Daily Archives: October 13, 2014

Jesus Is God

Posted on by
5

CloudsIt’s not a popular statement to make, but as I read the ancient writings of Paul, I keep finding it repeated in many different ways and contexts.

Paul explains his mission in life to different audiences in slightly different ways. Because he was imprisoned and on trial, he had the opportunity to present his case a few different times. Reading about these encounters in the book of Acts gives us a glimpse of Paul’s encounter with Jesus, the Messiah, and how it changed the course of his entire life. He describes this direct encounter with Jesus and what Jesus told him to do:

“I am sending you to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people who are set apart by faith in me.” Acts 26

Later, in his letter to the people living in Rome he says quite clearly,

Jesus is God, the one who rules over everything and is worthy of eternal praise. It is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it. The riches of God’s glory shine even brighter on those to whom He shows mercy (i.e. those destined for destruction). Romans 9

I love that thought because I was once one of those people destined for destruction. I get great comfort reading (and knowing) that the riches of God’s glory can shine even brighter on me! I have certainly received His mercy! Mercy that I never deserved and could never have earned.

Jesus is God and He came to earth to suffer so that He could show mercy on me.  Accepting this truth has brought joy and freedom to my heart and soul.

There are many things about the future, and even about the current times that we live, that are uncertain and unsettling. Jesus predicted conflicts that would happen. Paul describes a great rebellion against God in his second letter to the Thessalonians (chapter 2). I don’t claim to understand it all, but after reading through the chapter, it seems obvious that many of the things he predicted seem to be happening. Without a rock solid hope in my Savior, the all powerful Jesus, life would be terrifying. Jesus provides an anchor. He is also victorious, so I don’t need to worry.

I am thankful that Jesus has chosen me. He reveals truth to me. He helps me stand firm. I pray others will come to know Him as I do.

Day 25 of Encouraging people to Seek Jesus: 30 ways in 30 days

If you have been helped in any way through my musings, please give glory to God. If you find anything disappointing or offensive – please let me know so I can improve.

 

Essential Questions

Posted on by
6

Pregnant 3 croppedfor expectant parents to ask

(or young healthy potentially fertile people)

You’re smart.

I’m not telling you what to do.

You’ll figure it out.

With all the excitement in preparing for a new baby, there are also some CRITICAL QUESTIONS every pregnant couple will be very glad they took some time to explore:

What is the blood-brain-barrier and when is it fully developed? (This is a big topic and there is some disagreement on the details.)

How does an infant develop the ability to mount an immune response?[1]

What is the mucosal immune system and what is the difference between the infant’s immune response to viruses and bacteria encountered through the mucosal immune system versus these same organisms when they are injected?

When will the umbilical cord be clamped and cut? [EXTREMELY Important! If you ask no other questions, please research this one.][1]

What do I know about the shots they will suggest for my newborn and why?

  • Vitamin K (What is the difference between the Vitamin K injection and oral Vitamin K drops? Are either necessary in every case?)
  • Hep B

What is the ointment they want to put in my baby’s eyes – and why?

What do I know about the shots they want to give my very young baby (in USA recommended at 2 months):

  • DTaP
  • Hep B
  • HIB
  • PCV13
  • RV (oral)

What shots was I given as a baby/child? What is the difference between the shots they are giving to babies today?

What reasons might there be for delaying or not giving some of the shots?

What research has been done to determine if there is a link between the current vaccine schedule and long term chronic health challenges?

How can I help my child avoid auto-immune disorders like asthma, food allergies, diabetes, autism, learning disabilities, childhood cancers?

Have the vaccines recommended been tested for carcinogenic properties, i.e. have they been tested to see if they cause an increase in childhood cancer?

Have the vaccines recommended been tested for future impact on my child’s reproductive ability?

If I am told I need the RhoGam injection in pregnancy or afterwards, because I have Rh negative factor, what does that mean?

I salute you for reading this far.

Don’t just go along.

Get answers from someone other than the person with the needle.

[1] Dr Suzanne Humphries Six part video series (approximately 15 min each) on Neonatal Immunity: The First Three Years. This video presentation is on par with a college level course in understanding and promoting infant health. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. 

30 ways in 30 Days, Exploring Vaccines: Day 26