Welcome to day 17 of Blogmas themed The Essence of Christmas.
We have been unwrapping the lessons from the pages of books written by Dr. Luke to Governor Theophilus, a day, a page.
Today, let us turn our Bible to Luke chapter 17 and see gratitude as it’s befitting us throughout the season;
[11] While traveling to Jerusalem, He passed between Samaria and Galilee. [12] As He entered a village, 10 men with serious skin diseases met Him. They stood at a distance [13] and raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us! ” [14] When He saw them, He told them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And while they were going, they were healed. [15] But one of them, seeing that he was healed, returned and, with a loud voice, gave glory to God. [16] He fell facedown at His feet, thanking Him. And he was a Samaritan. [17] Then Jesus said, “Were not 10 cleansed? Where are the nine? [18] Didn’t any return to give glory to God except this foreigner? ” [19] And He told him, “Get up and go on your way. Your faith has made you well.” Luke 17:11-19 HCSB
Jesus want us to be appreciative of what He has done for us and He want you to show gratitude to those who has done one good thing or another to you this year.
Pick that phone and dial that number now to say thank you.
Chat that stranger that stop to show concern when you tires bust in the middle of nowhere to say thank you.
Send that email now to your boss and team members for how amazing they have been this year.
Don’t forget your spouse, your in-laws, pastor, children, neighbors, etc.
Luke 16 is a chapter in the Gospel of Luke that contains two parables and some teachings of Jesus Christ. The first parable is about a shrewd manager who reduces the debts of his master’s clients before he is fired, in order to secure their favor and hospitality. The second parable is about a rich man and a poor beggar named Lazarus, who experience a reversal of fortunes in the afterlife. The rich man suffers in Hades, while Lazarus is comforted in Abraham’s bosom. The rich man begs Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his brothers, but Abraham says they have the Law and the Prophets to guide them, and they would not listen even if someone rises from the dead.
The main themes of Luke 16 are the proper use of worldly wealth, the importance of faithfulness and honesty, the contrast between God’s values and human values, and the urgency of repentance and obedience to God’s word. Jesus teaches that one cannot serve both God and money, and that one must be trustworthy with the earthly resources that God entrusts to them, in order to receive the true riches of heaven. He also warns the Pharisees, who love money and justify themselves before others, that God knows their hearts and detests what they value highly. He declares that the kingdom of God is being preached, and that everyone must enter it by following the Law and the Prophets, which point to him as the Messiah. He also affirms the sanctity of marriage and the reality of the resurrection.
Ikọọkọrẹ
Ikokore is a staple delicacy of the Ijebu native (a subgroup of Yoruba) in the Western part of Nigeria. The yam pottage is made out of grated water yam.
Ingredients
Water yam
Palm oil
Stock fish
Pepper mix
Assorted Meats
Smoked tilapia
Stockfish
Crayfish
Seasoning
Methods
Blend your water yam till almost smooth.
Add Seasoning including the crayfish and mix them together. Then set it aside.
Blend the pepper until smooth and set aside.
Heat your pot and when it’s hot, then pour the palm oil inside.
Add the blended pepper, then your seasoning and salt to taste.
Stir every now and then to prevent burning.
Add the chicken or beef stock if any, if not add just add water, and continue to cook for 2 minutes.
Scoop the grated yam into the stew, in both big and small lumps then switch to low heat and let the pot cook for about 9 minutes.
Note that you shouldn’t stir the pot after adding the water yam lumps.
After nine minutes, then stir very gently with a wooden spoon, to make sure that water yam lumps does not scatter.
Then taste and come back tomorrow for episode 17 after liking, sharing and commenting on this post
Welcome to day 15 of The Essence of Christmas’ Blogmas.
I hope you have been enjoying all the delicious Nigerian soups we have been cooking since the beginning of this week and I hope you are taking the various lessons from each chapter of Luke as shared.
Today’s lesson is based on forgiveness and looking out for those we haven’t seen for a long period.
The Good Shepherd in vs 4 didn’t see one sheep, he went looking for him.
He didn’t say there are other 99 perhaps fatty sheep.
The life of each sheep is precious to him.
Like that Shepherd, let’s look out for those that have been long we them to see in fellowship.
Yes, there are 10, 000 other faithful brethren in the house but as those 10,000 sheep in the fold are precious to the shepherd so is the life of the one out there in sin, alcohol, immorality, depression, love of the world, lust, vain speaking, etc.
By doing so we are making Heaven delighted (Vs 15:7)
Right now, pick up your phone and make that call!
Furthermore, we should FORGIVE as the father of the prodigal son did
The prodigal son asking for his share of his father’s estate while the father is alive is saying, ‘dad, as I am concerned, you are dead), yet his father forgave him completely.
Forgive your husband who cheated on you.
Forgive that kid of yours who still chooses the wayward lifestyle despite all that you did for him.
Forgive your parents.
God forgave you, you should forgive too.
Who knows, maybe the prodigal son was a Yoruba boy and missed daily Amala with Ewedu that is loaded with locust beans 😂😂
You said, what’s Ewedu soup? Oya, let me teach you!
Ewedu (jute) is a soup of Yoruba origin and it’s believed to help in managing diabetes and HBP as well as serve as an antibiotics in the body. Now, here are the ingredients needed:
Ewedu leaf (jute)
Irú (Locust bean)
Potash
Here is how to prepare it:
Add the desired quantity of water and irú (locust beans) to the pot and put on the gas.
When it’s steaming, put your plucked Ewedu leaf plus a little potash into it.
Note: do not cover.
Allow it to boil for 10 mins.
Put it back on fire, add salt and stir.
While still on hot, mildly blend.
Let it cook for 5 minutes.
Amala with Ewedu Amala and Abula (Gbegiri+ Ewedu)
There you have delatable Ewedu which you can add to stew to eat with Amala, Ẹba, fufu, pounded yam, etc, or combine with Gbegiri and hot Amala which we discussed yesterday and enjoy what we call Abula. Licking tongue, already? Oya, go and try reaching out to forgotten Brethren, forgiveness, and Ewedu soup, and see the richness of all.
Thanks for reading. Remember to like, share, subscribe, comment, and come back tomorrow for day 16.
Today is day 14 of our Blogmas. Remember the theme, The Essence of Christmas.
We are still on the study of the Gospel book of Dr. Luke as we draw out lessons from there for our personal edifications. Plus, I will be teaching you a new Nigerian soup called Gbegiri (bean soup) today.
To begin with, there are many beautiful things to do during Christmas and one of them is feasting or banqueting with friends and family but Jesus warned us in Luke Chapter 14: 7 -24, not to indulge in the following behaviors during feasting – Christmastime or not;
We should not be pompous. Instead of placing ourselves in front, why don’t we wait to be called forward. This is better and Christlike and two, if Christ was proud, He wouldn’t even think of us talk less of dieing for us. (Vs 8 – 11).
Our celebration must not be me-centric. It must be Us-centric. During this period, our gifts, calls, check-ins, foods, banqueting and feasting must not be about us and our inner circle only, but must extend to that single mother in the church, that homeless man on the street, the depressed lady going through divorce, the poor, the lame and the blind. (Vs 12 – 14), and, ”you [we] will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
We must not give excuses. Nothing should waylaid us in doing God’s works during this festive season – not even our spouse, businesses or investments. We must not turn to sinners in the name of festivities. We must not turn to gluttons because there are plenty of foods to eat. (Vs 16 – 24). Jesus admonishes us to ‘Come, because everything is now ready.’
Now, let’s cook the delicious Gbegiri soup of Yoruba from Southwest Nigeria. The ingredients needed are:
Beans (preferably honey beans)
Onions
Red palm oil
Pepper (scotch bonnet or habanero)
Seasoning cubes or powder
Salt
Water
Optional: (a) Meat (like goat meat or beef) (b) Stockfish or smoked fish
Remember to soak the beans before cooking to make them easier to blend.
Furthermore, the simple steps are highlighted below:
Soak your desired quantity of beans in water for 30 – 40 minutes.
Remove the shell from the bean.
Put the de-shelled beans on the gas with water, and let it cook for 20 minutes.
After cooking, blend/smash for 5 minutes then sieve.
The watery brownish thing inside the bowl is your semi-finished Gbegiri.
Put it inside the pot, add your red oil, fish, seasoning cube, and ground pepper then cook for 5 minutes.
If properly done, you should have a yellowish soup to be eaten with a prepared stew plus Amala, fufu, ẹba, etc.
Now let’s finish our lesson from Luke 14, shall we?
We must never do anything hazardously. Jesus strictly warned against impromptu meetings, buildings, projects, etc (vs 24 – 34) as we are to count the cost of following Him and doing everything orderly. We must count the cost of our Christmas carols, musicals, festivals, ads – an outreach to reach the lost world or another yearly jamboree?
In conclusion, the lessons from Luke 14 remind us of the importance of humility, hospitality, and inclusivity in our lives. Just as Jesus encouraged a welcoming table, we too can extend kindness and warmth to those around us . As we reflect on these timeless teachings, let’s also savor the richness of another aspect of life—culinary delight. Join me tomorrow for a fresh episode where we delve into the art of preparing Ewedu, a soup that embodies healing and flavor. Together, let’s continue this journey of learning and sharing, both spiritually and gastronomically. Your seat at the table awaits, and I look forward to welcoming you for another enriching experience tomorrow.
All thanks for following me for the past 12 days of 2023 Blogmas themed The Essence of Christmas. Make sure you like, share, follow and comment as you used to do
Since the past two days, we have been learning how to cook some delicious Nigerian soups as continuing with our study of Luke.
Today is for Minyan Geda, also know as Groundunt soup, from Northern Nigeria. In the realm of culinary delights, few dishes carry the rich history and cultural significance of Minyan Head, commonly known as Groundnut Soup. This hearty and flavorful soup not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a profound connection to life’s deeper lessons, reminiscent of the teachings found in Luke 13.
Preparation Steps: 1. Roast groundnuts until golden brown. 2. Blend groundnuts into a smooth paste. 3. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger. 4. Add tomatoes and cook until softened. 5. Incorporate groundnut paste and stock, simmering to desired thickness. 6. Add cooked chicken or beef. 7. Fold in leafy greens just before serving.
Recipe 2: Modern Twist – Vegan Minyan Head
Ingredients: – Groundnuts – Chickpeas – Coconut milk – Sweet potatoes – Kale – Red bell pepper – Spices (cumin, coriander, paprika)
Preparation Steps: 1. Roast groundnuts and blend into a creamy consistency. 2. Cook chickpeas until tender. 3. Sauté sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, and spices. 4. Add groundnut paste, coconut milk, and cooked chickpeas. 5. Simmer until flavors meld. 6. Stir in kale before serving.
Now let’s relate the lessons from Luke 13
Tip 1: Transformation and Roasting.
Just as groundnuts undergo transformation through roasting, life often demands us to undergo challenges and transformations to reveal our true essence.
Tip 2: Blending Ingredients, Blending Lives
The art of blending various ingredients in Minyan Head reflects the importance of blending diverse experiences and perspectives to create a harmonious life.
Tip 3: Simmering Resilience
The simmering process mirrors life’s challenges; resilience is the key to achieving the desired outcome, be it a delicious soup or personal growth.
Tip 4: Nourishing Relationships, Nourishing Souls
Much like the soup nourishing the body, meaningful relationships nourish the soul, adding richness and depth to our lives.
Tip 5: Embracing Change, Embracing Greens
The addition of leafy greens signifies the importance of embracing change and adapting to new circumstances, just as life evolves and grows.
In the tapestry of culinary delights and spiritual reflections, Minyan Head stands as a testament to the interconnectedness of our daily experiences with profound life lessons. As you savor the complex flavors of this soup, take a moment to reflect on the simplicity and depth it brings to both the dining table and the journey of life.
Remember to share, like, comment and come back tomorrow for Episode 14. Thanks
In the tapestry of life, unexpected flavors and lessons can emerge from the most unlikely sources. Today, on day of Blogmas themed The Essence of Love, we delve into the wisdom embedded in Luke 12, drawing parallels from the spiritual teachings to the intricate process of preparing Banga soup—a traditional Nigerian dish known for its rich and complex flavors.
1. The Essence of Preparation:
In both Luke 12 and Banga soup preparation, the importance of thorough groundwork is emphasized. Just as one must gather the right ingredients for Banga soup, Luke 12 encourages us to be spiritually prepared for the challenges life may present.
2. Patience in the Simmer:
Luke 12 speaks of patience and trust in divine timing. Similarly, the slow simmering process of Banga soup teaches us the value of patience. Both instances remind us that good things come to those who wait.
3. Balancing Ingredients:
Just as a harmonious blend of ingredients is crucial for Banga soup, Luke 12 prompts us to balance our lives, avoiding excess and focusing on the essential elements that contribute to a fulfilling and purposeful existence.
4. Nurturing Seeds of Faith:
This chapter also encourages the planting of spiritual seeds, while the process of Banga soup preparation involves nurturing palm fruit seeds. Both highlight the significance of cultivating faith and allowing it to grow into something meaningful.
5. Mindful Consumption:
The parable in therein warns against the dangers of excessive accumulation, mirroring the idea that, in cooking Banga soup, one must be mindful of the quantities of ingredients used to achieve a perfect balance of flavors.
6. Sharing the Bounty:
Luke 12 advocates for generosity and sharing one’s blessings. Similarly, the communal aspect of enjoying Banga soup with family and friends reinforces the idea that life’s joys are meant to be shared.
Now! Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing Banga soup, a traditional Nigerian dish:
Ingredients:
– Palm fruits – Meat or fish (catfish, tilapia, or other preferred choices) – Periwinkle (optional) – Onions – Garlic – Pepper (to taste) – Salt (to taste) – Ogiri or iru (locust beans) – optional – Uziza leaves or spinach (for greens) – Water
And here are the steps:
1. Prepare the Palm Fruits:
– Harvest fresh palm fruits or buy them from a local market. – Boil the palm fruits until they become soft, making it easier to extract the oil.
2. Extract Palm Fruit Oil
– Separate the palm fruits from their nuts. – Pound or blend the soft palm fruits to extract the oil. – Use a sieve to separate the oil from the residual pulp. Set the oil aside.
3. Prepare the Meat or Fish
– Clean and season the meat or fish with onions, garlic, pepper, and salt. – Cook until it’s almost tender. If using fish, be cautious not to overcook.
4. Create the Banga Soup Base
– In a pot, combine the extracted palm fruit oil with water to achieve the desired consistency. – Add the cooked meat or fish to the pot.
5. Add Seasonings
– Chop and add onions, garlic, and pepper for flavor. – Include ogiri or iru (locust beans) for a distinctive taste if desired.
6. Simmer the Soup
– Allow the soup to simmer over medium heat. This slow cooking process enhances the flavors. – Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
7. Adjust Flavors
– Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference. – Add any additional seasonings or spices to achieve the desired flavor profile.
8. Incorporate Vegetables
– Add periwinkle if using. – Include uziza leaves or spinach for greens. This adds color and nutritional value.
9. Continue Simmering
– Let the soup simmer until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the flavors have melded.
10. Serve and Enjoy
– Banga soup is traditionally served hot. – Enjoy it with a side of starch, fufu, rice, or any preferred accompaniment.
11. Share the Experience
– Banga soup is often enjoyed as a communal dish. Share it with family and friends for a delightful dining experience.
Remember, the art of Banga soup preparation allows for some flexibility. Feel free to adjust quantities and ingredients based on your taste preferences. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Conclusion: In the kitchen and the spiritual realm, the process of creation involves patience, balance, and mindful intention. Luke 12 offers timeless lessons that resonate with the meticulous art of Banga soup preparation. As we savor the richness of both scripture and culinary tradition, let us reflect on the interconnectedness of life’s teachings, finding wisdom in unexpected places.
Day 11 and the theme is still The Essence of Christmas and we are studying from the book of Luke. A chapter per day from December 1st.
But today, I want to teach you a special delicacy for your taste buds – Nigerian fried rice. Can we Cook?
Delicious Beginnings: Nigerian Fried Rice Recipe
Before we delve into the spiritual insights from Luke 11, let’s embark on a culinary adventure with the vibrant flavors of Nigerian Fried Rice. Gather your ingredients, including long-grain parboiled rice, mixed vegetables, and the aromatic blend of spices that characterize this beloved dish.
A. Ingredients: – 2 cups of long-grain parboiled rice – 1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and green beans) – 1/2 cup of chopped onions – 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil – 2 teaspoons of curry powder – 1 teaspoon of thyme – Salt and pepper to taste
2. Cooking Steps: – Rinse the rice thoroughly and cook until it’s almost done. Set aside. – In a pan, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the onions until golden brown. – Add the mixed vegetables, curry powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender. – Incorporate the partially cooked rice into the vegetable mix. Stir gently until the rice is well-coated with the flavorful blend. – Cover the pot and let the rice simmer until fully cooked and infused with the delicious spices.
Now, as the aroma of Nigerian Fried Rice fills your kitchen, let’s explore the spiritual nourishment found in Luke 11. Seeking Spiritual Sustenance: Lessons from Luke 11
In Luke 11, Jesus teaches his disciples about prayer, urging them to persist in seeking and knocking. This profound lesson resonates beyond the boundaries of time and culture, offering valuable insights into the art of nourishing the soul.
1. Persistency in Prayer: Just as achieving the perfect balance of flavors in Nigerian Fried Rice requires patience, persistency in prayer is key. Luke 11:9 encourages us to ask, seek, and knock, assuring that those who persist will receive. This echoes the idea that the richness of our spiritual life unfolds gradually, requiring dedication and a willingness to engage in a continuous dialogue with the divine.
2. The Gift of the Holy Spirit: Luke 11:13 emphasizes the gift of the Holy Spirit, drawing parallels to the spices that elevate the taste of our culinary creations. In our spiritual journey, the Holy Spirit acts as the divine seasoning, infusing our lives with wisdom, guidance, and a profound connection to the sacred.
As you savor the delightful flavors of Nigerian Fried Rice and reflect on the timeless wisdom of Luke 11, may your culinary and spiritual journeys be intertwined, creating a tapestry of nourishment for both body and soul.
Once upon a bustling Saturday morning, Sarah found herself overwhelmed with household chores while her husband, Mark, was engrossed in his work. Feeling burdened, she stumbled upon Luke 10 in her daily reading. The story of Martha and Mary resonated with her – Martha, busy and anxious, and Mary, choosing to sit at Jesus’ feet.
Reflecting on this, Sarah realized the importance of balance in marriage. Often, like Martha, spouses get caught up in the busyness of life, neglecting the simple joy of being present with each other. Just as Jesus valued Mary’s choice, couples can learn to prioritize quality time over the constant hustle, nurturing their connection.
Luke 10 became a guide for Sarah and Mark, teaching them the valuable lesson of finding a harmonious rhythm in their marriage. By embracing moments of shared stillness amid life’s demands, they discovered a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other. The tale of Martha and Mary became a timeless reminder that love is not only in the grand gestures but also in the quiet moments of togetherness.
As Sarah and Mark continued to weave the lessons of Luke 10 into their marriage, they found that open communication played a pivotal role. Just as Mary openly sat at Jesus’ feet, they learned to express their feelings and desires, fostering a stronger emotional connection. This transparency became a cornerstone, allowing them to navigate challenges with understanding and empathy.
The couple also realized the importance of shared responsibilities. Instead of one person carrying the weight of the world, they embraced a collaborative approach. Just as Jesus acknowledged both Martha and Mary, Sarah and Mark discovered that a balanced partnership, where each contributed to the well-being of their home and relationship, brought harmony and mutual fulfillment.
Their journey inspired them to title this chapter of their lives “Harmony in the Heart of Luke 10.” It symbolized not just a momentary shift but an ongoing commitment to weaving spiritual principles into the fabric of their marriage. The timeless wisdom of Luke 10 became a guiding light, helping them create a home filled with love, understanding, and shared purpose.
Embrace the journey of love inspired by Luke 10! 🌟 Comment below with the moments that resonate with your own relationship, hit that like button to celebrate the beauty of shared harmony, subscribe for more heartwarming insights, and share this post to spread the love. Let’s create a community where every heart finds its rhythm in the melody of connection. 💑✨
Welcome to another enlightening day of 2023 Blogmas themed The Essence of Christmas as we go through the scriptures – the book of Luke. Today, we delve into the profound teachings found in Luke Chapter 9. Read along as we unravel the wisdom embedded in this chapter and discover how it resonates with our lives today.
Setting the Scene: Luke Chapter 9
Luke Chapter 9 opens with Jesus sending out the twelve disciples to proclaim the kingdom of God and heal the sick. This sets the stage for a series of impactful events and teachings that offer valuable insights for our spiritual journey.
Lesson 1: The Power of Faith
In verses 10-17, we witness the miraculous feeding of the five thousand. This event teaches us about the boundless power of faith. Even when faced with apparent scarcity, trust in God’s provision can lead to abundance.
Lesson 2: Embracing the Cross
As we move forward in the chapter, Jesus emphasizes the concept of taking up one’s cross daily. In verses 23-26, we learn about the sacrificial nature of discipleship. Embracing our challenges with faith and resilience becomes a transformative act.
Lesson 3: The Transfiguration Experiences
Verses 28-36 describe the transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain. This divine revelation emphasizes the glory of Christ and the importance of listening to Him. It encourages us to seek moments of spiritual clarity and connection in our lives.
Lesson 4: The Compassion of Jesus.
Luke Chapter 9 also recounts instances of Jesus showing compassion to those in need, such as healing the boy with an unclean spirit. This exemplifies the love and empathy we should extend to others, reflecting the heart of Christ.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Luke Chapter 9 offers a rich tapestry of lessons that remain relevant in our contemporary lives. From the power of faith to the call to embrace our crosses, these teachings provide guidance and inspiration for our spiritual journey.
As we reflect on Luke Chapter 9, may we find wisdom, strength, and renewed purpose in our walk of faith. Stay tuned for more explorations into the profound truths of scripture. If you enjoyed this post, share it with fellow seekers on the path of spiritual growth.
Thank for reading. See you tomorrow as you are eady to embark on a journey of spiritual growth and reflection? Dive deeper into the wisdom of Luke Chapter 9 and share your insights with me. Join the conversation by commenting below and connecting with fellow seekers. Don’t forget to subscribe for more enriching content on biblical teachings and the Christian journey. Let’s walk this path together – a path illuminated by faith, love, and understanding. Blessings to you on your continued exploration of divine truths! 🌟
Welcome to day 8 of 2023 Blogmas themed The Essence of Christmas.
Today we turn to Luke chapter 8 and bring out four great and marvelous things worthy for Christmas.
The first thing is Support for the ministry – either in cash or in kind especially the ministry and minister that has benefit you in one way or the one.
The women in verse 1 – 3 support the ministry of Jesus and the Apostles after receiving their miracles from Him.
During this season, make sure you touch a ministry or minister of God with both your monetary cash and prayer kind, volunteer, etc.
Furthermore, we ought to preach the gospel during this period, i.e., spread the seed, the word.
I know we have been preaching before this time but we should still intensify our efforts because we don’t know which seed has fallen by the roadside, on the rock, among the thorns and on the good land. Maybe the mountainous land of last month has been pulverized by the hammer of the Holy Spirit to a good land or the thorns has been cleared off.
Moreover, Bible commanded us to preach in and our of season.
Thirdly, we should use our light. Why? Enough of being timid of what the Lord has done.
Enough of hiding the good marriages we are enjoyed.
Enough of being afraid of telling sin kills but Jesus saves.
Fourthly, we should reach out to brethren who are not of our fold but of the Christ’s fold, heal the sick, cast out demons, rebuke the wind and raise the dead.
Day 7 of Blogmas themed The Essence of Christmas is upon us. Now let’s open our Bible to Luke chapter 7.
As the Christmas season approaches, our hearts are filled with warmth and anticipation. Beyond the festive decorations and joyous melodies, Christmas carries a deeper significance—one that extends far beyond the materialistic aspects. In this reflective blog post, we delve into the timeless teachings of Like 7 and extract valuable lessons that resonate with the spirit of Christmas.
Lesson 1: The Gift of Compassion In Like 7, compassion is exemplified through the story of the Good Samaritan. As we exchange gifts and gestures of goodwill during Christmas, let us remember to extend our compassion beyond our familiar circles. Embracing the spirit of the Samaritan, let kindness and empathy guide our actions, fostering a sense of unity and care for those around us.
Lesson 2: Humility and Gratitude In the account of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, Like 7 teaches us the importance of humility and gratitude. Christmas serves as a poignant reminder to appreciate the simple joys and express gratitude for the blessings we have. Instead of focusing on self-righteousness, let us approach the season with a humble heart, recognizing the beauty in gratitude.
Lesson 3: Childlike Faith Christmas holds a special place in the hearts of children, brimming with excitement and wonder. Like 7 encourages us to embrace a childlike faith, free from skepticism and doubt. In the story of Jesus welcoming children, we find the purity of innocence. As we celebrate, let us cultivate a faith that sees the magic and miracles in the world around us.
Lesson 4: Generosity Beyond Gifts Beyond the exchange of material gifts, Like 7 reminds us of the widow’s offering—a symbol of selfless generosity. This Christmas, let our generosity extend beyond the wrapped presents to acts of kindness, love, and genuine concern for others. A generous heart embodies the true essence of the season.
Lesson 5: Love Your Neighbor The commandment to “love your neighbor as yourself” echoes through Like 7, emphasizing the importance of community and connection. This Christmas, let us go beyond surface-level interactions and cultivate deeper connections with our neighbors. In doing so, we build a foundation of love and support that echoes the teachings found in this profound scripture.
Conclusion: As we gather around the Christmas tree and exchange heartfelt greetings, let us not forget the invaluable lessons encapsulated in Like 7. Compassion, humility, childlike faith, generosity, and love for our neighbors are the true gifts that enrich the holiday season. May these lessons guide us in creating a Christmas filled with meaning, purpose, and a deep appreciation for the universal values that unite us all.
As we embrace the timeless teachings of Like 7 this Christmas, let us not merely absorb these lessons intellectually but allow them to shape our actions and attitudes. The true magic of the season lies in the transformative power of love, compassion, and generosity.
This Christmas, let’s make a commitment to live out these lessons in our daily lives. Extend a helping hand to someone in need, express gratitude sincerely, approach challenges with humility, and nurture the childlike wonder within. In doing so, we contribute to creating a Christmas that radiates warmth, kindness, and a shared sense of humanity.
As you navigate through the festivities, consider this your invitation to be an ambassador of the Christmas spirit. Share these lessons with friends and family, encouraging them to join in creating a holiday season that goes beyond the glittering lights and decorations—a season that reflects the true essence of Like 7.
May your Christmas be filled with the joy of giving, the warmth of connection, and the blessings of a heart touched by the timeless teachings of love.
Welcome to day 6 of 2023 Blogmas. Thank you for staying, liking and sharing.
Remember that our theme for this edition is Essence of Christmas and we are studying from the book of Luke – a chapter, a day.
Today, let’s hear directly from the birthday boy, our Lord Jesus Christ from vs 20-38 (HCSB)
The Good.
You who are poor are blessed, because the kingdom of God is yours.
You who are now hungry are blessed, because you will be filled.
You who now weep are blessed, because you will laugh.
You are blessed when people hate you, when they exclude you, insult you, and slander your name as evil because of the Son of Man. “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! Take note — your reward is great in heaven, for this is the way their ancestors used to treat the prophets.
I hope during this we do what will bless us?
The Bad.
But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your comfort.
Woe to you who are now full, for you will be hungry.
Woe to you who are now laughing, for you will mourn and weep.
Woe to you when all people speak well of you, for this is the way their ancestors used to treat the false prophets.
I hope we won’t be greedy, selfish and unsympathetic this season?
If anyone hits you on the cheek, offer the other also.
If anyone takes away your coat, don’t hold back your shirt either.
Give to everyone who asks you, and from one who takes your things, don’t ask for them back.
Just as you want others to do for you, do the same for them.
Do what is good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.
Do not judge, and you will not be judged.
Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.
Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Give, and it will be given to you.
Be merciful.
Why all these commands? Jesus said, ‘Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is gracious to the ungrateful and evil… just as your Father also is merciful.
May God engraced us to do the good, obey the commands and avoid the bad during and after this period in Jesus name. Amen.
Courtship Forum 