Meditate on Christ

Let’s focus our attention on our Lord

[christmeditations]

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“One Body, Many Flames”

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(15th-century Russian icon)

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“Can’t you hear the voice of Wisdom?

From the top of the mountains of influence she speaks into the gateways of the glorious city.

At the place where pathways merge, at the entrance of every portal,

there she stands, ready to impart understanding, shouting aloud to all who enter,

preaching her sermon to those who will listen.

“I’m calling to you, sons of Adam, yes, and to you daughters as well.

Listen to me and you will be prudent and wise.

For even the foolish and feeble can receive

an understanding heart that will change their inner being.

The meaning of my words will release within you revelation for you to reign in life.

My lyrics will empower you to live by what is right.

For everything I say is unquestionably true,

and I refuse to endure the lies of lawlessness— my words will never lead you astray.

All the declarations of my mouth can be trusted;

they contain no twisted logic or perversion of the truth.

All my words are clear and straightforward to everyone who possesses spiritual understanding.

If you have an open mind, you will receive revelation-knowledge.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭8‬:‭1‬-‭9‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity!

It is like the precious oil on the head, running down upon the beard,

on the beard of Aaron, running down over the collar of his robes.

It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion.

For there the Lord ordained his blessing, life forevermore.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭133‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭NRSV‬‬

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The hospitality of Abraham/ Trinity, Andrei Rublev 15th century

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I do not pray for them exclusively

but also for those who would come to believe in me because of their word.

That they all may be one, exactly as you Father are mirrored in me and I in you,

that they also will be exactly mirrored to be one in us -

then the entire world will believe and be persuaded about your mission upon my life.

And I, [the Incarnate word] have endued them with the same glorious esteem

that you have given me so that their oneness may mirror ours.

John 17:20-21 Mirror Bible

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For—just as the body is one

and has many members, yet all the members,

while being many, are one body—so also the Anointed;

1 Corinthians 12:12 D.B. Hart NT

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All Saints Icon- Athanasios Anagnostos 1867

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Meditation:

Wisdom is not cold knowledge.

Wisdom is the living breath that draws many hearts into one flame.

At Pentecost, tongues divided but did not scatter —

the Spirit made many voices into one Body.

Wisdom is Christ’s prayer echoing through time:

that we may be one,

not by force but by love.

One Body. One Spirit. One Lord.

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How does the Spirit invite me to deepen unity with others today?

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Where do I resist becoming one flame among many?

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Closing Prayer:

Spirit of Wisdom,

Gather us from our scattered corners.

Make us one in heart and voice.

Let us burn brightly, together,

in the communion of Your holy fire.

[christmeditations]

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Eyes to See, Ears to Hear

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Rabbula Gospels, Fourth century

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Isaiah‬ ‭11‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭NRSV‬‬:

“The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him,

the spirit of wisdom and understanding,

the spirit of counsel and might,

the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.

His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord.

He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear;”

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Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭17‬-‭20‬ ‭TPT‬‬:

“Let me, your servant,

walk in abundance of life

that I may always live to obey your truth.

Open my eyes to see the miracle-wonders hidden in Scripture.

My life on earth is so brief, so tutor me in the ways of your wisdom.

I am continually consumed by these irresistible longings,

these cravings to obey your every commandment!”

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The Light of the World (c. 1904-1904). St Paul's Cathedral, London ‭‭

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John 16:13-14 David Bentley Hart NT:

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1 Corinthians 2:10 Mirror Study Bible:

“These profound mysteries

of God’s eternal resolve are now unveiled in us;

nothing is hidden from Holy Spirit,

who explores the innermost thoughts of God.“

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On the Road to Emmaus, an early 14th century painting by Duccio depicting Jesus with two disciples now housed at Museo dell'Opera del Duomo in Florence, Italy

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Meditation:

At Pentecost, the Spirit does not only give speech —

He gives sight.

He opens hearts, lifts veils, clarifies what was hidden.

The same Spirit who hovered over the deep

hovers over your confusion still,

hovering to make chaos clear,

and darkness light.

Where He breathes, scales fall away,

and truth stands radiant.

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What do I need the Spirit to help me see clearly right now?

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Where do I need to trust the Spirit to reveal truth over time?

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Spirit of Understanding,

Search the deep places of my heart.

Shine Your light where I have hidden shadows.

Open my eyes, open my ears —

lead me into the truth that frees.

[christmeditations]

Digital Lectio

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A Word Behind You

[from the Sherbrooke Missal: Aberystwyth, National Library of Wales, 1310-1320]

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“Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you;

therefore he will rise up to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice;

blessed are all those who wait for him. Truly, O people in Zion, inhabitants of Jerusalem,

you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry;

when he hears it, he will answer you.

Though the Lord may give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction,

yet your Teacher will not hide himself any more, but your eyes shall see your Teacher.

And when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left,

your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.””

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭30‬:‭18‬-‭21‬ ‭NRSV‬‬

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“Direct me, Yahweh, throughout my journey so I can experience your plans for my life.

Reveal the life-paths that are pleasing to you.

Escort me into your truth; take me by the hand and teach me.

For you are the God of my salvation;

I have wrapped my heart into yours all day long!

Forgive my failures as a young man, and overlook the sins of my immaturity.

Give me grace, Yahweh!

Always look at me through your eyes of love—

your forgiving eyes of mercy and compassion.

When you think of me, see me as one you love and care for.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭25‬:‭4‬-‭7‬ ‭Passion

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["Jesus, on a throne, teaches his apostles" , a paleochristian mosaic (late 4th century), Cappella di sant'Aquilino chapel in the Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore in Milan, Italy. Picture by Giovanni Dall'Orto, May 18 2007.]

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“The Holy Spirit is about to become your close companion,

sent by my Father in my name to represent me, to teach you all things and remind you of everything that I have spoken to you.

Thus, my word will continue to find a voice in you.

Peace be with you.

I give you my own peace - this is not the kind the world gives

- this is peace in the midst of troubled times; therefore you have nothing to fear.

Let not your hearts be timid.

You have heard me say that I go away to come to be face to face with you;

now if you’re in love with me you would not be threatened by the idea of my departure,

but you would rejoice since I’ll be going to the Father and my Father is greater than me. From now on we will be present in a much closer capacity to you than what I could ever be while I am with you in the flesh.”

John 14:26-28 Mirror

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Romans 8:14-17

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[The Good Shepherd. Sculpture in marble. Rome. Catacombs of Domitila, ca. 300-350, photograph was taken by Dnalor_01]

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Meditation:

The fire at Pentecost did not only empower speech —

it taught the Church to listen.

The Spirit of Counsel whispers in every wilderness:

“Walk here.”

“Speak now.”

“Be still.”

He is the gentle voice in the storm,

the guiding word that makes paths straight

and hearts courageous.

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Where in my life do I need the Spirit’s guidance now?

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Am I making room to listen for His still, small voice?

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Spirit of Counsel,

Teach me Your ways.

Tune my heart to Your whisper,

my feet to Your path,

my tongue to Your word of life.

Lead me where Your wisdom goes.

[christmeditations]

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Tongues of Fire, Hearts Aflame

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Pentecost Icon 1800’s

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“Then afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on everyone.

Your sons and your daughters will boldly prophesy, your elderly will have supernatural dreams,

and your youth will experience ecstatic visions.

And I will even pour out my Spirit in those days upon every servant, both male and female.”

‭‭Joel‬ ‭2‬:‭28‬-‭29‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“What a wildly wonderful world, God!

You made it all, with Wisdom at your side, made earth overflow with your wonderful creations.

Oh, look—the deep, wide sea, brimming with fish past counting, sardines and sharks and salmon.

Ships plow those waters, and Leviathan, your pet dragon, romps in them.

All the creatures look expectantly to you to give them their meals on time.

You come, and they gather around; you open your hand and they eat from it.

If you turned your back, they’d die in a minute—

Take back your Spirit and they die, revert to original mud;

Send out your Spirit and they spring to life—

the whole countryside in bloom and blossom.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭104‬:‭24‬-‭30‬ ‭MSG‬

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Descent of the Holy Spirit (Novodevichy Convent) 1000-1500

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“So [Jesus] again said to them, ‘Peace to you. As the Father has sent me,

I also send you.’ And, saying this, he breathed upon them and says to them,

‘Receive a Holy Spirit…’”

John 20:21-22 David Bentley Hart New Testament

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“and suddenly there came a noise like a turbulent wind borne out of the sky,

and it filled the whole house where they were sitting,

and there appeared before them tongues as of fire,

which parted and came to rest, one each upon each one of them,

and they were all filled with a Holy Spirit, and they began to speak in other tongues,

as the Spirit gave them to utter.

Acts 2:2-4 David Bentley Hart New Testament

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John the Evangelist Church (Covington, Kentucky) - Father, Sacred Heart of Jesus, and Holy Spirit mural

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Meditation:

Love descends not gently but in flame.

The Spirit of the Lord is not distant —

He fills every room, every mouth, every trembling heart.

No corner of your life is too small for His fire.

No fear too strong for His breath.

You are His dwelling place.

You are His voice.

Come, Holy Fire — burn us alive in Love.

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Where do I need the Spirit’s fire to renew my heart?

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What might it mean that God wants to dwell in me?

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Closing Prayer:

Holy Spirit, Breath of Christ,

Set our hearts ablaze with Your love.

Come like wind, like flame,

like whisper, like thunder.

Thank you for making us Your living temple.

[christmeditations]

Digital Lectio

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[The Day of Pentecost

Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis]

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“Then he said to me, This [addition of the bowl to the candlestick,

causing it to yield a ceaseless supply of oil from the olive trees]

is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel, saying,

Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit [of Whom the oil is a symbol],

says the Lord of hosts. For who are you, O great mountain [of human obstacles]?

Before Zerubbabel [who with Joshua had led the return of the exiles from Babylon

and was undertaking the rebuilding of the temple, before him]

you shall become a plain [a mere molehill]!

And he shall bring forth the finishing gable stone [of the new temple]

with loud shoutings of the people, crying,

Grace, grace to it! [Ezra 4:1-5, 24; Isa. 40:4.]”

‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

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“The Lord is my light and my salvation;

Whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the strength of my life;

Of whom shall I be afraid?”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭1‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

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[5th century mosaic, Ravenna]

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“Then he opened their mind to understand the scriptures; and he said to them:

“Thus it has been written [and so must it be] that the Anointed will suffer

and rise again from the dead on the third day, and in his name transformation of the heart

and forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem.

You are witnesses of these things. And see: I send forth the promise of my Father upon you;

but stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”

Luke 24:45-49 DBHart NT

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“for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

So when they had come together, they asked him,

“Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?”

He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;

and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.””

‭‭Acts‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬-‭8‬ ‭NRSV‬‬

["The Saviour's Transfiguration" 15th century]

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Meditation:

The Spirit’s flame does not merely warm —

it emboldens.

The timid become brave,

the scattered become sent.

At Pentecost, restful hearts are clothed in a power

not born of force but of the Lamb who was slain.

Spirit of Might,

make courage rise where we tremble.

Make power flow through yielded hands.

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Where do I need divine courage to witness or serve?

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How is the Spirit’s power different from the world’s power?

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Spirit of Might,

Strengthen my weakness with Your power.

Fill me with holy courage to speak, to stand, to serve.

Thank you

for clothing Your Church with boldness and gentleness,

power and peace.

[christmeditations]

Digital Lectio

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[Duccio di Buoninsegna (1308).]

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“After two days He will revive us; On the third day He will raise us up,

That we may live in His sight. Let us know, Let us pursue the knowledge of the Lord.

His going forth is established as the morning;

He will come to us like the rain, Like the latter and former rain to the earth.”

‭Hosea 6:2-3

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“O God of my life, I’m lovesick for you in this weary wilderness.

I thirst with the deepest longings to love you more,

with cravings in my heart that can’t be described.

Such yearning grips my soul for you, my God!

I’m energized every time I enter your heavenly sanctuary

to seek more of your power and drink in more of your glory.

For your tender mercies mean more to me than life itself.

How I love and praise you, God!

Daily I will worship you passionately and with all my heart.

My arms will wave to you like banners of praise.

I overflow with praise when I come before you,

for the anointing of your presence satisfies me like nothing else.

You are such a rich banquet of pleasure to my soul.

I lie awake each night thinking of you and reflecting on how you help me like a father.

I sing through the night under your splendor-shadow,

offering up to you my songs of delight and joy!

With passion I pursue and cling to you.

Because I feel your grip on my life, I keep my soul close to your heart.”‭‭

Psalms‬ ‭63‬:‭1‬-‭8‬ Passion

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[Picture of the Sacred Heart being adored by Margaret Mary Alacoque and Mary of the Divine Heart 1647–1690]

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“This is what Jesus prayed as he looked up into heaven,

‘Father, the time has come.

Unveil the glorious splendor of your Son so that I will magnify your glory!

You have already given me authority over all people

so that I may give the gift of eternal life to all those that you have given to me.

Eternal life means to know and experience you as the only true God,

and to know and experience Jesus Christ, as the Son whom you have sent.’”

‭‭John‬ ‭17‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭Passion

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“In fact, I have come to the conclusion that every association

I have had with that which defined me before as a devout Jew,

is by far eclipsed by what I have gained in knowing the Messiah.

Jesus Christ and his masterful redemption define me now.

Religion is like dog pooh; and it stinks, avoid stepping in it.

So here I am; found in Christ.

I was looking in the wrong place all along.

My own duty-and-guilt-driven religious endeavor

snared me in the cul-de-sac maze of self-righteousness, sponsored by the law of works.

The faith of Christ reveals my identity; righteousness defines who God believes that I really am.

This righteousness is sourced in God and endorses the authority of faith.

(Faith is a fairy tale if Jesus is not the substance of it.) Oh to comprehend the dynamic of his resurrection.

His resurrection is evidence of our righteousness.

In the revelation of God’s economy of inclusion, I actually co-suffered with him and co-died together with Christ.

(Because I was already fully represented in his sufferings, his death and resurrection, I am greatly inspired when faced with contradictions now. Romans 4:25.)”

Philippians 3:8-10 Mirror

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[in the east window of All Saints' Convent chapel, Oxford.]

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Meditation:

Knowledge at Pentecost is no cold fact —

it is a holy experience .

The Spirit who fills hearts with fire

ignites desire for the One who first desired us.

He makes faith living,

not memorized but embraced.

The burning heart is the Spirit’s gift:

to know Christ intimately,

to taste His flame of love.

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What does it mean for me to truly know God — not just about Him?

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Where might the Spirit be awakening new desire in me?

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Closing Prayer:

Spirit of Knowledge,

Stir our hearts with holy longing.

Ignite our faith into flame.

Draw us deeper into intimacy with Christ —

not cold facts, but warm communion.

[christmeditations]

Digital Lectio

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Tongues of Fire, Hearts in Awe

[Pentecost, The Rabbula Gospels, 6th-century illuminated Syriac Gospel Book]

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“And the Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him—

The Spirit of wisdom and understanding,

The Spirit of counsel and strength,

The Spirit of knowledge and of the [reverential and obedient] fear of the Lord—

And He will delight in the fear of the Lord,

And He will not judge by what His eyes see, Nor make decisions by what His ears hear;”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭11‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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“His voice scooped out the seas. The ocean depths he poured into vast reservoirs.

With breathtaking wonder, let everyone worship Yahweh, this awe-inspiring Creator.

He breathed words and worlds were birthed.

‘Let there be,’ and there it was— springing forth the moment he spoke, no sooner said than done!

With his breath he scatters the schemes of nations who oppose him; they will never succeed.

His destiny-plan for the earth stands sure. His forever-plan remains in place and will never fail.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭33‬:‭7‬-‭11‬ ‭The Passion Translation

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[Moses and the Burning Bush, Raphael

photo, Stanza di Eliodoro, Musei Vaticani]

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“A continued sense of awe rested upon everyone

as they witnessed many sign and wonders taking place through the apostles.

All those coming to faith engaged in a great sense of community; enjoying one another’s company.”

Acts 2:43-44 Mirror Bible

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“We are fully associated in this immovable Kingdom;

an authority that cannot be challenged or contradicted.

Our participation echoes grace [and not law and fear-inspired obedience]

as we accommodate ourselves to God’s delight, yielding in awe to his firm embrace.

His zeal for us burns like fire.”

Hebrews 12:28-29 Mirror Bible

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[Moses and the burning bush, biblepics.co]

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Meditation:

At Pentecost, holy fire fell —

and the fear of the Lord came with it.

Not terror, but trembling wonder:

God is near,

God is holy,

God is here —

and so we stand barefoot on burning ground.

This awe is not to run from, but to live in,

every breath a worship,

every heartbeat a flame.

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When did I last feel true awe at God’s nearness?

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What would my life look like if I lived every day in holy wonder?

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Closing Prayer:

Spirit of Holy Awe,

Dance with our wonder

Teach us reverence in Your nearness.

Let our worship burn pure,

our hearts kneel low,

and our lives stand amazed.

[christmeditations]

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“That They May Be One”

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“The Hospitality of Abraham” or “The Trinity” by Andrei Rublev, 15th century

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“Then I [Wisdom] was beside Him as a master and director of the work; and I was daily His delight,

rejoicing before Him always, [Matt. 3:17; John 1:2, 18.]

Rejoicing in His inhabited earth and delighting in the sons of men. [Ps. 16:3.]”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭8‬:‭30‬-‭31‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

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“How truly wonderful and delightful

it is to see brothers and sisters living together in sweet unity!

It’s as precious as the sacred scented oil flowing from the head of the high priest Aaron,

dripping down upon his beard and running all the way down to the hem of his priestly robes.

This harmony can be compared to the dew dripping from Mount Hermon,

which flows down upon the hills of Zion.

Indeed, that is where Yahweh has decreed his blessings will be found,

the promise of life forevermore!”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭133‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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From panel of, “madonna col bambino e santi, lucca” by Berlinghiero berlinghieri 13th century

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“But I(Jesus) make supplication not for them only,

but also for those having faith in me on account of their word,

that all may be one, just as you, Father, are in me and I in you,

that they too might be [one] in us,

so that the cosmos may have faith that you sent me forth.

And I have given to them the glory you have given me, that they may be one just as we are one:

I in them and you in me, that they might be brought to completion in one,

so that the cosmos might know that you sent me forth, and loved them just as you loved me.”

John 17:20-23 DBH New Testiment

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“But we speak wisdom among the perfected, though not wisdom of this age or of this age’s Archons,

who have been brought to nothing; rather, we speak of God’s wisdom in a mystery,

which has been hidden away, which God has marked out in advance for our glory before the ages,”

1 Corinthians 2:6-7 DBH New Testament

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The Holy Trinity by Hendrick van Balen, a Flemish artist from the 17th century.

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What does it mean for me to “rest” in the Risen Christ today?

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How can I participate in His prayer for unity?

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O Wisdom of God,

We rest in You.

Draw us into the stillness where all striving ceases.

Make us one in the love that is older than time.

Let our lives be a reflection of Your unity.

[christmeditations]

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“Then Their Eyes Were Opened”

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Supper at Emmaus -Rembrandt, 1648

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“He will neither judge by appearances nor make his decisions based on rumors.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭11‬:‭3‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“Open my eyes to see the miracle-wonders hidden in Scripture.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭18‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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The Resurrection, Andrea Mantegna, c. 1459

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Luke 24:31

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Ephesians 1:18

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Emmaus, Caravaggio 15th century

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True sight begins not with the eyes,

but with the unveiling of the heart.

The Risen Christ reveals Himself—

in the breaking of bread,

as the Word,

in the very wounds He bears.

Understanding is not intellectual alone—

it is communion.

To see Christ is to see truly.

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What in my life might Christ be helping me see in a new way?

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Where is He breaking bread with me—quietly, surprisingly?

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Jesus,

Open the eyes of our hearts.

Let us see You where we have not looked before.

Reveal Your presence in our daily bread,

in sacred texts,

in the faces around us.

Make us truly see.

[christmeditations]

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“He Opened Their Minds”

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Christ Pantocrator painted by Adelbert Gresgnigt OSB in Mosteiro de Sao Bento in Sao Paulo Brazil 1922

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“Even though the Lord may allow you to go through a season of hardship and difficulty, he himself will be there with you. He will not hide himself from you, for your eyes will constantly see him as your Teacher.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭30‬:‭20‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“Truth’s shining light guides me in my choices and decisions; the revelation of your Word makes my pathway clear.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭105‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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Byzantine-style mosaic of Christ Pantokrator in the Cefalù Cathedral, erected by Roger II in 1131

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“And he said to them, ‘These are the words I spoke to you when I was still with you: That it is necessary for everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the prophets and the Psalms to be fulfilled.’ Then he opened their mind to understand the scriptures;”

Luke 24:44-45 David Bentley Hart New Testament

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“But, if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask for it from the God who gives to all unreservedly and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”

James 1:5

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From a 1684 Arabic manuscript of the Gospels, copied in Egypt by Ilyas Basim Khuri Bazzi Rahib (likely a Coptic monk). In the collection of The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, Md

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Jesus is more than a teacher—

He is the Word made flesh,

and the Spirit of Counsel reveals Him in the Word written.

When the tomb stands open,

so does the Scripture.

And through it, our minds are opened—

not to mere knowledge,

but to walk the path He lights with peace and purpose.

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Where in my life do I need God’s direction right now?

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How might the Risen Christ speak through Scripture and silence today?

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Christ, Living Word,

You walk beside us even when we don’t see You.

Speak into our confusion.

Open our minds and hearts to Your voice,

that we may walk wisely in Your light.

[christmeditations]

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“My Lord and My God”

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“God said, “My presence will go with you. I’ll see the journey to the end.”

Exodus‬ ‭33‬:‭14‬ ‭MSG‬‬

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[The Incredulity of Saint Thomas (Caravaggio)]

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“Where could I go from your Spirit?

Where could I run and hide from your face?

If I go up to heaven, you’re there!

If I go down to the realm of the dead, you’re there too!

If I fly with wings into the shining dawn, you’re there!

If I fly into the radiant sunset, you’re there waiting!

Wherever I go, your hand will guide me; your strength will empower me.”

‭‭-Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭7‬-‭10‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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[Christ the Bridegroom c.1084]

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John 20:27-28

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Romans 20:16-17

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Icon of the Holy Face

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The Risen Christ does not scold the doubter.

He comes close.

Shows wounds.

Invites touch.

In His presence, identity is restored.

We are no longer orphans or outcasts — we are known, named, loved.

“My Lord and my God,” we whisper — and realize who we are.

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Where do I struggle to believe I am loved by God?

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How can I rest more fully in the presence of the Risen Lord today?

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Risen Lord,

You come through locked doors and fearful hearts.

You speak peace and offer presence.

Call us again by name,

and let us find our true selves in You.

[christmeditations]

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Strength perfected in Love

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[Unknown Russian Icon Painter (1500s)]

Ikonen-Museum, Recklinghausen

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“He empowers the feeble and infuses the powerless with increasing strength.

Even young people faint and get exhausted; athletic ones may stumble and fall. But those who entwine their hearts with Yahweh will experience divine strength.

They will rise up on soaring wings and fly like eagles, run their races without growing weary, and walk through life without giving up.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭40‬:‭29‬-‭31‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“The Lord is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation.

There are glad songs of victory in the tents of the righteous:

“The right hand of the Lord does valiantly; the right hand of the Lord is exalted; the right hand of the Lord does valiantly.”

I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the Lord.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭118‬:‭14‬-‭17‬ ‭NRSV‬‬

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[THE ‘ANASTASIS’ FRESCO. A 14TH CENTURY PAINTING FROM THE BYZANTINE ERA ON A WALL IN THE CHORA CHURCH IN ISTANBUL]

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“That evening of the first day of the week, the disciples were gathered in a room with the doors locked because they were afraid of the Jews. Suddenly Jesus stepped into their midst and said, Shalom.(The addition of tēi miāi sabbatōn proves that John is using Roman time, not Jewish, for here evening follows day instead of preceding it. See John 9:14)

Then he showed them his scarred hands and side and having now seen the Lord for themselves, they were exceedingly glad.”

John 20:19-20 Mirror Study Bible

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“Finally it dawned on me that grace is God’s language; he doesn’t speak thorn-langauge. He said to me, My grace 1elevates you, to be fully content. And now, instead of being overwhelmed with a sense of my own weakness, he overwhelms me with an awareness of his strength. Oh what 2bliss to rejoice in the fact that in the midst of my frailties I encounter the dynamic of the grace of God to be my 3habitation. (The word 1arkeō, content, stems from the word airō which means to elevate. The word 2hedista from hedeos, means pleasure. The word 3episkēnoō has two components: epi, continuous influence upon and skēnoō, to encamp, to reside in a tent; the noun, skēnos reminds of the English word skin. Paul suggests that God’s grace fits you like a skin. One feels most at home in the consciousness of his grace.)”

2 Corinthians 12:9 Mirror Study Bible

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[Icon of the Feast of Antipascha, or St. Thomas touching the Wounds of the Risen Christ]

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The tomb was sealed.

The body broken.

But Love did not stay buried.

In Christ, power is not domination — it is the strength to suffer,

to forgive,

to rise again in peace.

This is Might: nailed hands raised in blessing.

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Where have I mistaken power for control rather than courage?

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In what broken places is God raising new strength in me?

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Risen Christ,

You are strength beyond fear and might beyond measure.

Breathe into our wounds the power of Your peace.

Raise us to walk in the strength of Your love.

[christmeditations]

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Burning on the Road

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Jesus and the two disciples On the Road to Emmaus, by Duccio 14th century

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“Then Yahweh replied, “This is what I, Yahweh, the God of Israel, say to you: ‘The good figs are the people of Judah whom I sent away in exile to Babylon.

My eyes will compassionately watch over them for their good, to bring them back to this land, to build them up and not to tear them down, to plant them and not to uproot them.

I will give them a willing heart to know that I am Yahweh.

They will be my beloved people, and I will be their loving God, for they will return to me with every passion of their heart.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭24‬:‭4‬-‭7‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“A white-tailed deer drinks from the creek; I want to drink God, deep drafts of God. I’m thirsty for God-alive.

I wonder, “Will I ever make it— arrive and drink in God’s presence?” I’m on a diet of tears— tears for breakfast, tears for supper.

All day long people knock at my door, Pestering, “Where is this God of yours?”

These are the things I go over and over, emptying out the pockets of my life.

I was always at the head of the worshiping crowd, right out in front, Leading them all, eager to arrive and worship, Shouting praises, singing thanksgiving— celebrating, all of us, God’s feast!

Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul?

Why are you crying the blues?

Fix my eyes on God— soon I’ll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face.

He’s my God. When my soul is in the dumps, I rehearse everything I know of you, From Jordan depths to Hermon heights, including Mount Mizar. Chaos calls to chaos, to the tune of whitewater rapids.

Your breaking surf, your thundering breakers crash and crush me. Then God promises to love me all day, sing songs all through the night!

My life is God’s prayer. Sometimes I ask God, my rock-solid God, “Why did you let me down? Why am I walking around in tears, harassed by enemies?”

They’re out for the kill, these tormentors with their obscenities, Taunting day after day,

“Where is this God of yours?” Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues?

Fix my eyes on God— soon I’ll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He’s my God.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭42‬:‭1‬-‭11‬ ‭MSG‬‬

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The Last Supper - Leonardo Da Vinci

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This is how it happened, As soon as they reclined at the table, he took the bread, blessed it, broke it and 1was giving it to them!

([1] And proceeded to give it... [ἐπεδίδου] A very beautiful use of the Imperfect Active, indicating that while he was in the act of distributing they recognized him.

He blessed, and having broken, was giving it to them, when, in an instant, their eyes were opened.

And immediately their eyes 1were opened and they 2knew exactly who he was! Then he 3vanished from their view!

They erupted in an avalanche of words, Were our hearts not set ablaze - even while he was speaking along the way and opening the Scriptures to us!

Luke 24:30-32 Mirror study Bible

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“ So here I am; found in Christ. I was looking in the wrong place all along. My own duty-and-guilt-driven religious endeavor snared me in the cul-de-sac maze of self-righteousness, sponsored by the law of works.

The faith of Christ reveals my identity; righteousness defines who God believes that I really am. This righteousness is sourced in God and endorses the authority of faith. (Faith is a fairy tale if Jesus is not the substance of it.). Oh to comprehend the dynamic of his resurrection. His resurrection is evidence of our righteousness.

In the revelation of God’s economy of inclusion, I actually co-suffered with him and co-died together with Christ. (Because I was already fully represented in his sufferings, his death and resurrection, I am greatly inspired when faced with contradictions now. Romans 4:25.)”

Philippians 3:9-10 Mirror Study Bible

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Knowledge begins in hunger.

Not the kind that can be solved by facts,

but the kind that kindles fire in the heart.

Christ draws near to the longing soul,

opens the Word, breaks the Bread,

and suddenly, we see Him.

Not just known — desired.

Not just studied — embraced.

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Corrado Mezzana, 1922

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What stirs my heart like the disciples’ on the road to Emmaus?

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How is Christ awakening my holy desire during this Easter season?

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Jesus, Living Word and Flame of holy longing,

Kindle our hearts with the fire of Your passion.

Let us hunger for You more than understanding,

And find ourselves known in the breaking of the bread.

[christmeditations]

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Trembling and Amazed

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Myrrhbearers on Christ's Grave, c. 1235 AD, Mileševa monastery in Serbia

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“The Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush; and he looked, and behold, the bush burned with fire, yet was not consumed. And Moses said, I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush is not burned. And when the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the midst of the bush and said, Moses, Moses! And he said, Here am I. God said, Do not come near; put your shoes off your feet, for the place on which you stand is holy ground. Also He said, I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭2‬-‭6‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

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“His voice scooped out the seas. The ocean depths he poured into vast reservoirs. With breathtaking wonder, let everyone worship Yahweh, this awe-inspiring Creator. He breathed words and worlds were birthed. “Let there be,” and there it was— springing forth the moment he spoke, no sooner said than done! With his breath he scatters the schemes of nations who oppose him; they will never succeed. His destiny-plan for the earth stands sure. His forever-plan remains in place and will never fail. Blessed and prosperous is that nation who has God as their Lord! They will be the people he has chosen for his own. The Lord looks over us from where he rules in heaven. Gazing into every heart from his lofty dwelling place, he observes all the peoples of the earth. The Creator of our hearts considers and examines everything we do.”

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Mosaic of the Transfiguration, Saint Catherine's Monastery, Mount Sinai

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“On the first day of the week, as the Sabbath was ending, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of Jacob, and Salome made their way to the tomb. It was very early in the morning as the first streaks of light were beginning to be seen in the sky. They had purchased aromatic embalming spices so that they might anoint his body. And they had been asking one another, “Who can roll away the heavy stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” But when they arrived, they discovered that the very large stone was already rolled away! And as they stepped into the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right, dressed in a long white robe. The women were startled and amazed. But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid. I know that you’re here looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He isn’t here—he has risen victoriously! Look! See the place where they laid him. Run and tell his disciples, even Peter, that he is risen. He has gone ahead of you into Galilee and you will see him there, just like he told you.” They staggered out of the tomb, awestruck, with their minds swirling. They ran to tell the disciples, but they were so afraid and amazed, they said nothing to anyone.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭16‬:‭1‬-‭8‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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We are fully associated in this immovable Kingdom; an authority that cannot be challenged or contradicted. Our participation echoes grace [and not law and fear-inspired obedience] as we 1accommodate ourselves to God’s delight, yielding in awe to his firm embrace. (The word, 1euarestos, means well pleasing, to accommodate yourself to God’s delight. In the words of the Prophet, Yet once more will I shake every unstable system of man’s effort to rule himself. God clearly indicates his plan to remove the old and replace it with the new. The second shaking supersedes any significance in the first shaking. Then it was a physical quaking of the earth; now the very foundations of every man-made system was shaken to the core while the heavens were impacted by the announcement of his permanent rule on earth as it is mirrored in heaven. His zeal for us burns like fire.

Hebrews 12:28-29 Mirror study Bible

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Christ in glory 15th century

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The empty tomb is not just joyful—

it is terrifying in the best way.

A power beyond comprehension

has burst into the world,

and we tremble not in dread,

but in awe.

The risen Christ stands before us,

transfiguring fear into wonder,

and wonder into worship.

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When was the last time I truly felt awe before God?

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What would it mean to walk through today on holy ground?

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Lord of the Resurrection,

You astonish us.

Let every breath be praise,

every moment a burning bush.

Teach us holy reverence—

not to flee, but to fall at Your feet

and rise again in wonder.

[christmeditations]

[The Good Shepherd mosaic (Ravenna, 5th century)]

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“O Christ, Prince of Peace, draw me today into Your Sabbath rest.”

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Christ, Son of God, Prince of Peace, Rest for the weary soul.

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[Christ the Vine (Moskos) Painting by Leos Moskos]

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“For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭9‬:‭6‬ ‭NRSV‬‬

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“Yahweh is my best friend and my shepherd. I always have more than enough. He offers a resting place for me in his luxurious love. His tracks take me to an oasis of peace near the quiet brook of bliss. That’s where he restores and revives my life. He opens before me the right path and leads me along in his footsteps of righteousness so that I can bring honor to his name.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“Come to me, all who toil and are burdened, and I shall give you rest.”

Matthew 11:8 [DBHNT]

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“The conclusion is clear: the original rest is still in place for God’s people. (The people of this planet are the property of God. Psalm 24:1.)

God’s rest celebrates his finished work; whoever enters into God’s rest immediately abandons his own efforts to improve what God has already perfected. (The language of the law is do; the language of grace is done.)”

Hebrews 4:9-10 [Mirror Study Bible]

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Peace is not escape — it is union. The Prince of Peace calls the weary, makes us lie down, and leads us to rest not in stillness alone, but in Himself. Sabbath is not merely ceasing from labor; it is entering the rest of Christ, who fulfills every promise. In Him, all things are gathered into wholeness — and we are home.

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The soul’s true Sabbath is not a place but a Person.

In Christ’s peace, the storms within are stilled

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“O Prince of Peace, gather me into the stillness of Your Heart.”

[christmeditations]

[The Lords Prayer in Aramaic]

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[Transfiguration of Christ by Raphael (1520)]

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“O Light beyond light, teach me to understand through love, not analysis.”

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O Christ, Revelation of the Invisible God, mirror of eternal light.

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[Transfiguration 13th century artist unknown]

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“He alone reveals deep secrets and mysteries and knows what lies in darkness, for he radiates glory-light all around him.”

‭‭Daniel‬ ‭2‬:‭22‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“Open my eyes to see the miracle-wonders hidden in Scripture.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭18‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“And he said to them, “These are the words I spoke to you when I was still with you: That it is necessary for everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the prophets and the Psalms to be fulfilled.” Then he opened their mind to understand the scriptures; and he said to them: “Thus it has been written [and so must it be] that the Anointed will suffer and rise again from the dead on the third day, and in his name transformation of the heart and forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”

Luke 24:44-47 [David Bentley Hart New Testament]

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“For God has given us revelation by the Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things, even the depths of God.”

1 Corinthians 2:10 [David Bentley Hart New Testament]

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To see Christ is to see the Father’s heart laid bare.

Understanding is not the conquest of mystery, but communion with it.

In Christ, the hidden things are made plain.

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Understanding is not mere analysis — it is light breaking into darkness. Daniel’s God reveals the hidden; the disciples’ eyes are opened; Paul says the Spirit searches even the depths of God. Christ is the revelation. Understanding is not grasping God, but being grasped by His light, until even mystery begins to shine.

[christmeditations]

[Christ Teaching the Apostles in the Catacomb frescoes (3rd century)]

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Sit at the feet of Christ, Word made Flesh, Counselor of souls.

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O Christ, Word of the Father, Wisdom before all ages.

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[Christ Pantocrator by Viktor Mikhaylovich Vasnetsov]

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““Yet which of these prophets ever stood in Yahweh’s council to hear and receive his word? Who has truly heard and paid attention to his message?”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭23‬:‭18‬ ‭TPT‬‬

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“Truth’s shining light guides me in my choices and decisions; the revelation of your Word makes my pathway clear.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭105‬ ‭TPT‬

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“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.”

John 1:1-5 [NRSV]

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Christ speaks what the Father speaks.

His counsel is peace to the troubled, strength to the faltering.

The Word does not merely inform — it transforms.

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“O Logos Eternal, be the Word spoken in my heart and through my life.”

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Counsel is not domination, but divine accompaniment. The Lord says, “I am the way,” and the Spirit reminds us of Jesus’ words. God’s Word is a lamp in the fog of daily choices. If we lack wisdom, we are not condemned but invited. The Logos is not just the Word spoken — He is the Word walking beside us.