Know that the Kingdom of God is Near

“Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. 

When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves 

and know that summer is now near; 

in the same way, when you see these things happening, 

know that the Kingdom of God is near." 

(Luke 21:29-31)

The concept of the Kingdom of God holds significant spiritual and theological meaning. In the Bible, Jesus often spoke about the Kingdom of God, emphasizing its nearness and calling people to repentance and belief. While the physical world may change and eventually cease to exist, the truth and wisdom found in His words endure forever. It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of divine truth and the reliability of God’s promises.

Jesus told his disciples a parable: “Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. (Luke 21:29-33)

“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel” (Mk 1:15). This statement highlights that the Kingdom of God is not distant but is immediately accessible. It invites us to turn away from our old ways and embrace the good news of God’s reign. In Luke 17:21 Jesus tells us that the Kingdom of God is within us. It’s not merely a physical place but a spiritual reality. When we align our hearts with God’s will, His kingdom becomes present in our lives. Matthew 4:17 declares, “The kingdom of heaven has come near.” Jesus inaugurated this kingdom during His earthly ministry. It’s not just a future hope; it’s a present reality where God’s rule is established on earth. In summary, the Kingdom of God is both a future hope and a present reality. It calls us to live in alignment with God’s purposes, seeking His reign in our hearts and actions.

In this prophetic vision, Daniel sees the Son of Man, a divine figure who receives authority and rulership from God. The Son of Man is granted dominion, representing His sovereignty over all creation. His glory shines forth, revealing His divine nature. The global impact of His reign transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries. The Son of Man’s dominion is eternal. Unlike earthly kingdoms that rise and fall, His kingship remains unshaken. It’s a promise of hope and stability.

In the vision I, Daniel, saw during the night, the four winds of heaven stirred up the great sea, from which emerged four immense beasts, each different from the others. The first was like a lion, but with eagle’s wings. While I watched, the wings were plucked; it was raised from the ground to stand on two feet like a man, and given a human mind. The second was like a bear; it was raised up on one side, and among the teeth in its mouth were three tusks. It was given the order, “Up, devour much flesh.” After this I looked and saw another beast, like a leopard; on its back were four wings like those of a bird, and it had four heads. To this beast dominion was given. After this, in the visions of the night I saw the fourth beast, different from all the others, terrifying, horrible, and of extraordinary strength; it had great iron teeth with which it devoured and crushed, and what was left it trampled with its feet. I was considering the ten horns it had, when suddenly another, a little horn, sprang out of their midst, and three of the previous horns were torn away to make room for it. This horn had eyes like a man, and a mouth that spoke arrogantly. As I watched, Thrones were set up and the Ancient One took his throne. His clothing was snow bright, and the hair on his head as white as wool; His throne was flames of fire, with wheels of burning fire. A surging stream of fire flowed out from where he sat; Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him. The court was convened, and the books were opened. I watched, then, from the first of the arrogant words which the horn spoke, until the beast was slain and its body thrown into the fire to be burnt up. The other beasts, which also lost their dominion, were granted a prolongation of life for a time and a season. As the visions during the night continued, I saw One like a son of man coming, on the clouds of heaven; when he reached the Ancient One and was presented before him, He received dominion, glory, and kingship; nations and peoples of every language serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away; his kingship shall not be destroyed. (Daniel 7:2-14)

Jesus, in the New Testament, identifies Himself as the Son of Man. Ultimately, this vision of Danile points to the eternal reign of Jesus Christ, who brings redemption, justice, and restoration. His kingship is unassailable, and His love extends to all peoples. God is always present, whether we feel it or not. Praising Him helps us sense His presence. Psalm 140:13 says that the righteous praise His name and live in His presence.

“Mountains and hills, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever. Everything growing from the earth, bless the Lord; praise and exalt Him above all forever. You springs, bless the Lord; praise and exalt Him above all forever. Seas and rivers, bless the Lord; praise and exalt Him above all forever. You dolphins and all water creatures, bless the Lord, praise and exalt Him above all forever. All you birds of the air, bless the Lord; praise and exalt Him above all forever. All you beasts, wild and tame, bless the Lord; praise and exalt Him above all forever.” (Daniel 3:75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81)

Praising God holds immense spiritual significance and plays a vital role in our faith journey. When we praise God, it lifts our spirits. Psalm 42:5-6 reminds us that even in discouragement, we can put our hope in God and praise Him. Worship energizes us by shifting our focus from troubles to Jesus. Sometimes we face issues we can’t figure out. Worshiping God brings us into His presence, where solutions emerge. Praise opens our hearts to divine guidance. As God becomes bigger in our view, our problems diminish. We choose whether our problems or God will be big.

Praise is a weapon against spiritual battles. It shifts our focus from problems to God’s power. Victory comes as we magnify Him. In summary, praising God is an act of faith, a source of strength, and a way to encounter His presence. Let us continue to lift our voices in worship!

Pericope:

VI: The Teaching Ministry in Jerusalem

THE LESSON OF THE FIG TREE

Luke 21:29-33

II: Daniel's Vision

VISION OF THE FOUR BEASTS

Daniel 7:1-28

I: Daniel and the Kings of Babylon

THE FIERY FURNACE

Daniel 3:68-81

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing chat

Published:

December 01, 2023, 6:53 AM

Sanctuary Made By Hands

Christ did not enter 

into a sanctuary 

made by hands, 

a copy of the true one, 

but heaven itself,

that he might now 

appear before God 

on our behalf. 

(Hebrews 9:24)

Christ's work is not limited to earthly sanctuaries but extends to the heavenly realm. He entered heaven itself, signifying the ultimate and perfect sanctuary.

Jesus appears in God's presence on our behalf. This highlights His role as our intercessor, advocating for us before God and ensuring that we have access to His grace and mercy.

Through Christ, we have direct access to God. His presence in the heavenly sanctuary assures us that we can approach God with confidence, knowing that Jesus is there interceding for us.

The earthly sanctuary was a copy of the true one in heaven. Christ's entry into the heavenly sanctuary signifies the fulfillment and surpassing of the old covenant, establishing a new and eternal covenant through His sacrifice.

These lessons inspire us to appreciate the significance of Christ's heavenly ministry, trust in His intercession, and embrace the new covenant He established. 

In the courts of heaven high, 

Where angels sing and praises fly,

There stands our Savior, pure and just, 

In Him alone, we place our trust.

Before the throne, He intercedes, 

For every heart, for all our needs.

With love and grace, He pleads our case,

 A beacon of hope, a saving grace.

In every trial, in every fear, 

His voice is strong, His presence near. 

He lifts our prayers, He knows our pain, 

In Him, we find our strength again.

So let us rest in His embrace, 

And trust in His unfailing grace. 

For Jesus intercedes for us, 

In Him, we place our faith and trust.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with grateful hearts, knowing that You are our advocate and intercessor. You stand before the throne of God, pleading on our behalf with love and compassion. We are humbled by Your sacrifice and Your continual presence in our lives.

Help us to trust in Your intercession and to find comfort in knowing that You are always with us. Strengthen our faith and guide us in our daily walk, so that we may live in a way that honors You. Teach us to rely on Your grace and to seek Your guidance in all that we do.

Lord, we thank You for Your endless love and mercy. May we always remember that You are our mediator, bridging the gap between us and God. Fill our hearts with Your peace and joy, and help us to share Your love with others.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: Jesus' Eternal Priesthood and Eternal Sacrifice

SACRIFICE OF JESUS

Hebrews 9:1-28

Second Reading | Hebrews 9:24-28

24 Christ did not enter into a sanctuary made by hands, a copy of the true one, but heaven itself, that he might now appear before God on our behalf. 25 Not that he might offer himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters each year into the sanctuary with blood that is not his own; 26 if that were so, he would have had to suffer repeatedly from the foundation of the world. But now once for all he has appeared at the end of the ages to take away sin by his sacrifice. 27 Just as it is appointed that human beings die once, and after this the judgment, 28 so also Christ, offered once to take away the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to take away sin but to bring salvation to those who eagerly await him.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Kingdom of God

 “What is the 

Kingdom of God like? 

To what can I 

compare it?" 

(Luke 13:18-21)

Luke 13:18-21 contains two parables: the Parable of the Mustard Seed and the Parable of the Yeast. These parables illustrate the nature of the Kingdom of God.

Parable of the Mustard Seed: Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds but grows into a large tree where birds can perch. This teaches us that the Kingdom of God starts small but grows significantly, impacting many lives.

Parable of the Yeast: Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to yeast that a woman mixes into a large amount of flour until it works all through the dough. This illustrates how the Kingdom of God works quietly and pervasively, transforming everything it touches.

These parables remind us that even small acts of faith and kindness can have a profound impact, and that the influence of God's Kingdom is often subtle but powerful. 

In the smallest seed, a kingdom grows, 

A realm of peace where love flows. 

From mustard seed to mighty tree, 

A haven for all, for you and me.

Like yeast that works through all the dough, 

God's kingdom spreads, unseen but sure. 

In every heart, it finds its place, 

A quiet force, a boundless grace.

In acts of kindness, pure and small, 

The Kingdom's light shines for all. 

A whisper, a touch, a gentle call, 

In these, God's love stands tall.

So let us live with hearts aglow, 

In the Kingdom of God, let love show. 

For in each moment, great or slight, 

We build His realm; we share His light.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your grace and guidance. We thank You for the gift of Your Kingdom, a realm of love, peace, and righteousness. Help us to live as faithful citizens of Your Kingdom, spreading Your light and love in all we do.

May Your Kingdom grow within us, like the mustard seed that becomes a mighty tree. Let our faith be strong and unwavering, reaching out to others and providing shelter and comfort to those in need.

Just as yeast transforms the dough, may Your Spirit work within us, transforming our hearts and minds. Help us to be instruments of Your peace, bringing hope and healing to a world in need.

Lord, we pray for the strength to follow Your teachings and to live according to Your will. May Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE PARABLE OF THE MUSTARD SEED/YEAST

Luke 13:18-21

Gospel Acclamation 

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.

Gospel | Luke 13:18-21

18 Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it? 19 It is like a mustard seed that a person took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and the birds of the sky dwelt in its branches.” 20 Again he said, “To what shall I compare the Kingdom of God? 21 It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened.” 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Co-Pilot

Kingdom for All Ages

Your Kingdom is a Kingdom for all ages, 

and your dominion endures 

through all generations. 

(Psalm 145:13)

God’s everlasting kingdom endures through all generations. His dominion is unshakable, and His compassion extends to all His creations. Every day, we can bless the Lord and declare His greatness, for His majesty is beyond measure. Our praise should be personal, surrendered, and unending. We have a responsibility to share God’s mighty acts with those who come after us.

God’s Unshakable Kingdom

In the tapestry of time, woven by the Divine, 

God’s everlasting kingdom stands, unwavering, sublime. 

Through countless generations, its pillars rise high, 

A sanctuary of grace where weary souls draw nigh.

His dominion, unshakable, defies mortal strife, 

A beacon of hope in the tempests of life. 

Mountains may crumble, empires may fall, 

Yet His reign endures, unyielding through it all.

Compassion spills forth like a boundless stream, 

Touching every heart, fulfilling every dream. 

From dawn’s first light to twilight’s gentle hush, 

His love enfolds creation—a masterpiece, lush.

So let us bless the Lord, voices raised in praise, 

Declare His greatness, our hearts ablaze. 

For His majesty surpasses earthly measure, 

Inviting us into worship’s sacred treasure.

In surrender, we find strength; in humility, might, 

Our lives intertwined with His celestial light. 

And as we journey onward, faithful and free, 

May we share His mighty acts for all to see.

A Prayer of Unshakable Faith

Gracious Father, whose dominion spans eternity, We bow before Your throne, hearts filled with humility. Your everlasting kingdom stands firm, unyielding, A refuge for weary souls, a sanctuary of healing.

Generations rise and fall, yet Your reign persists, Unshakable, unwavering, through life’s twists. Compassion flows from Your heart, a boundless stream, Touching every creation, redeeming every dream.

Today, we lift our voices in praise and adoration, Blessing Your name, declaring Your exalted station. Majestic King, beyond earthly measure You stand, Our worship, personal and surrendered, in Your hand.

May our lives echo Your mighty acts, O Lord, As we walk this path, guided by Your Word. Empower us to share Your grace with those who follow, That Your love may shine brightly, today and tomorrow.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

Fifth Book of Psalms 107-150

THE GREATNESS AND GOODNESS OF GOD

Psalm 145:1-21

Responsorial Psalm | Psalm 145:10-11, 12-13, 17-18

R: Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your Kingdom.

10 Let all your works give you thanks, O Lord, and let your faithful ones bless you. 11 Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdom and speak of your might. (R) 12 Making known to men your might and the glorious splendor of your Kingdom. 13 Your Kingdom is a Kingdom for all ages, and your dominion endures through all generations. (R) 17 The Lord is just in all his ways and holy in all his works. 18 The Lord is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth. 

Background:

Psalm 145:10-18 is a beautiful acrostic poem that extols God’s sovereignty and care. 

God’s Sovereignty and Praise: The psalmist begins by declaring, “I will extol you, my God and King” (verse 1). This personal witness sets the tone for praise. In verse 10, the voice of praise expands to include “all your works” and “all your faithful.” Creation itself joins in giving thanks to the Lord. The term “faithful ones” (hasidim) refers to those who love God and seek Him. Their praise encompasses all who turn to God, regardless of identity or background.

God’s Care for Creation: Verses 11-13 emphasize God’s care for His creatures. The psalmist acknowledges that God’s grace extends to all who call upon Him. The message of God’s goodness and provision reaches beyond Israel to all people. It’s a universal invitation to seek God and experience His love.

Theology of Psalm 145:10-18: Placed near the end of the Psalter, Psalm 145 serves as a fitting summary of David’s lifelong understanding of God’s character. This monumental praise psalm celebrates the capacious sovereignty of Israel’s God, inviting gratitude and thanksgiving.

Learning Lessons:

Wholehearted Praise: David’s example teaches us to praise God with our entire being. He extols God as his King, blessing His name forever and ever. Let’s follow suit, lifting high the name of our Creator. Our praise should be personal, surrendered, and unending. Every day, we can bless the Lord and declare His greatness, for His majesty is beyond measure.

Passing the Torch of Praise: David emphasizes generational continuity. One generation praises God’s works to the next. We have a responsibility to share God’s mighty acts with those who come after us. God’s everlasting kingdom endures through all generations. His dominion is unshakable, and His compassion extends to all His creations.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Kingdom of Heaven belongs to Children

“Let the children come to me, 

and do not prevent them; 

for the Kingdom of heaven 

belongs to such as these.” 

(Matthew 19:14)

Jesus emphasized that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who approach God with childlike faith. As adults, we often complicate matters, but children trust wholeheartedly. We should also embrace others, regardless of age, status, or background. Investing in people—especially the vulnerable—is essential. Everyone matters to God. May we seek His touch in our lives, inviting His grace and favor. Let’s cultivate a simple, unwavering trust in God.

Childlike Faith

In the quiet hush of dawn, 

Where sun-kissed dew adorns the grass, 

A child approaches the throne of grace, 

With eyes wide open, heart unburdened.

“Jesus,” whispers innocence, 

“Can I sit upon Your knee? 

Will You tell me stories of the stars, 

And why the waves kiss the shore?”

And Jesus smiles, His gaze so kind, 

He lifts the little one with care, Says, 

“Child, the Kingdom is yours, 

For you trust without pretense.”

The child’s faith, a fragile bloom, 

Not tainted by life’s bitter storms, 

No cynicism, no walls of doubt, 

Just arms outstretched, a soul unguarded.

A Prayer of Childlike Trust

Lord Jesus, our Shepherd and Guide, in the quiet chambers of our hearts, we come before You, childlike and unpretentious, seeking the warmth of Your embrace. You taught us that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who trust like little children, their eyes wide with wonder, hearts unburdened, their faith unmarred by life’s complexities. So today, we lay down our adult worries, our tangled thoughts, and our weary souls, and we choose simplicity—the faith of a child, for in that simplicity, we find You. Embrace us, O Lord like a parent lifting a child onto their knee, like a gentle breeze that kisses the cheeks of the innocent, like a warm sunbeam that chases away shadows. 

Help us to trust wholeheartedly to believe without overthinking, to surrender our doubts and fears, to walk hand in hand with You, our Savior. Teach us to embrace others, the elderly, whose wisdom we honor, the young, whose dreams are yet unfolding, the broken, whose hearts ache for healing. and let us invest in people not just in grand gestures, but in small acts of kindness, not just in the strong, but in the vulnerable, for everyone matters to You, O God. May Your touch be upon us like a healing balm on wounded souls, like a whispered promise in the night, like a sunrise that paints hope across the horizon. And as we seek Your grace and favor, may our trust in You be unwavering, may our hearts remain open, unguarded, may we find the Kingdom within, here and now. In Your precious name, we pray. Amen. 

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN

Matthew 19:13-15

Gospel Acclamation

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.

Gospel | Matthew 19:13-15

13 Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked them, 14 but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 15 After he placed his hands on them, he went away.

Background:

This passage reveals several significant aspects:

Jesus’ Love for Children: His demeanor attracted children, and He welcomed them. His actions demonstrated that children mattered to Him.

Imposition of Hands: The act of laying hands on the children was customary among Jews. It symbolized blessing, healing, and prayer. Jesus used this gesture to bless the little ones.

Kingdom of Heaven: Jesus emphasized that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those with childlike faith—those who trust, depend, and approach God with innocence and humility.

Learning Lessons:

Childlike Faith: Jesus emphasized that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who approach God with childlike faith. As adults, we often complicate matters, but children trust wholeheartedly. Let’s cultivate a simple, unwavering trust in God.

Welcoming Others: Jesus welcomed the children, even when His disciples tried to prevent it. We should also embrace others, regardless of age, status, or background. Everyone matters to God.

Blessing and Prayer: Jesus laid hands on the children, symbolizing blessing and prayer. May we seek His touch in our lives, inviting His grace and favor.

Priorities: The disciples’ initial reaction revealed misplaced priorities. Jesus corrected them, showing that investing in people—especially the vulnerable—is essential.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Await New Heavens

In the realm where divine patience lays,

God's promises echo through the days.

Seeming delays, but a divine art,

For salvation's chance to more impart.

Look forward, with anticipation filled,

To the Lord's coming, our hope instilled.

Strive to be spotless, blameless, at peace,

In God's love, let your integrity increase.

Live a life of integrity, pure and bright,

Maintain with God, a relationship right.

In pleasing Him, find your life's song,

In His holy presence, we belong.

Guard against error, spiritual and deep,

In the grace of Jesus, let us steep.

Against false teachings, remain steadfast,

In God's truth, let our lot be cast.

Grow in grace, in knowledge abound,

In Jesus Christ, let our lives be found.

Seek to understand, in all God's ways,

Allow His grace, our hearts to raise.

In steadfast truth, let us remain,

In understanding God, let us gain.

His grace transforming us, day by day,

In His love, we find the way.

REFLECTION:

But according to his promise we await new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. (2 Peter 3:13)

God’s seeming delay in fulfilling His promises is actually a demonstration of His patience, giving more people the opportunity to be saved. 

We should look forward with anxious anticipation to the coming of the Lord make every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with God by living living a life of integrity and seeking to maintain a right relationship with God in a manner that is pleasing to Him. 

Let us guard against spiritual error and grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ by being vigilant against false teachings and remaining steadfast in the truth of God’s Word, continually seeking to understand more about God and His ways and allowing His grace to transform us.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We acknowledge Your divine wisdom and infinite patience. We understand that Your seeming delay in fulfilling Your promises is actually a demonstration of Your patience, giving more people the opportunity to be saved. We are grateful for Your mercy and Your love.

As we look forward with anxious anticipation to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, we pray that You help us make every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with You. Guide us to live a life of integrity, seeking to maintain a right relationship with You in a manner that is pleasing to You.

Lord, we ask for Your protection as we guard against spiritual error. Help us to be vigilant against false teachings and to remain steadfast in the truth of Your Word. We pray for discernment and wisdom as we navigate through the challenges of this world.

We desire to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. We pray that You open our hearts and minds as we continually seek to understand more about You and Your ways. Let Your grace transform us, molding us into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ.

In all things, we give You thanks and praise. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Delay of the Second Coming

EXHORTATION TO PREPAREDNESS

2 Peter 3:11-16

First Reading | 2 Peter 3:12-15, 17-18

12 Beloved: Wait for and hasten the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved in flames and the elements melted by fire. 13 But according to his promise we await new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. 14 Therefore, beloved, since you await these things, be eager to be found without spot or blemish before him, at peace. 15 And consider the patience of our Lord as salvation. 17 Therefore, beloved, since you are forewarned, be on your guard not to be led into the error of the unprincipled and to fall from your own stability. 18 But grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory now and to the day of eternity. Amen. 

Background:

The book of 2 Peter was written by the apostle Peter, who identifies himself as an “apostle of Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:1). He specifically mentions that he was an eyewitness of the transfiguration (2 Peter 1:16–18; see Matthew 17:1–8). The letter was likely written from prison in Rome not too long before his death by execution, sometime during AD 64–6712. It is believed that Peter may have been writing to the churches of Asia Minor.

The purpose of 2 Peter was to expose, thwart, and defeat the invasion of false teachers into the church. Peter intended to instruct Christians on how to defend themselves against these false teachers and their deceptive lies. The false teaching was not only a theological challenge but also a moral one, promoting some form of sexual permissiveness as a legitimate Christian lifestyle.

In the context of 2 Peter 3:12-15, 17-18, Peter is addressing the certainty of the last days and God’s promise. He emphasizes the importance of being mindful of the words spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of the apostles of the Lord and Savior. He encourages believers to endure in the face of opposition, knowing that they are living in the last days. He reassures them that the Lord is patient with his creation, but someday he will suddenly return to judge it.

In verses 17-18, Peter warns his readers to be on guard so that they may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from their secure position. He encourages them to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Learning Lessons:

The verses 2 Peter 3:12-15, 17-18 offer several important lessons for Christians:

Anticipate the Coming of the Lord: The verses encourage believers to look forward with anxious anticipation to the coming of the Lord. This anticipation should motivate us to live in a manner that is pleasing to God.

Strive for Peace and Purity: Believers are urged to make every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with God. This means living a life of integrity and seeking to maintain a right relationship with God.

Value the Lord’s Patience: The patience of the Lord is to be regarded as salvation. This means understanding that God’s seeming delay in fulfilling His promises is actually a demonstration of His patience, giving more people the opportunity to be saved.

Guard Against Spiritual Error: Believers are warned to guard themselves from spiritual error. This involves being vigilant against false teachings and remaining steadfast in the truth of God’s Word.

Grow in Grace and Knowledge: Finally, believers are encouraged to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. This involves continually seeking to understand more about God and His ways, and allowing His grace to transform us.

These lessons remind us of the importance of staying faithful, being vigilant against false teachings, and continually growing in our relationship with Christ. They encourage us to live lives that are pleasing to God as we anticipate His return. (Conversation with Copilot)

The Kingdom of God

He said, “To what shall we compare the Kingdom of God, 

or what parable can we use for it?"

MARK 4:30

The kingdom of God in the eyes of Jesus. He sees it not as a place, but as a state of being, not as a rule, but as a way of living, not as a reward, but as a gift of grace, not as a future, but as a present reality. He sees it as a kingdom of love, where God is the king, a kingdom of peace, where justice is the thing, a kingdom of joy, where happiness is the ring, and a kingdom of hope, where faith is the wing.

Jesus explains everything in private. He takes you aside, away from the crowd and says He has something to tell you, something profound. He knows your past, present, and future. He knows your sins, struggles, and failures. He has a plan for you, a purpose, a destiny. He wants you to follow Him, to trust Him, and to obey Him. The Lord will never leave you, forsake you, and forget you. He will always guide you, protect you, and correct you. Jesus is your Lord and Savior. He is everything, to you, forever.

26 Jesus said to the crowds: “This is how it is with the Kingdom of God; it is as if a man were to scatter seed on the land 27 and would sleep and rise night and day and the seed would sprout and grow, he knows not how. 28 Of its own accord the land yields fruit, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. 29 And when the grain is ripe, he wields the sickle at once, for the harvest has come.” 30 He said, “To what shall we compare the Kingdom of God, or what parable can we use for it? 31 It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth. 32 But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the sky can dwell in its shade.” 33 With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to understand it. 34 Without parables he did not speak to them, but to his own disciples he explained everything in private. (Mark 4:26-34)

Nothing is hidden in the Lord. He sees everything, the big and the small. He knows everything, the rise and the fall. He hears everything, the cry and the call. He cares for everything, the one and the all. He sees our hearts, the pure and the stained. He knows our thoughts, the wise and the vain. He sees our sins, the old and the new. He knows our guilt, the false and the true.

You cannot right a wrong with another wrong. You cannot heal a wound with another cut. You cannot fill a hole with another dug. You cannot mend a heart with another break. You cannot fix a mistake with another make. You cannot solve a problem with another one. You cannot face a challenge with another run. You cannot overcome a fear with another hide. You cannot bridge a gap with another divide. You can only right a wrong with a right. You can only heal a wound with a light. You can only fill a hole with a love. You can only mend a heart with a dove.

1 At the turn of the year, when kings go out on campaign, David sent out Joab along with his officers and the army of Israel, and they ravaged the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. David, however, remained in Jerusalem. 2 One evening David rose from his siesta and strolled about on the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing, who was very beautiful. 3 David had inquiries made about the woman and was told, “She is Bathsheba, daughter of Eliam, and wife of Joab’s armor bearer Uriah the Hittite.” 4 Then David sent messengers and took her. When she came to him, he had relations with her. She then returned to her house. 5 But the woman had conceived, and sent the information to David, “I am with child.” 6 David therefore sent a message to Joab, “Send me Uriah the Hittite.” So Joab sent Uriah to David. 7 When he came, David questioned him about Joab, the soldiers, and how the war was going, and Uriah answered that all was well. 8 David then said to Uriah, “Go down to your house and bathe your feet.” Uriah left the palace, and a portion was sent out after him from the king’s table. 9 But Uriah slept at the entrance of the royal palace with the other officers of his lord, and did not go down to his own house. 10 David was told that Uriah had not gone home. 13 On the day following, David summoned him, and he ate and drank with David, who made him drunk. But in the evening Uriah went out to sleep on his bed among his lord’s servants, and did not go down to his home. 14 The next morning David wrote a letter to Joab which he sent by Uriah. 15 In it he directed: “Place Uriah up front, where the fighting is fierce. Then pull back and leave him to be struck down dead.” 16 So while Joab was besieging the city, he assigned Uriah to a place where he knew the defenders were strong. 17 When the men of the city made a sortie against Joab, some officers of David’s army fell, and among them Uriah the Hittite died. (2 Samuel 11:1-4, 5-10, 13-17)

God exposes your guilt. He sees through your mask, your pretense, your lie. He knows what you did, what you said, what you hide. He hears your excuses, your reasons, your blame. He judges your actions, your motives, your shame. He shows you your sin, your fault, your error. He reveals your weakness, your flaw, your terror. He confronts you with truth, with justice, with grace. He calls you to repent, to confess, to embrace. He does not do it to hurt you, to mock you, to scorn you. He does not do it to hate you, to reject you, to ignore you. He does it to heal you, to free you, to restore you. He does it to love you, to forgive you, to adore you. 

3 Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense. 4 Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me. 5 For I acknowledge my offense, and my sin is before me always: 6 “Against you only have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight.” I have done such evil in your sight that you are just in your sentence, blameless when you condemn. 7 True, I was born guilty, a sinner, even as my mother conceived me. 10 Let me hear the sounds of joy and gladness; the bones you have crushed shall rejoice. 11 Turn away your face from my sins, and blot out all my guilt. (Psalm 51:3-4, 5-6, 6-7, 10-11)

Lord Jesus, Your kingdom is at hand. I acknowledge my sin before You and humbly beg for Your mercy and forgiveness. I come before you, Lord, with a broken and contrite heart. I admit my sin, Lord, with a humble and honest start. I confess my guilt, Lord, with a sorrowful and repentant part. I ask your mercy, Lord, with a hopeful and grateful art. I have sinned against You and You alone, I have disobeyed Your will and Your throne, I have corrupted Your image and Your tone, I have dishonored Your name and Your zone. I beg your mercy, Lord, for you are the God of compassion and grace, the God of forgiveness and embrace, the God of salvation and erase, the God of love and peace. You have paid the price for my sin, cleansed me from within, restored me to your kin and have given me a new begin. I acknowledge your grace, Lord, and I thank your mercy and forgiveness. I acknowledge your love, Lord, and I praise your mercy and forgiveness. I acknowledge you, Lord, and I worship you, Lord, for your mercy and forgiveness. Amen

Pericope:

II: The Mystery of Jesus

SEED GROWS OF ITSELF / THE MUSTARD SEED

Mark 4:26-29 / 30-34

IV. The Reign of David

DAVID'S SIN

2 Samuel 11:1-27

Second Book of Psalms 42-72

THE MISERERE: PRAYER OF REPENTANCE

Psalm 51:1-11

Reflection Source:

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