 Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/K. Gordon (University of Arizona) & S. Willner (Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics) Advent: the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY: the coming or second coming of Christ Oxford Language Dictionary A lot happened before Jesus, the Christ, was laid in a manger. The advent or arrival of a notable person or event in the earth realm was momentous! The second coming of Christ also promises to be illuminating! “Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.” (Matthew 1:18-19). Mary became pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Her husband, whom one can sympathize with, planned to divorce her without making any fuss or demands, however, an angel advised him not to reject Mary. Fear of infidelity, pregnancy, thoughts about divorce, distrust, disappointment, pain, humiliation. The latter was experienced, in significant ways by Mary and Joseph. After supernatural intervention, Joseph and Mary committed to each other as husband and wife. There are situations that may seem insurmountable, however, with God all things are possible. Mary and Joseph were selected to support and facilitate the birth and growth of the person of Jesus Christ who is Holy God manifested in the flesh. God Head - Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Three in One. Like Joseph, our Father in heaven is committed to us, His Creation. Our infidelities and imperfections do not nullify the grace the Lord has for us. We have been given choice and there are consequences. Scripture also highlights a time the Lord will come back for a church "without spot or wrinkle." Soon after Jesus’ birth they had to escape to Egypt in Africa. In an attempt to kill King Jesus, who the wisemen had sought and found, Herod ordered all boys from birth to two years old to be murdered. It is hard to fathom the senseless slaughter of new born babies and children. “A voice is heard in Ramah weeping and great mourning…” Matthew 2:18 In the book of Matthew it is recorded that dreams, visions and divine visitations were used to inform Joseph and Mary and all those who were witnesses before, during and after the birth of Jesus, the Christ. One of the most significant visitations is recorded in the book of Luke: “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14). Signs and glorious wonders were an integral part of the birth of Jesus. What signs are we seeing today? The covenant word, the Bible, highlights the promise that Jesus will return. During this advent season we can use this time, in faith, to rejoice in the birth of Christ Jesus, and also prepare for His return. “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:27-28 Look up! for the promised advent of Jesus the Christ. © 2018-2025 Annette O. Brown Creations, Media. All rights reserved. Written permission must be secured by the author.
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Repost by A. O. Brown  Cherry Blossoms Celebrated in Community - Central Park, N.Y. Photo: AOB Creations Human Being Human
Within this era a different type of mindset is being facilitated, an “isolation mindset.” This “isolation mindset” embraces solitude with a heightened use of technology for communication. We need, however, to acknowledge our core human characteristics, our biological distinctions and it is paramount that we also sustain our divine essence and spiritual selves. “Then the Lord formed the man out of the dust from the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and the man became a living being… It is not good for the *man to be alone. I will make a helper as his complement…” Genesis 2 verse 7 and Genesis 2 verse 18. (NIV). The author of the book of Genesis, in the Bible, narrates the first formulation of a human being. A significant connection is highlighted. God is our Creator and ultimate life-giver. Our heavenly Father molded human beings and placed within us a spirit, a life giving source that is directly connected to God our Divine Creator. It takes faith in this God and the inspiration of His Holy Spirit to discern the full extent of any scripture. We can all, however, decipher the general content of scripture and here, God is described as our Creator and the source of our living souls! “What makes us human? A simple answer from a genetic perspective is our 23 pairs of chromosomes containing countless genes. However, as most of us realize, this definition falls far short of appreciating the complexity of our minds and existence. As members of the human species, we possess a unique set of features that defines our reality and sets us apart from all other living beings on Earth. Being human encompasses a rich tapestry of qualities that shape our thoughts, emotions, and actions… five of the most important qualities of being human: consciousness, empathy, creativity, resilience, and the pursuit of meaning and purpose.” “What makes us Human?” Dr. Robert Brooks (www.drrobertbrooks.com) We are social beings. During early childhood we develop an acute sense of self, we branch out into interactions with others and most of us develop significant behaviors, such as empathy for others. Our cognitive behavior and development has been proven to become more adept by our social interactions with peers. There are so many other factors that support and highlight the premise that humans thrive in interactive social contexts. Why then do we seem to be pulling away from in-person social interaction? Our resilience is built from all of the social and mental challenges we face overtime. Social interaction is a resource that can be used to build resilience through encouragement. There are of course negative sources of social interaction, however, these factors and challenges can also foster resilience in an individual. Resilience is defined as: “the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.” Dictionary - Oxford Languages. There have been a multitude of worldwide challenges, most notably, within the last five years. Challenges from natural disasters, famine, politics, war, crime and so much more. The “capacity to withstand” is a tool that we need to utilize in these trying times and our ability to recover needs to be strengthened and not minimized. “And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him--a threefold cord is not quickly broken. A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer.” Ecclesiastes 4:12. Of course, we can develop a capacity for individual resilience against daily life challenges, especially in specific areas that affect our unique journeys in life, our occupations, our family dynamic. The scripture above articulates the added benefits in the dynamics of partnership and groups. This practical truth for physical apparatus is also true for our spiritual dynamics. In our pursuit for the meaning and purpose in life, let’s seek until we find and knock until the door is open to us. Each person should embark on their own spiritual journey, yet it shouldn’t be isolated. We are here for one another, granted one needs to connect with relevant groups and individuals. Most of all, our Creator God is available and ready to communicate with us through prayer. As we search for the meaning or deeper meaning and purpose of our spiritual selves we will get closer to discovering our true selves. God’s Holy Spirit, Scripture, other individuals and communities of faith in God are active and available. Let’s continue to be and to exist as humans. Let’s thrive in our morally best selves and nurture the qualities that allow us to... be human. Annette Olivia Brown is author of “ Encounters and Reflections - Can you hear me now?” and “Encounters and Reflections II - It is written” Certificate in Christian Ministry - NY Theological Seminary. Resources: Bruce, Dr. Roberts. https://www.drrobertbrooks.com/what-makes-us-human/#:~:text=Being%20human%20is%20a%20multifaceted,pursuit%20of%20meaning%20and%20purpose. Holy Bible. New International Version. © 2018-2025 Annette O. Brown Creations, Media. All rights reserved. Written permission must be secured by the author.  Central Park, NYC - Conservatory Garden. AOB Creations Photo A weed - a plant that is not valued where it is growing and usually vigorous growth. especially one that tends to overgrow or choke out more desirable plants. (merriam-webster.com
"The Secret Garden”, a classic children’s novel by Frances Hodgson Burnette, is one of my favorite childhood literary experiences. The imagery is vivid and inspiring. Currently, I am attempting to master the art of gardening. Gardens encompass rich lessons and insights regarding most aspects of the human spiritual journey. Weeds are an interesting specimen. Weeds are an absolute enemy to a healthy and flourishing garden. Once I begin the satisfying pluck of one weed I continue until all, in my power, are eliminated. I’m amazed at the audacity of these plants popping up and weaving their way into the earth and amongst healthy flowers and plants. Weeds are often hard to distinguish from the primary plants you are nurturing, however, when detected, it is obvious they are not “the real item.” There are products that have been created to destroy specific weeds, however, the ongoing war can be disturbing and disruptive. “ Let them both grow together until the harvest..” Matthew 13:30. In the Book of Matthew, this disciple shares the delivery of some parables that Jesus the Christ shares with his followers and his disciples. Later, at the appeal of the disciples, clarity is given to this parable. The weeds were sown by the enemy but when the servants asked if they should remove them the owner prevents them from doing so. In this world there are many things that the average person would like to remove or uproot. There are so many things that are harmful or have the potential to be harmful, yet there is a divine time and a divine plan and ongoing grace is given by our Creator God. We need to give grace to each other as we recognize that God gives grace to us all. Christians look forward to a time of harvest for everyone’s soul. A time where the wheat will be gathered and the tare will ultimately be destroyed. In the garden of our lives we will not enjoy perfection, however, we can, by faith, anticipate a time of complete release and breakthrough in this life and/or in our eternal spiritual life with the Lord.  Far Rockaway Beach, New York USA. I was fascinated with an article I read in the New York Times. The article included a topic about “awe walks” - a mindfulness method. Many Mindfulness techniques are akin to the awe many of us have for God’s Creation and interaction with God’s Holy Spirit. I have experienced the benefits of pausing and being still long enough to meditate on God. This simple act of using the faculties and senses provided to us, to engage our surroundings, is beneficial. It is healthy for us to allow our personal thoughts and concerns to be placed on pause, at different times, throughout the day. Pausing to mediate can initiate a strategic time for God’s Holy Spirit to provide us with peace and guidance. “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46 v10. As the psalmist wrote in Psalm 46, there are times that we need to make a distinct choice to be still and know God. We rest, yet at the same time, we make ourselves available to listen for the guidance of God’s Holy Spirit. In the book of John, Chapter 14, the author recounts dialogue between the apostles and Jesus the Christ. Included in this dialogue is a promise made by Jesus to send a helper, an advocate and guide. “… I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—” John 14:16. We all have the ability to choose. If you accept salvation, by confessing with your mouth and believing in your heart and mind that Jesus is Lord of your life, you step into a covenant relationship with our Heavenly Father. “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” Romans 10:17 The advocate, the Holy Spirit, intercedes when we pray and is available to guide us in all of our decision making. When we set time aside to be in the presence of God we invite His Holy Spirit. God’s Holy Spirit teaches and guides us and leads us into all truth. Each person’s relationship is unique, therefore, the Lord provides different types and amounts of insights and revelation to each person. The fundamental, covenant, relationship we can each have with the Lord is the same, however, the nuances are different. Each person’s relationship is personal and therefore unique. “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.” John 16 :13 We enter a relationship with our Holy Father God with our individual expectations and experiences. Our Creator God also relates to us in the context of a mutual relationship with expectations. When we set time apart to meditate and pray we deepen our relationship with our Creator. We create the opportunity to acknowledge our spiritual selves, ponder and perhaps gain some revelations from God about our lives and others in humanity. 4/7/2025 4 Comments 5 Devotionals - It Is Written. FIVE DEVOTIONALS - IT IS WRITTEN
The following are five devotionals written for prayer and meditation and aligned to Scripture. - Annette Olivia Brown, author. Day 1: Who does God call righteous? Read: Genesis 15:6 Where does our journey of discipleship begin? I believe that the Lord blesses us all to have spiritual encounters with Him. These meetings are unique to each person, even when it is in a corporate or group setting. It is the Lord’s desire that all shall be saved. “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise as some understand slowness, Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 The journey of discipleship begins with our own salvation. When we agree and accept the Lord, we position ourselves to benefit from His covenant word. We also, significantly, invite God’s Holy Spirit to lead and to guide us into all truth. “All believers are justified as Abram was, and it was his faith that was counted to him for righteousness.” (Matthew Henry Commentary Genesis 15:6). Have you accepted Jesus the Christ as your personal Lord and Savior? Romans 10:9-10 are some of the scriptures in the Bible that we can use for our own prayer and also for prayer with others. Let us use this time to seek God about our personal relationship with Him. Day 2: Encounters with God Read: Exodus 3 2-3 The Lord used a supernatural phenomenon to gain Moses’ attention. How has or is the Lord getting your attention? Some of us experience the supernatural, however, perhaps not a burning bush. For most of us, the Lord is communicating with us through our everyday experiences. We should pause, like Moses, and closely regard some of the situations we are presented with… The burning bush was not consumed by the fire. Sometimes the Lord will allow us to go through situations that we certainly could not have survived without Him. For example, we may look back and know that we made it through extreme pressures and challenges of a situation because of God. These experiences are our supernatural testimonies and we should share these truths with others. “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony;” Revelations 12:11. Day 3: God has a plan Read: Exodus 19:6 The Lord has a plan, this plan has been consistent since the beginning of time. In the Bible, the book of God's covenant word, this plan is evident and prophecy has and is being fulfilled. Moses was told that the Israelites had been called to be a Holy nation, consecrated to God. They were not selected because of their good works or anything significant they had done as a nation. “You [Samaritans] do not know what you are worshiping [you worship what you do not comprehend]. We do know what we are worshiping [we worship what we have knowledge of and understand], for [after all] salvation comes from [among] the Jews. (John 4: Biblegateway.com) Jesus the Christ, was born incarnate, through the Holy Spirit and a supernatural connection with humanity. (Galatians 4:4). All nations have access to salvation and a passage to a right relationship with our Creator God through Jesus the Christ. In addition, all who are saved have a purpose to fulfill for the Kingdom of God here on earth. If you are part of a kingdom of priests, how can or do you activate and use this role in your everyday life? Day 4: Live! on every word of God Read: Matthew 4:4 The Temptation of Jesus, recorded in the book of Matthew, is a very significant. Soon after the Lord announced His pleasure in His Son Jesus, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Jesus acknowledges the importance of bread for food and sustenance. Then He very quickly states that every word spoken by God is what man must also live by. The Lord has provided Scripture. God’s Holy Spirit, however, is also purposefully provided to us for revelation and understanding. We need access to both as we seek God and God communicates with us by His Holy Spirit in our minds and in our hearts. Yes, God’s covenant word is written and the promised gift of the Holy Spirit has been sent to empower us. Father, Son and Holy Spirit work together as one. It is written, Scripture has been provided to us by the inspiration of the Lord. How can you be the word, through witness, to someone today? Day 5: Signs Read: Matthew 24:4-8 The disciples asked Jesus what the signs would be at the Jesus’ coming and the end of this age…We are witnessing much of what is described in this passage. What should our response be as believers? Jesus said “See that you are not alarmed”…I believe this was said for several reasons. First, It doesn’t mean that we will not have different and real emotions about each event, however, we should not be completely surprised. Prophecy is provided for many reasons. Prophecy informs us that God is not surprised, He has predicted everything that comes to pass. In addition, prophetic information reminds us that God is in control and we have a hope that nothing can remove. We have the promise of everlasting life in Christ Jesus! God has informed us that ”Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away.” “How can we acquire or maintain God’s Peace in the midst of deception, wars and rumors of wars, famines and earthquakes?”  https://www.westmarine.com/west-advisor/Selecting-The-Right-Anchor.html Anchor Plow and scoop anchors reset themselves easily if the current or wind changes. (www.wesmarine.com) noun noun: anchor; plural noun: anchors ● a heavy object attached to a rope or chain and used to moor a vessel to the sea bottom, typically one having a metal shank with a ring at one end for the rope and a pair of curved and/or barbed flukes at the other. ● a person or thing that provides stability or confidence in an otherwise uncertain situation. LED BY THE SPIRIT - ANCHORED BY THE WORD. “And there came a voice from heaven: This is My beloved Son. I take delight in Him! Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted” Matthew 3:17 and 4:1 Jesus had just been acknowledged. Father, Son and Holy Spirit agreed. Soon after, Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted. After fasting for 40 days! The tempter came. The account of the Temptation of Jesus, brings to mind the clashing of two world leaders. The devil, however, was given a certain amount of dominion and Jesus, as Creator, has all power and dominion. Fully God and fully man, Jesus was tested and prepared for the ultimate, purpose driven challenge ahead of Him. The suppression of power for a greater goal. Jesus was presented with situations that He could have subjected himself to. Yes, He could turn stones into bread. His fasting, however, was purposeful. Spiritual fasts are known to provide, among many things, clarity, self knowledge, better decision-making. Yes, Jesus could have put Himself in harms way, however, this action would not be in alignment with the wisdom and relationship He had with the Father. He walked in agreement with the Father and, like us, made the best decisions when He aligned Himself with the Father’s will. “Father if you are willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine be done.” Luke 22:42. Jesus was then tempted with taking His life and therefore, aborting the purpose driven plans for His life. Real power lies in the treasure of worship to the one and only God. This blessing of relationship with the Father was consistent for Jesus. In addition, He knew the established Word of truth better than anyone or entity. Jesus said: “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. (John 14:6). Yes, He could have made the decision to seek recognition and power from something or person other than the Sovereign God. The Father of lies offered all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship to him in lieu of Yahweh, God. The world and everything in it belongs to God and worship to the true and living God is paramount. It is written. It is written. It is written. Jesus made constant reference to the established product of the written word of God. Scripture, passed on through the ages. A written word that was substantiated by God Himself in covenant with humanity through Moses. “When the LORD finished speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, he gave him the two tablets of the covenant law, the tablets of stone inscribed by the finger of God.” Exodus 31:18 Scripture is supernatural, not just words in print. Scripture is a tool that can feed our mind and most of all our spirit. Yet, as this text where Jesus is tested illustrates, Scripture is only beneficial when it is communicated through connection with the God the Father and Holy Spirit. When we know the truth, it sets us free. Free to live in alignment with our Heavenly Father, The Son and Holy Spirit. Reposted in this season of prayer, meditation, reflection and revelation.  After singing psalms, they went out to the Mount of Olives.” Matthew 26 v 30 It was the first day of the Festival of Unleavened bread. It is written in Scripture, the disciples asked Jesus where he wanted them to prepare the Passover for him to eat it.. At this time the disciples did not realize Jesus was in the process of fulfilling a significant part of his purpose and ministry for all of humankind. Passover commemorates the deliverance and exodus of the Israelites from the bondage and tyranny of the Egyptians. The appointed time had come for their deliverance. Pharaoh finally released them after the tenth plague was sent, into all Egypt, in response to Pharaoh’s refusal to let the Israelites go. The first born male of every family and animal in the land was killed. Specific instructions, however, were given by God to Moses and Aaron for the Israelites to escape this plague. The instructions included the selection and slaughter of an unblemished male sheep or goat, a year old, for each household. “They must take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and lintel of the house where they eat them..roasted over a fire with unleavened bread and bitter herbs…You are to eat it in a hurry: it is the Lord’s Passover. I will pass through the land of Egypt on that night and strike every firstborn male in the land of Egypt both man and beast. ..when I see the blood I will pass over you.” ( Exodus 12 v7 -13). This epic event highlights so many things in the natural and in the spiritual realm. The strong hold that Pharaoh tried to keep over the Israelites mirrors the ongoing warfare we have with evil spirits. Most significantly, at that time, was the Lord’s requirement for something to die in order to cover or protect human beings from His wrath. In later years, the High Priest would sacrifice animals once a year in a symbolic sign of atonement. “But only the high priest entered the inner room, and that only once a year, and never without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance.” (Hebrews 9 v 7). The Passover lamb that was slain and it’s blood was put on the doorposts to signify a sacrificial death took place. In similitude, the sacrificial lamb, Jesus, came prepared to present his body as a living sacrifice for us all. Therefore as He was coming into the world, He said: “You did not want sacrifice and offering, but you prepared a body for Me, You did not delight In whole burnt offerings and sin offerings Then I said, “ See – It is written about Me In the volume of the scroll. I have come to do your will God!” ( Hebrews 10 v 5). The Passover celebration includes a time of singing psalms in the area that the meal is experienced. After concluding the Passover meal they sung the traditional psalms and then Jesus made his way, significantly, to the Mount of Olives where the garden of Gethsemane is located. Here, the humanity and spirit of Jesus struggled in a torturous fight regarding obedience to the Father’s will. He accepted a demeaning and painful death. Jesus’ journey lead to death on a cross and temporary separation from God, the Father. The resurrection of Christ signifies the ultimate plan of God. It was prophesied, written and in faith we believe that the payment for sin was paid, power was taken away from death and everlasting life, through Christ, has been restored to humanity. Jesus took part in the celebration and memorial knowing that this time he would present himself as the ultimate, once and for all, sacrifice. During the Passover meal he lead the disciples into a recognition of a new covenant through his body and blood. Today, many of us continue this sacrament, a communion partaken in remembrance of what Jesus has done for us. Thank you Lord for being the ultimate sacrifice for all of my sins. We all have the opportunity to accept the atonement made for us. During this season, many of us set time aside to specifically recollect the purpose driven ministry of Jesus the Christ. We will consider the magnitude of Jesus’ sacrifice and try to understand the personal love God has for us all. He did it all for me! and for you. © 2018-2025 Annette O. Brown Creations, Media. All rights reserved. Written permission must be secured by the author. 2/18/2025 1 Comment Human Being Human - Maintaining our core qualities. Annette Olivia Brown, author. Image from: https://www.myolivetree.com/importance-of-unity-in-this-hour/ Human Being Human Within this era a different type of mindset is being facilitated, an “isolation mindset.” This “isolation mindset” embraces solitude with a heightened use of technology for communication. We need, however, to acknowledge our core human characteristics, our biological distinctions and it is paramount that we also sustain our divine essence and spiritual selves. “Then the Lord formed the man out of the dust from the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and the man became a living being… It is not good for the *man to be alone. I will make a helper as his complement…” Genesis 2 verse 7 and Genesis 2 verse 18. (NIV). The author of the book of Genesis, in the Bible, narrates the first formulation of a human being. A significant connection is highlighted. God is our Creator and ultimate life-giver. Our heavenly Father molded human beings and placed within us a spirit, a life giving source that is directly connected to God our Divine Creator. It takes faith in this God and the inspiration of His Holy Spirit to discern the full extent of any scripture. We can all, however, decipher the general content of scripture and here, God is described as our Creator and the source of our living souls! “What makes us human? A simple answer from a genetic perspective is our 23 pairs of chromosomes containing countless genes. However, as most of us realize, this definition falls far short of appreciating the complexity of our minds and existence. As members of the human species, we possess a unique set of features that defines our reality and sets us apart from all other living beings on Earth. Being human encompasses a rich tapestry of qualities that shape our thoughts, emotions, and actions… five of the most important qualities of being human: consciousness, empathy, creativity, resilience, and the pursuit of meaning and purpose.” “What makes us Human?” Dr. Robert Brooks (www.drrobertbrooks.com) We are social beings. During early childhood we develop an acute sense of self, we branch out into interactions with others and most of us develop significant behaviors, such as empathy for others. Our cognitive behavior and development has been proven to become more adept by our social interactions with peers. There are so many other factors that support and highlight the premise that humans thrive in interactive social contexts. Why then do we seem to be pulling away from in-person social interaction? Our resilience is built from all of the social and mental challenges we face overtime. Social interaction is a resource that can be used to build resilience through encouragement. There are of course negative sources of social interaction, however, these factors and challenges can also foster resilience in an individual. Resilience is defined as: “the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.” Dictionary - Oxford Languages. There have been a multitude of worldwide challenges, most notably, within the last five years. Challenges from natural disasters, famine, politics, war, crime and so much more. The “capacity to withstand” is a tool that we need to utilize in these trying times and our ability to recover needs to be strengthened and not minimized. “And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him--a threefold cord is not quickly broken. A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer.” Ecclesiastes 4:12. Of course, we can develop a capacity for individual resilience against daily life challenges, especially in specific areas that affect our unique journeys in life, our occupations, our family dynamic. The scripture above articulates the added benefits in the dynamics of partnership and groups. This practical truth for physical apparatus is also true for our spiritual dynamics. In our pursuit for the meaning and purpose in life, let’s seek until we find and knock until the door is open to us. Each person should embark on their own spiritual journey, yet it shouldn’t be isolated. We are here for one another, granted one needs to connect with relevant groups and individuals. Most of all, our Creator God is available and ready to communicate with us through prayer. As we search for the meaning or deeper meaning and purpose of our spiritual selves we will get closer to discovering our true selves. God’s Holy Spirit, Scripture, other individuals and communities of faith are active and available. Let’s continue to be and to exist as humans. Let’s thrive in our morally best selves and nurture the qualities that allow us to... be human. Annette Olivia Brown is author of “ Encounters and Reflections - Can you hear me now?” and “Encounters and Reflections II - It is written” Certificate in Christian Ministry - NY Theological Seminary. Resources: Bruce, Dr. Roberts. https://www.drrobertbrooks.com/what-makes-us-human/#:~:text=Being%20human%20is%20a%20multifaceted,pursuit%20of%20meaning%20and%20purpose. Holy Bible. New International Version. © 2018-2025 Annette O. Brown Creations, Media. All rights reserved. Written permission must be secured by the author. 12/31/2024 0 Comments The Arrival - It Is Written Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/S.Willner (Havard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics). Oxford Languages Dictionary Advent: the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY: the coming or second coming of Christ A lot happened before Jesus, the Christ, was laid in a manger. The advent or arrival of a notable person or event in the earth realm was momentous! The second coming of Christ also promises to be AWESOME! “Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.” (Matthew 1:18-19). Mary became pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Her husband, whom one can sympathize with, planned to divorce her without making any fuss or demands, however, an angel advised him not to reject Mary. Fear of infidelity, pregnancy, thoughts about divorce, distrust, disappointment, pain, humiliation. The latter was experienced, in significant ways, by Mary and Joseph. After supernatural intervention, Joseph and Mary committed to each other as husband and wife. There are situations that may seem insurmountable, however, with God all things are possible. Mary and Joseph were selected to support and facilitate the birth and growth of the person of Jesus Christ who is Holy God manifested in the flesh. God Head - Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Three in One. Like Joseph, our Father in heaven in committed to us, His Creation. Our infidelities and imperfections do not nullify the Grace the Lord has for us. We have been given choice and there are consequences. Scripture also highlights a time the Lord will come back for a church without spot or wrinkle. Soon after Jesus’ birth they had to escape to Egypt in Africa. In an attempt to kill King Jesus, who the wisemen had sought and found, Herod ordered all boys from birth to two years old to be murdered. It is hard to fathom the senseless slaughter of new born babies and children. “A voice is heard in Ramah weeping and great mourning…” Matthew 2:18 In the book of Matthew it is recorded that dreams, visions and divine visitations were used to inform Joseph and Mary and all those who were witnesses before, during and after the birth of Jesus, the Christ. One of the most significant visitations is recorded in the book of Luke: “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14). Signs and glorious wonders were an integral part of the birth of Jesus. What signs are we seeing today? The covenant word, the Bible, highlights the promise that Jesus will return. During this advent season we can use this time, in faith, to rejoice in the birth of Christ Jesus, and also prepare for His return. “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:27-28 © 2018-2025 Annette O. Brown Creations, Media. All rights reserved. Written permission must be secured by the author.  ***Note: Minor update of the original post made here by A.O. Brown *12/31/2018 ILLUMINATION The Announcement “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1 v 1- v5 (NIV). This morning I read John 1, a scripture I have read many times and heard many interpretations of. The Holy Spirit, of course, always provides new revelations and insight. The Word is a part of God. The Word is God. Just as we, in similar manner, speak, our Creator spoke Christ into existence. This Christ was an illumination of God, a part of Himself. John describes this essence of God coming as light into the dark, blind, unknowing, non comprehending creation. He came in the form of Jesus the Christ to us, and we, his very creation and made in His image, did not recognize Him. Recognition, as unveiled by scripture, came to some, when the Lord used specific sources and means to reveal Himself. Luke records in scripture that a host of angels appeared to a group of shepherds. The juxtaposition of heaven and earth is revealed in this glorious visitation of heavenly beings to shepherds on earth. “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” " Luke 2 v13-14 Transformed by their experience the shepherds went to see the child that they were told about and after experiencing the child, announced earlier to them, they told everyone about their encounter. The Witness “There once was a man, his name John, sent by God to point out the way to the Life-Light. He came to show everyone where to look, who to believe in. John was not himself the Light; he was there to show the way to the Light.” John 1 v6-8 (Messenger). John knew that he was “tailor made” to be a witness of the coming of the kingdom of God and the coming of the Christ. His whole life was dedicated to this purpose and when he saw Jesus he announced: “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1 v 29. (NIV) The Word Do we recognize the Word sent by God today? The Christ came, fully God and fully man, to be a light and a witness to us. Jesus the Christ, a manifested gift of our creator’s agape love! We have been provided with a gospel that is recorded in the Bible. These records are important tools for insight and teaching. Our personal response to a “personal God” is the key, however, to tapping into the benefits and revelation the Lord provides. Let us receive Him and believe in His name so we can become the children or offspring of God that we were originally designed to be. il·lu·mi·na·tion/iˌlo͞oməˈnāSH(ə)n/ noun
© 2018-2025, Annette O. Brown Creations, Media. All rights reserved. Written permission must be secured by the author. |
AuthorAnnette Brown embarked on a life journey of Christianity, over 20 years ago. A reflective educator and avid constructivist - reflection has been a part of her daily work and a tool for personal growth and assessment. Birthed out of this practice is reflection connected to divinely inspired insight and revelation . Her first book "Encounters and Reflections - Can you hear me now" encompasses these perspectives through a lens of story telling and photographic images. Archives
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© 2018-2025 Annette O. Brown Creations, Media. All rights reserved. Written permission must be secured by the author.