost not only his strength but also his eyes and was enslaved by the Philistines. The issue here is that Samson was "sleeping with the enemy" and paid a terrible price for that. And something similar is relevant to each of us today.

We see that Samson had great physical strength against the enemy but no moralistic strength. Instead, he was a victim of sensual weakness which caused him to compromise God's gift to him. When he needed his strength most he discovered that "the Lord was departed from him." The Bible says: "And he awoke out of his sleep and said, I will go out as at other times before, and shake myself. And he wist not that the Lord was departed from him" (Judges 16:20). What a tragedy!

In this life we will always meet Delilahs in various disguises: people who openly fraternize with us but are inwardly against us. Often, they pressure us with ideas that are not right for us and the means of the pressure are always subtle. And our yielding to pressures from people whose ideas are not right for us will always cause us to take our minds off God and into spiritual blindness, bondage and destruction.

The characteristics of Delilah present themselves to us in various ways and one of them is to distract us from what is right by preying on our weakness. Those Delilah characteristics cause us to lose our focus and give up our most treasured possession: our strength and position as a child of God.

In this story, Delilah represents anyone or anything we allow into our lives that would usurp the anointing and gifts that God has bestowed upon us. Samson sacrificed his ideals, and thus sacrificed his gift of unusual strength. The same thing will happen to anyone today who fails to give proper attention to God's gifts in their lives.

Can you imagine how Samson felt when he discovered he was deceived by Delilah? Can you imagine how he felt when he realized that his strength was not there when he needed it most? Can you imagine how he felt, realizing that the moment of his folly could not be re-captured and erased?

What can we learn from Samson's plight? We can learn not to fraternize with people and circumstances that are not right for us. We can learn not to compromise who we truly are but guard the anointing and gifts God has blessed us with. We can learn not to let enemy forces win.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: In this life we are to guard the anointing that God places in our lives.

“Heavenly Father, I thank you for the gifts you have placed in my life. Help me to keep them and use them for your glory and your Kingdom. Amen.”

— Monica

******************
PRAYER SUPPORT
******************
Are you facing challenges? In need of prayer support? Send us an email about your prayer needs and we will come into agreement with you for the wonder-working power of God in your life.
Email: prayer@newvisionministry.org Telephone: 416-744-9745.

Questions You Wanted To Ask -Three

2009-03-17T20:22:00.003-05:00

QUESTION: Is there really a heaven? And a hell?

ANSWER: We often hear that heaven and hell are right here upon this earth and that there is no other heaven or hell to be experienced. And though I do agree to some extent that heaven and hell are right here on this earth (because we do experience some reflections of both heaven and hell in our lives and affairs), I also believe there is a place or dimension in eternity called heaven, and if there is a “place” called heaven, there is also a “place” called hell.

Heaven is a place of peace, love and harmony profound, and hell is just the opposite...

The Bible teaches that:

• Heaven is a place; it is the abode of God (Psalm 103:19). It says: "The Lord hath prepared His throne in the heavens and His kingdom ruleth over all..." indicating that heaven is a place of sovereignty.

• When Jesus’disciples asked: "Lord, teach us how to pray," Jesus began His prayer with "Our Father, which art in heaven..." indicating that our Father is in a place called "heaven."

• Job 22:12 says: "Is not God in the height of heaven..." indicating God’s habitation is in the highest of the highest place in eternity.

• Revelation 4:1-5 tells us that "a door was opened in heaven"... and "a throne was set in heaven" indicating that there is a place called “heaven” where God dwells, and within His habitation there is a throne.

• 2 Chronicles 7:14 tells us that “if we humble ourselves and pray to God, He will hear from heaven...” and heal our circumstances.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: A citizenship in heaven is the pearl of great price; it is the greatest citizenship to possess.

(c) Monica Hernandez, Th.D.

Magnify The Good

2009-03-11T17:11:00.001-05:00

Did you ever notice that in every happening in life there are different sides we can see? Even in adversity, there is at least one positive element (maybe hidden), and if we are discerning, we will find it. And when we find it, we can choose to magnify it by praising God. This increases our blessings.

Think. Things are never totally adverse but it is our sense of always wanting things our way that keeps us complaining about things happening in our lives, which we do not like. But when we practice seeking out the positive and magnifying it by continually thinking about it and praising God for it, we will find release.

When someone hurts our feeling or when adversity happens in our lives, we are prone to focus on more negative things that can happen, however, within every situation, never mind how adverse it seems and within every person, never mind how adverse he or she might seem, there is something good and that good is an expression of God.

When we recognize the good and magnify it, we are breaking through negative patterns of thought. We are then making life more comfortable for ourselves and others. We lose nothing but gain blessings because we would realize the truth that “all things work together for good to them that love God...” (Rom. 8:28) KJV. And that is true, even if within those pesky situations we find lessons to be learnt.

Is there something adverse taking place in your life? Take a second look at it and practice magnifying whatever is good about it. Practice magnifying the good in various parts of your life and in all people and as you grow in this practice your good will continue to expand into blessings you might hardly imagine at this time.

You magnify the good by recognizing it and praising God for it.

When adverse situations arise, you have a choice either to become frustrated, or become hopeful and trust God for the best outcome for you and all concerned. Today, make a commitment to thank God for at least the lessons learnt from your adversity.

SUGGESTED READINGS: Genesis 50:19,20; Psalm 22:3; Romans 8:28.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: When I magnify the good in my life, my blessings increase.

“Dear God, help me to see your hand in every scene in my life. Amen.”

© Monica Hernandez, Th.D.

Keep Your Hopes Alive

2009-03-06T15:12:00.003-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

William Shakespeare, the famous English poet once wrote: “Cowards die a thousand times before their deaths. The valiant taste of death but once.” Let it also be said that people without hope or with a dull, weak hope die just as many times.

A life without hope is like a stagnant pool, wide open for destructive forces to come in and play, keeping such a life in bondage to failure and despair. It is an existence of cowardice, filled with fear to hope or dream, in direct contrast to the life of the valiant who live by hope and keep it alive. At 1 Cor. 9:10, we read: "For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope” The above text is saying that “when we plow (or work), it should be in hope (for its rewards)” and “when we thresh in hope we should be recipients of what we hope for.” This speaks of expectancy.

Have you been disappointed concerning your hopes and dreams? What are you hoping for? Better finances, a better employment, a marriage, better living quarters, specific changes in your life? Do you hope for your son or daughter or loved one to come off drugs or false appetites, a healing in spirit, soul or body, mending of a breach between you and others?

Oftentimes, the fear to hope or dream is the result of former dashed hopes. The very things that we had deeply hoped for had eluded us at every turn.. We might have caught a glimpse of those things we hoped for but as we reached out to grasp them, somehow they get pushed away. This experience can be very frustrating and there are few occurrences that can be compared with that.

Yet, there is hope to overcome dashed hopes.

The good news is that your hope can be rekindled and kept alive. The Scriptures tell us that hope is an anchor to the soul. And what does an anchor do? It keeps a boat or ship from moving about—keeps it steadfast. The power of God within you, your hope of glory, is an anchor that is alive and ready to keep you strong, and steadfast. It will keep you from moving hither and thither. The power of His hope within you will banish sorrow, and help you sing new songs.

At Psalm 42:5, David, the psalmist spoke to himself, asking himself why he was so sad and disquieted but immediately consoled himself with the words “...hope thou in God for I shall yet praise him for his help.” The tone of this psalm reveals deep despair but David knew the remedy for that emotional sickness. He affirmed hope to his soul in a roundabout way. He knew his help would come from God, the only One who could help, and commanded his soul to hope.

How can you rekindle dashed hopes and keep them alive? The first thing to know is that life moves in cycles and seasons and your despair will not last forever. You can go to the Scriptures, find all the promises of God and feed your soul upon them, cultivating steadfastness, perseverance and a continual expectancy. Last, but not at all least, you can revisit your old dreams and goals, seeing them in your mind's eye as accomplished, with a new depth of belief.

Consider David’s thoughts in his condition: “I will yet praise Him for the help of His countenance...” David knew that praise to God for who He is and what He can do is the greatest spiritual remedy for a downcast or disappointed soul. Like David, keep that picture alive in your mind that one day “you will praise Him” for the fulfillment of your hopes and dreams. Let that become a self-fulfilled prophecy to you. As you revisit long-past dreams, do so in vivid detail and rekindle your emotions about them.

When despair tries to overwhelm you, remind yourself that the darkest hour is just before dawn and your new day will come. Cast aside fear and doubt, and never let your dream die.

A woman I know, whom we shall call Linda was married for eleven years and had hoped for a child. She had prayed much about her desire over the years. Just about the time she was twelve years married, Linda conceived and brought forth not one child but two. She was blessed with a beautiful son and daughter.

My hope for you is that you will rekindle dashed hopes and keep them alive by your focus and your prayers. And I say with Paul:“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Suggested Readings: Psalm 31:24, Psalm 33:18-19, Psalm 39:6-7, Psalm 42:5, Psalm 146:5-9, Romans 4:17-18, Hebrews 6:19.

Reflection: Hope is an anchor to my soul. Hope comforts and strengthens my soul. Hope banishes sorrow. Quietly hoping in the Lord sets me free from anxiety, disappointment and pain. My hope is in God who performs all things for me.

“Dear God, you are dealing bountifully with me in every area of my life and I thank you for your love and mercy---all is well and I give thanks. Amen.”

Questions You Wanted to Ask - Two

2009-02-23T19:51:00.002-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

This question came while doing a study of the Apostles Creed...

Question:
What is meant by “the communion of saints?”

Answer:
There is a common bond between believers in Christ whether in heaven or on earth. This term “communion of saints” refers to the brotherly communion we on earth have among ourselves and with those who have gone on before in Christ. Whether in heaven or still on earth, we are all awaiting that day of the Lord when He comes to take us up to Himself in the Rapture...we are all one family.

When we look at a gathering in a church service or any other form of Christian fellowship, we are looking at a communion of saints.

As I write about the above question today, I am reminded of an incident involving a young Portuguese woman I know, whose name is Émilia. I wish you could have seen Émilia on the day she went for her Canadian citizenship. She was excited, grateful and well-dressed for that special occasion. She had struggled to gain landed immigrant status and finally after some years, she qualified for Canadian citizenship.

On the day of her declared Canadian citizenship, Émilia said to me and some friends: "I am proud to be a Canadian..." She was also proud that her children would be educated in Canada and would grow up in this beautiful country. She also said: "Now, I feel I belong here..."

As I look back, I can see how important it was to Émilia to belong to Canada. It brings home to me the importance of the sense of belonging to someone, a family, a country, and most of all, as we are discussing here today: the household of God. We all seem to appreciate a sense of belonging-—it is part of our human nature.

This brings to mind Paul’s address to the Ephesians, (and all Christians) telling them they were no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God (Ephesians 2:19). What does this mean? It means that each of us is an integral part of the company of heaven. We live here on earth but we belong to heaven. We have citizenship there. And as citizens, we are joint-heirs with Christ, entitled to all that heaven has to offer, particularly eternal life.

How do people gain citizenship in heaven? By receiving the resurrected life of Jesus, the anointed One, into their lives so they can have a new birth: a spiritual rebirth. When we receive Christ into our lives, our heavenly citizenship is declared.

The angels rejoice and we too, like Émilia, should feel not only a sense of belonging to the most profound company there is and ever will be: the household of God, but blessed as well.

Suggested Readings: Luke 10:20, Luke 22:30, John 14:2, Ephesians 2:13-14,19.

The Four Finger Pianist

2009-02-16T18:03:00.002-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

I know you will enjoy watching this inspiring, ten-minute video. It features a young Korean girl who was born with only two fingers on each hand, and her legs ended at her knees. At birth, the doctors thought this girl would not live. Yet Hee Ah lived.

As a young child, Hee Ah’s fingers were weak and her mother thought piano playing would strengthen them. It did. And Hee Ah rose to be an accomplished pianist, touring the world and charming audiences with her musical skills.

Think about it. Our God can “do exceeding abundantly above all we can ask or wish for” and nothing is impossible with Him. Think also that God has blessed each of us with a particular skill or talent. It may be writing, speaking, music, or any of the arts, just waiting to be developed and put to use for His glory.

As you look into your life today, do you see a skill or talent that you can use for the glory of God, which you are allowing to lie dormant within you? God wants you to use the talents He has given you.

To watch this video about Hee Ah Lee,and listen to her piano music, scroll down this page to My Favourite Links and click on: God-given Talent - Hee Ah Lee "The Four Finger Pianist" (Video)

Enjoy. Your comments are welcome.

Love Is In the Air

2009-02-14T00:06:00.001-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

Another St. Valentine’s Day is here and we will be loaded with flowers, chocolates and beautiful cards with wonderful rubrics on love. Our ears will be filled with ideas and discourses on the nature of love, the need and admonishment to love, and the words: “Be my valentine” or “I love you...”

In addition to the yuletide season, at this time of the year, it is common to think of loving and forgiving others and being loved and forgiven in return. We try to follow the popular scriptures on love, and the ones we hear most from pulpits are: “Let brotherly love continue...” and “Love thy neighbour as thyself,” also "If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well" (James 2:8, KJV).

To “do well” in loving others does not mean to be all gushy in our feelings to each other at all times. It does not mean a weak dependency on others for meaningless commingling and attention. It means to support others, spiritually and physically, as best we can. It means being kind to others and giving encouragement in its due time. It means avoiding to do harm to others whether in thought, word or deed, just as we would avoid hell.

The old adage: “Do unto others as you would be done by” still stands. We all want good happenings in our lives at all times, therefore doing good to others is the way to go.

Many times, we easily forgive others, but could never quite forgive themselves for saying or doing things that are not acceptable, and often run those negative scenarios in their minds—over and over again—setting ourselves up for more despondency and self-pity.

How are we to love our neighbours as ourselves? We cannot love others in the way we ought if we have a poor image of ourselves—if we are continually blaming ourselves and putting ourselves down. If we are to love others in a manner that is appropriate, then we would first have to love and appreciate ourselves, not in a haughty or arrogant manner, but in a manner that reflects God’s love to us.

And we can only love ourselves in an appropriate manner when we recognize that we are each created in the “image and likeness of God,” and God did not create us with values that are poor and unworthy of His good pleasure. Everything He created was deemed “good” by Him and when He created us, His masterpiece, He gave us “dominion over all the earth...”

We have all gone our own way from God but He loves us and is wooing us back to Him by His Spirit. He is willing to help us erase the effects of past mistakes if we will return to Him. When we learn to respond to God’s love in a positive way, forgiving ourselves of past shortcomings and moving forward, we are more likely to love ourselves and our neighbour who also is “created in the image and likeness of God.”.

The primary understanding must be to love and appreciate ourselves as God loves and appreciates us, then extend that love and appreciation to others as best we can.

At this time when love is in the air, in addition to sharing loving thoughts, words and actions with others, let us also have love for ourselves even as God loves us—in a sense of acceptance of who we are, forgiving ourselves of past mistakes and making better plans for our future and well-being. Remember, God is not finished with us yet!

God loves you and me just as we are and is willing to help us erase the effects of past mistakes if we will return to Him in true repentance, communion and prayer.

In the process of our spiritual growth, let us not be hard on ourselves for past shortcomings on wisdom and good judgment, but make a decision to rise up from self-criticism and condemnation. The Bible says that “there is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ.”

Brotherly love begins with you and me loving ourselves as God loves us. Lift up your heart to God’s love and as you receive, share it with others as best you can, thereby expanding your horizons and increasing your good. And to the extent you are open and receptive to the love of God is the extent you are able to love others unconditionally.

Help me Lord, to accept your divine love and express that love to others in kindly thoughts, words and actions. Thank you Father.

Suggested Readings: Psalm 133:1, Isaiah 43:18-19, Matthew 22:37-40.

************************************
BREAKING THROUGH THE BARRIERS
************************************
Ask about the workbook, “Breaking Through the Barriers” by Monica Hernandez. This book can be a helpful resource to you in overcoming fear, anger, worry and anxiety and other hurdles in your life.

Questions You Wanted to Ask - One

2009-02-10T17:44:00.005-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

We cannot deny that throughout our lives, perplexing issues arise in our everyday living and we find ourselves faced with questions about God, the Bible, and life in general.

Over the years, I have been asked many questions during my Bible classes, circa 1984 - 2002, also in response to my radio broadcast "The Revealing Word." I am sharing these with the hope that the answers given will inspire you further on the topic in question. Maybe, in your heart, you have some questions too.

The questions and answers are many and will be given in a series, not necessarily every week but as time permits to retrieve them from the archives and present them to you. And to each question and answer, appropriate Scriptures are suggested for your reading and meditation.

Keep visiting this blog often, and feel free to make some comments and ask some questions as well. You might ask your questions either by posting in the comment section on the post or contacting me directly at: monica@newvisionministry.org.

**********************

This one comes from a listener to "The Revealing Word" after a given message on trusting God.

Question:
I prayed to God about a business transaction and the Lord told me the direction I should take but that turned out to be not at all favourable. How can I trust Him in the future?

Answer:
I am sorry to hear things did not work out well or at least in the way you expected them to. I do not have all the answers to God’s ways and His thoughts but I do know that He answers prayer, even if that answer is: “No” with or without an explanation.

At other times, not only do we not get answers but things go awry - the opposite way. However, there has to be a lesson or two you learned from it that can be helpful to you in the future. Even when things do not work out the way we want, God never leaves us empty-handed. He gives us counsel in some way, shape or form that helps us.

God promises to answer our prayers, but many times our problem is that we pray amiss, not in the will of God (not in rightness of thinking) and answers to prayer are either seemingly unanswered or delayed, or the answers go totally the other way. These are the times we have to question ourselves about the validity of our prayers.

Another thing of importance, did you really hear from God? Sometimes we think we hear from God and we have only heard from ourselves and begin to act on those directives. It is not every answer we get from within is correct and some causes for that can be that we pray without a focus - just aimlessly. At other times an unfavourable answer is because we pray amiss and receive not, meaning sometimes our prayers are contrary to God’s truth and fairness to other people.

To pray well, it must be in the revealed directives of God and in humility for a contrite and humble heart God will not despise for He is good and His mercy endures forever. Also, we must have our prayers dominated by the Spirit for we know not how to pray as we ought.

Nevertheless, your disappointment should not prevent you from reaching out to God again in faith after examining yourself concerning your prayer request. Ask yourself whether your request is legally and morally right and that the expected answer is fair to you and others concerned. And again, trust him to deliver.

Suggested Readings: Jeremiah 29:11; James 4:3.

Thought for Today: God hears and answers prayer.

About My Father's Business

2009-02-05T00:28:00.004-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

It was on a Friday evening in November at two minutes to six o’clock that my friend Sylvie phoned and invited me to an intercessors’ prayer gathering to take place at her home in the next hour and a half. The evening was cold, wet and dark, a perfect one to be at home all warm and cozy, and going out was nowhere in my mind.

I accepted Sylvie’s invitation and as I hung up the phone, I felt it was only she who could get me out of my house on such an evening, and at such short notice. However, I reasoned within myself that Sylvie is a faithful friend and supporter in my ministry and I should go.

As I made myself ready to leave the house, my thoughts raced on many things. My thoughts dwelt heavily on how it was a sacrifice to be going out on such a wet night, but then again I thought, this sacrifice of my time and comfort was in no way compared to Jesus’ sacrifice and comfort for me.

And from the depth of my being I was reminded of the Scripture: “...wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” Then I reasoned that this call to pray must be “about my Father’s business.”

When I arrived at Sylvie’s home, there were three other women present and together we spent a couple hours, storming heaven for our homes, our families, our government, schools, teachers, and the troops in Iraq, and Afghanistan.

Like the biblical event in the Upper Room, we were in one accord and we knew that God heard our voices in prayer and would use them for His glory, in His timing. It was a fulfilling task.

As we finished our prayer session, and were about to leave, one of the women echoed my earlier thought. She said: “Never mind the weather, this is a divine appointment and as intercessors, we must be about our Father’s business...” I was stunned at her words. I felt a response in my spirit and I recognized her words as a confirmation of my thoughts and feelings before I left my house.

Then I knew that going to the prayer gathering was not at all about Sylvie’s call and my choice but the Lord’s doing, calling me to join others in prayer. I felt a deeper understanding that prayer intercession is “my Father’s business” and as an intercessor, I must be obedient to His call.

On my way home, reflecting on the prayer needs we interceded for, I wondered: “Was it Sylvie who got me out of my house on this cold, wet night to a time of prayer or was it Jesus?” And I recognized that the Lord often tests us for obedience and blesses us later with an understanding of His ways.

Dear God, help us all to be obedient to your call and follow your directions.

SUGGESTED READINGS: Luke 2:49; John 16:23-24; James 5:16.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY: God’s testing us for obedience stretches our understanding.

*********************************
QUESTIONS YOU WANTED TO ASK
*********************************
Coming soon: "Questions You Wanted to Ask." This is a collection of questions I have been asked over several years in “The Revealing Word Bible Class” about the Bible and life in general, and the answers given. Keep visiting this blog and watch for it.

Monica

*************************
PRAYER SUPPORT
*************************
Are you facing challenges? In need of prayer support? Send us an email about your prayer needs and we will come into agreement with you for the wonder-working power of Christ in your life. Send an email prayer@newvisionministry.org. Your request will be placed on our prayer-list for forty days.

The Prayer of Jabez

2009-02-02T21:59:00.004-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

Many of us have read Bruce Wilkinson’s bestseller “The Prayer of Jabez” and have been inspired by it. And turning to the Scriptures we read: “And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me” (1 Chronicles 4:10, KJV). Here Jabez is making a simple request to God, asking for what is already his, and the Scriptures say that God granted Jabez that which he requested.

What is so remarkable about this prayer? It is a simple plea, concise and uplifting, directed to God, with no reference to vengeance on his enemies or bemoaning his plight. This indicates that Jabez was well grounded and balanced in thought, words and understanding, and is a fine example for us to follow.

Analysis of this faith-filled prayer shows that it addresses three of our most basic needs: (1) prosperity, (2) the hand of God in our lives, and (3) the grace of God to keep us from evil that we might not be hurt.

Asking for prosperity is simply asking God to release that which is ours for He has given to each of us a portion, and it is divine. Asking for the hand of God in our lives is simply asking for His rule, power and wisdom because He sees and knows how all things must work. And asking that God keep us from evil that we might not be hurt is the same as the ending of the prayer Jesus gave to His disciples - that which we call the Lord’s prayer.

Is it selfish to ask the Lord to “enlarge your coast?” No, not at all. It is more selfish not to pray for others or not to share our prosperity with others, than it is to ask the Lord to prosper us, for prosperity is our heritage. Jesus taught that “we must ask, seek and knock and we will receive, find and have the door opened to us.”

The Scriptures also teach that “we receive not because we ask not...” and “delight thyself in the Lord and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart.”

The Prayer of Jabez is a statement of humility, recognizing that God is All-Power and the Giver of all things, spiritual and material, thus giving glory unto God.

Thank God, He is the Giver of every good and perfect gift and there is more than enough of every good thing in the Kingdom of heaven for everyone on this earth.

Suggested Readings: 1 Chronicles 4:10; Matthew 6:9-13; Matthew 7:7-8.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: God is my Source for all things spiritual and material.

*********************************
QUESTIONS YOU WANTED TO ASK
*********************************
Coming soon: "Questions You Wanted to Ask." This is a collection of questions I have been asked over several years in “The Revealing Word Bible Class” about the Bible and life in general, and the answers given. Keep visiting this blog and watch for it.

Monica

*************************
PRAYER SUPPORT
*************************
Are you facing challenges? In need of prayer support? Send us an email about your prayer needs and we will come into agreement with you for the wonder-working power of Christ in your life. Email prayer@newvisionministry.org. Your request will be placed on our prayer-list for forty days.

Words That Touch the Heart

2009-01-29T10:45:00.000-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

“To be happy, to possess eternal life, to be in God, to be saved - all these are the same. All alike mean the solution of the problem, the aim of existence. And happiness is cumulative, as misery may be. An eternal growth is an unchangeable peace, an ever more profound depth of understanding, a possession constantly more intense and more spiritual with the joy of heaven - this is happiness. Happiness has no limits.”
—Henri Frédéric Amiel (1821 - 1881), Swiss philosopher

The Bible: “What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”

“Be neither the slave of your impulses and sensations of the moment, nor of an abstract and general plan; be open to what life brings from within and without, and welcome the unforeseen, and give to your life unity, and bring the unforeseen within the lines of your plan. Let what is natural in you raise itself to the level of the spiritual, and let the spiritual become once more natural. Thus will your development be harmonious.”
—Henri Frédéric Amiel (1821 - 1881), Swiss philosopher

The Bible: “Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength”

“Whenever conscience speaks with a divided, uncertain, and disputed voice, it is not yet the voice of God. Descend still deeper into yourself, until you hear nothing but a clear and undivided voice, a voice which does away with doubt and brings with it persuasion, light and serenity. Happy, says the apostle, are they who are at peace with themselves, and whose heart condemns them not in the part they take.”
—Henri Frédéric Amiel (1821 - 1881), Swiss philosopher

The Bible: “...But the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.”

Suggested Readings: 1 Kings 19:12; Proverbs 8:14; Matthew 16:26.

Thought for Today: God speaks to His servants in various ways.

Examine Yourself...

2009-01-26T19:58:00.003-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

Yesterday, I visited a church in the city’s East end for the first time and had a memorable experience. The pastor gave a special welcome to people visiting from other churches, and announced that it was Communion Sunday, and visitors were welcome to partake of the Lord’s Supper as long as they knew Jesus. His admonition was: “Examine yourself” and went on to explain.

His points for self-examination were: “Do you know Jesus? What does Jesus mean to you? Is He living in your heart? Is He your all-in-all? Is He leading your life? Are you walking in and with Him? Do you regard Him as the second Person of the Holy Trinity? Do you regard Him as the Son of God? In short, is He your Lord and Saviour?”

He continued: “If you can answer all these questions in an affirmative way, you can partake of these Communion emblems, whether you belong to this church or another Christian church." And he further commented: "There is only one Church, with our Lord, Jesus Christ as the Head, but several denominations within it.”

I felt touched. I was much impressed with the pastor’s words and reflected on the times, several years ago, when I held church and did the Communion service. I simply spoke a word of blessing upon the bread and wine and had them passed out to the congregation. I hadn’t given that extra focus on a relationship with Jesus.

This pastor’s words prompted me to a deeper understanding of the oneness of the Lord’s church, which is all about Jesus – who He was, is and forever will be, what He did, and the abundant life He came to bring.

I remembered Jesus' words to His disciples at the Last Supper: “...this do in remembrance of me.” and what better way to remember Him than to remember the things He did and said as recorded, and remember that He is always with us?

Are you worthy of partaking of the Lord’s Supper at any church, if allowed by that church? It is a relationship with the Head of the Church that matters. Examine yourself and if you are walking “in and with Christ” you are worthy to sup with Him.

Suggested Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:24-28.

A Day of Rejoicing

2009-01-21T15:55:00.003-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

This is a day of rejoicing. Yesterday, President Obama was inaugurated as the 44th president of the United States of America. Billions of people around the world were at their television sets, eyes fixed on every move of the Obamas, and absorbing every spoken word.

Obama spoke meaningful messages of hope that can fan the flames of inspiration in our hearts, whether on a national or personal level. For example his motto: “Yes, we can” can be an inspiration to young people and even the not so young, everywhere. And his words: “We have chosen hope over fear...” are powerful.

As I viewed the inauguration of President Obama, and watched the diversity of races of people the world over, rejoicing at his success and promises of economic change for America, I thought of Jesus’ promises of spiritual change at His second coming, when “...every eye shall see him...” Will it be as joyful as Obama’s presidency? And exciting? And hopeful for change? I believe it very well will be. What do you think?

We have a promised day of rejoicing when we see Jesus coming in the clouds. It is a time for complete transformation and joy as we move into His millennial reign with Him. It is our blessed hope for change, peace and harmony. It is a time to hang our hopes upon, even today.

Suggested Readings: Daniel 7:13; Revelation 1:7.

How Time Flies!

2009-01-14T22:39:00.003-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

Today, I celebrate another year-cycle on planet earth; it is my birthday. Wanting to get as much as possible out of today, I awoke early—6:00 am. to be exact. And though I did not accomplish anything spectacular, it was a great day. I believe this was my most well-wished birthday for a long time.

Have you ever wondered at how our birthdays keep piling up on us and we cannot hold them back? It seems to me like it was just a few weeks ago that I was up for birthday wishes, e-cards and all, and here it is again today. And as the birthday wishes, phone calls, flowers and gifts poured in, I reflected on time and how it flies.

Have you ever wondered about time and how it flies? Time does its own thing. We cannot control it, tame it, or hold it back. We cannot put a finger on it. And about our birthdays, we cannot say to time: “Not this year, please...hold this birthday back. I am not ready...I will sit this one out.”

Sometimes, as we watch the years piling up on us, we ask the question: “What is time?” And today, as I thought about time and how it flies, I was reminded of these words by St. Augustine: “What then is time? If no one asks me, I know what it is. If I wish to explain it to him who asks, I do not know.”

About time, Charles Dickens once commented: “Old Time, that greatest and longest established spinner of all...his factory is a secret place, his work is noiseless, and his hands are mutes.” True.

When I asked my husband for his take on time, he said: “Time waits for no one, you know that.” That too, is true.

Terry, my nephew, phoned in from Germany with birthday greetings for me and he surely made my day. His take on time was this: “Time is the longest thing we have” and “It is better that time flies and not stand still.” Talk about wisdom! Truly, if time stood still, there would be no life. I never thought of that.

I have heard people say that God is partial. People often say this when they consider how some are rich while others are poor. However, concerning time, it flies for everyone and birthdays? This is one area where people cannot say God is partial—the rich and poor, all have to get older as the weeks and months, and years go by.

While it is customary to make resolutions at the time of the New Year, I find it more appropriate to make resolutions on my birthday. It is a new year-cycle and I find significance in setting my thoughts in order at this time. Today, as I reflected on the past year of my life, making up a sum-total, I realize how many of my personal goals have been accomplished and some dreams came true. And I thank God for that.

God has been good, and I thank Him for life, health, strength, courage, family and all He has done through my life this past year and I look forward to a new year, again filled with God's best, beginning today.

Suggested Readings: Psalm 90:12; Ecclesiastes 3:1-8.

The Fine Art of Letting Go

2009-01-09T12:45:00.003-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

Do you have problems in letting go the issues that trouble you? I have discovered that one of the biggest challenges we face after we have sought God’s counsel for solving a problem is to let go that issue to Him. However, I have also discovered there is a fine art in letting go and was blessed to learn the secret.

When we are troubled, our human nature tends to hold on to that problem, running negative scenarios over and over in our minds, and though we might pray, we have the tendency to dictate to God the way the solution should come. However, regardless of how we think, God will answer, in any of His manifold ways and in His own timing. I have found that what we need to do after seeking His counsel in a matter is to let it go and let Him perform His wonders for us.

What is it that makes us hold on to a problem after we have sought God about it? It is anxiety and the human need to be always in control. Yet, holding on to the problem causes not only anxiety but fear, and it encourages doubt. That pesky situation seems to keep us tied as though to a stake and we often do not remember that not only we ought to let it go but that we have the capacity to do it.

Letting go to God is not a passive occurrence as some people might think, but a positive choice after one has obeyed the Scripture: “Ask, seek and knock...” This does not mean that we are to live aimlessly, but it means that because we have asked, we are to know we will receive, and because we know we will receive, we can afford to let go the problem. It means that instead of inventing our own solutions, we ask, seek and knock, and make ourselves ready to receive God’s best: His solution and insights from His Spirit to our inner-spirit.

When we do not let go to God we are saying in essence that He does not know our needs and desires, and that He does not know how to fulfil them, even if we told Him. To sum it all up, it means that we are doubting the power of God.

Letting go a problem might be easier said than done, except you know the secret
of the art of letting go. And the secret is to treat the pesky situation like you treat a letter that you put into the mailbox—just let it go!

Think for a moment. When you go to the mailbox to send a letter, do you hold on to it? You cannot mail the letter, yet hold on to it. You just have to let it go! Just the same, when you send a request to God, instead of holding on to it and trying to fix the problem yourself, you can refrain from holding on to it, and thinking how it will be solved.

The Scriptures say: "Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered..." (Psalm 68:1). You can let go your problem and let God arise into the situation and work through it for you.

There is a fine art in letting go our concerns to God and it is three-fold: (1) ask, seek and knock on God’s door about the problem, (2) speak a word of release of the problem, and (3) surrender the solution to the wisdom of God.

In this moment, you can resolve to let go and let God perform His perfect work in your life and affairs, knowing that all things work together for good to them that love Him. You can trust Him to uphold you, making your way safe and successful. You can rest in God for underneath are His everlasting arms.

What problems in your life are you holding on to, trying to fix them in your own strength? The following poem by an unknown author tells it all:

Let Go and Let God

As children bring their broken toys, with tears for us to mend,
I brought my broken dreams to God, but then...
Instead of leaving Him in peace to work alone,
I came around and tried to help with ways that were my own.
At last I snatched them back again and cried:
“How could you be so slow!”
“My child” He said: “What could I do, you never did let go...”
—Author unknown

Suggested Readings: Deuteronomy 33:27, Psalm 37:3-8, Proverbs 3:5.

***************
Ask about the workbook: “Breaking Through the Barriers” by Dr. Hernandez. This book can be a helpful resource to you in overcoming fear, worry and anxiety, guilt and other negative emotions. Telephone (416) 744-9745 or send an email to drmhernandez@newvisionministry.org.

Create Balance In Your Life This Year

2009-01-04T00:05:00.004-05:00

by Monica Hernandez

Is your life hectic? Are you overwhelmed by obligations, keeping abreast with career and the changing times, juggling priorities, and striving to honour appointments? Whatever your occupation, this busyness is the nature of current times in this society and we all fall prey to it.

Yet, as we begin to think carefully, we see that our busyness all stems from a sense of being in control of our lives, rather than from an understanding that we are owned by God (Psalm 100) and He will lead us into more harmonious ways to fulfill His plans.

However, it is not too late in the new year to make resolution to create balance in your life by savouring God’s presence and the soundness of His leading. Trust me, this counsel is not only for you but for me as well, because I too, am guilty of multi-tasking and being overwhelmed.

Though we might seem overwhelmed by our activities and each one seems just as important as the other, and we want to do them all, we can bring order out of chaos and balance into our every day affairs. We can bring balance into our lives when we recognize that we are creatures not only of body, but of soul (mind, will and emotions) and spirit as well, and need to give attention to all aspects of our being.

In the latter part of last year, I found myself being very busy in the outer realm of life, with writing projects, counselling people, and teaching classes, among other tasks—far too busy and not maintaining my devotional life like I am used to. My sense of connection with God was brittle. I would lie awake at nights, feeling tense, irritable and being flooded with past memories that were not at all pleasant. In other words, my life was not in balance. I was not at peace.

One night, as I lay awake in bed, I was reminded of Jesus’ teaching on the true value of life versus the possessing of an abundance of things in the natural realm (I believe this includes overworking too). He was teaching about the need to recognize our spiritual lives and maintain a balance between that and our natural lives. This indicates that there is more to life that ordinarily meets the eye.

It was not long before my thoughts shifted to Psalm 100 which says that we did not make ourselves and belong to God, and I began to take stock of my devotional life. When last did I meditate in the Word? When last did I spend quality time in the Word and speak it into my life and affairs? And I recognized that it was longer than was good for me.

We hear a lot these days about maintaining a balanced diet—don’t we? But not much about doing the same with our spiritual diet, for example, partaking of the nature of Christ through His words, and appropriating them into our lives so that our spiritual immune system can be strong, and avoid the attacks of destructive forces.

When we maintain a balanced diet and physical fitness, we develop strong bodies and an immune system that wards off illness. Just the same, when we maintain a balanced spiritual diet and spiritual fitness, we develop a strong immunity that wards off many troubles and nuisances in our lives. How do we maintain a balanced spiritual diet? By appropriating spiritual truths into our being, in faith. This practice is very similar to the eating of food.

In balancing our lives, four important principles stand out: (1) time management, (2) re-thinking our priorities, (3) nurturing spiritual values, and (4) building spiritual discipline to follow through.

King Solomon taught that “there is a time for every purpose: a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to break down and a time to build up; a time to cast away stones and a time to gather stones; a time to rend and a time to sew; a time to keep silence and a time to speak” (Ecclesiastes 3). And these are just a few of the examples he gave.

I will add this one: there is a time for busyness and there is a time for relaxation and smelling the roses.

Take time to pause and reflect on the following words of an anonymous writer who took time to give us “Take Time...”

“Take Time...”
Take time to work...It is the price of success.
Take time to think...It is the source of power.
Take time to play...It is the secret of perpetual youth.
Take time to read...It is the fountain of wisdom.
Take time to be friendly...It is the road to happiness.
Take time to laugh...It is the music of the heart.
Take time to love and be loved...It is a God-given privilege.
Take time to share...It is too short a life to be selfish.
Take time to dream...It is hitching your wagon to a star.
Take time to pray...It is the greatest power on earth
—Author unknown

And may I add my two cents’ worth? Take time to talk with God often, and when you do, take time to listen; He has much to say. Also, take time to create balance in your life this year.

Suggested Readings: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; Psalm 127:1; Luke 12:15; Ephesians 5:18-19.

Are Resolutions Worthwhile?

2008-12-31T20:42:00.003-05:00

Did you ever notice that for a few years now, each year seems to go faster that the one before? And this makes 2008 seem to be the fastest one ever.

And here we are at New Year resolution time again---for 2009.

Last week, I did a survey with more than a dozen persons, mostly family and friends, about the value of making new year resolutions, and gleaned some interesting responses. A few persons claimed making resolutions is a waste of time because we soon forget them and go back to our old ways; others felt making resolutions helped steer their thoughts and actions. Some were mildly interested in the idea and a young man in the entertainment business was sure that God would do whatever He wants to do, so why bother about resolutions.

Despite the fact that many people consider new year resolutions to be a waste of time and effort, I do believe resolutions (whether at the new year or any other time) ought not to be considered frivolous, but as necessary tools for exploring our potentials and “the great things that God has prepared for us.”

I am one for making resolutions, not only at the beginning of a new year, but at other times, as well. I believe resolutions are worthwhile because they do three things: (1) they encourage vision, (2) they encourage hope, and (3) they encourage enthusiasm. However, in the midst of making resolutions, it is wise that we recognize that God has a plan for each of us and if we trust Him, He would orchestrate the workings of our desires according to His plans.

Thank God, He does not discredit our human needs and desires, however, He requires that we delight ourselves in Him for their fulfillment (Psalm 37:4). And in all our resolutions for positive change, be they at the new year or at any other time, it is wise for us to remember it is the Spirit of God working His desires for our good through us, not only for ourselves but to make this place a better world.

Only God knows the route to the fulfillment of our resolutions and will lead us there if only we submit our ideas to Him, release them and allow Him to lead us in this dance of life. Our expected goals become more meaningful and fulfilling when we allow God to lead us to them.

Yes, New Year resolutions are worthwhile. Write a list of all the things you would like to accomplish in this new year, pray about them often in firm belief; speak positive words about them and wait to see the goodness of God with whom “nothing is impossible.”

This year, examine your resolutions, and ask yourself: Are they morally right, legally right, spiritually right? Can they be of benefit to your community and the world at large? If you can answer yes to these questions, then reach out for fulfillment of those resolutions, but only in alliance with your heavenly Father who sees and knows all things that are best for us.

And above all, let us all make resolution for becoming peacemakers and to take part in the bringing forth of God's kingdom of peace, love and goodwill.

May the Lord richly bless you with His peace, love and prosperity throughout this coming New Year and always.

Suggested Readings: Psalm 37:4, 145:16, Proverbs 29:18, Jeremiah 29:11.

Don't Quit

2008-10-27T13:18:00.005-05:00

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won if he'd stuck it out.
Don't give up, though the pace seems slow;
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than
It seems to a faint and faltering man;
Often the struggler has given up
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late, when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are;
It may be near when it seems afar;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit;
It's when things seem worst that you mustn't quit.

---Author Unknown

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
---The Bible

Dealing With Decisions

2008-09-24T15:29:00.006-05:00

When faced with tough decisions to be made, how do you deal with it? Do you seek the answers from friends and relatives? Do you allow confusion to fill your mind? Do you wring your hands in despair when the answer is slow in coming?

Decision making is a big part of successful living, and every right thinking person is concerned with making right decisions. Every day we are faced with this challenge and there are always various options to each decision we face. Two or more courses of action may seem to be right but we know we can only choose one and face the consequences. How can we know which one is right for us, regardless of whether it is right or wrong for someone else?

It takes wisdom and good judgment to make right decisions and that can only come by being in tune with the Spirit of God. When we are in tune with the Spirit of God, we have the Spirit of Wisdom dwelling within us to guide and direct us into the right paths for our highest benefit. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us: “Trust in the Lord—lean not to your own understanding—in all your ways, acknowledge the Lord and He will direct your paths.” This message is vital, timeless and clear.

At 1 Samuel 30, the Scriptures tell us that David faced a traumatic situation at Ziklag when the Amalekites burned it and took the women captive. David was greatly distressed but in the midst of his sorrow, wisdom came shining through. He did not take matters into his own hands but sought direction from the Lord and he was specific.

At verse eight, David inquired of the Lord, saying: “Shall I pursue after this troop? Shall I overtake them?” And the Lord answered: “Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake them, and without fail, recover all.” Here we see humility and a willingness to be directed. What can we glean from David’s attitude? We can glean the importance of going first to God in all our affairs, seeking His guidance and direction in all things, great and small, and allowing Him as the Divine Director. But we can only do this successfully when we live in covenant relationship with God as David did.

As we walk in attunement with the Spirit of God within us He envelops our thinking and feeling and brings them in accordance with whatever is highest and best for us. And it is always right. The quality and depth of our attunement with God determines the quality of our ability to act out our parts on the stage of life.

God guides and directs us only when we willingly let go our concerns to Him in deep trust, but only after we have sought His guidance and direction. Psalm 46, verse 10 says: “Be still, and know that I am God.” The word “still” in the Hebrew in that text means, to “let go” or “cause to fall.” When we need God's direction in our affairs we are to become “still,” meaning we are to let go our problems to Him. In other words, we are to allow Him to direct our paths.

One of humanity’s main problems in trusting God is that we somehow think that God does not know our needs and far less knows how to fulfill them; isn't that foolish on our part? In order to successfully trust God and “let go” our burdens and concerns, we must first have a profound faith in Him and confidence in ourselves as His children. Then will He reveal Himself to us as discernment, guidance and direction.

Is there some issue you are facing at this time that is distressing in that you cannot choose which way to go? Lean not to your own understanding but acknowledge God's all-knowing power and He will direct your paths. Bring that issue to God in prayer and in quietness and confidence, ask for His direction and willingly place yourself and your affairs into God's directing hands. Be specific about what you should do concerning your challenges. God will not fail to answer and you should not fail to follow through with whatever He commands. Then let go that issue. Release it unto God.

Back to David. Despite some foolish choices he had made in his time, yet David lived in covenant relationship with God and the Scriptures tell us that “David was a man after God’s own heart” (1Sam. 13:14). His loyalty to God is a good example for each of us to follow.

The Book Of Life

2008-08-24T22:32:00.003-05:00

This morning, as part of my devotions, I was led to Philippians 4:3, and Revelation 21:27 which says: “And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth...or maketh a lie...but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” and on my way home from church, I heard a sermon on the radio that dealt with that same Scripture.

At last, during the day, I found time for further Scripture reading and went back to the above mentioned verses and others that dealt with the same theme.

The Scriptures speak of those who reject the book of life as being “dull of hearing” and “hard of heart.” However, Jesus shows that He will confess the names of those who follow His way to the Father and have their names written in the book of life.

When we realize the value of the book of life, it is not easy for us to understand why some people would reject having their names written in the book of life, yet the answer is simple: lack of understanding, stubbornness and going their own way, however the Scriptures reveal that the way of transgressors is hard and keeps them out of the book of life...so really, it is a vicious cycle of choices and consequences.

To have your name written in the book of life is to be in good standing with Jesus who says He is the way, the truth and the life. He also taught that His words are life and if we abide in Him and have His words abide in us, we will maintain that good standing.

On the other hand, we each have our own personal book. Your life and mine are books into which we write every day, hour by hour, and minute by minute. We write into our books with our thoughts, words, deeds and beliefs. And even when, by God’s grace, we make changes in our ways, we are yet writing into our personal book.

When our personal books please God the Father, He writes our names into His book. And His book is for life eternal, not merely a matter of length of days but of a quality of existence that is abundant and divine.

What does it take to have your name in the book of life? The Scriptures teach that we are to “labour not for the meat that perishes” and also that our labour for Christ is not in vain for such acts afford us to have our names written in His great book: the Lamb’s book of life.

Is your name written in the Lamb’s book of life? Are you labouring for Christ in any way that you can? When we work for Him, it is a labour of love that does not go unrewarded (Philippians 4:3).

SCRIPTURE HELPS: John 14:6; Colossians 3:3; Revelation 21:27.
PRAYER: “Almighty God, grant me grace to have my name written in your book and not ever have my name to be blotted out of that book. Amen”
THOUGHT FOR TODAY: Our names are written in the book of life when we labour for Christ.

On Being In The Right Place

2008-08-06T21:38:00.002-05:00

Do you remember that little ditty: “In fourteen hundred ninety two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue...”?

History tells us that Christopher Columbus left Spain in search of a route to Asia and was disappointed because he did not find what he was looking for, but somehow in his journey, he discovered a whole new world: the Americas. Was it an accident that Columbus did not find what he was looking for? It was no accident that Columbus discovered the Americas; it was by God’s will and design, and God’s timing is always right. It turned out that Columbus was in the right place at the right time, under God’s direction for a mighty revelation from Him.

Like Columbus, we might begin a journey with a certain destination in mind and find ourselves way off course. But you and I can be assured that wherever we are, it is always in the right place God wants us to be, even if it is for the sake of learning one of life’s many lessons.

Sometimes, we do not understand but God sees the big picture and either directs or permits us to be exactly where we are, though at the time it might not be pleasant for us.

Once I was driving in a strange area, looking for an address and things just did not seem right. I thought I had made all the right turns but eventually, I did not see landmarks I was told I would see and realized I was not in the place I should be. It was scary. I actually had to pull to the side of the road, become very quiet and seek God for a leading to find my way.

When I started on my way again, it was not long before I gained a sense of direction and was able to find the place of my destination. Not only that. Imagine my great surprise when, because of driving round and round in that area, I discovered a new and shorter route to get to another place that I travelled to very often. That was helpful because I had reason to be going to that other place very soon.

Did you ever wonder whether you are in the right place? Maybe this concerns your career, your place of residence, or maybe you are in a strange situation: one you are not at all accustomed to. You can be assured that God knows where you are and you can know the reason for being in that place if you would pause and seek an answer from God.

Scripture Help
“Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk...” (Psalm 143:8).

Dear God, help me to know I am in the right place for a revelation from you and help me to hear your voice as you speak to me. Amen.

Birthday 101

2008-07-31T21:57:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday evening I attended a birthday party for a grand, old lady, celebrating her 101st birthday. As you can imagine, there were many toasts, speeches and well wishes for the birthday girl. And as can be expected, people were asking her: “What is your secret of your long life?” And Rosa’s response was always: “I don’t know...”

It was amusing to hear the questions asked of Rosa: what did she do to live so long and look much younger than her years? What are the foods she loves and eats? Is she vegetarian? Did she smoke or drink alcohol?

People discussed among themselves what they thought would give long life: the foods we eat, the consuming of alcohol or not, meditation, Bible reading and prayer, honesty and simplicity of mind. Wisely, Rosa did not claim right living, no smoking of tobacco, no consuming of alcohol and the usual verbiage concerning longevity.

This lady, who has seen her great-great grandchildren looks like a person 80 years of age for the most and, by God’s grace, she looks at television without glasses, keeps an intelligent conversation and has survived colon cancer just five years ago.

What makes one person live to the age of 101 and beyond, usually surviving illness, sorrow and difficult times, while others are dying at a much younger age? I have seen people who were ill, in the jaws of death, spat out again for another lease of life. I have seen people who seemed well and just went to bed and never got up again. All of this is a mystery, too much closed for us to unlock.

Concerning old age: despite the usual aches and pains, there are some benefits to old age, for example, many are the life lessons learned and most issues of life are not needed to be speculated upon any more. Too, many elderly folk enjoy watching their family grow, keeping tally of the grand children and great-grandchildren with a sense of self-fulfilment

What is the mystery of old age? What is the mystery of life as a whole? Each of us is a mystery—-our birth, life-existence and death are all parts of the one grand mystery called life that we experience day by day. And hinting at the fullness and mystery of life, Jesus taught that “there is more to life than the things we possess...” (Luke 12:15). This indicates that there is much we do not know about life.

All life is a mystery. In the song “Ah, Sweet Mystery of Life,” Rida Johnson Young wrote that she found the mystery of life and knew the secret of it all. The song is as follows:

AH, SWEET MYSTERY OF LIFE
Ah! sweet mystery of life, at last I've found thee;
Ah! I know at last the secret of it all;
All the longing, striving, seeking, waiting, yearning,
The burning hopes, the joys and idle tears that fall!
For 'tis love, and love alone, the world is seeking;And 'tis love, and love alone, that can repay;
Tis the answer, 'tis the end and all of living,
For it is love alone that rules for aye!

NOTE: The song “Ah, Sweet Mystery of Life” was written by Rida Johnson Young and set to music by Victor Herbert.

What is the secret of life? There is no known secret of life—-especially long life. If that were so then there would have to be a secret to a short existence. And no one knows anything about those two occurrences. From the moment we enter this land of the living, our passport is stamped for departure at some time, whether we are aware of that time or not.

The secret and mystery of it all are in our Creator’s mind and hands, and His ways are past finding out (Romans 11:33).

Dealing With Procrastination

2008-07-27T22:18:00.007-05:00

Did you ever have an important task to do and kept avoiding it? Maybe it was a letter to be written, a phone call to be made or any of the multiple tasks that confront us, day by day. Or it might have been certain steps you needed to take in order to achieve a goal. However, whatever it was, you just kept putting it off till another time with seeming justifiable reasons and excuses, not realizing that procrastination had gotten a hold on you.

Procrastination is one of the commonest deceptions we allow into our lives, complete with its veils and façades for us to hide behind. We procrastinate in many ways, for example, leaving a task undone up to the last minute, avoiding a task completely, doing insignificant tasks rather than what we should be doing, beginning a necessary task and quickly moving off to something else that sabotages our attention.

Often, when we put off major tasks we feel guilty and compensate for our actions by doing minor tasks that could easily wait for another time. This attitude somehow gives us a sense of usefulness, but is the battle won? This is a neat trick we do to ourselves to make us feel productive but the fact is that the main thing to be done still goes undone.

A medieval sage has said: “Defer not till the evening what the morning will accomplish.” And this wise admonishment still stands today, concerning anything from day to day chores to achieving fulfillment of your personal desires and goals.

Procrastination is a learned attitude: an organized delay tactic, and as such, we can learn to overcome it. When we find ourselves doing any of the above we need to be inquiring of ourselves as to the reason for our attitude.

Procrastination often works under the guise of caution or carefulness, yet it is the result of double mindedness and can become habitual. It is a defense mechanism, so strong and natural to us at times, that we cannot identify it for what it is. However, there are often deeper psychological reasons for habitually putting things off which can be fear, guilt, just plain indifference or other issues.

At James 1:8, the Scriptures say: “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” And when we examine procrastination, we see that it fits this Scripture for it is from a mind beset with too many conflicting issues at hand.

We see too, that procrastination is a type of rebellion and habitual procrastinators are persons plagued by inner conflicts, continually struggling with double sided opinions, usually over simple matters. One part of their minds says: “Go...” and another part says: “What if I go...then ...” and a litany of negative responses arise.

We all procrastinate at times. Yet, the important thing to observe is how habitual it is, how intense it is, and how we deal with it. Sometimes, we lag in our duties and chores, thinking they are too cumbersome, but thank goodness, when we discipline ourselves, often we do those tasks faster and better than we ever could have thought possible.

How can we overcome habitual procrastination? Here are some practical suggestions:

First, recognize the most important tasks at hand, then recognize your habitual inner self-talk about them. Did you ever notice that often, we actually speak our procrastination into manifestation by making statements like these: “I find it so hard to do this or that task.” “No matter how hard I try, I never can begin doing the things I want to do before twelve o’clock every day...” “I cannot seem to find the time to do this or that task...”

Make a list of things to be done with the most important ones first. A helpful idea is to set down dates and times by which they are to be done. And the classic idea of setting realistic goals stands forever.

When we correct our negative inner self-talk and spoken words, we would find that most of the battle is won. Remember that life and death are in the power of the tongue.

When dealing with procrastination, two vital practices are developing discipline and creating a sense of completion or closure. Therefore, plan your work and work your plan. If your task is a big one, break it down into workable portions and move through those portions, one at a time. Then discipline yourself to complete one task before going to another. It might be surprising to find how easy it is to get your tasks done when you work at them in small, organized steps.

Last, but not least, examine the situation to see if you need help and seek help if you need it. Too often, we try to do more than we really need to.

Overcoming Fear

2008-07-12T10:19:00.006-05:00

We cannot deny that fear is one of our fundamental human traits, and every day, we are confronted by many situations that prove this. For example, there is the fear of losing our jobs, our homes, our memory, our lives and much more, and truly, we have little or no control over any of those issues. Our only control in the matter is our choice to take initiative and go to God in prayer.

Fear enslaves our souls, causing us to doubt God’s lovingkindness and anticipate evil tidings. However, at 2 Timothy 1:7, the Scriptures teach that God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. This indicates that God does not want us to live in soul-crippling situations but to come to Him with our troubling concerns and trust Him to work things out.

Nevertheless, there are some justifiable fears we face, for example, the fear of an oncoming vehicle while attempting to cross the street, wild animals approaching us, and devastations like earthquakes and storms, just to name a few. But we can overcome overwhelming feelings of fear such as timidity in standing up for our rights, losing our livelihood, contracting illness and disease, and the outcome of troubling issues in our lives.

Are you living in fear of some kind? Maybe there is a serious challenge in your life and you are afraid that things will not work out favourably to you. Maybe you are afraid of the paths your children are choosing, thinking it can only bring destruction and hurt. It may be any of the many fears we face day by day. Here is a helpful solution: become very quiet and analyze the situation. Then inquire of yourself the true reason for your fear, which most likely, is totally unjustified, and go to God.

How can you overcome fear? Firstly, by recognizing the truth that God did not give His children the spirit of fear, and anything He did not give is not of Him, therefore fear is an enemy to your soul, and you can reject its seeming power over you. Secondly, by recognizing God the Father and Jesus, His Son as being totally free from fear, and affirming the truth of your oneness with them according to Jesus' prayer in John 17:21-23. Thirdly, by releasing your fears to God in communion and prayer, and trusting Him not only for deliverance from fear but also the perfect outworking of the issue at hand.

As we grow in the grace of God, we come to realize more deeply that fear is a deception out of the kingdom of darkness meant to keep our minds off God. And as children of God, we learn to daily affirm our position in Him, put on His whole armour against the kingdom of darkness and walk in the Kingdom of light.

Dear God, help me to realize the truth that greater is your power and love in me than anything in the world, and grant me the wisdom and strength to speak it. Amen.

SCRIPTURE HELPS: John 12:30-32; 1 John 4:4; Ephesians 6:13-18.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: My heavenly Father did not give me a spirit of fear but of power and love, and sound mind. Greater is the power of the Spirit of God in me than he that is in the world.

Fret Not Yourself

2008-07-08T13:23:00.003-05:00

Among our many human weaknesses, one of the most outstanding is fretting or complaining. A clear example of this is seen in the account of the children of Israel as they journeyed from bondage in Egypt to the Promised Land. They were limited in their thinking and behaviour and complained about everything: lack of food, water and physical comforts.

A fretful attitude shows either forgetfulness of the faithfulness of God or a lack of knowledge and belief in His promises and transforming power. However, by God's grace, a fretful attitude can be overcome with prayer and spiritual discipline.

The Scriptures reveal that God hates complaining but loves praises and “inhabits the praises of His people.” And there are always many blessings in our lives we can praise God for.

Are you a fretful person? Here is a little exercise. Spend some quiet time with yourself and speak firmly to yourself as though you are speaking to someone else:

“Every time I find myself fretting and complaining about the things I want and have not yet seen manifested, I shall count it as a sign that I need to recognize the truth that my God is daily loading me with benefits. And I shall pause and count my blessings and thank and praise God for them. I shall praise Him for every cell, every muscle, and every tissue in my body. I shall praise Him for His life coursing through me being. I shall praise Him for the spirit of power, love and sound mind He has given me. I shall praise Him for His love, His mercy and His goodness that endureth forever...”

The next time you become fretful, the Spirit of God will remind you of your spiritual exercise. Then seize the moment to bring that exercise into actuality by praising Him for what He has done, is doing and will continue to do in your life, and fretfulness will diminish as darkness does when light presents itself.

Heavenly Father, help me to recognize your benefits in my life and be thankful for them. Amen.

SCRIPTURE HELPS: Exodus 14:11; Psalm 37:1,7,8; Psalm 68:19; Isaiah 29:24.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY: God is daily loading me with benefits and is worthy of my praise.

Celebrate Today

2008-06-01T15:33:00.001-05:00

Did you ever say to someone, “Good day” or “Good morning” and the response was: “What’s so good about it?” This response has become somewhat a popular cliché by people who claim to be practical, however, there is always something good about today and everyday for every one.

Today is a good day for you and me, regardless of what we may or may not experience, and it is a privilege to each of us to be glad about it and celebrate it. First of all, today is worth celebrating because God created it and everything He has created is good. And He is in the midst of all our activities today; this is a powerful truth, worthy of our contemplation.

Even if adversity comes our way today, today is still worth celebrating because with faith in our hearts, God will use adversity for our good by turning it around if we seek His presence within it. It is good that we all can learn from our adversities and make changes for better days ahead. Then, like Joseph of the Old Covenant, we will be able to look at adversity and say: "But as for you, ye thought evil against me, but God meant it unto good..."

At some point, we might complain: "If today is such a good day, why do I have this or that problem? Why am I sick? Why do I not have enough money to pay my bills? Why do I have so many troubles?" Never mind. Our Father is still in control and will use our adversities to bless us.

Someone has said: "Beyond every dark cloud there is a silver lining" but as children of faith we have a more positive cliché: "Beyond every time of darkness there is a golden blessing." And as we come into the reality of this truth we will see our heavenly Father’s transforming power always at work in our lives.

The secret of enjoying today and every day, no matter what we see, is to be aware that "our heavenly Father works all things for good to them that love Him." And as we grow in faith and understanding we would recognize the "goodness" of each day and the grace of our Father in it.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: Today is the first day of the rest of my life and it is a good day, regardless of what I see in it. I celebrate today.

******************************************
BREAKING THROUGH THE BARRIERS
******************************************
Ask about the workbook: “Breaking Through the Barriers” by Dr. Hernandez. This book can be a helpful resource to you in overcoming fear, worry and anxiety, guilt, instability and much more. Sale price to readers of this blog for the month of June is $25.00 including shipping and handling. Contact New Vision Ministry, P.O. Box 47554, 1530 Albion Road, Etobicoke, Ontario, M9V 5H4 Telephone (416) 744-9745.

Our Good Already Exists

2008-05-29T13:41:00.001-05:00

I once watched a documentary on wild life and one of the scenes was a pack of wild dogs chasing a rabbit across the plains. At last, the rabbit ran into a hole for safety; maybe it was a place he knew. The dogs saw the rabbit run into the hole and tried to get into the hole but could not. However, they kept a vigil, yelping in frenzy at the entrance of the hole.

The dogs knew the rabbit was in the hole; they were sure of it. Madly, some of them tried digging the rabbit out, but had to give up because digging was just not their way of life.

As I watched the persistence and excitement of the dogs, I could not help thinking: “Here is a type of strong faith in action. This is something we all could learn from...”

How can we develop a strong faith for the good things we are seeking from our heavenly Father’s hand? The foundation of our building such faith is knowledge——a profound knowledge of God’s promises of healing, restoration, protection and an abundance of good things.

Just as the dogs knew the rabbit was in the hole and tried to reach it, so we are to know that our good of every kind is in our Father’s hands. Jesus taught that “our Father knows our needs and we are to seek Him first and all these things shall be added to us...” This affirms that all we can ever need already exists in God’s kingdom.

I can almost hear you chuckle: “If my good already exists, why do I not see evidence of it?”

For us, a strong faith in the invisible is absolutely necessary for its goods, however we need to move a step further into the process of manifestation——we need to speak positive words about that which we hope to see an evidence of. We cannot seek God for things then go out and speak in a doubtful manner about receiving them. That would be like driving (or attempting to drive) with one foot on the accelerator and the other on the brakes.

As we daily nurture the thought that our good exists, it would help us build an unwavering faith “as the substance of things hoped for...” It would be the evidence of things not yet seen.

Whenever you become doubtful about that which you are seeking God’s hand for, just give some thought to the fervour and persistence of the wild dogs at the beginning of our story. They knew where their rabbit was and though they did not succeed in getting him, we can do a lot better in reaching the good our Father has provided for us.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: Every good and perfect gift I hope for already exists in God’s kingdom.

What Is True Happiness?

2008-05-21T10:41:00.003-05:00

The other day, I met a man who claims to be happy, yet he does not own much of the material comforts common to many people, and it got me thinking: many who are poor enjoy happiness while many who are wealthy have not yet tasted of that sweet nectar.

Happiness is a natural desire for humankind. We all yearn to feel that sense of well-being in spirit, soul, body and affairs but our failure is that we often seek it in ways that are not right for us. Some seek happiness in worldly pleasure, others in acquiring wealth, yet others in acquiring fame and still, many other ways. This shows us that happiness is not a matter of the acquisition of wealth or fame.

The Scriptures teach: “Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding” (Proverbs 3:13). Yes, wisdom and understanding are at the root of our sense of happiness. And they are vital keys to the solutions of the problems we face. These two attributes of God negate patterns of discord, confusion and conflict, bringing us into happiness. To “find wisdom” and “get understanding” mean to come to realize how limited we are in controlling our lives and affairs and that God is in charge always.

Wisdom and understanding promote a spirit of discernment which is one of the greatest gifts of God. This is spiritual maturity at its best and should be our daily quest.

Though we are to take the initiative for change and making choices, yet God is still in control of all things and works through us individually and corporately to bring about a better life for us and the world at large.

What is true happiness?

True happiness is a condition of contentment and harmony that radiates through us from within. It is from above, not beneath. To be happy does not mean that we have everything we want out of life, but that we have such a great depth of wisdom and understanding we are better able to meet life’s reversals in a more positive way. It also means we are at rest within our being...at peace with God and ourselves.

Can we cultivate happiness? How? We cultivate happiness by observing these spiritual principles: firstly, by seeking God for His wisdom and understanding in all our undertakings, secondly, by yielding our human will about our affairs to God, and thirdly, by following through on His directions. Then, as we become willing to be led and taught, the life of Spirit unfolds and we find true happiness.

May the Lord richly bless you with His peace, love and prosperity.

Suggested Readings: Proverbs 3:13, Proverbs 3:19, Proverbs 4:7, Proverbs 8:34, Proverbs 16:20, Proverbs 28:14, Proverbs 29:18.

Thought For Today: The Spirit of God in me is wisdom and understanding and as I live and move in attunement with Him, His qualities touch me and I am blessed.

Getting The Big Picture

2008-05-18T22:11:00.003-05:00

Going through a pile of memoirs, I found this thought-provoking poem and decided I would share it with you. It is based on Scripture and being in poetic form, it brings home the truth of God’s provision and our need not to be worried or anxious in a delightful and non-theological way.

“OVERHEARD IN AN ORCHARD”
—Elizabeth Chaney - (Circa 1859)

Said the Robin to the Sparrow
“I would really like to know
Why these anxious human beings
Rush about and worry so.”

Said the Sparrow to the Robin
“Friend, I think that it must be
That they have no Heavenly Father
Such as cares for you and me.”

The Scriptures teach that God has not abandoned us, but loves us and cares for us, and we are of more value than many sparrows (Matt.10:31). His thoughts for us are always good and He has already provided good and perfect gifts for us. Patiently, He awaits our recognition of Him and following through on His precepts so that we might receive the fullness of His gifts.

When we consider God’s goodness and His promises, how could we not be obedient to ask, seek and knock at His heavenly storehouse for all He has already provided?

THOUGHT FOR TODAY: God cares and has already provided good and perfect gifts for us.

******************************************
BREAKING THROUGH THE BARRIERS
******************************************
Ask about the workbook: “Breaking Through the Barriers” by Dr. Hernandez. This book can be a helpful resource to you in overcoming fear, guilt, instability, worry and anxiety, and much more. It is available at: A Different Booklist, 746 Bathurst St., Toronto, as well as at New Vision Ministry (416) 744-9745.

Brighten Your Day

2008-05-17T22:17:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, my husband and I visited a friend who is recovering from a mild stroke in a Rehabilitation Centre. When we arrived at the hospital we were just in time to witness a group of elderly people, all in wheel chairs, participating in therapeutic exercises with an instructor.

I watched as they followed instruction to lift their hands, put them behind the neck, massage around their eyes, massage their cheeks, put clasped hands on their heads and other simple exercises that were quite challenging for some.

One woman, who seemed to be in her late senior years, was so intent on the exercises! She did not just do the exercises for the sake of doing them; there was a sense of seriousness and determination on her face as she went through every motion the instructor gave, some with difficulty. In my mind, I nicknamed this woman, Zesty.

At the end of the exercises, the instructor gave some announcements about the Library Cart that would soon be coming for those who want to read magazines and books. He also announced that there would be a bingo game at 1:30 p.m.

Zesty was keen on the bingo. At the word “bingo” her face lit up and she asked the instructor: “What time is the bingo?”

“1:30 p.m.” was the answer.

And it was not long before she asked him again about the time for bingo.

“1:30 p.m.” was the answer again from the instructor.

It was remarkable to observe Zesty, bent on having some excitement and fun. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, she was making effort to lift her spirit. She was determined to rise above her disability and enjoy whatever was available in order to break the boredom and routine of hospital life. Zesty was determined to brighten her day. And her zest for brightening her day inspired me.

I did not get an opportunity to talk with Zesty but I asked my friend about her. He told me: “That lady had a stroke and she is now recovering from it. And though at times, some of us complain about our lot, this lady never complains...”

I thought about myself. I find that because of much sitting at the computer for several hours each day, there is a marked need for daily exercise—nothing strenuous, no barbells or anything like that—but simple stretches morning and evening that would keep my body toned and in good order. Here I am, healthy and able to be mobile on my own, and often covet the time I have to put into my exercise routine which would help me overcome muscle aches and pains that are in no comparison to Zesty’s challenge. And I often complain too!

Watching Zesty's enthusiasm to have her body functioning well again made me realize how we often take the functioning and health of our bodies for granted, moving our limbs how and when we want, and not recognizing this mobility as a gift from God. And for this we should continually be grateful.

And as to Zesty's enthusiasm for brightening her day, I was inspired. As I left the hospital, I said in my mind to Zesty: “Way to go, Zesty.”

In Honour To Mothers Everywhere

2008-05-10T17:26:00.001-05:00

E. V. Lucas, a famous British author, wrote this lovely story which is a kind of parable. He told of a mother who lost her soldier son in the war, and she was inconsolable. “O Lord, that I might see him again,” she moaned, “if only for five minutes, but I wish I could see him again...” An angel heard her prayer and answered: “For five minutes you will see him...”

“Quick, quick,” said the mother, her tears turned to momentary joy.

“Yes,” said the angel, “but think a little. He was a grown man. There are thirty years to choose from. How would you like to see him?”

The mother paused and wondered.

“Would you see him,” said the angel, “as a soldier, dying heroically at his post? Would you see him as he left you to join the transport? Would you see him again as on that day at school when he stepped to the platform to receive the highest honours a boy could have?

The mother’s eyes lit up.

“Would you see him,” said the angel, “as a babe at your breast?”

And slowly, the mother said: “No. I would have him for five minutes, as he was one day when he ran in from the garden to ask my forgiveness for being naughty. He was so small and so unhappy, and the tears were making streaks down his face through the garden dust. And he flew to my arms with such force that he hurt me.”

It is a natural tendency of mothers everywhere to love, nurture and comfort their offspring and this is a reflection of the loving, nurturing and comforting quality of God. No wonder we hear some people recognizing God in their prayers as Father and Mother. His sternness and authoritative qualities are seen as Father and His tenderness, love and caring nature are seen as that of a mother.

Many mothers in the animal kingdom also express those feelings of love and care. Notice the strong feeling of caring and concern when birds use their wings and beaks to arrange their eggs in the nest. Notice too, how they bring food to their little ones and literally feed them. Once, in a television documentary, I watched a mother lion, relaxing while she nursed her cubs. It was very similar to a human mother, relaxing and nursing her offspring. Loving, concern and nurturing their young are natural for mothers everywhere.

Mothers are precious in that there is an indissoluble bond between them and their offspring. And no matter what anybody can do for us, there is nothing to change the fact that our mothers were our first connection with our physical existence in this life. We had been linked with them, nurtured by them, lived in close relationship with them, and brought forth into this world by them.

Our opening story reflects the natural quality of mothers to be needed, depended on and to give comfort. The one thing that mother wished for was to somehow re-live that scene when her son needed her and she would be there for him.

What a privilege it is to honour mothers! And even though many mothers do not always function in the way they were meant to, yet, because of the roles they have played in the earliest moments of our lives, let us honour them all.

Many years ago, in celebrating Mothers Day, it was popular to sing the following song, written by Howard Johnson. Most likely, it will bring back precious memories to you:

M is for the million things she gave me;
O means only that she is growing old
T is for the tears she shed to save me
H is for her heart of purest gold
E is for those eyes that love light shine in
R means right and right she’ll always be.
Put them all together they spell MOTHER...
A word that means the world to me.

A happy Mothers’ Day to mothers and all those who act in the role of mothers everywhere.

Dealing With Change

2008-05-09T14:29:00.002-05:00

Last Friday evening, on the invitation of a friend, I visited a church in my neighbourhood to a Girls Nite Out event, part of which was a movie on Ruth the Moabitess. This story of Ruth is not new to me, however, the movie made quite an impact on me. It helped me realize there is nothing like seeing a Bible story in animation, well portrayed. Not only does watching the film bring life to the story but it allows one to think deeply on relevant parts of one’s life. This is exactly what the movie did for me.

This story of sorrow, grief, redemption and prosperity was beautifully portrayed on screen. Its simplicity, trust, bonding and kinship came through loud and clear, and moved me to think of a situation of mine that relates to change as well.

As I reflected on Ruth’s change of country and religion, I thought of my personal dilemma of giving up pastoral ministry and moving deeper into my radio and writing ministries for the Kingdom of God.

Years ago, I had felt a call of God on my life, went to Bible college and came to think pastoral ministry was what God wanted out of me. I started ministry with leading seminars and workshops and eventually got into pastoral ministry which went well for a time, then it began to crumble. Painfully, I began to see that such ministry was not for me and slowly came to the point of giving it up.

Giving up pastoral ministry after eighteen years was not an easy decision for me. I had toyed with it for about three years until finally, circumstances dictated that I could no longer carry on ministry to God in that capacity.

Now, through my writing ministry and the spoken word on “The Revealing Word” radio broadcast, I am more used of God in a broader, outreach manner, ministering to more people than ever before and I feel a deeper sense of fulfillment in my heart.

Let us get back to Ruth. This young woman could have become rebellious because of losing her husband, and avoided the company of Naomi, thinking it would help her forget her grief, but in obedience to the Lord’s leading, she went with her mother in law into a new experience and a new, prosperous life. It was a matter of what we commonly call destiny.

I have come to see that when God wants us to make changes, He begins by making changes in our hearts and re-directs our paths. Then there is the actual challenge of giving up what we once cherished, and going in another direction. However, as we learn to trust God, we also learn to yield to the deep urges that rise up within our hearts.

Like Ruth, I followed the deep urges of my heart and discovered that our God is a God of destiny and He leads us to whatever is highest and best for us. I have discovered too, that there is really nothing to fear if we trust God. When we roll our burdens over to Him with the full understanding that He is in charge of our lives it is then easier for us to walk the paths that He has directed for us. We then better understand the ups and downs of the cycles and seasons of life.

Watching that movie on the story of Ruth the Moabitess has blessed me. It has brought home to me the way God works more clearly. He is a God of destiny and plan and trusting Him implicitly is the way to go.

May the Lord richly bless you with His peace, love and prosperity.

Enjoy the Gift of Laughter

2007-01-12T13:57:00.003-05:00

When my friend, Mona, came back from a trip to Europe, she eagerly gave me exciting details about it. She described gondola trips, ferrying on a lake in Switzerland and many other things she had seen, but none was hilarious to me as what she described as “a pope in a glass case” in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Mona described the embalmed body of a long-gone pope who had been on display in a glass box. He was well preserved, bronzed, and dressed in his papal gear, looking so real as though he could just step out of his box and go about his pontifical duties.

At the time Mona called to tell me about her trip, I was dealing with a heavy strain of thought, but by the end of our hour-long telephone conversation, we were both rollicking with laughter.

What is it that makes us love to hear and see the funny side of life, even to hear an enjoyable joke over and over again? Our souls are burdened with stresses and yearn to feel free, and on the physical level, one of the greatest releases for the soul is gained through comedy and laughter. However, many people lack a sense of humour and hold inhibitions to good, gut-wrenching laughter; they really do not know how to laugh.

Gone are the days when we had people like Red Skelton with his characterization of Clem Kadiddlehopper and Jackie Gleason’s “how sweet it is...” to entertain us with wholesome comedy and laughter. Both Skelton and Gleason have had a wonderful sense of humour and served us well as top-ranking comedians in our time.

The Bible says: “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones” (Proverbs 17:22). And pretty much the same, “A merry heart taketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken” (Proverbs 15:13). Laughter is truly “the best medicine” to chase gloominess away.
Yet, on many occasions, we have to create our merriness of heart. Learning to create moments of laughter can help us put aside our troubles, even for a short season. It could free us from self-pity which is one of the most devastating prisons we could create for ourselves.

Over our many years of marriage, my husband, Errol and I have packaged several good stories that never fail to bring us merriment and laughter. Very often, either of us would have only to say a few words of introduction to some long-past event and out would come a concert of jokes and laughter. Just a word or two is all it takes to act as a lead.

Some in the medical profession claim that laughing is equivalent to physical exercise to some extent and does our cardiac system good. And on the emotional level, many of us have proved that laughter also eases depression, releases frustrations and restores a sense of merriment.

Did you ever watch small children at play? They take many of their games and play-acting very seriously. Watch their faces and you will see a reflection of you and me as they mimic life in their games. They treat their fantasies as real. Many times we do pretty much the same, taking many issues too seriously and creating burdens for ourselves, unnecessarily.

Many issues in life are absurd and many are the absurd things we do. But many are the pits of depression we could be lifted from if we learn to laugh, even at ourselves. Learn to laugh at life’s absurdities: the things we took for real that weren’t real, the castles we built in the air that crashed, the castles we built in the sand that the sea took away.

Can you now look back and see the sound facts from fleeting fiction?

I have seen two major points in developing merriness of heart through laughter: (1) recognize the absurd things you do or have done in the past as part of the over-all human condition you belong to, and laugh at them, (2) re-live amusing incidents of long ago and laugh all over again; it will help you break through some barriers.

I still do not understand what is so funny about “a pope in a glass case.” Maybe it was the way Mona told it, but I know that story will be the subject for much laughter between us for many months to come. The laughter stirred by that story made my day and I hope it will stir some laughter in you too.

*****
Check out my workbook, "Breaking Through the Barriers" at www.newvisionministry.org. The listed cost is $5.00 less till the end of February.

Nurture Your Vision

2007-01-09T18:37:00.001-05:00

We have been considering writing our visions and plans for the future, without which we are like feathers in the storms of life. However, as we make plans, we yet have to be flexible as to the way they will come to pass. Here, going back to God regularly for direction is necessary.

Years ago, I was in the boutique business, and was sure it would succeed, and when that venture failed, I felt like all the lights in my theatre went out. I felt beaten and downtrodden and, for many years I was afraid even to dream or ask God for anything. However, by hindsight, I can now see the causes for my failure.

What happens when our goals and plans grow cool or when we see shattered dreams and plans all around us? Our feelings become shattered too, but God can take our brokenness, heal our inner feelings and set us straight. He can reveal to us how the situation can be fixed or lead us to another dream which might even be better for us than what we had envisioned.

Truly, sometimes God is kind in not giving us what we ask for.

We need to understand that even with the best of intentions, not all goals and plans materialize in the way we would like them to. Some do not materialize at all, but there are four things we can do: (1) face our failure as it is, (2) examine it for what we can learn from it, (3) seize the spoils we can take from it, and (4) press on.

What happens when the vision is slow to materialize? Let not anyone intimidate you when your goals and plans for the future are slow in coming, saying: "Where is your God...?" If that vision is truly yours, and God is in it, it will come. Speaking through Habbakuk, God says: "For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it will tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry " (Habbakuk 2:3). The key here is waiting patiently.

We need to be sensitive to the way God works. Our timing is not God’s timing. And sometimes God uses our dreams and goals to test our faith, and if those dreams and visions are truly ours,at the end of our testing, the vision will surely show itself...as a rose fully unfolded, it will reveal itself.

Another thing of importance: sometimes, the dream and plans we profess to be ours are not really ours but somebody else’s that we are acting out for some reason. These are the dreams and plans that mostly fail. Therefore, when our plans are slow in materializing or giving us many challenges, we need to re-visit them, asking ourselves questions like these: "Are these plans realistic? Are they really mine and not something borrowed?"

And for success, we sometimes have to break up our goals and plans into parts and see what part we can begin right away. We need to ask ourselves: "What can I do today towards my overall plan?"

Nurture your vision by seeking God’s direction about it daily and by speaking positive words to it. Hold right attitudes about it. Then patiently watch as your vision unfolds.

Write Yourself A Vision For This New Year

2007-01-04T22:35:00.002-05:00

For a long time, I have wanted to write myself a vision and at last, I have just completed one. And I found that though it is simple to think of, yet writing a vision takes considerable time and focus to do the job right. However, it is a rewarding experience.

A positive vision in our hearts of things to come is a type of prophecy: a purposeful projection of thought, born out of a desire. And it is heartening to know that the Lord is not against us having desires—positive ones, for the Scriptures say: "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart."

However, when we sense a positive desire in our hearts, it is God revealing His desire for us, but sadly, one of our human traits is that we corrupt those desires, making them into something else, often selfish and despicable.

The Scriptures also say: "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." This indicates that having a vision, or purposeful projection of thought, is part of God’s law for His children. And in telling of something He proposed to do, God said: "Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables that he may run that readeth it..." This helps us understand that our purposeful projection of thought must be clear.

Do you have a vision for a higher education, a business project, or a particular vocation? It is God’s desire being birthed in you, to bring you to a higher plateau in life.

A vision plan is a helpful tool for developing focus and direction, and need not be elaborate; it may be a simple lay-out of a few well-planned lines, declaring what you would like to see manifest in your life.

For this new year, write yourself a vision plan and make it a commitment to God and yourself for a new cycle on your life-journey. This involves spending considerable time as you explore what you feel in your heart and crystallize those aspirations in written form.

And when you sit quietly and write out your goals and plans, something special happens.

Write your vision plan when in your best mood—not when you are tired or downcast. Your plan must present a picture of how you will like your life to be, as clearly as you can. And each part of your plan must be a complement to all other parts. Go through the following categories and state your preferences as concisely as you can.

Add some dates to your plan by which you expect it to be made manifest. And review your plan often to determine the progress of your visions. Most of all, be realistic in your plans.

What career will you like to pursue in the new year? What types of recreation will you like to spend time in? What hobbies do you want to pursue? What relationships will you like to build? What specific dreams and goals will you like to pursue? What are your aspirations for the spiritual life? In what location do you choose for residence? In your life, what can you do better? How can you improve it?

These are just a few ideas and you might even add other positive ones of your own, according to how you feel in your heart, and present them to God with a prayer like this: "This, Lord, or whatever is highest for your glory and the benefit of my soul."

Be assertive about the effects you want in your life, yet not rebellious. Note that there is a fine line here about being assertive and not rebellious. Know what you want out of life. Examine it. Ask yourself: "Is this morally right? Is it legally right? Is it socially right? If you can say "yes" to these questions, consider it to be a desire from God and follow them through. Place your written vision plan in a place where you can easily see it and pray about it often.

Submit this simple blueprint of your desires to the Spirit of God, the Master Architect and ask Him to perfect it and direct your paths. And if your plan is a long-term one, be patient as time goes by, trusting that God that He will bring it to pass, all in His divine timing.

And last, but not least, consider making a commitment in your plan to spend more time with God this year and being more diligent in serving Him as time goes by.

Suggested Readings: Psalm 1:1-4; Psalm 37:4; Proverbs 29:18; Jeremiah 29:11;
Habbakuk 2:2-3; Mark 11:24; Philippians 4:19.

Reflection: God is willing that I should prosper.

Prayer: "Dear God, I bless the vision you have placed in my heart. Help me to witness its fulfillment. Amen."