Luke 1

Giving is a powerful act that reflects the heart of God and His desire for us to live generously. Throughout the Bible, we find numerous teachings that emphasize the importance and impact of giving. Whether it’s through offering our time, resources, or love, the act of giving not only blesses others but also enriches our own lives. Here are seven Bible verses that highlight the power of giving and encourage us to embrace a life of generosity.

1. Acts 20:35 “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

When we give to others, especially those in need, we are not only helping them but also experiencing the joy and fulfillment that comes from generosity. It reminds us that true happiness is found in selflessness.

2. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

The emphasis on giving cheerfully reminds us that our attitude matters. God values a heart that gives freely and joyfully, knowing that our contributions can lead to abundant blessings.

3. Proverbs 11:25 “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

Generosity is not just about meeting the needs of others; it also brings personal renewal and prosperity. When we give, we often receive in return, not necessarily in material wealth, but in spiritual and emotional well-being. The act of giving refreshes both the giver and the recipient.

4. Luke 6:38 “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

Jesus emphasizes the abundance that comes from giving. The imagery of a generous measure being returned to us illustrates that our giving will not go unnoticed or unrewarded. When we give with an open heart, we can expect God’s blessings to overflow in our lives.

5. Matthew 6:3-4 “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

We should give quietly and humbly, without seeking recognition or praise. The focus is on the sincerity and purity of our giving. God sees our acts of kindness, even when they are done in secret, and He will reward us accordingly. It reminds us that true giving is done for the benefit of others, not for personal glory.

6. Hebrews 13:16 “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

Sharing what we have with others is a sacrifice that pleases God. This verse highlights the importance of being mindful of others’ needs and taking action to meet them. It serves as a reminder that our acts of generosity are not just good deeds; they are expressions of our faith and love for God.

7. James 1:17 “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

All we have comes from God. Recognizing that every gift we receive is from Him encourages us to be generous in sharing those gifts with others. When we give, we are participating in God’s work, distributing His blessings to those around us.

Conclusion

The Bible teaches that giving is a powerful way to express our faith, love, and gratitude. These verses reveal that generosity not only impacts those we help but also enriches our own lives, bringing us closer to God and His purposes. Whether through our resources, time, or compassion, giving allows us to reflect God’s love in a tangible way, creating a ripple effect of blessings that extend far beyond what we can see. By embracing a spirit of generosity, we open ourselves up to experience the fullness of life that God desires for us.

In a mother’s arms, love does flow,

As gentle as the winds that blow,

In her embrace, we come to know,

God’s love, a seed she helps us sow.

She speaks with wisdom, kindness too,

In all she does, her love shines through,

Her children rise and call her true,

Her husband praises her, it’s true.

(Proverbs 31:26-28)

For you formed me, my inward parts,

You covered me in my mother’s heart,

I will praise You, for I am fearfully made,

Marvelous are Your works, my soul will not fade.

(Psalm 139:13-14)

Children, obey your parents in the Lord,

For this is right, according to His word,

Honor your father and mother, too,

So your days may be long and true.

(Ephesians 6:1-3)

Love is patient, love is kind,

In a mother’s heart, these virtues bind,

Love bears all things, hopes all things too,

In her love, we find life anew.

(1 Corinthians 13:4-7)

Even in His dying hour,

Jesus entrusted to His power,

His mother dear, a sacred flower,

In love, He gave her to another.

(John 19:26-27)

My soul magnifies the Lord,

My spirit rejoices, in Him adored,

For He has looked on His maidservant’s state,

Behold, henceforth, all generations call me blessed, great.

(Luke 1:46-48)

So on this day, we honor you,

A mother’s love, forever true,

In every smile, in every tear,

Your love, a treasure we hold dear.

Get ready to mark your calendars with colorful crayons because April 2nd isn’t just any ordinary day – it’s International Children’s Book Day! This day is all about diving into the charming world of children’s literature. It’s like a giant hug for books and a high-five for reading, inspiring kids everywhere to embark on grand adventures through the pages of their favorite stories. This special day aims to promote children’s books and reading, as well as to inspire a love of literature among children worldwide. So grab your favorite cozy spot, your trusty bookmark, and let’s journey together through the wonderful land of books!

As you celebrate International Children’s Book Day, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the profound impact of Bible stories in the lives of your little ones. The Bible itself is a rich source of storytelling, filled with narratives that have captivated hearts and minds for generations. The stories within the Bible speak to the core of human experience and offer guidance for living a life of faith and virtue.

Bible Story books hold significant importance as  books for children for several reasons:

• Guidance on what is right and wrong: The Bible contains timeless stories that teach important moral and ethical lessons, such as kindness, compassion, honesty, and forgiveness. These stories provide children with a foundation for understanding right from wrong and help shape their character and values. An example is the story of The Good Samaritan (Luke 10 v 25-37).
• Spiritual and Religious Education: The Bible serves as a fundamental tool for teaching children about faith, spirituality, and the principles of Christianity. It helps children develop a sense of connection God and understand their place within their respective communities. An example is the story of Daniel in the lions’ den (Daniel 6).
• Value in literature: Many stories in the Bible are beautifully crafted narratives with rich imagery, symbolism, and poetic language. Introducing children to these stories can foster an appreciation for literature and storytelling, enhancing their language skills and imagination. An example is the Creation story (Genesis 1 -2).
• Source of Comfort and Guidance: The Bible offers comfort and reassurance to children during difficult times. Its stories of hope, perseverance, and divine love can provide comfort and guidance when children face challenges or uncertainties in their lives. The story of Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5 v 21-43).
• Family and Community Bonding: Reading and discussing Bible stories together as a family or within a religious community can strengthen familial bonds and create a sense of belonging and shared identity. It provides opportunities for meaningful conversations and connections between generations. Story of Joseph and his brothers (Genesis 37-50).
• Critical Thinking and Reflection: Encouraging children to engage critically with the stories and teachings of the Bible fosters their ability to think analytically, ask questions, and reflect on their own beliefs and values. This critical thinking skill is essential for their intellectual and spiritual development. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30)

It is very important that you take part in this celebration (Established by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY)) by making Bible story books a priority in your children’s reading materials, educational settings, and households. You must focus not only on developing their intellect but also on shaping their character, preparing them to face life’s trials with integrity and determination. Let’s unite in embracing the wisdom found in these stories, planting the seeds for a future marked by compassion and enlightenment for all.

How does the Bible view women? At face value, some of its messages and examples can seem oppressive or devaluing. But when you learn more about how Jesus responded to the Bible’s historical and cultural context, you may rethink your first impressions. Christ entered into a specific time and culture that had assumptions very different from ours. How can understanding the biblical context inform our reading? How can the context help us to better understand who Jesus is—what he values, loves, and expects of his followers? Take a look, traveling all the way back to the culture Jesus entered.

How the Greeks Viewed Women

Let’s begin with the philosophers. Writers and thinkers often infuse a culture with certain beliefs—and this was especially so in the Greco-Roman world. When examined closely, some of their ideas may seem surprisingly antiquated to the modern reader.

For example, the revered philosopher Plato believed that women should be confined to the home while men tended to the business of state and commerce. Aristotle went even further, teaching that women were inferior to men, incapable of abstract thought, and emotionally volatile. Thus husbands and fathers were to rule over their wives and daughters. This thinking reflects the basic attitude toward women during the classical period.

How did these attitudes affect a woman’s life? The picture is not a pretty one.  A young Greek girl is routinely married off to an older man. Her husband is free to take a concubine, and romantic love is not expected within marriage. Her role is to bear and raise children and run the household. She will rarely leave the house. Her education is limited to learning domestic tasks. She is not permitted to vote or hold property. Why would she be? As Euripides the playwright notes, “A woman is handicapped by intellect.” Thucydides helps him along by writing, “The name of a decent woman, like her person, should be shut up in the house.”

How the Jews Viewed Women

By Jesus’s time Greek ideas—including these ideas about women—had gradually crept into Jewish culture, despite Old Testament writings to the contrary. In the creation account in Genesis, God creates human beings as both male and female, giving them co-equal stewardship over the earth (Genesis 1:26-30). Throughout the Old Testament, women are given equal access to God’s law and held equally responsible to keep it.

The Old Testament record is replete with women whose great courage often surpasses that of the men around them. The stories of Miriam, Rahab, Ruth, Deborah, Hannah, Abigail, and Esther are prime examples of women whose insight and fortitude greatly influence the biblical narrative and the way God’s people understood themselves.

The Jewish understanding of women was so affected by exile, conquest, and trade that by Jesus’s time women were discouraged from studying Torah, God’s law, and encouraged to stay home to fulfill household duties. They attended synagogue assemblies seated separately from the men. The Greek-educated Jewish philosopher Philo, a contemporary of Jesus, saw women as having weak judgment and considered them unfit to learn the law. Some rabbis even went so far as to encourage men to limit their conversations with their own wives. What was the point of talking to someone with little knowledge of the law?

How Jesus Viewed Women

Into this distortion of God’s original intent for women comes a new teacher, the rabbi called Jesus of Nazareth. What do we know about Jesus’s relationships with women? Did he hold the same opinions as his culture? Let’s take a look at a few of his encounters with women.

Jesus speaks to a Samaritan woman in public (John 4:4-30)

Jesus shocks the woman at the well by asking her for a drink. Thus he steamrolls over cultural taboos against men speaking to women as well as Jewish prejudice against Samaritans. “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?”

Jesus then reveals himself to her as the Messiah and the giver of the living water for which she longs.

Jesus teaches a woman one-on-one (Luke 10:38-42)

Women were not expected to study Torah, yet this renegade rabbi singles out one woman and opens Scripture to her. Mary “sat down at the feet of the Lord and listened to his teaching.” This position was that of the traditional rabbinic student.

When her sister complains about needing help, Jesus tells her that “Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Jesus comforts a widow and confronts death (Luke 7:11-17)

“Don’t cry,” Jesus says to a grieving widow whose son lies dead in his coffin. He touches the coffin, defying ceremonial law. Jaws drop in amazement as the young man sits up and begins to speak. Jesus gives the widow’s son back to her, alive and well.

Jesus touches an “unclean” woman (Luke 8:43-48)

Ceremonially unclean due to a chronic hemorrhage, a woman touches the hem of Jesus’ cloak. “Daughter,” Jesus speaks tenderly. “Your faith has healed you. Shalom.”

Jesus touches an infirm woman (Luke 13:10-16)

The religious leaders object to Jesus’s laying his healing hands on a crippled woman on the Sabbath.

“You hypocrites!” Jesus does not mince words. “Any one of you would untie your ox or your donkey from the stall and take it out to give it water on the Sabbath.Now here is this descendant of Abraham whom Satan has kept in bonds for eighteen years; should she not be released on the Sabbath?”

Jesus deals with a woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11)

The woman’s accusers are silenced by Jesus’s words, “Whichever one of you has committed no sin may throw the first stone at her.” But he is gentle in his conversation with her.

Jesus allows Mary to anoint him (John 12:1-8)

When people are horrified at Mary’s extravagant outpouring of love, Jesus silences them all. Rather than rebuking her for touching him in this intimate way, he lavishes high praise on her. “Leave her alone; she’s anointing me for burial. This story will be told wherever the Gospel is preached.”

Jesus appears first to a woman after his Resurrection (John 20:11-18)

Although women were considered to be unreliable witnesses in court, Jesus assigns Mary Magdalene the task of being the first witness to the Resurrection.

Scripture’s Good News for Women

So what did Jesus really think of women? Did he touch them? Did he talk with them? Did he teach them? Did he give equal moral standing with men? Did he value them?

The record speaks for itself. First-century women in Palestine were second-class citizens. Sadly, some church leaders have still viewed and treated women in this way. But Jesus turned the tables on his culture, and his example calls us to do the same. Again and again, Jesus affirmed women’s value and dignity.

As the apostle Paul affirms in Galatians 3:26-28 (NIV): “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

A Time of Reflection and Renewal (Lent)

Introduction:

The Lenten season, observed by some Christians worldwide, is a period of reflection, repentance, and spiritual preparation leading up to Easter Sunday. Rooted in centuries of tradition, Lent holds profound significance for believers as they embark on a journey of self-examination, sacrifice, and renewal.

Definition and Duration:

Lent is a solemn 40-day period (excluding Sundays) that commences on Ash Wednesday and concludes on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter. The duration symbolises the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert (Luke 4:1-13), resisting temptation before beginning his public ministry. The word “Lent” itself is derived from the Old English word “lencten,” meaning spring, emphasising the season of new life and growth.

Practices and Traditions:

Fasting and Abstinence:

Fasting is a central pillar of Lent, representing a symbolic sacrifice and a means of self-discipline. Traditionally, Christians abstain from certain foods or activities, fostering a sense of solidarity with Jesus’ journey. Many choose to give up a particular luxury or habit, redirecting their focus towards spiritual growth.

Prayer:

Prayer is another pillar in the Lenten season. Devout Christians engage in daily prayers, meditation, and contemplation, seeking a deeper connection with God.

Almsgiving:

Acts of charity and generosity are emphasised during Lent, with believers encouraged to give to those in need. This practice aligns with the spirit of sacrifice and compassion, reflecting Jesus’ teachings on love and service to others.

Conclusion:

The Lenten season stands as a powerful and meaningful period for Christians around the world. Through fasting, prayer, and acts of kindness, believers embark on a spiritual journey, mirroring the transformative process of self-denial and renewal that Jesus experienced in the desert. As a time of introspection and preparation, Lent serves as a reminder of the central themes of the Christian faith—repentance, sacrifice, and the hope of resurrection. In embracing these practices, believers find a deeper connection to their faith and a renewed sense of purpose as they await the joyous celebration of Easter.

Hurt can leave a deep wound, leaving you with anger, resentment, and a desire for justice. While these emotions are understandable, clinging to them only poisons your soul and hinders your healing. Forgiveness offers a path forward, a way to release yourself from the burden of bitterness and embrace peace.

But how do you forgive someone who has deeply hurt you? The Bible offers wisdom and guidance on this difficult journey. Here are 5 verses to help you navigate the path of forgiveness:

1. Matthew 6:14-15:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

This verse highlights the link between your forgiveness of others and God’s forgiveness of you. Holding onto resentment hinders God’s grace in your life. Choosing to forgive, however difficult, opens you up to the blessings of God’s own forgiveness.

2. Ephesians 4:31-32:

“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

This verse calls you to actively remove negativity and negativity from your heart. It encourages kindness, compassion, and a willingness to forgive just as God has forgiven you. This deliberate act of replacing bitterness with kindness sets you on the path to healing.

3. Colossians 3:13:

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

This verse emphasizes patience and understanding. It reminds you that everyone makes mistakes and that forgiveness is a choice you make, not something you feel obligated to do. Remember God’s forgiveness towards you, and let it inspire you to extend the same grace to others.

4. Luke 6:37:

“Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven.”

This verse focuses on the reciprocal nature of forgiveness. By releasing others from their mistakes, you free yourself from the burden of judgment and open yourself to receiving forgiveness for your own shortcomings. Remember, forgiveness is not about condoning the hurt, but about choosing to let go and move forward.

5. 1 John 1:9:

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

This verse reminds you that forgiveness starts with acknowledging your own need for it. By confessing your own shortcomings and seeking God’s forgiveness, you open your heart to the power of forgiveness in your own life. This self-reflection allows you to practice the forgiveness you extend to others.

In conclusion, remember, forgiveness is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, patience, and a commitment to letting go. But the rewards are immeasurable. By following the guidance of these Bible verses, you can find the strength to forgive, release yourself from the grip of hurt, and experience the abundant peace and joy that comes with it.

Heroes’ Day is an occasion to honor and celebrate the courage, sacrifice, and impact of heroes who have shaped our lives and communities. In the Bible, we find many stories about men and women whose lives reflect profound faith and steadfastness. These biblical heroes serve as timeless examples of virtues we can aspire to in our own lives.

Abraham: The Father of Faith

Abraham, often referred to as the “father of faith,” is a towering figure in the Bible. His story is one of unwavering trust in God. When God called Abraham to leave his homeland and go to a place he would be shown, Abraham obeyed without hesitation (Genesis 12:1-4). His willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac, trusting in God’s promise, is a testament to his profound faith (Genesis 22:1-18).

Moses: The Deliverer

Moses is celebrated as the deliverer of Israel from slavery in Egypt. His life is marked by acts of extraordinary bravery and faith. Despite his initial reluctance, Moses answered God’s call to lead the Israelites out of bondage, facing Pharaoh’s wrath and the perils of the wilderness (Exodus 3-14). His leadership and unwavering reliance on God highlight the importance of faith and perseverance.

Esther: The Courageous Queen

Esther, a Jewish queen in Persia, displayed remarkable courage and wisdom. When her people faced destruction, Esther risked her life by approaching King Xerxes uninvited to plead for their salvation. Her famous declaration, “If I perish, I perish,” (Esther 4:16) shows her bravery and selflessness in the face of great danger.

David: The Shepherd King

David, the shepherd boy who became king, is renowned for his faith and courage. His defeat of the giant Goliath with a sling and a stone is a powerful example of trusting in God’s strength rather than human might (1 Samuel 17). David’s life, though marked by imperfections, is a testament to God’s grace and the power of repentance.

Daniel: The Uncompromising Prophet

Daniel’s story is one of steadfast faith in a foreign land. Despite the threat of death, he refused to give up on his faith, continuing to pray to God even when it was not allowed. His survival in the lions’ den (Daniel 6) is a powerful reminder of God’s protection over those who remain faithful to Him.

Mary: The Obedient Servant

Mary, the mother of Jesus, exemplifies obedience and humility. When the angel Gabriel announced that she would bear the Son of God, Mary’s response was one of submission to God’s will: “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38). Her faith and willingness to accept God’s plan played a crucial role in the story of salvation.

Paul: The Zealous Apostle

Paul, once a persecutor of Christians, became one of the most zealous apostles of Christ. His missionary journeys, tireless preaching, and numerous epistles have profoundly shaped Christian theology and practice. Paul’s transformation and dedication to spreading the gospel, despite immense suffering and persecution, are inspiring examples of redemption and commitment (Acts 9, 2 Corinthians 11:23-28).

Conclusion

As we celebrate Heroes’ Day, these biblical figures remind us that true heroism is rooted in faith, obedience, and a willingness to serve God’s purpose, even at great personal cost. Their stories encourage us to cultivate these virtues in our own lives, trusting that God can use ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.