Nine suspected terrorist, destined, so they said, to vacation in Florida. They were taken into custody by federal agents. Interrogated and later released but not allowed to board the flight to Florida. What is about to unfold, you will find out why, and what to do about it. Upon conclusion, maybe some will have two more new year resolutions to add to their list. Two promised results will occur, but their discovery is in the soul of the seeker.

One of the suspected terrorist said they were talking about seating placements. They were wondering among themselves where would be the safest place to sit on the airplane. One quipped, someone must have thought from what was said, that plans were under way to do something to the plane.

Not an unusual fear, in that bombing air flights between destinations is one of their signature marks. In that Muslims have no respect for life, more than eager to sacrifice their own lives to make a statement. Alarmed passengers had every reason for concern and seek protection from law enforcement

Words for emphasis and communication change through out the centuries. But emphasis for communication about Muslims through out history, has not changed. History has classified them as terrorist. The first such reference to them as terrorists is found in Genesis. Where we find these words spoken to Hagar, the mother of Islam, “And the angel of the LORD said unto her, ‘Behold you are with child, and shall bear a son, and shall call his name Ishmael; because the LORD has heard your affliction. And he shall be a wild man; his hand shall be against every man, and every man’s hand against him; and he shall dwell in the presences of all his brethren,’” Genesis 16:11-12.

Some may not be aware of this but Judaism, Christianity and Islam trace their origins to Abraham. Ishmael was one of Abraham’s sons. And it is from Ishmael that Islam had its birth some six hundred years after the birth of Christianity. Islam’s terrorism was born in the image of a people created to hurt and to be hurt in self defense. Today we do not call it hurt, we call it terrorism.

People need to know about the varied and complex mixtures of Judaism, Christianity and Islam as forces under God. These three religions at this particular time in our history will determine the future of the world. What is happening in the Gaza Strip as brave Israelis combat Hamas Islamic terrorist will impact our world. Markets of all sorts of commerce will suffer. With wars being launched by Islamic terrorist against non-Muslims, especially Jews were ever they they live, with greater frequency. Including attacks upon Christian churches for the same reason they will attack Jewish houses of worship. While it will be an occurrence globally, expect greater frequencies of such attacks in the United States. Because in the United States their numbers are still to few to risk suicide bombers and armed Islamic terrorist emerging from their Mosque fortresses.

In short, America wake up, and shut down those Mosques, and encourage deportation of Muslims. During the World War 11, Nazis declaring themselves as peace loving people (as do Muslims) trying to make a new life in America. Would not have been allowed to build fortresses under any name to undermine the United States (as do Muslims). Its unthinkable and unpardonable that Nazis would have been allowed to raise money for charities in Palestine on American soil (as do Muslims) to be used to kill Israelis and to make war upon the non-Muslim world. In every sense of the expression Islam is far more dangerous than was Nazism.

Just for reemphasize expect increased attacks upon Jewish synagogues as both a symbol of hate and an expression of sympathy for Islamic terrorism in Palestine. Making Jews the scapegoat for tumbling markets and war. Doing this with a sense of honor to Allah and his prophet Mohammad for sake of duty and self perseverance. But is really about antisemitism and global terrorism towards any non-Muslim.

Solutions will not come from the United States, or some other world body like the United Nations. Because politicians and diplomats with an agenda of diplomacy, and often conquest. Simply do not understand this 21 century paradigm with its roots in the Genesis account of “hands against everyone,” and “every man’s hand against him.”

Today it is playing itself out through the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Recently the unprovoked Muslim attack upon India. And around the globe, it plays out all the time. With perhaps nine Muslims, tinkering with mind sets of destruction for an airplane bound for Florida at a later time. Thinking maybe of survival by finding the safest place to cuddle on a suicide mission. Only to live again for another mission of destruction. That is how Muslims think, it is about hurt and death, called terrorism. May it be determined not in America, again!

Muslims represent the most imminent threat to global economic security because they can not keep their hands to themselves because it is in their genetic code. In addition, they are responsible for the currant global insecurity which will grow like an incurable cancer. Unless the world community, specifically the United States wakes up to save itself from this Islamic menace.

Neither the United States, nor the world community is up to the task. Because the flow of oxygen to the brain has been snuffed out. Through the hideous doctrines of political correctness and multiculturalism.

The prophet Isaiah, having had his iniquity taken away and his sins purged. Heard the voice of the Lord saying, whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then replied Isaiah, here am I, send me. While the prophet Isaiah had an ominous task, based around these words, “And he said, go and tell this people, hear you indeed, but understand not; and you see but perceive not,” Isaiah 6:7-9. Our task is no less ominous because verse nine is very applicable. Form recent postings, the church needs some Mary’s, who said, “…, behold the handmaiden of the Lord be it unto me according to your word,” Luke 1:38. And the anarchism of Joseph, “… the angel of the Lord appeared unto Joseph in a dream, saying, arise and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him,” Matthew 2:13.

Islam is no less a threat to Christianity today than Herod was to Jesus at the dawn of Christianity. Only a revitalized church with lots of Mary’s and Joseph’s, saying to the Lord, hear am I send me. Because the government hears but does not understand, and sees but does not perceive.

This writer clergyman is available to teach the varied complexities of this posting. Especially as it relates to Islam as a world threat and in particular to the United States. This clergyman is a self taught Islamic scholar with much to share concerning this cancerous menace. Engaged discussions will not only lay out the magnitude of the disease but suggesting various steps of eradication that need to take place.

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This is the season for phenomenal stories of history. Impacting events spun from the first century of the Christian era. Culminating from a two century old pageantry of Christmas, around the angel Gabriel. With his historic announcements to Mary concerning her first born, Luke 1:26-33. To be named Jesus, and known as *the Son of the Highest,* Luke 1:31-32.

Not a single event during 2008, escaped the scrutiny of *the Son of the Highest,* our Jesus. With many of them being catastrophic in nature. But with all of them serving as chastisements from the *Son of the Highest.* Singling from the throne of God that all is not well with how humanity governs itself from God’s perspective. With 24 months left in this first decade of the 21 century, if the past serves as barometer for the future, things will get worse.

But that is the story of history dating back to Adam and Eve, because as we know, each action has a reaction. So lets take a little journey with Joseph. The most neglected person of our Christmas pageantry. And see what we can learn from Joseph. Because Joseph was, and still is a rather obscure as a history maker. More like you, and me, being representative of the ordinary people of history. But he did do some rather extra ordinary things, for God. With the essences of the story being, so can we. So, happy story time, only it is not the stuff of fantasy but of spirituality. It is all preordained and the duty of all Christians; in one way or another.

For Joseph there was no angelic fanfare, as to his purpose with the women he was associated with. We do not even know the extent of his relationship with Mary. Were they in a relationship of courtship, were they engaged to be married, or were they a married couple? At sometime in their relationship, they married according to Luke 2:4-5, where it is recorded, *… Joseph went to Bethlehem for the purposes of taxation with Mary his espoused wife.* The angel Gabriel did not lay out any immediate directives, as to what extent Joseph was to be involved in the life of Jesus prior his birth. Other than what is recorded by Matthew, who shows the human side of Joseph. Who upon discovering that Mary, the women he was engaged to marry, was pregnant. Allegedly by supernatural intervention by the Holy Spirit. This was to much for Joseph, a just and honorable man. So he decided that they should have the baby secretively, absent public scrutiny, Matthew 1:18-19. But God, thought Joseph needed to understand thoroughly, why this birth should be a public event. So he dispatch an angel to effect his dream state. Causing Joseph to dream the following, “… saying Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary, thy wife; for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shall call his name Jesus; for he shall save his people from their sins,” Matthew 1:20-21. And the devastating history of that time was fulfilled and is part of our 21 century, Matthew 1:22-25, with all its splendor of joy and travesty of distortion and destruction.

The lesson here is that Christians should pay attention to their dreams. Determining if God has dispatched an angelic messenger to impact our dream state. This cautionary observances is absolutely necessary because our dreams must be matched with recorded scripture. There are no new revelations except those recorded in our Bible, according to the book of Revelation which closes with this warning. “For I testify unto every person that hears the words of this book. If any person shall add unto these things, God shall add unto them plagues that are written in this book; And if any person shall take from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take shall take away their part from the tree of life, and out of the Holy City and from the things written in this book,” Revelation 22:18-19.

Having said all that, two thoughts, angelic encounters through dreams occur. I have had them, most significantly, my calling to serve Christ, at a very young age. And my ordination into the gospel ministry, some decades later. The other thought is in response to Isaiah, who was compelled to ask, with iniquity taken away and sin purged. Is the voice of the Lord being heard. Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Hear am I; send me, Isaiah 6:7-8. Countless numbers have responded, all in their own ways, here am I send me. As did Joseph, a valiant history maker, who accept his own angelic challenge, and went in the service of his Redeemer. And so will others, as time permits.

This how it played on the platform of history. And in a very real sense it is how God expects us to perform on the platform of history for his cause. Joseph could have walked away from Mary, and had nothing to do with her or her child. But he did not, instead he became Mary’s husband and surrogate parent to Jesus. After the birth of Jesus, an angel appeared unto Joseph in a dream. Warning Joseph to take Mary, and Jesus, and flee into Egypt. Instructing them to stay there until further notice because the life of Jesus was in danger, Matthew 2:13. Joseph and his family were to flee because they were to be hunted down by the government.

There is no scriptural history of governments ever being friendly to God’s people. Unless God’s people can serve and advance the cause of the state. It was true before the time of Joseph, and certainly during his lifetime. As the government wanted him dead as a child, and eventually got their wish. When they murdered him, at the behest of his own religion.

And, nothing has changed to this very day! The United States is friendly and supportive of the church and even mimics its cultural celebrations (Christmas) and customs (use of the Bible for swearing in ceremonies). Creating many false illusions about state and church. If the collision between state and church is severe enough, the state will move to crush the church. A few examples will soon follow, but first note that both Joseph and his son Jesus were anarchists who opposed state edicts. Hopefully, most people, are aware of the anarchism of Jesus. Even Hollywood has made movies about his anarchism, but Joseph’s anarchism is another story.

It might well be said that the first anti-Christian Inquisition took place during Joesph’s lifetime. Which we know is a mechanism of government, to suppression anti-government sentiments. Always resulting in the violation of religious privacy and rights. You can read about this inquisition along with the governments first act of treason against the threat of religion to their power. With some of the appointed inquisitors deserting the government. Becoming perhaps the first converts to this infant Christ child. Matthew 2:1-12. Noting verse six, discovering the emergence of a prince from Judah and from this prince would come a Governor to rule the people of Israel. That is the story of Joesph’s anarchy, he and his family hid in Egypt. While the government went on a killing spree, which is the way of governments, when people of faith deify their authority, Matthew 2:16.

One lesson, is that being an anarchist does not require flamboyancy. It occurs anytime we protect the cause of God, as did Joseph. Because all forms of anarchy involve risk, we know what would have happened to Jesus, had the government found him. What we do not know, what would have happened to Mary and Jesus. They both represent the perfect, but quiet, and courageous example, here am I, Lord send me.

Now a some short examples that could bring church and state into a collision course. The church should mobilize itself and eradicate the Muslim presences from the United States. Their culture and mechanism of life are not compatible with our heritage. They are committed to eradicating two centuries of American history. Their Mosques serve as hide outs for foreign invaders to attack our infrastructures. The nation is trapped with this obsession of multiculturalism and political correctness. Segregation and discrimination of customs and peoples is necessary for the survival of the church of Jesus Christ. People can only become integrated regardless of race, gender, ethnicity through Jesus Christ. The government insist otherwise and it is destroying the country.

This whole notion of homosexuality as being a viable lifestyle is an abomination unto God. In states where people have told the government with constitutional amendments that homosexuality is wrong. The church can not allow the courts to deny the church the sanctity of God’s edicts. And the church should move across the country making it so in every state. Students will soon return to school, where Christ has been outlawed and replaced with winter holidays. But where gay and lesbian lifestyles are promoted as acceptable. Across the land it once rang out, give me liberty or give me death. A new battle cry needs to ring out, give me Jesus or give me death.

Many Mary’s and Joseph’s will be needed who understand Isaiah 6:8 to fight monsters of evil. Who will go for us, asked Lord? Here am I; send me.

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As the old year closed for Joseph he had to deal with all the attention given to Mary because of her angelic encounters. Can you imagine Joseph’s mind set, after hearing from Mary that she was pregnant. Learning of the magnitude of accomplishments and stature this unborn child would cast upon the world, Luke 1:26-35. A women, he had never slept with, verse 34. Then hearing Mary detail how this pregnancy came about through supernatural intervention. With instructions to name the new born baby, Jesus, verse 31. And that this new born was to be known as the Son of God, vs 35. As the old saying goes, in Joseph’s world, indeed everything was hanging in the balance.

Then Mary slipped in the this bit of news. Jesus shall be great, and called the Son of the Highest. With the Lord God giving him the throne of his father David. Who knows how Joseph reacted to this news? Did any of this make sense? How could Jesus inherit his fathers throne? verse 32. Because David was dead, and King David’s, kingdom had long ago been ravaged by foreign invaders. And now controlled by the Roman Empire. Furthermore, Mary’s account of her pregnancy was startling and unusual enough in itself, verse 35. Joseph could well have thought he was dealing with a woman completely over taken by lunacy. With the balancing world tipping the wrong way.

But miraculously, the world regained equilibrium, hanging in the balance, as Joseph reconciled all this news and in time responded in a most admiral manner. We shall in time learn, not only how Joseph dealt with it, but how all of us can deal with it, but first.

As Joseph, could have concluded, that Mary, and all those around her were well meaning but obsessed with fantasy. Just like the millions of people today, who look upon our Christmas pageantry, as people well meaning but obsessed with fantasy. Reacting with rejection of any real account of the birth of Jesus Christ. Let alone, that his birth could bring into play any currant or future events associated with the scriptures. Shrugging off the magic of our Christmas pageantry as nonsense and a chance for retailers to use the season for tilting their cash registers with exorbitant profits. Substituting the seasons after season for giving into one of taking. Which abruptly ended, this year, making this whoring of Christmas with its tinsel and tree adorned colored lights a financial disaster for buyer and seller. Perhaps signaling from God, a disgust with business as usual.

And for those of us with a sense of scriptural insight, that is exactly what has occurred. Will it get better before it gets worse, again? Maybe! but eventually, there will be no financial healing of any sort. It will be nothing but wars, famines, disease and disastrous weather patterns, Matthew 24:7 and 21. That is the trailing end of our glorious Christmas pageant. When as the angel Gabriel announced to Mary, the baby you carry will inherit the throne of his father, David. But the times in between will be sorrowful. How sorrowful, read the preceding and following verses of verse seven. But for now, the world hangs in the balance.

Not recognized by many, but it was the most prolific occurrence in history that is impacting us today. Gone are the days when the dominance of nations were struggles over control of land masses for the control of resources. Where also political and economic ideologies were fought over. Causing arena’s of conflict over fascism verses freedom or communism verses capitalism. Today the fighting struggle for land masses and the control of resources is a struggle from a religious perspective. Where political and economic ideologies are waged over which religion will insist that the conquered will practice politics and economics from their religions perspective.

If you really want to understand your world, learn to observe it through the lenses of your Christian scriptures. This is manifesting itself mostly through the Israeli Palestinian conflict and war. And the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, with al-qaeda providing the impetus to attack people and other nations through out the world. Basically it boils down to a struggle between three religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

We like Joseph closed out our old year celebrating the pageantry of Mary’s angelic encounters. We know more about the magnitude of accomplishments and stature of this unborn child than did Joseph. We also know that this great lineage is a heritage between two great religions Judaism and Christianity. Embodied between Israel and the nations where the majority of people practice Christianity. But standing at the forefront of this bond between Judaism and Christianity are the people, who make up the nations of Israel and the United States. And determined to this destroy this union wherever it is found are the people of Islam in whatever nation they are found.

For the year 2009, no matter how the world’s vast media conglomerates portray these conflicts, study them carefully. So as not to be misguided because to be forewarned is to be forearmed, Matthew 24:11. They will best serve us a guide posts for seeing the wisdom of our Christian scriptures unfolding more clearly than at anytime in world history. Eventually tilting a world hanging in the balance in a disastrous direction. Requiring more than just angelic interventions as recorded in Matthew 24:22, “Unless those days should be shortened, there should be no flesh saved; but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.” This is the Christmas pageant when it makes its complete cycle. When the world shall safely hang in the balance.

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Another year is about to close its eye lids on history. But for the followers of the new born child, placed in a manger. Where the eye lids of history never close because as announced, “And the angel said unto them fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord,” Luke 2:10-11.

Many splendid words dot the pages of history but none greater than those spoken by the angel of the Lord at that historic moment. And what is happening globally is the results and consequences of those historic pronouncements.

And as preparations are made to exit the old and welcome the new year, take time to announce, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward all men,” verse 14.

For Mary, it had been an extra ordinary year. She had seen, heard and experienced events that in the end resulted in this reflection, “But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart,” verse 19.

Most of us, I suspect, in our own ways have seen, heard and experienced events that has caused us to tuck them deep into our hearts to be reflected upon with ponder. But we like Mary, have found favor with God. For Mary it was the conception of the Christ child, for us the birth of a Savior. For Mary, after her angelic encounter, she no doubt weep, but proclaimed, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. For he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden; for behold, henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation, Luke 1:46-50.

And for us, who truly understand the Christmas pageantry with its year end conclusion. Can like Mary, magnify the Lord and rejoice in God our Savior. Because most of us, like Mary, are of humble origins, for behold generations to generations will call us blessed. Because he that is mighty, has done great things to and for us. Knowing that his mercy is upon them that fear him from generation to generation. For that to occur one year must close and another open.

And like Mary, the goodness of God is kept in our hearts to be reflected upon. Anticipating this glorious event, “Behold, I come quickly, blessed are they that keep the words of the prophecy of this book,” Revelation 22:7 Because that is how the fear of God is made manifested from generation to generation. “Behold I come quickly, and my reward is with me, to give to every person according as their work shall be,” verse 12.

Mary and Joseph did their part, but the voice still calls, “And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this has touched your lips, and your iniquity is taken away, and thy sin is purged. Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I, send me,” Isaiah 6:7-8. And that is both the hope, and the call for the new year. Because all the in between times are known only to God, we need to be diligent and faithfully go.

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Two women centuries apart had their own Christmas account to unfold before the world community. Centered around, Israeli Prime Minister, Ehud Olmert. Who briefed President Shimon Peres, advising him that the currant military operations against Hamas are still in their preliminary stages, according to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz.

Israelis and Christians fall under the same umbrella of God’s ordinances. Resulting in the abundance of God’s bounties or wrath. Depended upon individual personal choices or national collective choices as nations. For Israelis this abundance of bounties or wrath has been a roller coaster ride between the two. Christians have not fared much better over the centuries. Except for two extra ordinary nations, Great Britain and the United States. Those nations have mostly enjoyed the exceeding fruitful bounties of God’s provisions. But things are changing, as both nations seem to be slipping more towards God’s wrath. And not by default, but by deliberate choice.

Our first women shared this Christmas account with the world with these words. “And Hannah prayed, and said. my heart rejoices in the LORD, my horn (strength) is exalted in the LORD; my mouth is enlarged over my enemies, because I rejoice in your salvation,” 1 Samuel 2:1. Here Hannah gave the world her prophetic awareness of the birth of our LORD Jesus Christ. She goes on in verse two saying, “There is none holy like the LORD; for there is none beside you, neither is there any rock like our God.” Followed by this warning, “… the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.”

We leave Hannah for a moment and time travel to December 2008. Finding the Israeli nation in its fourth day of defensive air assaults upon upon the Muslims of Hamas. With both Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak and Prime Minister, Ehud Almert, declaring all out war against Hamas and emphasizing that all that is occurring is just in the preliminary stages.

So are we to assume that Israel will be victorious in its pursuit to crush Hamas? No not by any means because going back to Hannah, she prophetically knew this, and it is applicable today. “The bows of mighty men are broken, and they that stumble are girded with strength,” verse four. She went on to counsel, “The LORD makes poor and the LORD makes rich; he brings low and lifts up,” verse seven. “He raises up the poor out of the dust, and lifts the beggar from the refuse, to set them among the princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory; for the pillars of the earth are the LORD’s, and he has set the world upon them,” verse eight.

It is not for this clergyman to judge Israel as to whether they are reaping God’s bounties or his wrath. This though can be said, Israel has rejected the everlasting gospel as dispatched by the angel of Revelation 14:6. Which is not a good omen for any individual or nation. So maybe for now, God will turn the tables upon Israel and give the victory to Hamas. Because the pillars of the earth are God’s and he will set whom ever he wills upon them for a time.

But ultimately this will occur, “He will keep the feet of his saints (Christians), and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail. The adversaries of the LORD (Jesus) shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them. The LORD shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king (Jesus) and exalt the horn (authority), of his anointed,” verses 9-10.

The other woman of our Christmas pageantry, Mary, pretty much echo’s the same prophetic account as Hannah, compare Luke 1:46-55. Note verses 51-52, as related to world affairs, He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud with in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. Suggesting Hamas is no match for Israel, but Hamas may well be exalted in the end. Mary capsules it this way, “He has filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he has sent away empty,” verse 53. The Christmas pageant is really about verses 54-55, “He has helped his servant, Israel, in remembrance of his mercy. As he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed forever.” Sometimes God’s wrath becomes necessary in order to aprecaiate his fruitful bounties.

With complex scriptural themes woven with history. This writer clergyman is available to discuss those themes with its history both ancient and modern. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information. Private and confidential consultations are available concerning this postings subject matter or for matters of a personal nature. Financial contributions are accepted from those willing to make such donation.

First American causalities of this war will be felt at the gas pump and with the purchase of home heating oil. Followed by a further weakened dollar on the world market. Meaning every thing Americans buy will cost more. But with Americans feeling the death of the capitalist economic collapse. Manufactures can not raise their prices to meet increased production cost. Resulting in a nation rushing into the perils of economic deflation, where it cost more to produce products than they can be sold for. The final economic equation will show a greater loss of jobs for the American work force. Resulting in less tax money, so states will be forced to eliminated millions from their budgets. Threatening the ruination of America’s infrastructure from A-Z, meaning nothing that the nations people rely upon is safe from extinction.

Israel is determined to eliminate its Islamic foe, Hamas, who along with Iran, both whom declare that Israel has no right to exist. The church of Jesus Christ does not have the financial resources to compete with the secular communities vast media propaganda machine. Which sees global events through mundane lenses, completely missing the scenery of spirituality. Therefore leaving the task to his servants and saints, people like you and me, both servants and saints of Jesus Christ.

In many ways the world is complex, but in other ways it is simple. Simply put it is a struggle between good and evil, light verses darkness. For this posting the good and the light is our Judeo-Christian heritage. Verses evil and darkness capsuled in Islam. The sooner this is understood the greater the chance for global stability. In that that is not likely to occur, what does all this mean for the world community? Fear for one thing, and the world community has every reason to fear the possible consequences of this war and its aftermath. Certain to help spiral the globe to cosmic catastrophic judgment. Helped along with Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak, declaring “all out war against Hamas,” with Israeli tanks and armored personal carriers taking up positions outside the perimeter of the Gaza Strip. Suggesting the possibility of a Israeli ground troop assault.

Israel is not only taking upon itself Hamas, but for certain Iran. With the possibility of drawing into the conflict the entire Arab/Muslim Middle East. But for now the influence of Iran, with the havoc they alone can create. Iran is the force supplying Hamas with warfare training and the supply of weapons. The world can not dismiss the possibility that Iran will commit its own troops to the conflict. And there is the constant fear that Iran already has nuclear weapons, giving them reason not to fear Israeli retaliation. And if such possibilities never materialize, there still is much Iran can do to make life miserable for the world community. It must be remembered that Iran is the owner of the worlds second largest oil fields. Also controlling the narrow sea channel through which oil from the Persian Gulf is shipped. Giving them the ability to cripple the worlds thirst for oil.

Making the cost of gasoline immaterial, if gasoline becomes unavailable. Helping to bring a screeching crumbling halt to commerce of every sort. Ushering in a charismatic political religious figures who will promise to make things better. Better but with conditions, he must be worshiped, Revelation 13:11-15, and significantly important, receiving the mark of of the beast for the purpose of everyday commerce, verses 16-17. Perhaps the scary scene of these events is found in verse seven, “And it was given unto him to make war with the saints (Christians), and to overcome them; and power was given to him over all kindred, and tongues, and nations.”

All this is necessary because of a time when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel,” (in this context gospel-good news, Genesis-Revelation), Romans 2:16. Brought upon the world for its failure to allow Israel the fruits of God’s promises, Genesis 12:3, “I will bless them that bless you, and curse them that curse you: and in you shall all families of the earth be blessed.” But Israel is not blameless because she has rejected the ever lasting gospel preached unto them that dwell on the earth, to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, Revelation 14:6.

Our duty now is capsuled in Revelation 14:7, with this same angel, “Saying with a loud voice, fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come; and worship him that made heaven and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.”

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While the world swelters in fear that the latest defensive Israeli attack upon the Palestinians, resulting in the worst loss of life among those people since the 1967 war. It could well escalate into a war engulfing the entire Middle East.

We Christians, should not be sweltering in fear because as students of the scriptures, we know that this will eventually occur. What we do not know is whether or not this is that time. But if it is, this is the ultimate outcome. Israel will become a “cup of trembling” unto the people of the world. Resulting in the nations of the world *taking siege both against Israel and its capital city Jerusalem.* God will make “Jerusalem a burdensome stone” for all the nations who take action against Israel. *They shall be cut to pieces, though all the nations of the earth be gathered together against Israel,* Zechariah 12:2-3. “It shall come to pass, in that day, that I will destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem,” Zechariah 12:9

Here is what we do know about the world community as it relates to Israel. Along with purest in the practice of Christianity, by which I mean, people of the faith, who reject the apostate teachings of many modern churches. Which fundamentally means conglomerates of religious institutions, who espouse teachings condemned by Jesus Christ. Jesus referred to them as false prophets but are inwardly raging wolves, Matthew 7:15. Some call themselves Christians while others call themselves Muslims, but together they will attempt to mobile world public opinion against Israel and Christians who stand with Israel. But in the end we have this promise from God, “I will bless them that bless you (Israel), and curse them that curse you: and in you shall all families of the earth be blessed,” Genesis 12:3.

There will come a day when it will be difficult for Christians to practice the Christianity of Jesus Christ. Because allegiance to anti Christian authorities will be required for survival, “And that no person might buy or sell, except he that they have the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name,” Revelation 13:17. To get a better understanding of the significances of this time read the preceding verses of the chapter.

Ultimately though our Christmas pageant will reap its scriptural destiny. For you remember what the angel Gabriel said to Mary, “And he shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David. And he shall reign over the house of Jacob (Israel) forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end, Luke 1:32-33.

But in the interval, of this history there shall be much suffering. Perhaps the world has good reason to swelter in fear, from the escalation of tensions between the Israelis and Palestinian-Arab Muslim world.

Stand with Israel, Stand with Jesus and in time all will be well with the world.

This writer clergyman is available to expand upon the complex contents of this posting. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available about this posting, or of matters of personal concern. Financial contributions are accepted from those willing to make such a donation.

Now that that the Christmas celebration is over for the millions, who observe the day. Mostly from the perspective of *halls decked with holly* and *mistletoe.* Unaware or unwilling to know that Christmas is an every day celebration with the beginning of each new day.

But before going on, it should be understood that I am not opposed to seeing the halls decked with holly. With bright lights flashing with ample mistletoe. I always find it very magical with its impact most relaxing. Merry making is part of life and has a necessary and proper place in our lives because it is a way of recuperation. Although difficult because of work and other responsibilities, people should find time for merry making every day. It is just as important as Holly Communion in the rejuvenation of our spirit, from this clergyman’s perspective. It is that in so many ways, people fail to comprehend the everyday aspects of Christmas. Which is the design of this posting-hoping to provide a glimpse into our Christmas celebration.

And so, hear are some every day aspects of Christmas. With the providence of time, God sent the angel Gabriel to visit a rather ordinary women named Mary. Gabriel made some rather astonishing remarks to Mary. Telling her that she would conceive in her womb a baby. Then the angel told her that she was to name the baby Jesus. Then hearing from Gabriel the greatness of this person. A person who would inherit his father’s (David) not Joesph’s household which plays a significant and often unnoticed place in the Christmas story. Here we have the per-Christmas pageant of enormous historical significance impacting us today. First we have the supernatural and natural coming into play together. Joesph plays a surrogate role as provider for his family which includes his son Jesus. As he cares of Mary, and the baby Jesus, as though he was the natural father. Family and responsibility is one of those neglected aspects of Christmas, especially as it applies to Joesph. Which extends beyond Christmas day. The supernatural always intersects with the natural or human nature. It is that most are unaware of this supernatural/natural phenomenon. Most likely because of a complete lack of interest and because this phenomena moves across our time line very slowly. And then at the end, makes a sudden burst to complete the circle of the clock-with it then being to late to benefit from its lessons.

Now the historical, in which Gabriel announcing that Jesus would inherit David’s throne, his father, (which is a supernatural declaration described in Matthew 1:1) and reigning over the house of Jacob (Israel) and his kingdom forever which shall have no end. Obviously, this kingdom is a future occurrence. And is a far more complex discussion, one not designed for this posting. Other than to say that there will be no peace between Israel and the Palestinians which includes the entire Arab Muslim world. Despite the hype of the United Nations and the worlds media conglomerates. The only way the Arab Muslim world, the Unites Nations and their media conglomerates will ever deny Israel all of Palestine is by force. That is the most likely scenario from the Old Testament prophets. Which will be the historical event, that will trigger the events necessary to return Jesus to the throne of his father David in Israel’s Jerusalem.

But hearing all this from Gabriel, all that Mary could do was to respond to the angel saying, “How shall this be, seeing that I know not a man.” With Gabriel responding, ” with God, nothing shall be impossible.” With Mary saying, “behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.”

In short summary here are a few every day aspects of observing Christmas everyday in a practical way. Of how the supernatural (God and his agents like Gabriel), intersect with the natural (humanity). With Christmas meaning being responsible and faithful to our families as emulated by Joesph. Next, we Christians, should offer our support to Israel for control of all of Judah which includes territories occupied by the Palestinians. Never surrendering Jerusalem to Muslim jurisdiction. Finally, we Christians should always submit ourselves as did Mary, “… be it unto me according to your word.” And that in a nut shell is the meaning of the days prior, during and after Christmas.

This posting was developed from the following verses of Luke 1:26,27,31,32,33,34,37 and verse 38. For those interested in reading the scriptural account for themselves. The other connecting verses were discussed in previous postings. Still a lot was left unsaid about the history of past, current and future historical developments. For those interested in learning more, please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available concerning this postings contents, or of maters of personal concern. Financial contributions are excepted from those willing to make such a donation.

She brought forth her first born son. Wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger because there was no room in the inn, Luke 2:7.

With that birth, a new era of history was launched. Martin Luther described some of that history when he wrote, “The Kingdom of Christ is a proclamation of peace and grace, as the angels sang that he should be the Savior of the whole world to free His people and save them from their sins. This Lord does not build castles, towns, and villages like an emperor, king or elector of Saxony, or even like me in my own household, but he saves his people from their sins. This is a fair, dear and precious assurance to a troubled and tormented consciences laden with sins, that to them and to us all a Child is born who will rule and vindicate. Who will help and not destroy, murder, strangle or kill. These are not the words of a man. This preaching is from heaven. If one does know the baby Jesus, it is impossible that one should rightly honor God.”

With the majority of people not knowing the baby Jesus. Ignoring His commandments and precepts. Humanity will in some form relive Genesis 6:7. Where God said, “I will destroy humanity along with the rest of my creation. I am sorry that I had made them.” But as always, in God there is hope, “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord,” Genesis 6:8. And on this Christmas day and every day that is what humanities history is about, God’s grace. Far different from the heralded headlines of the secular media.

But Christ, like the Father found humanities life style despicable! Jesus in adulthood said, Matthew 10: 34, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth; I came not to send peace, but a sword, Matthew 10:34. Now the Christ child having offered His grace which has been soundly rejected. Sits in heaven as the full embodiment of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. God’s vengeance’s for the rejection of his grace is in a holding pattern. Having decided humanities future as recorded in Revelation nine. “And the four angels were loosed, who were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, to slay the third men, verse fifteen. This shall be done by a horrible death. “By these three was the the third part of man killed, by fire, and by smoke, and by brimstone, which was issued out of their mouths,” Revelation 9:18. Those who survived these plagues repented not. But managed to pole volt over God’s commandments and precepts and continued to master evil. In pursuit of things that neither see, hear or walk. Failure to repent proliferated in the worship of false religions. Allowing for murder, illicit sex which all results in the theft of the soul, Revelation 9:18,20,21.

Of all of God’s creation, his most precious jewel is the human soul. Because it is the link between God and his human creation, Zechariah 12:1. “… the Lord who stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth, ‘AND FORMED THE SPIRIT OF MAN WITHIN HIM.’” Resulting in our ‘CREATION’ in the very image of God, Genesis 1:27. Which places humans as beings with powers just beneath the power of God, or maybe even equal to God’s power. Because of sin we have spilt our life force (blood) having it poured out like the tiny spics of dust, with its putrefying results, Zephaniah 1:17. It’s called “choice” we can do as we choose, but with dire consequences.

Perhaps Ben Franklin said it best. “How many observe Christ’s birthday! How few his precepts! O! ’tis easier to keep holidays then Commandments!”

But those who survive the wrath of God, do so by knowing the baby Jesus. Keeping his precepts and commandments. Will sit with God as judges at the end of this era in history. Note, 1 Corinthians 6:2 “Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?”

Martin Luther, got it right. “If one does not know the baby Jesus, it is impossible that one should rightly honor God.” A part rightly honoring God and being a part of the Kingdom of Christ is the Christmas proclamation of peace and grace. GRACE: G= God, R= Riches, A= At, C= Christ, E=Expense. (source unknown) Which ushers in personal and global peace, “for there is no other way,” as we often sing.

May the peace and grace of Christmas be yours. For this is indeed what Christmas of the past, present and future represents, until that unknown time of Revelation 9:15. It is our holy duty as believers in Christ to oppose the secularization of the birth of the Christ child. With its sweeping consequences while at the same announcing his constant grace.

Finding your journey of “grace” is available by contacting this clergyman through the navigation link. Since this church has no membership people are not expected to join or make any commitment. Your journey is personal and private with only assistance being offered.

“How many observe Christ’s birthday! How few his precepts! O! tis easier to keep Holidays then Commandments,” Benjamin Franklin.

Wishes are extended to you for a Christ centered celebration, as we recall his miraculous birth. Recall from the posting on Monday, Mary’s astonishment? Luke 1 26-31. Then what Gabriel went on to tell Mary about this unborn son of hers which is in part of what we celebrate. “He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God shall give unto him the thrown of his father David. And he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end,” Luke 1:32-33.

O! what history and prophecy rests between verses 32-33. It is not to early to make those New Year Resolutions. Make sure yours are Christ centered with the discovery of the history and prophecy within those verses. Many benefits are available for the studious seeker. Like how the past, and current events will connect with our future. God will not fail David, a man after his own heart, Acts 13:22. “And when he had removed him (Saul), he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, ‘I have David, the son of Jesse, a man after my own heart, who shall fulfill all my will.’” All of Israel and Palestine belongs to the posterity of King David. That should suggest a whole about future peace in the area. But for Israel, and you, and me, “Of his seed has God raised unto Israel a Savior, Jesus, verse 23. From that abbreviated history we have a Christmas to really be joyful about. For unto us, a Savior was born. A history worth pulpiteering over from any podium available. Even in parks, with Florida’s weather being so pleasant at this time of the year.

Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available. These consultations are available for personal inquires, as well as the contents of this posting. Financial contributions are accepted from those willing to make such a donation.

“A word is dead when it is said, some say. I say it is just begins to live,” Emily Dickinson.

God sent the angel Gabriel to the city of Nazareth, to meet a virgin engaged to Joseph. Upon meeting her, Gabriel said to her, “Hail, you are highly favored, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women.” Finding herself confused, thinking, I have lost my mind. But the angel said, “Fear not Mary; for you have found favor with God.” “And behold, you will conceive in your womb, and bring forth a son, and shall call his name Jesus,” Luke 1:26-31.

Emily really got it right, “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we, beheld his glory, the glory as the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth,” John 1:14.

“Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord. He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored, Julia Ward Howe.

“The shortest and surest way to live with honor in the world is to be in reality what we appear to be,” Socrates.

“There is no more dangerous experiment than that of under taking to be one thing before a man’s face and another behind his back.” General Robert E. Lee.

“You must study to be frank with the world. Frankness is the child of honesty and courage. Say just what you mean to do on every occasion, and take it for granted that you mean to do right.” General Robert E. Lee.

“Strive to be greatest man in your country, and you may be disappointed. Strive to be the best and you may succeed: he may well win the race that runs by himself.” Benjamin Franklin.

“it is almost a miracle that modern teaching methods have not yet entirely strangled the holy curiosity of inquiry.” Albert Einstein.

And from Gabriel to all that is in between, two brothers were fishing.

A voice called out saying follow me. “I will make you fishers of men,” Jesus Christ, Mark 1:16-17.

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill can not be hidden,” Jesus Christ, Matthew 5:14.

“Where your treasure is, there will be your heart,” Jesus Christ, Matthew 6:21.

While applying to Saul, Eliab and others, it is applicable today because men and women look at outward appearances, but I look at the heart, God, 1 Samuel 16:7.

“Behold! I come quickly, and my reward is with me to give to every person according to there work,” Jesus Christ, Revelation 22:12.

“I have heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eyes sees you. Wherefore, I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes,” Job, Job 42:5-6.

Thinking is the delight of the soul. Because it manifest the true character of our being. So a few tantalizing treats for the Christmas season. Because sometimes it is rewarding to travel inside the souls of great thinkers and not to be denied the rewards of their expressions. This writer clergyman is available to discuss a wide variety of religious and secular topics. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available. Financial contributions are accepted from those willing to make such a donation.

Determining the birth date for the baby Jesus is impossible. The Bible does not provide a date for his birth. As the life of Jesus unfolded, revealing him to be a person of astonishing talents. Defying government, and religious officials, healing the sick, and even returning life to the dead. His murder by the Jews and Romans. Most astonishing his own return to life. Which he said was symbolic to the experience most humans would encounter. But like himself, they would never taste the second death. Because, they to, would be resurrected to life.

For reasons unknown, his followers never marked his birth date. One would have thought, that they would have wanted to commemorate his birth for all posterity. The birth of such an unusual man.

Just as remarkable, nor did any contemporary historians of his time date his birth.

So why the twenty fifth of December? Was there something special about that day? Yes! many think that our celebration of his birth on the twenty fifth is associated with the celebration of the Roman Saturnalia. It was a Roman festival held in late December to honor the God Saturn. The festival was celebrated by merry making of large banquets and the exchange of gifts. Some think that this celebration lasted up to a week. Saturn being associated with darkness and death. The darkness of Saturn was behind the Romans now with the solstice moving towards greater light. Saturnalia was really a celebration of the unconquered sun. Darkness and death would always give way to light and life. It did not matter, if it was associated with farming or human life. Light and life prevailed!

By now, the early Christians were being vigorously prosecuted by the Romans. Christians picked the twenty fifth because they could easily celebrate the birth of Christ with great festivity, and not be noticed because of Saturnalia. It was easy for Christians to blend in and celebrate the movement of the sun from darkness to light. Of course they celebrated the advent of Christ as the son of righteousness with all of its associated meanings.

It is thought today that concept of festivity and gift giving among Christians had its roots in that Roman celebration. That is not entirely true. In those days it cost something to be a Christian. Costs like prosecutions, torture, imprisonment, and executions. Executions resulting from your head being removed from the rest of your body. Torture by being placed in the gelatin. With the executioner making sure that the neck was properly placed on the cutting block. Wondering if the cutting blade would gracefully makes its descent without jamming. If it did jam, the executioner would just host the blade back up and try again.

All because the condemned, of that time, professed Christ as Savior and Lord. Savior because they recognized their state of sin. Lord because they renounced their sin, and bore the cause of Christ.

No fashionable clothes or fancy buildings called mega churches today. Because as many as ten thousand may gather at any one time to be entertained. Fine musicals, and talented orators keep the flock faithful. Free from prosecutions because of their belief in Christ.

It took a while, but the civil authorities finally wised up. They knew they could not defeat these committed Christians. They knew these Christians would succeed in turning their world up side down and inside out. so they legalized Christianity and today we have a wimpy church.

Rome had made it a crime to be a Christian. Christ was murdered because he violated both civil and religious law. Even in Christ’s time the civil authorities feared Jesus. Today we have a church neither feared or respected my millions. They found no reason to murder him. So they turned him over to the Jews; who did. But the guilt is equally shared by the Romans because they controlled the legal system. And the Romans, could have prevented his murder. Today we Christians could be the controlling authority, if we wanted it bad enough. Thus preventing paganism from sweeping the country.

Making a long story short this what the civil authorities learned. Recognize religion by giving it a prominent place in society. With that recognition comes two results. First, the government has a mechanism for the control of the people. Their old nemesis the Christians. Last, but not least in importance, the state rendered Christians a useless threat to civil rule. Which is really a tragic history, for the church which started around the third century. With each new century making the church a little more ridiculous.

Another tragedy is banging at the door of the church! It is the Muslim community, who will never accept Christianity as having a vital role in their own world. That is what the conflict in the Middle East really boils down to. Turkey a Muslim state not allowed membership in the Christian European Union. The conflict in Afghanistan and Iraq two more examples. The merging threat to Christian dominance around the Horn of Africa, The conflict between Christian Ethiopia and the Somali Islamic militia. Islam is obsessed with a disease diagnosed as jihad. It is beginning to spread through out the United States. Unless this germ is destroyed, it will render all resemblances of meaning full Christianity to the death of ashes.

In order for there to be world peace Christian countries are going to have to make huge concessions. Meaning no influence or control in countries like Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, or in Palestine. Moving to Africa, Ethiopia is a much a Muslim nation as it is Christian. Islamic forces like the Somali Islamist will make make it tough on Christians who want to practice Christianity. Think not, that this not the ultimate Islamic goal for America.

This object lesson should encourage Americans to support the few people in congress who want to pass laws, and limit Muslim immigration to the United States. Its only natural for a people to want their religion to find recognition in the countries legal system where they reside. Like the United States as it is—free from Muslim influence. Control Muslim growth, and influence. Stop Muslim immigration to this country.

Since we do not know the exact date for the birth of Christ this sheds a little light on how Christmas became so commercialized and neutralized. We Christians need to move away from the darkness of Saturn to the light of the Son. Failure to do so may once again see Christians celebrating the birth of Christ in the shadows of yet another oppressor.

This writer clergyman is available to discuss in more detail the contents of this posting. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available. Financial contributions are accepted from those willing to make such a donation

Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, failed in her quest to hand President Bush, a foreign policy achievement of peace between Israel and the Palestinians. And had it been accomplished, it would have advanced peace in the Middle East. Furthermore, the Presidents stature as a statesmen would have made him one of the nations great Presidents. That would have occurred, despite his many other failures. Now, most likely, his presidency will tumble to where it belongs, as one of the worst in American history.

That is how important peace between Israel and the Palestinians is to the world community. Because it is thought it would stabilize the entire Middle East. And help end, Islamic attacks around the world.

Soon President elect Obama, and his Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton will embark on the same trail. Each being fully aware of what a trophy of peace in those areas would do for their statures. And what follows, are some of the reasons they will also fail.

Many of the countries in the Middle East are predominantly under Islamic influence. In this 21 century, the dominant factor disturbing world stability is coming from the Muslim people of those nations.

Every century has to contend with, and defeat some form of evil. As the world, puts one decade after another behind it; the more visible this will become.

In the British and American centuries the most dominant factor for disturbing world stability came from Christianity. As the British, and Americans carved up Islamic nations. Establishing new boundaries for the regions nations. And, always busy importing Christianity as religion, and culture to those people.

Even creating a new state, for the dispersed Jews scattered around the world. With no less of an effort to convert Jews to Christianity.

With this occurring, no doubt, Muslims agreed that was the dominant factor disturbing world stability. Thinking that each century has to contend with and defeat some form of evil. This reality has manifested itself. As the Islamic world, put one century after another behind it. With the effects of this evil showing itself to the Muslim people. Because evil, is always in the eye of the beholder.

History teaches many lessons. One of them being that the oppressed never go to sleep. They bear a lot of suffering and humiliation, but in time they will rise up and attempt to destroy the oppressor. Sometimes with success an at other times with failure.

What is happening on the world scene today. Is the rising up of the oppressed Islamic people. Who are determined to destroy the Christian West. The Christian West calls these liberators from British and American dominance “extremists.” Which is a great misnomer, because it causes most to think that what is occurring from Muslim liberators is the misguided efforts of a few. Resulting in many in the Christian West, not to take this Islamic threat in a serious manner.

How will this all play out on the world stage. Will the Christian West be able to once again subdue this Islamic threat to the world? Or will the oppressed once again throw of the shackles of oppression by destroying the Christian West?

While the Christian West is a target for destruction, Israel is equally targeted. While Israel is more concerned than the West, neither fears defeat. That is because of their combined military prowess and their economic success. Both powers seem to have lots money to make war with, despite uncertain economic conditions.

Israel must be considered the “frontier post” for the defense of the Christian West. Which it is, but that will not help Israel or the Christian West; particularly the United States.

From a Biblical perspective, both Judaism and Christianity are in grave danger. This means the people in these respective nation states are the ones at risk. King Solomon said, “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the hearts.” “The horse is ready for the day of battle, but safety is from the Lord,” Proverbs 21:2 & 31. That is precisely the dilemma Israel and the Christian West faces. Can Israel, and the Christian West expect to find safety in the Lord? These collective nations and most of their citizens expect safety from the Lord. But the signs along the religious roadway say otherwise. Indeed the horse is ready for battle.

For the third time, the Muslim world has offered Israel a peace plan. If Israel accepts, the League of Arab Nations would guarantee their security as a nation.

Israel most likely will not agree to accept their offer. From this writer clergyman’s perspective, Israel should not for the following reasons. Arabs, and Muslims have long been committed to the annihilation of Israel.

They are attempting to regain from Israel what they could not accomplish during the war in 1967. Israel is the owner of the spoils of war. Now they want to retake, what they failed to accomplish through terror at the peace table.

This peace plan is conditional upon Israel agreeing to the establishment of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Israel will never agree to surrendering East Jerusalem.

Then there is the Palestinian refugee matter. The Arab league wants to open negotiations based upon United Nations General Assembly resolution 191. Which Israel fears would allow 700,000 refugees, and their descendants numbering up to three million to return to Israel. The refugees were displaced as a result of the 1948-49 war. Which resulted in the creation of the Israel state.

It is unthinkable that Israel would allow a ready made army of refugees and their descendants to re inhabit Israel.

Israel will not surrender Jerusalem to the Muslim world. The only way that the Muslim world will have Jerusalem is by force. That is apparently what is going to occur. The Bible calls these times the “Abomination of Dissolution.” “when you see Jerusalem compassed with armies then know its desolation is near,” Luke 21:20. ” For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to do battle; and the city shall be taken…,” Zechariah 14:2.

Why, because it is central to Biblical Prophecy. It all has to do with the Biblical prophecy for the end of this current age. The United States will not be able to save Jerusalem for Israel. Who then will attack Jerusalem? The armies of Gog and Magog. And that is the subject matter for another posting.

It appears that Islam will get its revenge. The penalty for oppression will be severe. But it will be only for a short time because God will do what the United States and others could not accomplish. Save Israel! it is all in the Bible.

But hope remains, and hope is a good because our combined deliverance will come. “Then shall the Lord go forth and fight against those nations,” Zechariah 14:3. “His feet shall stand in that day upon the Mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east…,” Zechariah 14:4. But the Jews, and we Christians will suffer greatly because we turned away from God, and rejected Jesus Christ in so many ways.

This writer clergyman is available to expand in lecture form on the contents of this complex subject matter. Because it will be the headlines of the secular media during 2009. Most will not recognize it though because it will be presented in non-biblical expressions, as is for example, our global economic meltdown. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available. Financial contributions are accepted from those willing to make such a donation.

Birds of a feather flock together, some say. Suggesting a comfortable sense of familiarity with others associated with the flock.

Still others say, it is a feather in their cap.

Despite the governments interest in trying to persuade the nation that commonality among people is universal.

Need proof? Proof is plentiful! Communities are surrounded with racial, ethnic and cultural tensions.

In reality, the greater the difference the less the flock has in common.

The government works hard to say it ain’t so. Accepting it as a collective feather in their cap. With every effort by legislation to make it so. At least by law, but law really can not make it so, either.

Of course, to every rule there is an exception. But the rule is negated because the proof is in the pudding.

So birds of a feather flock together, and make it a feather in your cap.

Just a few thoughts with variable applications, and this writer clergyman is available to paint publicly some of those applications. Workshops with this posting work super! Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available. Financial contributions are accepted from those willing to make such a donation.

Two soldiers met a brigand or robber. One fled, the other stood his ground and defended himself courageously.

When the assailant was shaken off the coward came running up and drew his sword. Let me deal with him, he said, as he threw back his cloak. I will show him what sort of men he has attacked. I wish you had said that before, replied the man who had fought it out. Even that much would have been a help to me. I should have felt more confident because I should have thought you were speaking the truth. Now, sheathe your sword and hold you tongue-since the one is as useless as the other. You maybe able to take in others, who do not know you. For myself, I have seen what energy you put into running away, and know how little trust can be put in your courage

This story goes satirizes people who are brave while all goes well but take to their heels in time of peril. (source: Penguin Classics-A Craven Braggart)

One evening Jesus sat down with the twelve. Jesus told them that they would be offended because of him. The Old Testament prophet Zechariah had foretold of a time when the sword would be awakened against the man who is my fellow, saith the LORD of Hosts; smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered, Zachariah 13:7. In Matthew 26:31, Jesus announced that the time in history was upon them.

This caused quite a stir among the twelve. They looked around among themselves, and asked in alarm, Is it I, Lord? Matthew 26:22. Peter was quick to respond, “Though all men shall be offended because of you, yet will I never be offended, verse 33. Jesus in mercy said, Peter you will, not once but three times deny me, verse 34. Peter indignantly charged, “Though I should die with you, yet will I not deny you. Likewise also said all the disciples,” verse 35. And so the stage was set for prophecy to be fulfilled. As it was, as one asked, what will you give me, if I turn him over to you? Matthew 26:15.

Then the *Craven Braggart,* of Aesop Fable, in modern English, *Cowardly people given to loud useless boosting.* Arrived, and played out their respective roles. With Judas, leading a great a throng of robbers, armed with with swords and clubs. Weapons provided by the religious authorities. And with tongue mocking, said Hail master, he then kissed Jesus betraying him, verse 49.

As the robbers approached, one stood his ground to protect Jesus. Drawing his sword, swinging into action, cutting of the ear of one of the assailants, verse 51. Jesus restrained him saying the time is not now, but know this, should I pray the Father, immediately he would give me legions of angels, Concluding, it is how the scriptures must be fulfilled and thus it must be, verses 52-54.

But Jesus was not through, he asked the people what are you doing? Coming against me as though I was a thief with clubs and swords. I sat in the temple daily, and taught you, and you laid not a hand on me. What is up people? Then Jesus proceeded to say, what is occurring is necessary in order to fulfill the scriptures as recorded by the prophets. This perhaps sent shock waves of remembrances of things to come because all the disciples forsook him and fled, verses 55-56. But from the previous posting, we know about Peter’s denials and his regrets.

According to Aesop, his fable was a story that satirizes people who are brave while all goes well, but take to their heels in time of peril. Which was also exemplified by the disciples behavior. But their is a more profound satirizing here because to error is human and to forgive is divine. And it started with Peter, who remembered the words of Jesus, causing him to weep, verse 75. Sorrow and repentance is how we make things right between God and ourselves. Peter went on to be a loyal servant of Christ, penning two books. Giving the church his *Last Will and Testament* through his two books. Describing the extent of his ministry. Acknowledging his ministry was made possible through the foreknowledge of God, the Father. And through the sanctification of the Holy Spirit unto obedience made possible by the blood of Jesus Christ. Greeting the people with a well earned introduction, when he wrote, “Grace be unto you, and peace be multiplied. Going on to talk about the power of God, behavior, commitment and service through out 1 Peter. An old man now, he leaves this final testament with 2 Peter. Focusing upon Christian virtues, and having been apart of the eye witnessing events concerning the majesty of Jesus Christ. Exhorting believers to pay attention to prophesy. Carefully laying out the purpose of his second book. Emphasizing repentance’s as a basic need of humanity, his Lord’s return with an interesting approach to the Day of the Lord, as recorded in 2 Peter 3:10-12. Resulting in a new a new heavens and a new earth, verse 13. Concluding that Christians should be careful, so as not to be led away with error and its consequences, verse 17. Finishing by encouraging Christians to grow in grace and in knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Knowing, as should all Christians, To him be glory both now and forever, Amen.

Quite a turn around for a man shamed by his betrayals. Weeping in regret and sorrow as one who mimics Aesop analogy, *but take to their heels in time of peril. Fortunately, for Peter, you and me, there is power in the blood as exemplified in 2 Peter 3:9, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promises … but is long suffering toward us, not willing that none should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”

This writer clergyman is available to dramatize the varied characters of this posting. But being more deliberate, when discussing, 2 Peter 3:10. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available. Financial contributions are also accepted fro those willing to make such a donation.

The Peter syndrome is a condition that plagues all of us, sometime during our life. It is a condition that when courage is needed, it is nowhere to be found. It is just that sometimes, when the going gets tough, some turn to running. With running employing different faces depending upon the circumstances. Like the face Peter wore, when he denied knowing Jesus Christ.

It was at a time, when he may have thought that the movement Christ founded was about to be crushed. Peter had slipped into a court room to witness legal proceedings against the man he most admired and pledged to follow. There stood his leader before the justices and being ordered, either to confirm or deny whether he was, or was not the Christ, the Son of God.

Jesus replied boldly, “as you say,” with the court responding with rage, “You have spoken blasphemy!” Then with quick deliberation, they ruled, “He is guilty of death.” Then they turned and spit in his face, and hitting him. Others punched him with the palms of their hands. The they mocked him, “saying prophesy unto us thou Christ, Who smote you?”

Peter, shaken to his very core after such a horrific court proceeding. And as Peter was slipping out of court, a group of woman saw him. Shouting you were with Jesus at Galilee! No! he replied, I have no idea what you are talking about. But another women overhearing the shouting, said to them all, he was with Jesus of Nazareth. This time Peter said, “I do not know the man!” Later Peter was approached a third time by a group of people. They stood by, and said to Peter, “Surely you are one of them; for your speech betrays you.” With that assertion of identity, Peter lost control of himself. Standing there, he began to curse and to swear, saying, “I know not the man!” Suddenly Peter remembered words of Jesus, and he wept bitterly.

Interesting in reading the account for yourself? Go to Matthew 26:57-75. Read it in the light of John 3:8, listen to what the spirit, like the wind is saying to you. Perhaps if you know him not, his spirit will work another miracle. And if you, like me, know him, well then his spirit might have a special Christ message for you, as he did for me.

This posting in a way was born from the two previous ones. Hammering this writer forcefully with the worlds of the supernatural along with all the ramifications.

“The LORD bless you, and keep you; The LORD make his face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you; The LORD lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace,” Numbers 6:24-26

This writer clergyman is available to discuss some of those ramifications. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information. Private and confidential consultations are also available. Financial contributions are accepted from those willing to make such a donation.

A terrible panorama beings with Revelation 4:1, … “Come up here John! and I will show you things which must be hereafter.”

In Revelation 12:9, we discover that “the great dragon” the “one who deceives the whole world” was expelled from heaven. His angels accompanied him. We know from verse 12 that they were dispatched to our world with great anger.

Just think of all the time people spend trying to sort out world affairs. With one short verse the cause of troubling world affairs is made understandable. Everything has a beginning, so when did “the great dragon” explosion and earths woes begin. History is segmented, but for this current historical time frame. Sometime between the murder of Jesus Christ and his resurrection. From that event, the world emerged in a deadly war. A war that few know much about. And many with some familiarity with this war, do not understand the significances of this conflict.

In that we are engaged in a war with “the great dragon” against our Lord and his church. It means that the cause of Christ and his church is best defended by good preparation. Which requires the necessity of knowing something strategically valuable about “the great dragon.” And by all means, avoid taking ones enemy for granted.

So here we discover that Satan who is the “great deceiver” has a core of fallen angels here with him. And just what is it that this band of fallen angels have in mind for us, where you and I live?

Most likely, as the “great deceiver” with his group of loyalist. Cunning deception which will manifest itself in confusion. Showing itself in the manifestation of doubt. Forging a convincing ideology of not being able to distinguish between the believable and unbelievable.

With the “great dragon” and its cohorts focusing their attention upon the church as the primary agent of unbelievability.

When the “great dragon” discovered that its forced residency was upon the earth. He immediately began persecuting the woman who gave birth to the male child, Revelation 12:13. This was foretold in Matthew 24:9, “Then shall they deliver you (Jesus) and (and then his church) up to be afflicted, and they shall kill you; and you shall be hated of all nations for my name sake.” Verse 8, “All these things shall be the beginning of sorrows.”

Neither this writer, nor any other believer should think that we are important to the “great dragon and its fallen band of angels. In their conquest to persecute the child, we are Not! Christ lives beyond his resurrection through his church. This is a conquest of destruction that must be obliterated in order for the great dragon and its followers to succeed. “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come, Matthew 24:14. Of course the persecution will never succeed. Because Christ will always have followers, who will announce the necessity of repentance. Along with acceptance of Christ, as the Father’s sacrificial lamb for our sins. Which is our rich Christian heritage, through out the centuries. “And they over came him by the blood of the Lamb, and by their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death,” Revelation 12:11.

Because the persecuted woman is the witnessing church, along with her offspring through the centuries. This connection is derived from the expression of Revelation 12:13. “… and when the dragon saw that he was cast into the earth. He persecuted the woman…” Also note, …”Woe unto the inhabitants of the earth…,” verse12. Then note verse 14, And the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness. Into her place where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half of a time, from the face of the serpent. Referred to as the “Abomination of Desolation,” Matthew 24:15, or the “great tribulation” of verse 21, the most horrific experiences of humanity never to be matched. In verse 14, we see the synergy of symbolism coming into play. The synergy of Exodus 19:4, “You have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bore you on “eagles wings” AND BROUGHT YOU UNTO MYSELF.” “As an eagle stirs up her nest, flutters over her young. Spreading broad her wings taking them upon her wings,” Deuteronomy 32:11. Rejoice God will provide and protect!

Hopefully, fellow believers in Christ have learned something of strategic importance concerning the enemy of humanity and the church of Jesus Christ. Allowing for proper spiritual preparation. An enemy to be feared and never taken for granted. Because deception is his primary trademark for weakening the faith of believers which is the only way the “great dragon” and his fallen angelic cast can penetrate the church. which is done through her off spring.

In that I have written some about this, you now know why the churches are chastised a number of times in Revelation chapters two and three. And more importantly, why the church is called into action. Recall the counsel and the gold with soothing ointment for healing of Revelation 3:18. Followed by the very serious exhortation, “As many as I love, I rebuke and correct. Be zealous, and therefore repent,” verse 19.

This writer clergyman is available to fill in the details of this posting. By announcing this message from your church podium, or any other suitable location, like a public park with the weather being so comfortable in Florida. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Privates and confidential consultations are also available. Financial contribution accepted from those willing to make such a donation.

“He who testifies of these things says, surely, I come quickly, Amen. Even so come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all, Amen,” Revelation 22:20-21.

In that so much has been said about the purposeful life, why not let the scriptures speak for themselves about the purposeful life. After all they are of a supernatural origin, far over stepping the Greek goddess Nemesis. Who played a duel roll in Greek mythology, and is seen as the goddess retribution and justice. Often inflicting vengeance upon a seemingly formidable and victorious rival. But Nemesis, whose name means *dispenser of dues,* seemed to have had a flare for love. Dispensing her dues upon people, who acted with seemingly impunity by disrupting love relationships.

So it is with the scriptures, for they reveal a duel role too. But there is a difference between the mythology of Nemesis and the scriptures. From the scriptures, Christians are the agents retribution and justice. With a far more formidable foe, as pictured in Ephesians 6:12, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” But Christians should also have a flare for love. Dispensing God’s dues upon those who would act with seemingly impunity disrupting God’s relationship with his bride.

Christians are the bride of Christ as presented in Isaiah 54:5, “For your Maker is your husband; the LORD of hosts is his name; and our Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel. The God of the whole earth shall he be called.”

From there Christians move on to fight the principalities, powers, darkness and spiritual wickedness in high places. Offering retribution, and justice in the form of vengeance against a seemingly formidable and victorious foe. Because those powers have violated God’s love relationship with his people. Therefore, in a real since, Christians are his *dispensers of dues.* Because of 2 Corinthians 5:15, “And that he died for all, that they who live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him, who died for them and rose again.”

John 3:8, “The wind blows where it will and you hear the sound of it, but can not tell from where it came, and where it goes; so is everyone born of the spirit.” While here Jesus was talking about the born again experience, that profound supernatural experience that unifies flesh and blood with the God. That supernatural experience that leaves humanity like Nicodemus asking, “How can these things be?” John 3:9.

So it is with the purposeful life, designed by the spirit of God, when discovered by the individual like as the wind blows. Not always being able to determine how ones calling to service of Christ came about and not knowing where that service will propel one. Only knowing that somehow, one is God’s vessel for his *dispenser of dues.* And that is the final word on the purposeful life, as determined by the scriptures. And that is how this posting came about, designed to be a vessel. Helping the brides of Christ find their supernatural purpose like as the wind blows.

This writer clergyman is available to discuss the contents of this posting. In particular the supernatural experience, in a modern ungodly world. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available. Financial contributions are accepted from those willing to make such a donation.

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance you and give you peace,” Numbers 6:24-26.

Many Americans, through out the Tampa Bay community, and the rest of the country think of the nation as an open society. It’s open to the elite within the country. Who have created a political monopoly through the nations two party system. There purpose and function is to make a few very rich and most very poor. We as a nation need to understand the mechanics of this process and bring it to an end.

Because Americans are allowed to vote for candidates selected by this two party system, many think our society is free and open. Just consider this, the men and women who serve in the nations senate, are known as the “Millionaires Club.” It’s just not politicians in the senate who should be of concern to Americans. In an election cycle prior to 2008, the candidates running for governor in in battle ground states like the California and New York, one a democrat, the other a republican. The democrat pumped 34 million dollars of his own money into his campaign. While the republican, used his billions to become mayor. These people seek office to advance the interest of the country’s wealthy and elite. AND IT IS MAIN THE REASON WHY THE NATION HAS BEEN SUCKED INTO AN UNPARALLELED FINANCIAL CRISIS. The rest of us are needed to propel the machinery of production in order to enlarge the window of wealth and elitism in the United States. They have no substantive concerns about the economic welfare of the average American. The scales of economic fairness are so negatively tilted against most people that many conclude that it must represent the natural order of economics in an order society. Practitioners of such a doctrine often invoke, *God bless America.* Most do not believe that motto, it represents just a tactic to make people think their behavior is of God. It has paid the big dividends, until now, forcing them to beg the Congress for our money, in order to bail them out from their self inflicted financial disasters.

The fundamental cause of our currant financial quagmire is an American culture is based upon protestant puritanism. Which millions recently celebrated, as the *thanksgiving holiday.* A tribute to the tradition of work place oppression. A skillfully manufactured propaganda idiom of giving thanks to our Creator for allowing slavery and servitude to the masters of greed.

That good old protestant work ethic which has griped this nation from its foundation to this very day. It went something like this. God expects human beings to work by the sweat of their brow. That is the penalty for the sin of Adam and Eve. But God being merciful, offered human beings a two part solution for their fallen state. God will reward sinners who recognize their fallen state; and repent. God’s Paradise on Earth, the Garden of Eden, was meant to be a place of beauty, wealth, and comfort for those created in the image of God. That changed with the fall of Adam and Eve. So after sinners repent, God provided human beings with a second chance at beauty, wealth, and comfort. Not on the same scale as would have been found in the Garden of Eden, but never the less impressive. It’s the reward for hard work by the sheer sweat of ones brow. That represents the correct reasoning for our currant situation. Absent one element-GOD intended an equal distribution of the wealth.

But in Puritan times of the 1600’s, and onward to this very day, it became twisted. Wealth in America has been associated with being right with God; and on God’s side in the struggle of good verses bad. A sign, if you please, that the blessings of God are upon that dutiful laborer and subservient employee. That notion is so ingrained in the American consciousness that it is difficult to free ones self from its mental and social influence as a nation. The whole of capitalistic economics is rooted in the concept that God rewards his followers who combine repentance and work with unparalleled prosperity. One of the problems today is that repentance has been removed from the equation. With political correctness and multiculturalism being added to the equation. That equation equals behaviors abhorrent to GOD almighty. Surely not to go unnoticed by GOD for its ungodly consequences. Which is perhaps, the root of our own financial collapse which is now global.

If there is one thing known to humanity, it’s this, we are self seeking creatures of self gratification. Like the current steward for the millionaires club, who said, employing his Bushism, “ownin” things is nice. Of course, the steward for the wealthy in and outside of government is to make sure their gratification multiplies exponentially cause *ownin* things is nice. And, who would deny that truism? The problem for people in the Tampa Bay community and the rest of the nation is that we are *ownin* less and less; especially money and jobs.

Congress has put together a $15 billion bail out package for the auto industry. But there are some strings attached, one which is good while another is not so good. There are more strings attached but for now, I’ll comment on just two of them. The auto executives must forgo their luxury corporate jets. What a crying shame, how are these executives going to survive with out their luxury aircraft? Maybe they will not because that would turn the not so good into good. The bailout requires the workers to agree to some sort of a restructuring plan. And that is, the not so good aspect of this congressional bail out package. Because the auto workers will be asked to take significant cuts in salary, health care and other benefits. A demand of Senate Republicans, who will take up this bailout plan soon. The congress has already accused them of earning to much money. Assessing their salaries at $70,000 which is erroneous. In the previous posting the error was addressed. Showing that auto workers salaries are around $28,000. A barely livable annual wage, if one is without dependents. And look who is in control the Democrats, the Republicans if anything are worse!!! That is why the American work force needs a new party to represent them. In a recent posting it was suggested, a Christian Democratic party based upon Biblical economics. A Biblical doctrine not often discussed because it would turn the tables upside down between government, corporate conglomerates and Christianity. A major problem for the church is that Christianity has become the servant of the state and spokes person for corporate America. While the state exists to serve the interest of the nations corporate conglomerates, despite the currant government rhetoric. The government and corporate America understands that the rhetoric is meaningless. Such tough talk about fault and accountability is only uttered to appease the electorate.

There is not much this writer can share that you do not already know about *ownin* less money. Sometimes its just good to stare at reality one more time. Maybe you can use the information to encourage or motivate others to understand that change is needed so working people can enjoy *ownin things* just because its nice. As long as the notions of protestant puritanism which today are camouflaged in expressions not so easily discernible continue to thrive. There will be less *ownin* things because its nice. Absent will be any concept of economic fairness at home or for nations under American control, and influence. Americans, must rise up and say enough is enough. Then action must follow the expression enough is enough.

This writer clergyman is available to discuss the complex elements of this posting. One of them which would be jobs as a property right. Please refer to the navigation link for contact information and other services provided. Private and confidential consultations are also available. Financial contributions are accepted from those so inclined to make such a donation.