Sunday, 1st of July 2018

Mark 5:21-34

Jesus crossed to the other side of the lake and while He was still on the shore, a large crowd gathered around him. Jairus, an official of the synagogue, came up and seeing Jesus, threw himself at his feet and asked him earnestly, «My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her so that she may get well and live». Jesus went with him and many people followed, pressing from every side. 

Among the crowd was a woman who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a lot at the hands of many doctors and had spent everything she had, but instead of getting better, she was worse. Since she had heard about Jesus, this woman came up behind him and touched his cloak thinking, «If I just touch his clothing, I shall get well». Her flow of blood dried up at once, and she felt in her body that she was healed of her complaint. But Jesus was conscious that healing power had gone out from him, so he turned around in the crowd and asked, «Who touched my clothes?». His disciples answered, «You see how the people are crowding around you. Why do you ask who touched you?». But he kept looking around to see who had done it. Then the woman, aware of what had happened, came forward trembling and afraid. She knelt before him and told him the whole truth. Then Jesus said to her, «Daughter, your faith has saved you; go in peace and be free of this illness».

While Jesus was still speaking, some people arrived from the official's house to inform him, «Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Master any further?». But Jesus ignored what they said and told the official, «Do not fear, just believe». And He allowed no one to follow him except Peter, James and John, the brother of James.

When they arrived at the house, Jesus saw a great commotion with people weeping and wailing loudly. Jesus entered and said to them, «Why all this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep». They laughed at him. But Jesus sent them outside and went with the child's father and mother and his companions into the room where the child lay. Taking her by the hand, he said to her, «Talitha kumi!» which means: “Little girl, get up!”. The girl got up at once and began to walk around. (She was twelve years old.) The parents were astonished, greatly astonished. Jesus strictly ordered them not to let anyone know about it, and told them to give her something to eat.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage concern us with two impressive actions done by Jesus Christ. And do remark that my language towards Jesus would be more, tolerable, as I noted that my language started to become much more hostile towards Christ. As a result, I will soften my language, the reasons for that, you do not need to know. Nonetheless, we should examine this passage as usual. There are two parts of this passage, first the resurrection of Jairus' daughter, and the second the healing of the bleeding woman that touched Jesus' clothes. Both parts speak of the impressiveness of Jesus' love and the power of faith.

In the first part, Jesus was encountered by Jairus, a synagogue official, i.e. the folks that are Jesus' primary opponents, or target of venting His anger. Jairus asked Jesus to heal his sick almost dead daughter that actually died as they went to his home. As the group was on their way, some people from the official's house came and announced that Jairus' daughter is dead, and asked why must the teacher, i.e. Jesus, be troubled even further. Jesus, being the persistent man He is, ignored them and went to the house regardless. He then allowed only three of His disciples to join Him, and then went to see the girl's lying corpse.

Jesus came and saw people crying causing a great commotion, He then announced that the girl is not dead, but asleep, and was mocked by the people. He then asked all of them to leave the area, and with His companions and the child's parents, went to where the child is lied down, and in Hebrew ordered the child to wake up while holding her hands. The girl then woke up and walked around, the people were astonished, and He ordered the parents to feed the poor girl. He then strictly ordered the witnesses to not tell anyone about this.

The second part is technically squeezed in the journey from where Jesus was on the shore to Jairus' house. It is described that a lady had been bleeding for twelve long years. She had looked for healers everywhere, but it only made her ailment worse. She has heard of Jesus, and when she saw Him, she thought, if she touched even just the clothes, then she will be healed. She did, and she was healed, for good. Jesus was shocked as He felt energy coming out of Him, and asked who touched His clothes. His disciples dismissed His question as ridiculous, but Jesus insisted. The lady was in fear of what will happen, and came to Jesus kneeling, and told all of the truth. Jesus then sent the lady on her way, calling her "daughter" and her faith has saved her, Jesus told her to go in peace and be free of her illness.

There is something incredibly significant within Jesus' resurrection of Jairus' daughter. As it shows that Jesus truly loves everyone, and His remarks against the pharisees and the officials aren't borne of hatred, but of a frustration to save them, that is His true love. And this is the very evidence, that Jesus resurrected the child of His so called opponents, this shows that His actions are borne of true love, and not hatred. And His words that the child is sleeping is not completely wrong, as technically the child's consciousness is sleeping, the problem being it won't be able to access that same body if Jesus didn't restore the body so the consciousness can access the same body, which is what people refer to when the speak of resurrection. And the reason He told them not to tell others, like how He did whenever something amazing happened, the reason is, He does not wish to cause disorder, and not many people would believe that the a dead person is resurrected. That is as far as I can see, a logical conclusion.

There is something important as well about the healing of the bleeding woman, not just Jesus' love by calling her "daughter", thus illustrating the true meaning of being God's children, but also the faith of the woman herself. You see, when the lady touched Jesus' clothes, it's not Jesus healing the lady, Jesus is merely assisting the woman in healing herself, but in the end, it's her faith, her strong desire and will that saved her. Just as Jesus said, "your faith has saved you." What He said was literal and not metaphoric, Jesus merely assisted in giving the energy needed for the lady to heal, but in the end, it's her body that did the healing. This shows the importance of will power and unwavering faith. As I am sure, if that woman had no faith, even if Jesus touched her, she would never heal. As such, I believe that is all I have to say for now, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Saturday, 30th of June 2018

Matthew 8:5-17

When Jesus entered Capernaum, an army captain approached him to ask his help, «Sir, my servant lies sick at home. He is paralyzed and suffers terribly». Jesus said to him, «I will come and heal him». The captain answered, «I am not worthy to have you under my roof. Just give an order and my boy will be healed. For I myself, a junior officer, give orders to my soldiers. And if I say to one: ‘Go’, he goes, and if I say to another: ‘Come’, he comes, and to my servant: ‘Do this’, he does it». When Jesus heard this he was astonished and said to those who were following him, «I tell you, I have not found such faith in Israel. I say to you, many will come from east and west and sit down with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob at the feast in the kingdom of heaven; but the heirs of the kingdom will be thrown out into the darkness; there they will wail and grind their teeth». Then Jesus said to the captain, «Go home now. As you believed, so let it be». And at that moment his servant was healed.

Jesus went to Peter's house and found Peter's mother-in-law in bed with fever. He took her by the hand and the fever left her; she got up and began to wait on him. Towards evening they brought to Jesus many possessed by evil spirits, and with a word he drove out the spirits. He also healed all who were sick. In doing this he fulfilled what was said by the prophet Isaiah: He bore our infirmities and took on himself our diseases.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Before we start today's passage, it has been a month since I first started this project of analysis. While we have found incriminating passages that may gave doubt for the truth of the Gospel, we will still continue this project. After all, the truth does not rely on any books to stand, if the Gospel too is found to be unworthy, it shall be discarded and thrown into hell fire. Regardless, we shall examine today's passage. Today's passage contains further proof that Jesus is again, human, and He does not possess all the knowledge of the world. As usual, we will summarize the contents of this passage.

Jesus was in Capernaum when He met an army captain that said his servant is sick, gravely. So, the captain asked Jesus to heal the servant, and Jesus agreed to come, the captain however, with remarkable humility, stopped Jesus and said that he is unworthy to be in one roof with Christ, and said that if Jesus orders it, his servant surely would be healed. Jesus was astonished with this, and remarks that He has never seen faith as strong as that man, exceeding even the Israelites. So He did, and the servant was healed, Jesus then came to Peter's house and healed his sick mother in law. Then in the evening Jesus drove out spirits and healed people, as Matthew wrote it, "fulfilled what was said by the prophet Isaiah."

There is one thing that is incredibly significant to this passage. The significant thing here is the fact that Jesus was astonished by the captain's faith. Why is this so important to me? As the fact that Jesus was astonished means one thing, He may have deep understanding of the nature of God or what will happen to Him, but it seems that He is only human in the end. An incredibly astounding human that may or may not have sacrificed Himself for all humanity, but is not the ultimate identity of God, regardless of His awesome miracles. If Jesus truly possess omniscient knowledge, His astonishment should not exist, after all He knows that it's going to happen. As such, we too must critically examine Jesus, and give Him no special treatment, for He too is a man like all of us.

The matter of the captain is quite straightforward. He has knowledge of Jesus, and his humility towards Jesus is something to be respected. After all, the Jews were technically below the Romans at that time, as the Romans were invading the Jews. While there may be other meanings behind this act, there is not much that I can see, other than proof of Jesus' fallibility. Anyway, I may either continue this project or stop, as the passage today has convinced me that the truth is independent of anything, even the one we call "Christ". I may continue, however, I would not delve too deep into each passage. 

What of Jesus' love for others in His act of healing? I'd actually take that more of proof that we are indeed the rulers of this world, as Jesus, a man, managed to heal people instantly more or less. This is proof that we too should have the ability to manipulate the material world in the most basic levels. However, is it true that Jesus truly love others as shown in the passage? Most likely yes, though I see nothing significant with that truth. It is His duty after all. Regardless, that is all I can say for today, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Friday, 29th of June 2018

Matthew 16:13-19

Jesus came to Caesarea Philippi. He asked his disciples, «Who do people say the Son of Man is?». They said, «For some of them you are John the Baptist, for others Elijah or Jeremiah or one of the prophets». Jesus asked them, «But you, who do you say I am?». Peter answered, «You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God». Jesus replied, «It is well for you, Simon Barjona, for it is not flesh or blood that has revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. And now I say to you: You are Peter (or Rock) and on this rock I will build my Church; and never will the powers of death overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and what you unbind on earth shall be unbound in heaven».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is a passage that is as interesting as yesterday, as it brings up the issue of Simon Peter, the so called leader of the disciples. Nevertheless, we shall cover the whole of the passage from the beginning. The passage opens with Jesus asking His disciples who is He, the son of man, in the words of others. They then answer that some say He is John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah or another prophet. Then Jesus asked what do they think. Peter answered that He is the messiah, Son of God. Jesus praised Peter as God Themselves revealed it, and not human. Finally, Jesus elects Peter as His successor for the Church.

The first part holds a very important meaning for our understanding of God. When Jesus asked what others think of Him. The answers attribute Him to mere human identities, and thus human names are given. However, Peter answered that Jesus is the Son of God, and Jesus praised him as it was revealed to Peter by God, not blood and flesh. Why is this very important? Peter's answers reflects his understanding of Jesus' true nature, not as a human, but as the living God Themselves. However, we know that Jesus wishes to say that humanity, and not just Him, are the Son of God. What about the part of being revealed by God?

Why is it important that Peter obtained his knowledge from God and not man? The reason lies within the nature of God. To obtain knowledge from God personally means it is us who works to find out the truth. As divine knowledge should be logical and true, we can rationalize it and find it. Furthermore, the source of the knowledge also determines its credibility, knowledge from God is always true, but knowledge of man is imperfect and may be false. There is one more thing that shows us what kind of person Peter is like here. If Peter truly knew because God told him so, then it means Peter has the initiative to search the truth. He is a leader, and knows how to make decisions by himself. He doesn't just follow others by accepting what they say, and this is very related to the next part of this passage.

Right after that discourse, Jesus appoints Peter by renaming him Peter from Simon, and made him the foundation of the Church, or the leader of it. This is an interesting point, as Jesus went far enough to say that death will not consume them, Peter will get the keys of the kingdom, and whatever he binds or unbinds on earth will be done the same to heaven. First of all, why Peter? As seen, Peter has the qualities of a leader, and as his new name suggests, he is persistent and strong willed, like a coral rock. Death will not overcome the Church? It may be surprising to see that Jesus is wrong, as we see death has corrupted the Church very well. What does this mean though?

Jesus is however divine He is, in that state is still human. Moreover, He is already bound and chained by His curse, so perhaps we should give Him a break. As such, it is possible that Jesus did not foresee the events of today and how the Church would stagnate like an actual rock. The keys of the kingdom, it is the words of Christ of course, and to bind and unbind is an interesting term. In my opinion, it means to bind the truth, what Peter decides as true on earth would apply in heaven and vice versa. Unfortunately, it seems Jesus was wrong as well on that point. This seems to be a revolutionary point for us, as it shows the possibility of Jesus being wrong. Nevertheless, I believe that is all I have to say.

Thursday, 28th of June 2018

Matthew 7:21-29

Jesus said to his disciples, «Not everyone who says to me: ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my heavenly Father. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not speak in your name? Did we not cast out devils and perform many miracles in your name?’. Then I will tell them openly: ‘I have never known you; away from me, you evil people!’. 

»So, then, anyone who hears these words of mine and acts accordingly is like a wise man, who built his house on rock. The rain poured, the rivers flooded, and the wind blew and struck that house, but it did not collapse because it was built on rock. But anyone who hears these words of mine and does not act accordingly, is like a fool who built his house on sand. The rain poured, the rivers flooded, and the wind blew and struck that house; it collapsed, and what a terrible fall that was!».

When Jesus had finished this discourse, the crowds were struck by the way he taught, because he taught with authority unlike their teachers of the Law.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is a moderately long passage with quite the message. It also makes a reference towards an issue we've never really discussed about, that is the day of judgement, the last day. At first, Jesus says that it is the one who does the will of God will enter the kingdom, and not those who chant Their names. Jesus then makes a reference to the day of judgement, saying those who are not fit will be rejected. He then makes a metaphor of a house built on rock, and a house built on sand. The passage ends describing the amazement of the crowds.

What is the will of God? The will of God is to seek for the truth, and to commit to that truth, by words and action, and when we reach it, we will be in the kingdom, the condition of truth, life, and freedom. And as Jesus said, it is these people, the truth seekers that will reach the kingdom, not those who chant God's name. This makes sense, and is actually a message for us on how to treat God. God is not to be overly glorified, rather to be sought and understood, by the methods of logical discourse and critical analysis. As such, if we wish to enter the kingdom, do not sing and praise, but search for the truth, until it is done.

The day of judgement brings many major implications, as it seemingly contradicts our understanding of God. However, we must ask the question, what is the "day of judgement"? Is it a day where everyone is supposedly judged and some will be thrown into hell and others lifted up into heaven? That does not make sense, as Jesus had died and became the sole inhabitant of hell. Furthermore, it means that God would willingly condemn part of themselves into death. Isn't that, odd? As such, I wish to give an alternative interpretation of the day of judgement. According to our understanding of time, time is not static or linear, in fact it can be manipulated in many ways. And the day of judgement should follow as well.

Due to the fact that the day of judgement is quite the unexpected issue, we will keep it for another day. The matters of the house on the rock and house on sand is straightforward. Those who listened to Jesus' words and commit to it will be sturdy as a house on rock, but those who ignore, will fall when faced with suffering. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Wednesday, 27th of June 2018

Matthew 7:15-20

Jesus said to his disciples, «Beware of false prophets: they come to you in sheep's clothing but inside they are wild wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Do you ever pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? A good tree always produces good fruit, a rotten tree produces bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit and a rotten tree cannot bear good fruit. Any tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown in the fire. So you will know them by their fruit».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage warns of false prophets, people who claim to be of God, and to deliver the divine truth, yet in actuality, they are frauds. The passage is a short but very stern message on all of us, to be vigilant and wary of false prophets. Jesus first gives the warning to His disciples, and us, then continues with a metaphor to illustrate His point. As He said, a grape is not picked from thornbushes, and figs are not picked up from thistles, i.e. some sort of prickly grass. A good tree produces good fruit, and a rotten tree produces bad fruit. A good tree can't produce bad fruit and vice versa. Jesus then tells us that we will know the difference of the prophets by their fruits.

The metaphor is fairly simple, though it is important to understand what prophet here means. Prophet simply means a person who claims to proclaim the will of God, or the truth. Of course, prophets are usually associated with God, but since God is of the truth, anyone who proclaims the truth, especially a new truth, is a prophet. Or in short, anyone who brings new teachings, ideas, and claim them to be the truth can technically be described as a prophet. However, we must be wary on the difference between a fake and true prophet. The problem is many fake prophets will look like they're true, and thus be convincing, so how do we identify them?

As Jesus said in His metaphor, true prophets should produce good consequences, while frauds will only cause chaos and destruction. While it is true that the truth may cause discomfort for some, most of the time, the end of the conflict should be for the better. As such, critical analysis of what happens is necessary. For even Jesus claims that His coming would bring conflict. However, there is a much more effective method of identifying these frauds, that is the fruit of their mouths, their words. If what they say is true, then the prophet is most likely a true prophet. And when it comes to God, it would be very easy to identify which prophets are true and which are fake, as the issue of God is a basic problem, meaning it concerns the absolute truth, and thus you don't have to search for too much premises to analyze it. Though again, a prophet doesn't have to be related with God, if they bring new ideas and claim it's true, they're a prophet.

This is all interesting, but what good does it serve us? There is one thing we can take from this passage, don't trust anyone that easily. If anyone starts saying that they have the key to the truth, listen to them, and put what they say to absolute scrutiny, doubt it as much as you can, and only when you are unable to find any contradictions and flaws, you can accept it. Though it is wise to keep your doubts for another time. Another thing, we should be careful in the present, as there have been people claiming to be prophets, or to espouse the truth, but are apparently fakes. And the frauds have done quite the damage to this world and humanity. I can name a few, but that would create a chaotic mess, so I won't. As such, I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Tuesday, 26th of June 2018

Matthew 7:6,12-14

Jesus said to his disciples: "Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces.Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets.""Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many.How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.

Source: https://dailygospel.org/AM/gospel

Analysis

Today's passage is a short yet deeply metaphorical passage. If one takes this passage at face value, it may be considered signs that Jesus hates animals. In the beginning of the passage, Jesus tells not to give what is holy to dogs, or pearls before swines, as if we do, it will be trampled by them and the animals will turn on us and tear us to pieces.  Finally Jesus tells to do to others whatever we wish to be done to us, i.e. if we want respect, then we must respect, and that this is the entire message of the law and the prophets. Jesus also spoke of a metaphor about a narrow gate to life, and the broad road to destruction, and then the passage finishes.

Of course, Jesus is not actually implying that dogs and pigs are evil creatures, or creatures that are despicable, after all they too are a manifestation of the Divine. It's only a metaphor as the common view in Israel back then is that dogs and pigs are dirty animals. The holy things and pearls represent something precious, perhaps the truth or the kingdom of God. The animals may represent something that is dirty, evil, and vile. If we think about this carefully, this metaphor actually has something to do with a past passage, where Jesus tells that we can not serve two masters, we have to choose either God or mammon, and how does that relate to this passage?

The precious things can be seen as virtues, or our devotion towards God, something that is good for us and brings us closer to the kingdom of God. The animals here are mammon, or the forces of darkness and evil, that is the desires of the earth, hedonistic pursuits and physical pleasure. To throw our pearls or holy things to animals is akin to us not able to choose between God and mammon, or mixing the two pursuits, that is between the truth and the material desires. To throw the pearls means to associate the truth with pleasure, in which the truth will be deluded, shattered, and we will be overtaken by mammon. That is the meaning of the metaphor.

The next metaphor is a fairly simple and easily interpreted metaphor. In fact, Jesus made it very obvious to understand for us. The road towards life or truth is narrow and constricted, while the road towards death and destruction is very wide and broad, as Jesus describes it. This is logical, as a life in pursuit of happiness and pleasure alone is easy, you don't need to wonder about God and all of that stuff, it is a blissful ignorance of the truth. You only need to accept what is agreed to be true and you'll be fine. A life in pursuit of life and truth on the other hand, is very harsh, we would find truths that may be uncomfortable with us, or plain out earth shattering truths. Many people would probably see us as insane or disagree with us or even reject us completely. We would suffer a lot to search for the truth. And that is why the road towards life is narrow, but the road towards death is wide.

With that metaphor, does Jesus wish to condemn most of humanity into death by saying that few would go to the road of life? Of course not, Jesus is simply describing the situation and the logical description on the road to life or the road to death. In the end, of course Jesus wants everyone to go into the road of life, as that is the very reason the fracturing was done. The road to life certainly is hard, narrow and full of suffering, but it is our responsibility to help everyone else so they too can get to the road of life. As in the end, this is not the story of someone far and separate from us, this is our own story, and we have the choice to write it. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Monday, 25th of June 2018

Matthew 7:1-5

Jesus said to his disciples: "Stop judging, that you may not be judged.
For as you judge, so will you be judged, and the measure with which you measure will be measured out to you. 
Why do you notice the splinter in your brother's eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own eye? 
How can you say to your brother, 'Let me remove that splinter from your eye,' while the wooden beam is in your eye? 
You hypocrite, remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter from your brother's eye."

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

Today's passage is a short though meaningful passage. It is basically Jesus advising His disciples on hypocrisy. Surprisingly, this passage is quite straightforward, even its metaphors are easily interpreted. First, Jesus tells the core passage that is to not judge others, so we too are not judged, and if we do judge, we too will be judged, and our standards of judgement will be applied to ourselves. Then Jesus emphasizes this message into a very harsh metaphor, that is how can we notice the splinter in our brother's eyes but not see the wooden beam in our own eye. He then calls the people He are talking to hypocrites and to remove their own wooden beam first, so they can see clearly to remove the splinter from their brother's eye. That is the entire passage.

Judging someone means we see someone's behavior and make our own personal conclusions about them, usually in a negative perspective. While one may say that it is for the good of the one we judge, there's a difference being judging and criticizing. And if we judge others, we too will be judged, it is only natural for that to happen. Measure in this passage means our standards, say someone does not fulfill our standards, we judge them and say they are whatever we wish to call them. The issue of standards is then reemphasized in the metaphor Jesus delivered. If we judge others by our standards, it is only fair that we too are judged by our own standards, and then it will be seen, do we even live up to our own standards?

Most of us when judging simply does it for our ego and self pride, even when perhaps, we actually commit the same things that others do that causes our judgement upon them. This is what Jesus meant about the splinter and the wooden beam. How is it that we easily notice other's mistakes and admonishes them for it but easily forgive and ignore our own mistakes? If we judge others, it is expected that we are better than the ones we judge, as it implies that we can avoid that mistake, so why can't others do? As such, when we judge others blindly while ignoring our own mistakes, we are guilty of hypocrisy. Furthermore, judging others is not the correct way to help others, and is thus contrary to the command of loving your neighbors. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Sunday, 24th of June 2018

Luke 1:57-66;80

When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son.
Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. 
When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father,
but his mother said in reply, "No. He will be called John." 
But they answered her, "There is no one among your relatives who has this name." 
So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. 
He asked for a tablet and wrote, "John is his name," and all were amazed. 
Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. 
Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. 
All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, "What, then, will this child be?" For surely the hand of the Lord was with him. 
The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel.

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

Today's passage is quite an interesting one, as this has almost nothing to do with Jesus, instead it tells us of a certain John the Baptist. While in our narrative, it seems that this passage is utterly meaningless and has no worth to be analyzed or even reflected. That is not entirely true however, as nevertheless John is still an important figure. The passage describes the birth of John and also his naming. At first, he is to be named Zechariah like his father, Elizabeth intervenes and insists that he is to be named John, at the instruction of God, and Zechariah himself also said so using a written message, since he became mute for doubting God. And then his mouth opens after agreeing to name his son John, and he praised God soon after. Everyone was amazed at this event, and the child grew and as his becomes an adult moves away to the desert, until it is time.

The role of John is very simple, that is to announce the coming of Christ, and to prepare people, or the few people that wishes to hear him for Jesus Himself. John is a blessed man, though he is not as blessed as Jesus. It may seem unfair that John only gets small and seemingly useless roles, while Jesus gets all the big hits and the glory. There is one important message for ourselves from John actually. That is to let go of our ego, and of our desires. If we wish to follow God, and serve the truth, then while we wish to get fame and glory, that will never happen. As we would be given a role that we deserve, that we actually need, a role that is suiting with our talents and potential. In such cases, we might be given a role that seems meaningless and worthless, however we must remember that what is important is not us being the best of all, but being the best for ourselves. With that small role, perhaps we can actually perform our best, and actually be the best version of ourselves. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Saturday, 23rd of June 2018

Matthew 6:24-34

Jesus said to his disciples: "No one can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. 
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat (or drink), or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?
Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? 
Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span?
Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin. 
But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them. 
If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith?
So do not worry and say, 'What are we to eat?' or 'What are we to drink?' or 'What are we to wear?' 
All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 
But seek first the kingdom (of God) and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.
Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil."

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

This passage seems quite long at first glance, however it is only long for the various analogies that in the end, only serves to deliver one message. At first, Jesus spoke to His disciples that we can not serve two masters, we must either love one and hate the other, be devoted to one and despise another. In which Jesus is referring to God and mammon or the devil. Then Jesus tells them not to worry about their life and the earthly necessities. Illustrating His point by making comparisons with birds, flowers, and finally saying that we should first seek the Kingdom, and all the other things will be given to us regardless. Ending the passage, Jesus says not to worry of tomorrow, worry for a day is sufficient. 

In the first parts of this passage, what Jesus refers to as mammon is not actually the devil, as again, the devil doesn't exist. What exists however is the temptations of the earth, materialism, and flesh. This is what Jesus describes as mammon, that is one can not serve both God, that is to live in pursuit of truth and to create peace for all, and to serve mammon, that is to live merely for material gains and so called "happiness", without ever caring what is supposed to be true. It is impossible to serve both mammon and God, as the paths contradict each other. Searching for the truth and aiming for what is best for all people is not always pleasing, there are hard times, rejection, and various challenges. While living just to be happy is easy, though is not that useful for us in of itself.

The core part of this passage is Jesus making the various comparisons, with the essential message of not to worry. Jesus compares us human beings with other lifeforms. Animals such as birds and plants such as flowers all have their needs fulfilled sufficiently by God. Flowers are given beautiful clothing, and birds are fed sufficiently. If those animals are loved as much by God, how are we, the so called image of God not to be loved as well? Jesus also tells us that life is much more than just food and clothing, that life is more than the materialistic desires and needs that we know. There is something much grander than it, as such if we worry about it too much, we will miss the greater meaning of life.

What is this greater meaning? It is the kingdom of God, or the truth of all life, an era where peace and truth is the norm, and everyone loves each other. This is what everyone should seek most in their life, and all of their other needs will be fulfilled later. Of course, we must still work to get what we need, but the message of this passage is that we must trust God that our needs will be fulfilled. In the end, we must strive to do what is right for ourselves and for everyone, and make the truth and the kingdom our ultimate goal, and as we do, God will provide the rest. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you later.

Friday, 22nd of June 2018

Matthew 6:19-23

Jesus said to his disciples: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal.
But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal. 
For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be. 
The lamp of the body is the eye. If your eye is sound, your whole body will be filled with light;
but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be in darkness. And if the light in you is darkness, how great will the darkness be." 

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

Today's passage is a short and metaphorical passage. Why do I say metaphorical? As there are parts of this passage that if taken at face value, seems quite harsh, strict, or just odd. This passage serves as proof that every part of the gospel should be put under scrutiny so that their true meanings are exposed. First, Jesus tells His disciples not to collect treasures on earth, where it can be destroyed and will be destroyed, but collect treasures in heaven, where it is eternal. Adding to it, He mentions that where your treasure is, that is where the heart is as well. Then He continues by saying that the eye is the lamp of the body, and thus if the eye is sound, our whole body will be filled by light. And vice versa, if it is unsound then the body will be in darkness. That is the entire passage.

If we are to take what Jesus says literally, it means we are not allowed to be rich, and must stay poor, however, is that truly what Jesus means? Of course not, Jesus is simply saying that in our lives, we must not only focus on what is scientifically proven, and I mean materialistic needs. Material needs, desires, and goals such as power, popularity, wealth, sex, and so on. All these will be gone and die out eventually. They are temporary and once we die, is meaningless. On the contrary, there are heavenly treasures, of course heaven is not a place at all, we've covered about that. Heaven is the condition of freedom and light that is the natural and logical consequence of good deeds by the conscious being. However, how does making good deeds equate storing up treasure in heaven?

When one commits good deeds, it is almost certain that they are doing it of their own freedom and their rational mind. Essentially, they are doing things because it is right and not for anything else. Meanwhile, the people who only go for material treasures are chained to these material desires, and in the end they do it for "happiness". This is the key difference between storing up treasures on earth and in heaven. One focuses on "happiness" that is temporary and will fade in the end. The other focuses on doing what is right, regardless happiness or not. And when we do what is right, our consciousness becomes more free of the material desires, and we are much more likely to enter the condition of freedom and light in death. That is the meaning of the two treasures.

The last part of this passage is quite enigmatic, as while it would make sense if Jesus means this literally, the context doesn't make sense. So let's analyze it from again, a metaphorical sense. Jesus said that the lamp of the body is the eye, as we know the eye is our primary way of obtaining information about the world. However, Jesus is referring not to the physical eye, but more of towards the heart, that is the heart in general. If the heart is good, that is pure and loving, we would be filled with light, as our perception of the world would be positive, and our mind is also clear from any prejudice, as such we can see everything as it is. On the other hand, if the heart is broken and evil, then we would only see what we wish to see, and see only darkness, which is why darkness fills our body. 

That is all interesting, but is there anyway to connect the two parts? While we can, it is not an actual direct connection. The connection is that if our heart is pure and kind, our eyes would be clear and we can see what is right, that is we can store up treasures in heaven. However, if our heart is broken and evil, we would not see clearly, and we will be chained further to the treasures of the earth. That is the connection within this passage. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Thursday, 21st of June 2018

Matthew 6:7-15

Jesus said to his disciples: 
"In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words. 
Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 
This is how you are to pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread;
and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors;
and do not subject us to the final test, but deliver us from the evil one.
If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you.
But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions."

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

Today's passage introduces the famous Lord's prayer, also known as Our Father. Since this passage is mainly that prayer, I will mainly analyze the meaning of this prayer. Foremost, I shall summarize the passage first. The passage opens with Jesus instructing His disciples not to pray like pagans, that is with many beautiful words and long prayers, akin to babbling as Jesus said it Himself.  As God knows what we need before we ask of it. Then Jesus gives the Lord's prayer, which is relatively simple and while seemingly long, is not as long as some other prayers. And that is the entire passage, it's all about that prayer, as such, I believe I should start analyzing the meaning of it.

The prayer begins with a simple but short praise towards God, that is for God's name be hallowed. This means for God's name to be glorified, it seems odd for this to appear, but do remember that this is the only part that describes praise. The next part is asking for God's kingdom to come and God's will be done. God's will being the universal order, freedom, and enlightenment, and the kingdom being the era of truth, love, and peace. Then the prayer asks for the daily bread, the meaning being our daily nourishment and supplies, not just food, but everything else we need for the day and just for the day. It teaches us to not worry so much about tomorrow.

The latter half of the prayer is concerned with sin and forgiveness. The prayer first asks for forgiveness as we have forgave others. Then the prayer asks so we are not subjected to the "final test" and that we are delivered or protected from evil. While this last part mostly seems cut clear, the term "final test" is quite interesting, what does it mean? Notice how it seems to be similar the evil ones, as the equivalent of not being subjected to the test is apparently to be protected from evil. Test here means testing our faith and our integrity, often interpreted as temptation. It is not only temptation that can turn one to sin, suffering can also turn one to sin. As such, this part essentially asks God that we are protected from evil, and not thrown into it, that is temptation and suffering. 

This entire passage begs the question, are we not allowed to pray using other prayers? Must we always use this prayer to pray? Of course not, the Lord's Prayer is simply a guideline on what we should say when we pray. Praying in essence is to talk with God, and thus form a relationship with God. Furthermore, the Lord's Prayer is introduced to illustrate that we should not speak to God as if we are speaking to someone that needs to be constantly praised, glorified, and spoken with the most eloquent and beautiful of words. Additionally, if we look at the context of the passage, Jesus is of course addressing this to people who do not know God very personally. Which is why the prayer seems mostly just requests for God, most people pray to ask for something at that time. As such, this prayer is good for people who have faith, but do not devote their entire lives completely to God, a simple prayer that asks for everything a person should need from God.

What of someone who has the complete ability of communication with God? That is speaking one to one? Then one can say that their entire life is a prayer, as they would have leisurely conversations with God every second they wish. And Jesus does not address the Lord's Prayer to people like this, these people transcend the traditional definition of prayer. They don't even need to be told how to pray, as God Themselves has told it to them personally. And even if the person can't directly communicate with God, if they have a deep personal relationship with God, the prayers spoken would be very different and very personal. Jesus Himself prays with a very personal manner, especially in Gethsemane. As such, one can describe the Lord's Prayer as a general prayer, a guide on how to pray, but it is not the be all end all of prayers, such thing does not exist. As prayer is deeply personal, and it concerns one's relationship with their true self. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Wednesday, 20th of June 2018

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

Jesus said to his disciples: "Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. 
When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.
But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, 
so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you. 
When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. 
But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.
When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.
But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 
so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you." 

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

This passage seems long and complicated, however it contains only one message. Every scenario in this passage is described to explain one message only. Jesus first says His message, that if we are to perform righteous deeds, we must not do so people can see them, or we will not obtain any recompense from God. He then explains other scenarios by comparing with pharisees and the scribes. First, when we give alms, we should not let the other hand know. When we pray, we should go to our room, and pray in secret. When we fast, we must not make it obvious that we are fasting. All of this accounts for one message, what is it then?

The message is simple, that if we wish to do something good, we must do it wholeheartedly, that is we must not do it for an ulterior motive or for self gain. We must do it only for the benefit of others and for the sake of the goodness itself. Of course, doing good acts is a form of loving others and yourself. And selfishness with loving yourself isn't quite the same. If you only do good for self gain, to be praised and rewarded, that probably means you don't love others or yourself, for you are selfish. Again, today's passage tells us the true meaning of love. Love is unconditional and asks for no rewards, and love should be the basis for doing good acts. Thus, if we do good things with an ulterior motive, then we do not love at all.

This passage may seem to contradict another passage about us being the salt of the earth and lamp of the world. As while this passage says we shouldn't expose ourselves while doing righteous acts, the other says we should. Of course, if anyone says this, then they're missing the point. This passage is about doing good things wholeheartedly and not for mere self gain. The other passage is about maximizing our potential and talents so it can benefit many people. If we share our work to many people, and let many people benefit from it, that is a good thing and should be done. But if we become arrogant and show of our work only to get praises, only then it is a bad thing. 

I'd like to highlight the interesting diction Jesus used to explain His message. He said that if we do what should be done, we will get recompense from God, what does this mean? Recompense can be described as wage or reward. Does God actually reward us? Not directly, it is merely a metaphor for the logical and natural consequence for our actions. If we do good wholeheartedly, then it brings us closer to true freedom and light. However, if we do it with an ulterior motive, while materially we did good, spiritually, we may actually stray ourselves further into darkness. As our actions becomes fueled with self gain and greed, which in one way or another, would spiral down into sin and death. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Tuesday, 19th of June 2018

Matthew 5:43-48

Jesus said to his disciples: "You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. 

But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, 

that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. 

For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same?

And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same?

So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect."

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

Today's passage is a reiteration and emphasis on yesterday's passage. The core message is still the same, that is to love your enemy, though while yesterday focuses on our treatment, this is on our general attitude towards them. As usual, Jesus first tells the old teaching, that is to love your neighbor and hate your enemy. Then Jesus teaches the true way, that is to love your enemies and pray for them as well. While this seems insane and lunatic in the old days, it is actually much more common nowadays, perhaps because Christianity is the dominant religion. Nevertheless, we should analyze this passage.

The rest of the passage is more or less a logical justification for Jesus' argument. The first reason is being that God loves everyone indiscriminately, He gives rain to both the just and the unjust, and the sun rises on both the bad and the good. Of course, if God loves everyone including those who despise Them or loathe Them or even deny Their existence, why shouldn't we? The next argument compares the old teaching with other so called sinful people. Loving your neighbors, people of your own blood, people you like, that is not special, and everyone does it. Even the vilest of men would care for their blood, or their friends.

As such, we must love our enemies as well, it is only logical to do so. Loving people who are kind to us is not a challenge, as we are in a mutually symbiotic relationship with them. Jesus' message also gives us insight on the true meaning of love. When we love someone who are kind to us and loves us as well, chances are, we love them, that is we help them, protect them and so on for one sole purpose. That is to maintain their love for them, as such we actually love ourselves, and not them. But when we love our enemies and pray for them, what do we get? Nothing really, and that's the point. Love does not ask for rewards, it is unconditional. As such, whether we love our enemies or not tells a lot about ourselves. If we are unwilling, then we don't love anyone but ourselves. If we do, then that shows that are truly capable of true love. I believe that is all I can say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Monday, 18th of June 2018

Matthew 5:38-42

Jesus said to his disciples: "You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. 
But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on (your) right cheek, turn the other one to him as well.
If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well. 
Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles.
Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow." 

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

This passage is a short but very important passage. As it relates to the core teachings of Christianity, that is loving God and your neighbors. Here though, we are also taught to love our enemies, and Jesus tells us how to respond towards evil. First, Jesus said the old message that is of vengeance and using evil to fight evil, eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth. Then He delivers the true message, that is to not fight those who are evil, rather serve them and love them, with various scenarios, such as turning the other cheek, handing the cloak as well when asked for the tunic, and walking for two miles when asked one mile. Of course, this doesn't mean we shouldn't protect ourselves, so let's go over it.

Jesus wishes to say how we should respond towards evil and evil people. People used to respond with vengeance, and fight evil with evil. That is not how to solve the problem though, it merely makes it worse, one does not fight fire with fire do they? Instead, we should respond with love and kindness, and show the evil ones that we are better than them. As such, instead of fighting back, we show them that we don't hate them, we love them. As evil people are merely people who lack in love, or have problems, as such it is our responsibility to at least not make it worse for them, and if we could, help them. And to do that, we must respond with love, kindness, and humility. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Sunday, 17th of June 2018

Mark 4:26-34

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 
and would sleep and rise night and day and the seed would sprout and grow, he knows not how. 
Of its own accord the land yields fruit, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. 
And when the grain is ripe, he wields the sickle at once, for the harvest has come." 
He said, "To what shall we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable can we use for it? 
It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth. 
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."
With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to understand it. 
Without parables he did not speak to them, but to his own disciples he explained everything in private. 

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

Today's passage tells us of two parables Jesus told about the Kingdom of God. Before we continue, we must remind ourselves of the definition of the kingdom. The kingdom is not a place, but an era, or state where truth is the law and love and peace is the norm. The kingdom may be collective or individual, as it may be a group of people living by the truth, love, and peace, or someone who has opened their eyes towards the truth and lives by it. The first parable compares the kingdom to a growing seed that is planted by a man, but not knowing how it grows. The second passage compares the kingdom to a mustard seed, which is the smallest seed, but grows into the largest of plants. Since both passages are straightforward, I will dissect the meanings straight away.

In the first parable, the seed represents a foundation, that is the foundation or roots of the kingdom. The kingdom, while vast and holds many truths, starts with a very small truth. A truth that is close at home, and seems to be weak alone, if we relate this to our understanding of God, then it is the truth of consciousness, as well as the truth of God. The man represents one who delivers the core truths, so it may be the beginning of the kingdom. Notice that the man then leaves the seed to nature, which grows the seed into the fruitful plant it truly is, without the knowledge of the man. While many sees this as a metaphor for one's heart, I see this as a much more universal parable.

If the man is someone planted the foundations of the kingdom, then we can assume that the land described here is everyone else. The man came to spread the seeds to us, the land, and we grow the seed until it is ready. And when the plant is ripe, the man comes back to harvest it, for it is time. You see, this is a metaphor for Jesus and us, Jesus came to deliver the foundation for the kingdom, and it is up to us to grow it, and to build the kingdom. His task is simply plant is, our task is to grow it. And Jesus, that is God is waiting for the fruit to finally ripen, that is when the kingdom has come to everyone. 

The second parable is much easier to interpret. Basically, the kingdom starts with a truth that is very small and seemingly insignificant. But when it is developed, it becomes a truth that is greater than all other truths. In our understanding, the mustard seed would be the truth of consciousness, it is certainly a small truth, much smaller and simpler than things such as more advanced truths such as the physical laws and so on. Yet, it is the key towards unraveling the greatest truth of all, that is the truth of God and of ourselves. That is the meanings of the two parables. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Saturday, 16th of June 2018

Matthew 5:33-37

Jesus said to his disciples: "You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, 'Do not take a false oath, but make good to the Lord all that you vow.'
But I say to you, do not swear at all; not by heaven, for it is God's throne;
nor by the earth, for it is his footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 
Do not swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. 
Let your 'Yes' mean 'Yes,' and your 'No' mean 'No.' Anything more is from the evil one."

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

Today's passage is a continuation of the series of Jesus overruling the Torah, this time on the issue of oaths. Since this passage is very short and straightforward, I believe I should just dissect the meaning of this passage. It opens with Jesus saying the old commandment that we shouldn't take a false oath, but hold it by the Lord. Jesus then said that you shouldn't swear at all. A quick background definition, oaths are swears that someone is telling a truth. Something like I swear that I saw it or something else. Jesus said that you shouldn't do it, instead you should say yes if it is yes, and no if it is no. Why does Jesus say this? His message is for us to be honest, if we are dishonest, we may want to make oaths to convince people. However, if what we say is true and is true, there is no reason to swear, by anything at all. I know today's analysis is very short, but that's how it is. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Friday, 15th of June 2018

Matthew 5:27-36

Jesus said to his disciples: "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.'
But I say to you, everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 
If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into Gehenna.
And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body go into Gehenna. 
It was also said, 'Whoever divorces his wife must give her a bill of divorce.'
But I say to you, whoever divorces his wife (unless the marriage is unlawful) causes her to commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery." 

Source: https://dailygospel.org/M/AM/

Analysis

Today's passage is a short but meaningful passage. The passage delivers two messages that are separate but still related. The passage opens with Jesus saying to His disciples how they have heard that they shall not commit adultery. Jesus then adds to the rule, that simply lusting over someone is already adulterous in one's heart. He then makes a disturbing analogy that if one of your body parts cause you to sin, it's better for you to go disabled without them rather than go to hell with your body intact. He then restates His teachings about adultery, saying that if you divorce your spouse, you have committed adultery as well, unless the marriage was unlawful, i.e. adulterous in the first place. Let's see what this all means.

The first part is fairly straight forward, as when one lusts after someone else it means that their heart is not directed completely at their spouse or partner. And perhaps they don't even love their spouse, they merely lust over them. If they truly love their companion, even succubi would fail to seduce them. Now even if the lusting person is unmarried, it's still a sinful act. As that means they have disrespected the other by objectifying them and turning them into a mere sexual object to satisfy their visual pleasure. Nevertheless, lusting over someone is still bad.

The next part should not be taken literally at all. Jesus is not trying to say that we should actually make ourselves blind if we lust someone with our eyes, what He wishes to say is that it is better for us to abandon things or people we hold dear that actually caused us to stray towards sin, rather than keep them and fall to hell. So, how is that connected? Body parts are something that is important for us, and they are essentially a part of us. Just like our limbs and organs, we may grow an emotional attachment to objects or perhaps people, such as friends, family, and so on. As our attachment grows stronger, they are effectively a crucial part of our lives and thus our self. However, if they cause us to sin, must we keep them? No, as then we would go down even further towards death. We must instead abandon them towards a better path. It is better for us to lose a part of ourselves and our life rather than fall into depravity.

The second message is actually stated in context of the first message of this passage. In this case, if you your eyes cause you to lust, then you should throw it out. Of course, the actual meaning would probably be like if your friend invites to look upon images that you shouldn't see, it's better to leave them at the risk of them hating you and so on. The final part of this passage is related but different from Jesus' message on adultery on the first part. Here, Jesus wishes to say that if one divorces in a marriage, unless unlawful, they too have committed adultery. This is because a marriage is supposed to be eternal, you marry someone because you truly love them and you vow to do so forever. If you don't, it's better not to marry them at all. As such when you get married and you divorce, that is proof that you don't actually love your spouse and thus it is adulterous. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.