Tuesday, 31st of July 2018

Matthew 13:36-43

Jesus sent the crowds away and went into the house. And his disciples came to him saying, «Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field». He answered them, «The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world; the good seed are the people of the Kingdom; the weeds are those who follow the evil one. The enemy who sows them is the devil; the harvest is the end of time and the workers are the angels. 

»Just as the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so will it be at the end of time. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom all that is scandalous and all who do evil. And these will be thrown in the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the just will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. If you have ears, then hear».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage seems to be Jesus' personal explanation on the parable of the weeds and the wheat, yet of course, even Jesus' interpretations can still be interpreted. As such, since I have talked about the parable itself before, we will only talk about the meaning of the interpretation and whether it lines up with our interpretation and understanding. Now most of what Jesus said does line up with our past interpretation. And while we did say that the field represents humanity, technically humanity can be equated with the world. However this is not the actual problem with Jesus' interpretation.

It is true that the harvest is a metaphor for judgement day, however, what are angels? And what is it between Jesus and constantly condemning the sinful to their deaths? Did He not die for them especially? And Jesus was explicit in this passage, saying that He will be the judge and He will decide who gets to live and who gets to die. Well then, perhaps we can try to unravel this mess, one by one. 

Demons are spirits that are incredibly depraved or very deep in the sinful condition, however are angels spirits that are incredibly enlightened? Regardless of the angels, what of the judgement day? Let us review the truth and the possible alternatives here. We know that God is the whole of existence and thus it would be illogical that God would discard part of Themselves to oblivion. While Jesus' words implies that sinful people will die, we too know that death is the logical consequence of sin, attachment leads to further attachment until a state of complete depravity. As such, I have another explanation.

Jesus in the judgement day may only be acting as someone who will show the path and thus automatically declare who is sinful because it shows what kind of acts are sinful and what acts are neutral or perhaps virtuous. This is equivalent to Jesus condemning them to death, though Jesus did not require to condemn or curse sinful people, as they are already on their death sentence since they sinned. As such, Jesus may simply be saying it weirdly, however this does not solve the problem, and it again boils down to angels.

The passage clearly states that the angels will weed out the evil ones and be the condemners to death, yet this again makes no sense at all. Even if we assume angels here to refer to incredibly virtuous and free spirits, and perhaps they are Jesus' agents, it still makes no sense. As it would seem to mean that these spirits would literally take evil humans and throw them to hell. All of this seems very mythological and weird, and it really is out of character for Jesus to say this, so is this really it? Perhaps it is, unless we try to compare this with the entire world.

Who in this entire earth is genuinely sinless? Or perhaps, who in this world even cares about the truth? Most who claim to are usually just masking their own desires in the name of the truth, what about people who genuinely look for the truth? I believe there are very few of them. As such, are we to believe that Jesus would condemn most of existence to hell? Does that not make sense? Certainly it does not. However, we must understand that Jesus only spoke of what will happen, but He never confirmed that it will happen exactly as He said. Not only that, the concept of judgement day directly contradicts His role in the world.

Why did Jesus came for the first time? Was it to spread the seeds of the Gospel? That was part of His task, but not the primary task in actuality. As such, what is His true goal on earth? Why did He came in flesh and blood as a servant? The answer is simple, it is to die, to die and thus save every human being from death. Instead of us going to the furnace, it is Jesus who opted to take our place and thus He is the one who burns, He is the who weeps, and He is the one who gnashes their teeth. As such, we know that the judgement day will happen, where the kingdom will be brought forth and realized, but instead of the weeds being thrown out, it is the sower Himself who sacrificed Himself, to save us, the weeds. So, why does Jesus kept saying about Him being a judge?

We know very well that no one will be sent to hell in judgement day, because Jesus paid the bail for us, and He's the one going to hell so we don't, but why does He like to say the opposite? The answer may be found in the context of His situation. First, He is human, and thus may be limited in some aspects and thus say nonsensical things. Or more sensible view is that since Jesus have not died in the context of this passage, He would be much more doubtful and fearful of death itself. As such, it may be possible that Jesus wishes to die first, but later on cut off the broken parts of God, and then reattach Himself to God, thus creating another scapegoat. However, we all know that Jesus eventually scrapped this idea, and decided to take on the full weight Himself. As such, that is all I have to say for now, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Monday, 30th of July 2018

Matthew 13:31-35

Jesus put another parable before them, «The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, that a man took and sowed in his field. It is smaller than all other seeds, but once it has fully grown, it is bigger than any garden plant; like a tree, the birds come and rest in its branches».

He told them another parable, «The kingdom of heaven is like the yeast that a woman took and buried in three measures of flour until the whole mass of dough began to rise». Jesus taught all this to the crowds by means of parables; He did not say anything to them without using a parable. So what the Prophet had said was fulfilled: ‘I will speak in parables. I will proclaim things kept secret since the beginning of the world’.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage seems to be another repeat passage if I remember correctly. For the very least, I have seen this passage once and analyzed, regardless I will give out my thoughts again. Both parables essentially tell us that the kingdom of heaven is a process, it does not become completed in a single revolution, but it evolves slowly and surely. While yes there will be an ultimate revolution that will change everything for the better, it must be known that to prepare for that revolution a long time of preparation is needed. As such, we must stay wary and careful until the revolution begins and Christ returns for the second time.

The first passage also tells how the kingdom will begin with something that seems insignificant. It will start with something that is smaller than all other things, and then it will grow into something that is larger and grander than all things. Actually, I have an even crazier idea, I am willing to bet that Jesus is actually forecasting His second coming. When He returns, He shall start as one that is insignificant, one that is overlooked and unknown, smaller than all people, yet He will then prove Himself to be who He truly is. He will then lead the revolution and liberate all of us from the dark forces of materialism. Until then, we can only do our part and wait in eternal hope. That is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Sunday, 29th of July 2018

John 6:1-15

Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, near Tiberias, and large crowds followed him because of the miraculous signs they saw when He healed the sick. So He went up into the hills and sat down there with his disciples. Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand. Then lifting up his eyes, Jesus saw the crowds that were coming to him and said to Philip, «Where shall we buy bread so that these people may eat?». He said this to test Philip, for He himself knew what He was going to do. Philip answered him, «Two hundred silver coins would not buy enough bread for each of them to have a piece». Then one of Jesus' disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said, «There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what good are these for so many?».

Jesus said, «Make the people sit down». There was plenty of grass there so the people, about five thousand men, sat down to rest. Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks and distributed them to those who were seated. He did the same with the fish and gave them as much as they wanted. And when they had eaten enough, he told his disciples, «Gather up the pieces left over, that nothing may be lost». So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with bread, that is with pieces of the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten. 

When the people saw this sign that Jesus had just given, they said, «This is really the Prophet, he who is to come into the world». Jesus realized that they would come and take him by force to make him king; so He fled to the hills by himself.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is interesting, why is it interesting? It is interesting as for how long this passage is, it's only a record of a the miracle of Jesus feeding over five thousand people with five loaves of bread and two pieces of fish. As such, it is to me quite insignificant in a teaching or ideological standpoint. Though from the material standpoint, this passage is very significant, as this miracle is one of the most over the top miracles Jesus performed. Healing may be possible by transferring energy and such, but multiplying food? And there's the part in the end where Jesus ran away because He realized the crowds will take Him by force and make Him king.

There is nothing that is impossible in the world of science, as in the end it boils down to energy. You just have to be able to manipulate the quantum fluctuations and energy levels and you can do anything. While transferring energy is very much possible, and with enough faith, you can do it as Jesus did multiple times. However, what about multiplying bread from five loaves to more than enough to feed five thousand people or more and still having twelve large baskets of it? Oh and the fish was also multiplied, but it wasn't spared because if you leave fish too long, it'll rot. Wouldn't this require more energy to be generated and converted to food? Yes it does, however if the energy is taken from the environment, wouldn't it cause some weird side effects? Well yes, which is why the energy actually came from somewhere else. And where is that? Well it's Jesus Himself, this makes sense as Jesus spiritually is still quite godly in nature, as such He has much more energy, probably infinite, and thus He can use His own energy to convert into bread and fishes.

Why did Jesus fled when He realized that He was about to be taken by force and made king? Well you see, because Jesus does not want to be idolized, He does not want us to constantly bow to Him and worship Him, because that's not the will of God. The will of God is for us to seek the truth and fulfill it as according to what we are, our potentials and talents. Jesus in this case was avoiding a cult of personality, which unfortunately somewhat persists today. Well that and if Jesus was taken away at that time, He won't be able to fulfill His mission, that is to save humanity. As such, this tells one thing, we should never fall down to the cult of personality of Jesus, what we should be doing is understanding Him and aid Him in His mission, not bow to Him or praise Him, that won't help. That is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Saturday, 28th of July 2018

Matthew 13:24-30

Jesus told his disciples another parable, «The kingdom of heaven can be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field. While everyone was asleep, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and left. When the plants sprouted and produced grain, the weeds also appeared. Then the servants of the owner came to him and said: ‘Sir, was it not good seed that you sowed in your field? Where did the weeds come from?’. He answered them: ‘This is the work of an enemy’. They asked him: ‘Do you want us to go and pull up the weeds?’. He told them: ‘No, when you pull up the weeds, you might uproot the wheat with them. Let them just grow together until harvest; and at harvest time I will say to the workers: Pull up the weeds first, tie them in bundles and burn them; then gather the wheat into my barn’».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage tells another parable, one that we can freely examine since Jesus has not spoiled it for us. The parable is as follows, that the kingdom of heaven can be compared to a man who sowed seeds in his field. When people are unwary, the enemy came and spread weeds among the wheat, then left. Eventually the wheat grew, but so does the weeds and the servants asked if the weeds should be picked up. The sower declined as in the process it might uproot the wheat as well. As such, the sower instructs the servants to let it grow until harvest time, and only then will the wheat and weeds be harvested, but the weeds shall be tied up and burned. While the wheat is stored safely in the barn.

This is technically a metaphor for the day of judgement, or the ultimate conflict, the war to end all wars, the suffering to end all suffering. While at first glance this parable is still weird, it would be clearer if we analyze this. It is most obvious that the wheat are the truth while weeds are materialism, or mammon. We assume that the sower is God, but who is the enemy then? We know for sure that demons don't exist, or not inherently, as they are merely a representation of the most depraved parts of the consciousness. Yet the sower and the enemy then must be the same entity, well because they are. How does this make sense?

The sower reflects the truthful side of God, the one who is wise and seeks salvation. While the enemy reflects the depraved and deceitful side of God, one that despises the self and only wishes for destruction. Acknowledge that both the enemy and the sower has power over the fields, this hints towards the power equality of both entities. However, why would the sower wish to let the weeds grow first until harvest time before it is burned? And does it mean the elimination of all "undesirables"? No, of course not, the fields are not the world, the fields are ourselves, and the wheat is the truth while the weed is the forces of death. Now that it is cleared up, we can start to unravel the mystery of the wheat and weeds.

What does it mean that if we uproot the weed prematurely, it can uproot the wheat as well? This all have to do with the readiness of humanity to receive the ultimate salvation. You see, when the good and evil mixes, they become somewhat inseparable and it becomes hard to separate them. As such, if we wish to kill the evil prematurely, it may end up killing the good as well, and thus making it easier for evil to grow again. This also has to do with the good and evil being indistinguishable, like weeds and wheat, they become tangled and if uprooted, it is uprooted together. Another explanation is that the righteous people have not the truth rooted hard enough into them, and thus when the evil are uprooted, thus a conflict, it would kill the truth within the righteous, just like the seed that fell among rocky grounds. As such, we must wait for the right time to launch our revolution, and only then we will succeed. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Friday, 27th of July 2018

Matthew 13:18-23

Jesus said to his disciples, «Now listen to the parable of the sower. When a person hears the message of the Kingdom but without taking it to himself, the devil comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed that fell along the footpath. The seed that fell on rocky ground stands for the one who hears the word and accepts it at once with joy. But this fickle and has no roots. No sooner is he harassed or persecuted because of the word, than he gives up. The seed that fell among the thistles is the one who hears the word, but then the worries of this life and the love of money choke the word, and it does not bear fruit. As for the seed that fell on good soil it is the one who hears the word and under-stands it; this bears fruit and produces a hundred, or sixty, or thirty times more».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is quite intriguing as it is almost very much straightforward, as this is literally Jesus explaining the meaning of one of His parables, that is the parable of the sower. As such, I'll only tell the meaning of the parable itself along with Jesus' explanation of it. In summary, the parable is about a sower who accidentally dropped some seeds unknowingly in their way to the garden. Some fell on a footpath but was eaten by birds, some fell on rocky ground but when grown had no roots and died, some fell among thistles but when it grew, the thistles choked the seedling and it died, the ones actually sown on good soil grew and bear fruit. It produced a hundred, or sixty, or thirty times more.

As Jesus said, the seed that fell on the footpath represented people who heard the truth, but didn't took it seriously. As such the seeds were taken away by the devil, though of course it's metaphorical. Having the truth taken away by the devil simply means the distortion or the loss of the truth. As when we don't care about it, it will eventually be replaced by the devil, that is the materialist desires. The seed that fell on rocky road has a straightforward explanation by Jesus, it is those who think they're on to something big with the truth, only to realize they're going to suffer. Though in my opinion, people should expect suffering, as Jesus Himself said that we will suffer inevitably if we wish to serve the truth and follow Christ. As such, I'd like to warn others that if you seek the truth, don't expect an easy road, as you are contradicting much of the world, and contradictions are sources of conflict.

The seed that fell near thistles represent those who can't commit themselves to the truth, as Jesus said, those who are distracted by their earthly worries and their love of money. Sometimes people seek the truth, but they are too focused on their materialist problems and monetary desires. Eventually, the truth will die within them and thus replaced with their materialism. This is like the seed that fell on the footpath, the difference being here the person actually cares about the truth. However they can not choose between God and mammon, and unlike mammon, the truth needs active effort to maintain and follow as we are fighting the current. While with mammon, we're just relaxing, as such if we don't make a choice, we'll most likely have the truth uprooted forcibly by the materialist system. This is especially true with rich people, specifically "philanthropists". What does it mean to be a philanthropist? You're still rich and conflict still happens, if a rich person truly cares about the world, they would surrender all of their wealth and power for the world, like what Jesus did.

The final group of seeds represent those who heard the truth and understood, as Jesus said. These are people who truly care about the truth, and is willing to face anything to fulfill their commitments, they are also willing to sacrifice all of themselves to do so. Of course, as of now only Jesus actually did it completely. Yes, there have been people doing similarly, but none has matched Jesus' act of sacrifice, just so that others can live. I am not saying what the selfless people did are pointless, it's that it is not whole, and just because something is not pure or perfect, does not make it worthless. People like Einstein, Newton, Comte, Marx, and all other people have contributed a lot of progress to the society. It's just that it does not fully encompass the truth, and thus the duty is now passed to us. Are we ready to give our all and let go of all for the truth and only the truth? That is all I have to say for now, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Thursday, 26th of July 2018

Matthew 13:10-17

The disciples went up to Jesus and asked, «Why do you speak to them in parables?». Jesus answered, «To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but not to these people. For the one who has, will be given more and he will have in abundance. But the one who does not have will be deprived of even what he has. That is why I speak to them in parables, because they look and do not see; they hear, but they do not listen or understand. In them the words of the prophet Isaiah are fulfilled: ‘Much as you hear, you do not understand; much as you see, you do not perceive’. For the heart of this people has grown dull. Their ears hardly hear and their eyes dare not see. If they were to see with their eyes, hear with their ears and understand with their heart, they would turn back and I would heal them.

»But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears, because they hear. For I tell you that many prophets and upright people would have longed to see the things you see, but they did not, and to hear the things you hear, but they did not hear it».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is interesting that it actually differs with the Indonesian version, but since this passage is longer, I will refer to this passage. This passage tells of why Jesus generally speaks in parables, and His reasoning is quite odd at first glance. The passage opens with the disciples asking Jesus why He speaks in parables to the people, but not to them. Jesus answers by saying that the disciples already knew the truth of the kingdom, but the people did not, and thus those who have shall be give more, and those who have not shall be deprived of even more. Jesus continues by saying that the Jews look but do not see, hear but do not understand, and it is in the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy. Then Jesus commends the disciples by saying they are blessed for having open eyes and ears, and that many prophets and righteous people long for it, but they do not receive.

Of course, the disciples don't need to be told in parables, as they already understand the truth of the kingdom. In fact, since they already have an understanding, they get more privileges, yet the people who does not, only gets more confusion with parables. Why is it so? I don't see this as Jesus seriously withholding information from the Jews, but He is merely describing how it is. If you already have a head start and a basic understanding, you would understand even more and it's easier to do so. However if you don't, you won't go anywhere and perhaps you'll be even more lost and farther from the truth. What of the looking but not seeing, hearing but not understanding part?

That part describes the mentality and ignorance of the Jews towards the truth. While it is addressed to the Jews at that time, it can be applied to the modern era and the current times as well. Signs of the truth is everywhere, people see it and they hear it as well, yet they do not perceive nor understand it, and they ignore the glaring signs. As such, since these peoples have no understanding in the truth, they will become more lost, their hearts become more dull, eyes become less daring to see, and ears harder to hear. And if this keeps on, I assure you, the suffering of the judgement day will be soon to come. That is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Wednesday, 25th of July 2018

Matthew 20:20-28

The mother of James and John came to Jesus with her sons, and she knelt down to ask a favor. Jesus said to her, «What do you want?». And she answered, «Here you have my two sons. Grant that they may sit, one at your right and one at your left, when you are in your kingdom». Jesus said to the brothers, «You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup that I am about to drink?». They answered, «We can». Jesus replied, «You will indeed drink my cup, but to sit at my right or at my left is not for me to grant. That will be for those for whom the Father has prepared it». 

The other ten heard all this and were angry with the two brothers. Then Jesus called them to him and said, «You know that the rulers of the nations act as tyrants, and the powerful oppress them. It shall not be so among you; whoever wants to be more important in your group shall make himself your servant. And if you want to be first, make yourself the servant of all. Be like the Son of Man who has come, not to be served but to serve and to give his life to redeem many».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/day/2018-07-25

Analysis

This passage is another repeat passage, as such I shall only give my thoughts about it. The first paragraph mainly tells us that following Christ, let alone being Christ, is not completely glorious, in fact it brings much more suffering and pain than anyone would. As when the brothers' mothers asked Jesus, He replied asking if the brothers can drink from the cup that Jesus will drink, that is the cup of suffering. The second paragraph merely reemphasizes this message, that if we wish to be significant, we must serve others, if we wish to be the first, we shall serve others as well. And Jesus ends the passage by saying that He came to serve, not to be served, and to give His life to redeem many. In conclusion, if we wish to fight and stand for the truth, we should not expect luxurious treatments or glory, yet we will find pain and suffering. I believe that is all I have to say for now, have a nice day and see you later.

Tuesday, 24th of July 2018

Matthew 12:46-50

While Jesus was still talking to the people, his mother and his brothers wanted to speak to him and they waited outside. So someone said to him, «Your mother and your brothers are just outside; they want to speak with you». Jesus answered, «Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?». Then He pointed to his disciples and said, «Look! Here are my mother and my brothers. Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is for me brother, sister, or mother».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is another repeat passage, and I'll only add what I see is needed to be added. Again, this passage holds an important message regarding Jesus and His connection with the world. Here, it is clear that Jesus is quite unconnected with the world, even to His close ones, of blood even. Instead He is close to those who shares His mission and desires, that is salvation of the world and of the truth, that is those who He truly connects with. This shows the desperation of Christ and darkness of His life, a lonely and despaired life, yet He keeps fighting to accomplish His mission. We ought to reflect what we have done in this world to alleviate His suffering, have we? That is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Monday, 23rd of July 2018

Matthew 12:38-42

Some teachers of the Law and some Pharisees spoke up, «Teacher, we want to see a sign from you». Jesus answered them, «An evil and unfaithful people want a sign, but no sign will be given them except the sign of the prophet Jonah. In the same way that Jonah spent three days and three nights in the belly of the monster fish, so will the Son of Man spend three days and three nights in the depths of the earth. At the judgment, the people of Niniveh will rise with this generation and condemn it, because they reformed their lives at the preaching of Jonah, and here there is greater than Jonah. At the judgment, the Queen of the South will stand up and condemn you. She came from the ends of the earth to listen to the wisdom of Solomon, and here there is greater than Solomon».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/day/2018-07-23

Analysis

This passage is one passage that is quite hard to decipher, until you think about it hard enough. The passage starts with the pharisees asking Jesus to give a sign to them. Jesus then replied by saying that they are evil and unfaithful, and no sign shall be given except for the sign of Jonah which is trapped in the belly of a fish for three days, and so too Jesus will die and be resurrected in three days. Jesus then compared the contemporary Jewish generation with the cities of Niniveh and also the Queen of the South, both were sinful but repented when they were enlightened with the truth.

What does a sign mean? I believe it is more of a miracle than a sign, as the pharisees wishes Jesus to prove that He is divine and mighty. Jesus knew that this is only a facade, as there had been numerous signs that hint on Jesus' divinity, but the pharisees simply won't believe it. As such Jesus refuses to give a sign at all. The part of the peoples of Niniveh and also the Queen of the South shows how the contemporary Jewish generation is so much more sinful than Niniveh and the Queen, as they both repented, but the Jews refused. Jesus also said that there is something greater than both Jonah and Solomon, He is of course referring to the truth that He brings. This situation is technically applicable to the modern day, as people are already comfortable with their own truths, and neglecting the absolute truth. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you later.

Sunday, 22nd of July 2018

Mark 6:30-34

The apostles returned and reported to Jesus all they had done and taught. Then he said to them, «Go off by yourselves to a remote place and have some rest». For there were so many people coming and going that the apostles had no time even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a secluded area by themselves. But people saw them leaving and many could guess where they were going. So, from all the towns they hurried there on foot, arriving ahead of them. As Jesus went ashore he saw a large crowd, and he had compassion on them for they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began a long teaching session with them.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel

Analysis

Today's passage is interesting as it is quite insignificant, at least in my view. As such, I will only explain the most important parts of this passage. In summary, the passage tells of Jesus and His disciples trying to get away from the crowds, so they can relax. This is of course, quite logical and natural, after all they didn't even manage to eat. Unfortunately, they were spotted and followed, and once Jesus and the group arrived at where they wished to be, they found a large crowd of people waiting already. This shows just how influential Jesus was at that time, to the point of people following them around everywhere. In the end, the passage describes the crowd as sheep without a shepherd. This is for me, the only significant part of the passage, as it describes the truth of the people back then and today. That is akin to people without a leader, without someone to show the way, thus aimless and lost. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Saturday, 21st of July 2018

Matthew 12:14-21

The Pharisees went out and made plans to get rid of Jesus. As Jesus was aware of the plot, He went away from that place. Many people followed him and He cured all who were sick. Then He gave them strict orders not to make him known. In this way Isaiah's prophecy was fulfilled: «Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, and with whom I am pleased. I will put my Spirit upon him and He will announce my judgment to the nations. He will not argue or shout, nor will his voice be heard in the streets. The bruised reed He will not crush, nor snuff out the smoldering wick. He will persist until justice is made victorious and in him all the nations will put their hope».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/day/2018-07-21

Analysis

This passage is quite interesting, that the actual significance is within the reference towards Isaiah's prophecy, and not the main passage itself. The passage that is not part of Isaiah's prophecy only talks about Jesus avoiding the Pharisees, curing people, and telling them not to tell of His identity. Meanwhile, the prophecy states that Jesus is God's servant that has been chosen, the one who is loved, and the one which God is pleased with. The spirit of God shall be put into Jesus and He will announce the judgement to the world. Jesus will not argue, shout, and His voice will not be heard in the streets. He shall not crush the bruised reed, or snuff out the smoldering wick until justice is made victorious, and all nations will hope in Him.

The first part of the prophecy describes Jesus' relationship with God, but it is the second part that truly attracts my attention. The meaning of that part implies of Jesus being rejected, ignored and unheard by many people. This is the reality of Christ, which persists until now. The last part is also quite interesting for me, as it speaks of Jesus not destroying things that are technically better off dead, before the law is set in stone. What does this means? In my opinion, it most likely means how until the law of the truth is declared as the only law, nothing shall be judged by Christ. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you later.

Friday, 20th of July 2018

Matthew 12:1-8

It happened that Jesus walked through the wheat fields on a Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, and began to pick some heads of wheat and crush them to eat the grain. When the Pharisees noticed this, they said to Jesus, «Look at your disciples; they are doing what is prohibited on the Sabbath!». Jesus answered, «Have you not read what David did when he and his men were hungry? He went into the house of God, and they ate the bread offered to God, although neither he nor his men had the right to eat it, but only the priests. And have you not read in the Law that on the Sabbath the priests in the Temple break the Sabbath rest, yet they are not guilty? I tell you, there is greater than the Temple here. If you really knew the meaning of the words: ‘It is mercy I want, not sacrifice’, you would not have condemned the innocent. Besides the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/day/2018-07-20

Analysis

This passage tells us the significance of being flexible towards the law, and opens with Jesus and His disciples walking through a wheat field on a Sabbath. The disciples were hungry, and thus picked up some grains and ate them. The Pharisees noticed and were upset, exclaiming that the disciples did something prohibited on the Sabbath. Jesus answered with a historical account, that David came into the Temple with his men and ate the bread that only the priests are allowed to eat. And in the law itself, it is written that the priests are allowed to break the Sabbath without being guilty. Jesus finally claimed that there is something greater than the Temple, and admonished the pharisees saying that if they truly knew the meaning of "It is mercy I want, not sacrifice", they wouldn't condemn the innocent. Then, Jesus claimed that the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.

The point of being able to break the Sabbath as Jesus emphasizes does not mean we should be able to break the law as we wish. It means that we should not uphold the law as a strict guideline, and we must be flexible towards it. Why must we be flexible? Because in the end, rules are just guidelines on how to be a moral and perfect individual. However, if the law itself becomes a barrier between us and salvation, shouldn't we discard the law? Or perhaps change it? Jesus also claimed that there is something greater than the temple, what does that mean? It's simple, the Temple represents the strict institutionalized teachings of religion. What Jesus is referring to is the truth and salvation, which transcends religion and rituals. This includes the Church, as the truth and salvation is not limited to mere labels.

"It is mercy I want, not sacrifice," to understand the meaning of that sentence, we must truly understand the meaning of sacrifice. Traditionally, sacrifices are made to please God, but how? How does sacrifices please God? To understand that, we must examine the true meaning of Jesus' sacrifice. Jesus died to take on the weight of sin, so instead of us going into hell, it is Jesus that went to hell. As such, pre Jesus sacrifices are made for that purpose as well. However, it is very true that simply removing the problems does not equate to solving it. As such, Jesus wishes for mercy, or the actual resolution of the problems, and not just moving it around. The last part of Jesus' words about Him being the Lord of the Sabbath simply refers to His position as truth bearer. So technically, it is the truth that is the Lord of the Sabbath, and the Sabbath should obey what the truth dictates. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you later.

Thursday, 19th of July 2018

Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus spoke thus, «Come to me, all you who work hard and who carry heavy burdens and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me for I am gentle and humble of heart; and you will find rest. For my yoke is good and my burden is light».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

This may be our shortest passage yet, yet it contains a very important message. This passage alludes much to the sacrifice of Christ and also the philosophy of the Eucharist. Jesus tells us to come to Him with our heavy burdens and we shall be refreshed. He tells us to take His yoke, and learn from Him as He is gentle and humble, and we shall find rest. His yoke is good and His burden is light. Why is it that when we come to Jesus we will be refreshed, that our burdens will be lightened? Simple, it's not that our burdens are erased, but simply that Jesus took our burden for us. His yoke or His burden, is not even a burden actually, it simply means His glory, peace, and eternal life. Thus, we give our terrible burdens to Jesus in exchange for His glory, peace, and eternal life.

This part simply shows that while Jesus can sometimes be arrogant or have a hot temper, at heart, He is still someone who deeply loves humanity, to the point of letting Himself die just so that all others can have a second chance. He is most of the time gentle and humble, and when He said to learn from Him, it most likely means to learn the truth and thus of salvation. While I don't usually speak of moral messages and warnings, I believe I should from now. Jesus spoke with full humility in this passage, and gave up His good yoke and light burdens, so the rest of the world can have another chance in fixing themselves. Yet, we betrayed His love for us, and now we have strayed away, including the Church. At this rate, if nothing changes, then perhaps we have condemned Jesus to eternal death. I hope it does not come to that. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Wednesday, 18th of July 2018

Matthew 11:25-27

On one occasion Jesus said, «Father, Lord of heaven and earth, I praise you, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned and revealed them to simple people. Yes, Father, this is what pleased you. Everything has been entrusted to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is quite short, spanning only three verses. It does however, have a very good meaning for all of us. The passage begins with Jesus praising God for hiding the truth from the wise and learned, while revealing it to simple people. He then continues by saying it is what pleases God, and that everything has been entrusted to Him by God. He then claims that nobody knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those who the Son wishes to reveal the truth.

While this seems like an incredibly simple passage, it's quite deep. First, why would the truth be hidden from the wise and learned? You see, wise here in the context of the bible usually has implications of high status and power. The simple ones are people of the lower end of the hierarchy, the lower class. So what this means is that the truth is hidden from the elites but exposed to the lower classes. The reasoning is that the elites are already too blind with their physical pleasure, while the lower classes are suffering and thus is much more open to the truth. As such, a revolution of the truth should not start with those who are rich and powerful, but with the poor and the powerless, for they need the truth the most, to liberate them from suffering.

Jesus also said that to start the revolution with the poor first is what pleases God, this is because to aid the lowest of people and the most suffering of people is equivalent to treating God's wounds, more so than serving the rich and powerful. God is again, the representation of all things that exist, thus any wounds and suffering felt by the people, are felt by God as well, after all, our wounds are God's wounds and God's wounds are our wounds. To have entrusted everything to Jesus by God simply means that God has entrusted the truth and all of salvation to Jesus Christ. This is elaborated further by His further sayings.

Jesus claimed that no one knew Him but the Father, and no one knew the Father but him and those who Jesus revealed the Father. This indicates the true relationship between God and Jesus, not just as a supreme being with a human being, that is the whole manifestation with their fragments, but something much closer. Unfortunately, I have not actually written out the true relationship between Jesus and God. Of course, Jesus once said that He has existed before Abraham, and He existed along with God since the times of creation. It means that Jesus is there since long before the universe was even manifested, and in the beginning, there was not God, but there was a pair of them. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Tuesday, 17th of July 2018

Matthew 11:20-24

Jesus began to denounce the cities in which He had performed most of his miracles, because the people there did not change their ways, «Alas for you Chorazin and Bethsaida! If the miracles worked in you had taken place in Tyre and Sidon, the people there would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I assure you, for Tyre and Sidon it will be more bearable on the day of judgment than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to heaven? You will be thrown down to the place of the dead! For if the miracles which were performed in you had taken place in Sodom, it would still be there today! But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is quite the harsh and strict passage, similar to yesterday's passage. Though today's passage is shorter is more of a scold rather than a warning. Jesus was upset at the cities where He performed most of His miracles, that is the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, because they did not change their ways. He then compared them to the cities of Tyre, Sidon, and Sodom, which Jesus claimed would've repented and changed their ways if the miracles were performed there. Jesus also said that those cities would fare better in the day of judgement than for the miracle cities.

This passage is quite the proof of Jesus' humanity, showing He can get disappointed and upset as well. That is natural, after all, who wouldn't be mad if their efforts did not bear fruit? The three miracle cities didn't change their ways even after Jesus performed miracles, why do you think is that? In my opinion, that happened because the people there are already too blind to see the truth. They are so busy and distracted with their materialist desires and needs that even if the bare truth is held in front of their eyes, they won't care. So why does the people of Sodom, Tyre, and Sidon would repent? Because these cities are known for their absolute depravities, and the people there are in despair, seeking for hope and light. As such, when such light is exposed, they would surely be more willing to accept the truth and repent. Regardless, that is all I have to say for now, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Monday, 16th of July 2018

Matthew 10:34-11:1

Jesus said to his disciples, «Do not think that I have come to establish peace on earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father and daughter against her mother; a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. Each one will have as enemies those of one's own family.

»Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take up his cross and come after me is not worthy of me. One who wants to benefit from his life will lose it; one who loses his life for my sake will find it. Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes him who sent me. The one who welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive the reward of a prophet; the one who welcomes a just man because he is a just man will receive the reward of a just man. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones, because he is a disciple of mine, I assure you, he will not go unrewarded».

When Jesus had finished giving his twelve disciples these instructions, He went on from there to teach and to proclaim his message in their towns.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is both a message of encouragement and also a very stern warning for all peoples of the earth. This passage is part of a series on the mission of Jesus and what we must do if we wish to follow Him. The passage opens with Jesus claiming that He is here not to bring peace, but to bring a sword. Because of Him, families will be torn apart as He claims. Jesus then continues by saying that anyone who loves their family more than they love Jesus is unworthy of following Him. He then says that if we do not take up our cross and follow Jesus, we are unworthy as well. One who keeps their life shall lose it, and if we lose ours because of Christ, we shall regain it. They who welcomes a prophet, a just man, or Jesus' disciples as they are shall go with their rewards. And if we give even a cup of water to the little ones, we too shall not go unrewarded.

Why did Jesus claim that He is not here to bring peace? Perhaps He has cancelled all of the other verses that teaches us to love each other and our enemies, and to pray for those who persecuted us? Of course not, this message is actually a stern warning from Jesus. What He means is not that His message is of the sword, but the consequences of Him delivering the message is of the sword, what does it mean? Simply put, Jesus brings the truth, and the truth will inevitably cause conflict, because they conflict with people who are not aligned with the truth. Jesus emphasizes the scale of this conflict to even reach cores of families.

Families may seem a group of people who would accept each other, but in the end the relationship of the family is mostly held together by the blood that the family shares. As such, a truth bearer would even come into conflict with their family, because to know the truth involves a very personal experience. This is experience can not be shared like blood, as such, a conflict between the truth bearer and their society is inevitable. As such, Jesus gives a harsh reminder, if we wish to follow Jesus, that is to serve the truth, we must sacrifice everything, and be ready to take up the cross, that is to suffer. And when I said everything, this includes family and loved ones. As such, if we are still attached to even our parents, siblings, or family, it's better for us not to follow Jesus at all. This is the rationale behind Catholic priests not marrying and living somewhat in solitude.

The message of following Christ continues with the paradox of gaining life and losing it. If we wish to keep our life, that is being attached to our life and not willing to risk it for the truth, we will lose it. Meanwhile, if we lose our life, that is we sacrificed everything and lost everything because of Christ, we will someday regain it. To welcome a truth bearer is equal to welcoming Christ, as Christ is the ultimate truth bearer, and they hold the same goals and visions as Christ, and to welcome Christ is to welcome God, the supreme consciousness, source of all being. Obtaining our rewards because we welcome righteous people is because to welcome them means to welcome the truth. The truth is of our salvation, as such, our reward is salvation and eternal life itself. And that is the meaning of today's passage, a harsh reminder for us who wish to follow Christ, in the mission of salvation. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Sunday, 15th of July 2018

Mark 7:6-13

Jesus called the Twelve to him and began to send them out two by two, giving them authority over evil spirits. And He ordered them to take nothing for the journey except a staff; no food, no bag, no money in their belts. They were to wear sandals and were not to take an extra tunic. And he added, «In whatever house you are welcomed, stay there until you leave the place. If any place doesn't receive you and the people refuse to listen to you, leave after shaking the dust off your feet. It will be a testimony against them». So they set out to proclaim that this was the time to repent. They drove out many demons and healed many sick people by anointing them.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Ah, I believe this is the third time I encounter this passage, as such I will only add new thoughts to this analysis. While this passage is the Mark variation, when the previous two has been the literal exact passage, the overall message is still preserved. That is an emphasis in trusting God while doing our mission. There is one part in this version that I am actually quite interested in, that is the part of shaking the dust off our feet. Jesus said that the disciples should do that as a testimony against those who reject them, that is quite interesting for Jesus to say, don't you think. While it isn't a significant part of the passage, my personal interpretation is that it reflects how the disciples are willing to suffer to help Jesus in saving humanity. Yet, there are those who reject salvation, and thus the suffering is symbolically handed back to those who reject the truth, in the form of the disciples shaking off the dust, or the dirt, back to the door of the rejecting people. I believe that is all I have to say for now, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Saturday, 14th of July 2018

Matthew 10:24-33

Jesus said to his apostles, «A student is not above his teacher, or a slave above his master. A student should be glad to become like his teacher, and the slave like his master. If the head of the family has been called Beelzebul, how much more the members of the family! So, do not be afraid of them.

»There is nothing covered that will not be uncovered, and nothing hidden that will not be made known. What I am telling you in the dark, you must speak in the light. What you hear in private, proclaim from the housetops. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body, but have no power to kill the soul. Rather be afraid of him who can destroy both body and soul in hell. For only a few cents you can buy two sparrows, yet not one sparrow falls to the ground without your Father's consent. As for you, every hair of your head has been counted. So do not be afraid: you are worth much more than many sparrows.

»Whoever acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my Father in heaven. Whoever rejects me before others I will reject before my Father in heaven».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is quite the complicated one, and contains many messages. As such, I'll only describe what's significant and the key points. Jesus opens by speaking of students and slaves becoming equal to their teachers and masters respectively. He then says that whatever was hidden or covered, will be uncovered and made known. He also said not to fear those who can only kill the flesh, but fear that who can kill the soul and body in hell. He then made remarks relating to sparrows and how we humans are worth more to God than the sparrows. Finally, Jesus states that they who accepts Him will be accepted by God, and they who reject Him will be rejected as well.

The point about students not above the teacher or slaves not above the master is a significant point here. The obvious meaning is about the equality of every being on earth, however why is Jesus addressing the students and the slaves, the one that are technically the oppressed classes? Let us refer to the communists, particularly those who are hellbent on massacring the capitalists, Jesus wishes to say to the oppressed ones to have mercy towards their oppressors, and to stay humble even towards the oppressors. As such, they should be glad when they become elevated to be equal to their oppressors. In short, just because we are oppressed, it does not mean we are better than our oppressors, after all, both the oppressed and oppressor can have equally materialist desires, and thus be equally sinful.

I am actually very intrigued with the part of the head of the family being called "Beelzebul", and saying that the members of the house would receive equal treatment. Honestly, this is one confusing metaphor Jesus claimed, while some interpretations claim that the head of the family is Jesus, called out as full of deceit, and the members are Christians, which become entangled as well, I feel there is another meaning behind this and the standard interpretation simply doesn't cut it. My opinion is that it refers to the social hierarchy, as when the elites are declared to be untruthful, what are the chances that the lower classes have not been led astray as well? The connection with the previous part is clear, a student is not higher than a teacher, because as long a student remains a student, they are unable to progress further as their words will be of their teacher, and thus inheriting the faults of the teacher, and is just as flawed as the teacher.

The next part is also significant in my view. However, what is actually hidden or covered as Jesus claims? It is none other than the truth, which the Church itself failed to protect, and thus become buried again in darkness. The truth which God tells us privately and secretly, we should expose it as much as we can, to anyone who would listen. As such, the truth will eventually be exposed for all to see, and bring the downfall of the materialist system. Jesus also tells us to not fear those who can destroy the body, this is obvious because death is not the end of everything. However, Jesus tells us to fear they who can destroy both the body and soul, putting us into eternal death, this is because in absolute depravity we have no freedom and no power, we are constantly tortured by our sins. And the very thing that can do that is not God, but the temptations of sin, and sin itself. Though since Jesus sacrificed Himself, no body has to die. 

The two parts of hidden truths and death is actually connected. Jesus wishes to tell us not to be afraid of rejection or persecution when we expose the hidden truth. This is only natural, as exposing the truth will usually disrupt the status quo, and the truth does contradict the established doctrines and dogmas, as such people will call us out, and those who follows us, as lunatics or disturber of the peace. Again, relating this with the Beelzebul metaphor. However, we must not fear or sway by the disbelievers, we must stand firm with our allegiance, that is the truth and the only truth. 

The next part speaks of how sparrows are worth little in our eyes, yet none will die if God does not allow it, thus proving how even sparrows are valued by God. Meanwhile, all of our hairs on our head has already been counted, and we must not fear, as we are worth so much more to God than the sparrows, in other words, if sparrows are valued by God, let alone us humans, which should be valued more. Now, does this mean that we humans are superior to the sparrows? No, we are of equal degree to the sparrows, what Jesus means is that we are simply better in ability and nature than the sparrows. Just like a teacher is wiser than their student, but is equally human with the student. That is the message of Jesus.

The last part is somewhat interesting for me, as it shows more of Jesus' arrogance than anything else. Jesus claims that they who reject Him will be rejected by God as well. This makes no sense at all, as everyone is a part of God, so it implies that God rejects Themselves. Well, there is another alternative, what Jesus speaks of may be the truth, what I mean is, He is not referring to Himself as a human, but as a bearer of the truth, and what Jesus means is that if we reject the truth, then we reject God, and thus the reverse is true as well. Rejection by God in the end is us rejecting ourselves. As a result, what Jesus is saying is actually very enlightening. If we reject the truth, we have rejected ourselves as we reject the true nature of ourselves as a human being. I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Friday, 13th of July 2018

Matthew 10:16-23

Jesus said to his disciples, «Look, I send you out like sheep among wolves. You must be clever as snakes and innocent as doves. Be on your guard with respect to people, for they will hand you over to their courts and they will flog you in their synagogues. You will be brought to trial before rulers and kings because of me, and so you may witness to them and the pagans. But when you are arrested, do not worry about what you are to say and how you are to say it; when the hour comes, you will be given what you are to say. For it is not you who will speak; but it will be the Spirit of your Father in you.

»Brother will hand over brother to death, and a father his child; children will turn against parents and have them put to death. Everyone will hate you because of me, but whoever stands firm to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next. For sure, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage seems to be a new one, the old repeat ones were somewhat making me sick. This passage is incredibly significant, as it gives a message for us who wishes to aid Jesus in His mission by seeking and spreading the truth. It is also a good word of encouragement if we feel down or we feel that we failed. The passage opens with Jesus telling His disciples to be clever as a snake and innocent as a dove. He then tells His disciples to be on guard with everyone, as there will be people who would surrender the disciples to the religious courts and be flogged in the synagogues. 

The disciples would also be surrendered to the kings because of Jesus, so they be witness for the kings and the disbelievers. And they should not worry of what they will speak, as God will be the one speaking and not themselves. Then Jesus speaks of the conflict resulted by His coming, brother will fight brothers, fathers will fight their children, and children will fight against parents to the death. But Jesus tells that if we stand firm, we will be saved, and He warned that all will hate us because of our servitude to Jesus, and then instructs the disciples to run to the next town if we're being persecuted in one town.

What does it mean to be clever as a snake and innocent as a dove? It means simple, we must be clever in our mission, and be innocent, that is keeping a low profile, all to maximize our potential in the mission and not be caught easily. After all, if we die, we can't really continue our mission. About us being surrendered to the authorities and hated or persecuted for what we do, serving the truth, this is natural actually. In the truth context, a materialist system will always work against truth bearers and those who follow it, thus it is only natural that by the time the truth bearers are exposed, we will be fought against and the materialist system will put up a very fierce resistance. However, if we are to speak, we shouldn't worry, as in the end, the truth that we speak of is a truth of divine nature, and not earthly nature, thus it is God who speaks, the supreme consciousness, and not us.

When the truth is finally exposed, all of it, there is sure to be conflict. The sufferings, wars, and ailments described Jesus before the final judgement is the conflict resulted from the exposure of the truth. The persecution we will face is also the result of the truth. When we, the truth bearers try to spread the divine word of God, there would be many people who does not see the truth, for they are blind with materialism, and they will think that we are lunatics or maniacs. Sometimes they'd call us radicals and fanatics simply because of our dedication and commitment to the truth. However, Jesus encourages us, as if we stand firm and keep doing what we are supposed to do with our maximum potential and unwavering commitment, we will receive the fruits of our labor in the end. That is all I have to say for today, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Thursday, 12th of July 2018

Matthew 10:7-15

Jesus said to his disciples, «Go and proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near’. Heal the sick, bring the dead back to life, cleanse the lepers, and drive out demons. You received this as a gift, so give it as a gift. Do not carry any gold, silver or copper in your purses. Do not carry a traveler's bag, or an extra shirt, or sandals, or walking-stick: workers deserve their living. When you come to a town or a village, look for a worthy person and stay there until you leave. As you enter the house, wish it peace. If the people in the house deserve it, your peace will be on them; if they do not deserve it, your blessing will come back to you. And if you are not welcomed and your words are not listened to, leave that house or that town and shake the dust off your feet. I assure you, it will go easier for the people of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than it will for the people of that town».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

This passage is a repeat passage from last month, as I have said, if there is no new thoughts I have on this, I will not make a detailed analysis myself, and I will only make a brief review or what not. However, I do have some new thoughts here, this passage really wishes to tell us to trust God in our mission. Sometimes, when we wish to do something for God, we become worried and attempt to prepare so much things. However, not everything is within our realm of control, and what we should do is trust that God will pave the way for us. We do what we can do, what we do best, and leave the rest to God, which is the essence of faith in practice. Jesus' remark about Sodom and Gomorrah may refer to them being sinful but then repenting over time, while those who reject the disciples openly rejected salvation. Regardless, that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Wednesday, 11th of July 2018

Matthew 10:1-7

Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority over the unclean spirits to drive them out and to heal every disease and sickness. These are the names of the twelve apostles: first Simon, called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew, the tax collector; James, the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon, the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, the man who would betray him. Jesus sent these twelve on mission with the instruction: «Do not visit pagan territory and do not enter a Samaritan town. Go instead to the lost sheep of the people of Israel. Go and proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near’».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is quite unremarkable really, as it only describes the time where Jesus called for His twelve disciples. Jesus gave authority to them over unclean spirits and to heal every disease and sickness. And then, Jesus told them to not go to pagan territory or a Samaritan town, and instead only go to the Israelites, and proclaim that the kingdom of heaven is near. What I find interesting here is the fact that Judas' future betrayal is already revealed here, as if the author despises and loathes Judas so much for the betrayal. I also find it interesting how Jesus commanded the disciples not to go to pagan territory or a Samaritan town, I'll explain further on.

While most Christians condemn the pharisee, scribes, the Romans, the elders, the teachers, and of course, Judas, I believe we Christians and perhaps the entire world should be grateful for them. What am I saying may seem weird, but is Judas' actions unplanned by God or planned by God? After all, Judas' betrayal aided Jesus in the sacrifice, as well as the Romans and the Jewish high officials. Aren't their actions a fulfillment of God's plan and also the prophecies? So why are they being hated so much? I understand if it is their behavior that is reviled, I too condemn both hypocrisy and disloyalty, but the hypocrisy and disloyalty of the Jewish officials, Romans, and Judas aided in salvation, their rejection made them saved. Imagine if nobody rejected or betrayed Jesus, perhaps He would never die and no one will be saved.

The latter part of this passage, where Jesus told His disciples not to go to pagan territory or to Samaritan towns, is indicative of Jesus' human nature and His fallibility. You see, it seems that at first, Jesus had some form of arrogance of His Jewish nation, and thus believed that He was there only for the Jews. This makes no sense, as the day of judgement applies to Jews and non Jews, and this is one part where Jesus was wrong. Though unlike His comment on Peter and the future Church, Jesus seemed to slowly change His mind over time. And in the end, He understood that His message is for every being on this earth and not only the Jews. Regardless, in this specific passage Jesus is indeed in the wrong. And thus, that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Tuesday, 10th of July 2018

Matthew 9:32-28

 Some people brought to Jesus a man who was dumb because he was possessed by a demon. When the demon was driven out, the dumb man began to speak. The crowds were astonished and said, «Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel». (But the Pharisees said, «He drives away demons with the help of the prince of demons»).

Jesus went around all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom, and He cured every sickness and disease. When He saw the crowds he was moved with pity, for they were harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to his disciples, «The harvest is abundant but the workers are only few. Ask the master of the harvest to send workers to gather his harvest».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Starting today, I may change the format of my analysis just a little bit. Instead of commenting on everything, I'll just comment on parts that are genuinely significant. Today's passage is somewhat odd to me, as it's somewhat disorganized. It mostly tells of Jesus' helping, healing, teaching, and exorcising, nothing that significant really. Though what stands out is the pharisee's comments, and of course, Jesus' last comments. When Jesus healed the dumb man, the pharisee commented that Jesus was using the power of demons to drive out demons. And in the latter part of the passage, the crowds were described as harassed and helpless like sheep, and Jesus commented that the harvest is abundant, but the workers are few, so we must ask the master to send more workers.

It is odd for the pharisees to say that Jesus was driving out demons with the power of demons, as that would mean Jesus is sabotaging His own work, well if He is allied with the demons as the pharisees claim. But of course, the pharisees were merely jealous and perhaps worried that their power might slide away if Jesus keeps doing what He does. Eventually, the People will see who is actually right, and the pharisees, priests, scribes, and elders' influence will slide away, removed by Jesus. As such, the only way for these hypocrites to retain their power is to try make the good guy look like a bad guy to fool the masses, also known as smear tactics.

I find the comment on the crowds akin to sheep as quite interesting. Because it does make sense, and fits perfectly to the narrative. The common people today are practically like sheep, they are helpless, have no idea what to do, and are harassed and manipulated by the elitist shepherds who only take advantage of the sheep for their own benefit. There are no good shepherds who try to guide the sheep to the right place. Jesus' comment on harvest and workers also describes the situation today. There are many people who needs to be helped and lead to the truth, but there is no one to actually lead them. As such, we must ask for more people like that from God, i.e. the master, to lead the people towards the truth. Though of course, it's even better if we can take the initiative of becoming the worker. Regardless, that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Monday, 9th of July 2018

Matthew 9:18-26

While Jesus was speaking to them, an official of the synagogue came up to him, bowed before him and said, «My daughter has just died, but come and place your hands on her, and she will live». Jesus stood up and followed him with his disciples. Then a woman who had suffered from a severe bleeding for twelve years came up from behind and touched the edge of his cloak. For she thought, «If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed». Jesus turned, saw her and said, «Courage, my daughter, your faith has saved you». And from that moment the woman was cured.

When Jesus arrived at the official's house and saw the flute players and the excited crowd, He said, «Get out of here! The girl is not dead. She is only sleeping!». And they laughed at him. But once the crowd had been turned out, Jesus went in and took the girl by the hand, and she stood up. The news of this spread through the whole area.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/day/2018-07-09

Analysis

It is weird for me to comment on the same passage, after all, I have done the same passage just a week ago more or less. Regardless, since this is a repeated passage, I will only write my new thoughts if I have one. This passage is the same as the passage on Sunday, 1st of July, which is Mark 5:21-34. This version is actually shorter than the Mark version, so there is really nothing I can say more about this. Of course, the difference is Jesus did not tell the people to not tell it to anyone, it is only written that the news of the resurrection of the girl has spread through the whole area. Regardless, since I have nothing else to say on this passage, this is all I can say, have a nice day and see you later.

Sunday, 8th of July 2018

Mark 6:1-6

Jesus returned to his own country, and his disciples followed him. When the Sabbath came, He began teaching in the synagogue, and most of those who heard him were astonished. They commented, «How did this come to him? What kind of wisdom has been given to him that he also performs such miracles? Who is He but the carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James and Joseph and Judas and Simon? His sisters, too, are they not here among us?». So they took offense at him. And Jesus said to them, «Prophets are despised only in their own country, among their relatives and in their own family». And he could work no miracles there, but only healed a few sick people by laying his hands on them. Jesus himself was astounded at their unbelief.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage is an uplifting passage for us who feels unappreciated and hated for our work, even when we never harmed anyone and our work is actually beneficial for people around us. While Jesus is mostly accepted, this is one part where He is despised. Jesus was at His hometown at that time, and taught in the synagogue. The people who heard it was astonished and confused, as they knew who Jesus was, that He was only a carpenter, son of Mary, brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon and His sisters are with Him as well. They then became upset and rejected Jesus, and Jesus claimed that prophets are only despised in their own country, among relatives and in the family. He couldn't even work miracles there, only healing some few sickly people. And Jesus was astounded by their disbelief.

While the specific reason towards why Jesus was rejected is not known, I can deduce several possible reasons. First, the people there knew Jesus since birth, and the materialist impression of His early life made people look down on Jesus. They felt that Jesus was only a fraud as He's only a carpenter and couldn't possibly have done whatever it is that He did. This shows the dangers of materialism, it blinds you. Another possible reason is that the people there was jealous that Jesus was so much better. And thus they used His early life as a simple man to attack Him and thus His teachings and so on. Well, they clearly have no idea what is an ad hominem fallacy.

What's interesting is that Jesus couldn't work any miracles. Why is that? You see, remember the times where Jesus healed people and He said that it was their faith that saved them, and not Jesus Himself? This is exactly the same, but the opposite situation happens. The reason why Jesus is unable to perform miracles is because no one there believed that Jesus can do anything, their lack of faith rendered Jesus unable to do anything for them. As they had shut their hearts and energy flow since the beginning. In the last part, it was written that Jesus was astounded at their disbelief. This is further evidence of Jesus' humanity, how Jesus still has a heart that wishes to be appreciated and to be loved. I believe this event was a large blow to Jesus' heart, being rejected by His own blood. Regardless, I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Saturday, 7th of July 2018

Matthew 9:14-17

John's disciples came to Jesus and said, «How is it that we and the Pharisees fast on many occasions, but not your disciples?». Jesus answered them, «How can you expect wedding guests to mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? Time will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, then they will fast. No one patches an old coat with a piece of unshrunken cloth, for the patch will shrink and tear an even bigger hole in the coat. Besides you don't put new wine in old wineskins. If you do, the wineskins will burst and the wine be spilt. No, you put new wine in fresh skins; then both are preserved».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage tells us of two seemingly unrelated messages, however I believe and am certain that the connection will be brought to light. John the Baptist's disciples came to Jesus and asked why Jesus and His disciples did not fast. Jesus then explained with a parable of the bridegroom and his friends. Then Jesus continued by describing a metaphor about sewing unshrunken cloth into old coats, or pouring new wine in old wineskins. That is the entire passage, and while the parables seems very random, trust me, it is not random at all, and it is perfectly applicable with the modern day, I shall explain.

The parable of the bridegroom is Jesus' way of saying that it is nonsensical for His disciples to fast. After all, the disciples of Jesus has been blessed with the Son of God Himself, which bears the truth for all mankind. They should be happy and hopeful that they will be able to see the truth for themselves. There will be a time though, where the truth will fade as well from the Church, and then people should start mourning for the death of the Church, which is happening in the modern day. What of the parable of wineskins and coats then?

You see, the new patches and new wine represent the truth, or in contextually it is the teachings of Christ. What He is saying is that not all people can accept the truth, sometimes the truth will only cause more damage and actually have the truth be lost and the people hearing it simply be broken even more. In this context, the old coats and wineskins are John's disciples, Jesus views them to be unready for the truth and unfit, being attached to old tradition and not seeking the truth for themselves. Of course, the old coats and wineskins now refer to most of the world, which blindly accepts whatever is being told to them, and a sickening atmosphere of truth pluralism can be felt. And it seems Jesus didn't really foresaw this, and thus that is how the world is now. I believe that is all I have to say for now, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Friday, 6th of July 2018

Matthew 9:9-13

As Jesus moved on from there, He saw a man named Matthew at his seat in the custom-house, and he said to him, «Follow me». And Matthew got up and followed him. Now it happened, while Jesus was at table in Matthew's house, many tax collectors and other sinners joined Jesus and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this they said to his disciples, «Why is it that your master eats with those sinners and tax collectors?». When Jesus heard this he said, «Healthy people do not need a doctor, but sick people do. Go and find out what this means: ‘What I want is mercy, not sacrifice’. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners».

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

Today's passage shows the time where Jesus called Matthew to join Him for the first time. And it is no coincidence that Matthew himself would write about it in his version of the gospel. The passage opens with Jesus seeing Matthew, a tax collector, sitting in the custom house, and He said to Matthew to follow Him. In Matthew's house, other tax collectors and sinners joined them, and this made the pharisees uncomfortable. They asked the disciples why Jesus ate with the sinners and tax collectors. Jesus heard and answered that healthy people did not need a doctor, but sick people do. Likewise, He did not came to call the righteous, but the sinners.

This passage has more to do with Jesus' mission at the time, that is to sacrifice His eternal life and freedom so mankind would not die, regardless of what they did. Of course, a sinner would be the ones that is helped the most, as it gives them hope to change and they do not have to feel the excruciating and terrifying pain known as death. Though if we observe the status of the world, most people are sinners one way or another, so Jesus' words stand that He came for sinners. An interesting part of what He said is that He wishes for mercy and not sacrifice. You see, previously sins are redeemed by sacrificial offerings, as the punishment for sin is weighted upon the animals. However, Jesus said that this is not the right way, as putting away the punishment only moves the problem, but it does not solve the problem. Though eventually Jesus did made Himself the ultimate sacrificial lamb. Regardless, I believe that is all I have to say, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.

Thursday, 5th of July 2018

Matthew 9:1-8

Jesus got back into the boat, crossed the lake again, and came to his hometown. Here they brought a paralyzed man to him, lying on a bed. Jesus saw their faith and said to the paralytic, «Courage, my son! Your sins are forgiven». Then some teachers of the Law said to themselves, «This man insults God». Jesus was aware of what they were thinking, and said, «Why have you such evil thoughts? Which is easier to say: ‘Your sins are forgiven’ or ‘Stand up and walk’? You must know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins». He then said to the paralyzed man, «Stand up! Take your stretcher and go home». The man got up, and went home. When the crowds saw this, they were filled with awe and praised God for giving such power to human beings.

Source: http://evangeli.net/gospel/

Analysis

This passage is a truly meaningful passage, it may be short, but it contains many important messages and allusions to some important concepts. The passage describes Jesus healing a paralyzed man. When He does, apparently the teachers of the Law, i.e. scribes and pharisees, were looking and said to themselves that Jesus insults God. Jesus was aware of this, and chastised the teachers for thinking so, then He asked which is easier to say, saying that one's sins are forgiven or commanding them to stand up and walk. Eventually He orders the man to stand up and walk to prove that Jesus has authority to forgive sins. The man then got up and went home. Meanwhile the crowds saw this and praised God afterwards.

When the people carrying the man arrived to Jesus, Jesus praised them for their faith. Wait, is that praise not addressed to the paralyzed man? Maybe it also includes the paralyzed, but I believe it is more towards the people carrying the man. After all, they were the ones who probably decided to bring the poor man to Jesus, and help him. As such, it is their faith that brings the paralyzed man to salvation. After that, the teachers spoke in their hearts that Jesus had insulted God, why is that? Well you see, Jesus didn't say that He healed the man, He said to him that his sins are forgiven. Of course in Jewish tradition, only God can forgive sins, but Jesus' act shows us an allusion, to His sacrifice.

Jesus chastised the teachers, and proved that He has authority to forgive sins by commanding the man to stand up and walk. One might ask, how is this related to forgiving sins? You see, Jews thought that our physical diseases are caused by our sins, or is a curse from God. What Jesus did was symbolic of His sacrifice, where He actually forgave everyone's sins. He did this by taking on the full weight of death that humanity was about to endure, thus effectively erasing any spiritual consequences of sin. So while the man's physical ailments are healed completely, his spiritual ailments, which may exist or not, is actually transferred to Jesus, and the same can be said for everyone.

On the last part, the crowds praised God and it is written, "for giving such power to human beings". This is very simple, as the people there had no idea who Jesus truly is. As such, it is only natural that they see Jesus as a blessed human being. However, what they said reminds us of two important things, that humans are indeed capable of what Jesus is doing, with enough practice of course. And that Jesus is still by nature a human being. This means Jesus is susceptible to human desires, and thus human sins, this again reminds us of Jesus' fallibility and the necessity for us to look at Him in a critical lens. Simply because Jesus is the son of God does not make Him exempt from critical examination, after all, He is only human, and we are only God. I believe that is all I have to say right now, have a nice day and see you tomorrow.