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I have a grand vision of constructing a Temple dedicated to aiding the homeless, but I am currently facing a shortage of donations. My aspirations extend even further, as I dream of establishing such Temples across the globe. With your support, we can transform these dreams into reality, providing shelter and hope to countless homeless individuals in the USA and around the world. The Bible emphasizes the importance of helping those in need. Proverbs 19:17 states, “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” Similarly, Matthew 25:35-36 reminds us, “For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.” By contributing to this cause, you are not only helping the homeless but also fulfilling a divine mandate. Together, we can make a significant impact and bring light to the lives of those who need it most. Donations: Make payable to: Michael Hopkins ATTN: Johnathan Hopkins 205 W Business US Hwy 60 PMB 303 Dexter, MO 63841

King Solomon was the third and final king of the unified nation of Israel. His reign followed that of King Saul and King David. Born to David and Bathsheba, Solomon’s lineage was marked by both triumph and tragedy. His mother, Bathsheba, was previously the wife of Uriah the Hittite, whom David had killed to cover his affair with her while Uriah was away at war1 . Solomon’s Wisdom and Notable Bible Quotes Solomon’s wisdom is legendary. When he ascended to the throne, he humbly asked God for discernment to govern righteously. God granted his request, making him renowned for his exceptional wisdom. One of the most famous accounts demonstrating his wisdom involves two women who claimed to be the mother of the same baby. Solomon’s solution to determine the true mother revealed his brilliant judgment (1 Kings 3:16-28). Here are some Bible verses attributed to King Solomon: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5) “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17) “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” (Proverbs 12:15) “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7) “Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:9) Solomon’s Achievements Building the First Holy Temple : Solomon’s most significant achievement was constructing the First Temple in Jerusalem. This magnificent structure became the central place of worship for the Israelites. Wealth and Prosperity : Under Solomon’s rule, Israel experienced unprecedented prosperity and peace. Authorship : Solomon wrote several biblical books, including the Song of Solomon, Ecclesiastes, and much of Proverbs. Legacy King Solomon’s legacy endures through his wisdom literature and the enduring impact of the First Temple. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God’s wisdom in our lives.

The Setting One day, Samson ventured to Gaza, where he encountered a prostitute. He decided to spend the night with her. The people of Gaza got wind of his presence and plotted to ambush him at the city gate, intending to kill him at dawn1 2 . The Deceptive Delilah Later, Samson fell in love with Delilah, a woman from the Valley of Sorek. The rulers of the Philistines approached her, offering a reward if she could discover the secret of Samson’s immense strength. They hoped to overpower him and subdue him. Delilah agreed to their scheme1 . The Three Attempts Delilah repeatedly pressed Samson to reveal his secret. First, he claimed that if he were tied with fresh, undried bowstrings, he would become weak. Delilah tried this, but Samson easily broke free. Next, he suggested that new, unused ropes would weaken him, but again, he escaped. Finally, Samson told Delilah that if she wove his seven braids into a loom and tightened them with a pin, he would lose his strength. While he slept, Delilah did just that, but Samson still broke free1 3 . The Truth Unveiled Exasperated, Delilah accused Samson of deceiving her. Eventually, he confessed: His strength came from his uncut hair. As a Nazirite dedicated to God from birth, he had never used a razor on his head. If his hair were cut, his strength would vanish. Delilah seized this opportunity and betrayed him to the Philistines1 . The Tragic Outcome The Philistines captured Samson, gouged out his eyes, and imprisoned him. In a final act of strength, he pushed apart the pillars of the temple where he was held, causing its collapse and killing himself along with thousands of Philistines. Samson’s story serves as a reminder of human frailty and divine providence, even in our weakest moments1 4 . Remember, even the strongest among us can fall when we lose sight of our purpose. 🌟

Introduction The biblical account of Jacob and Esau is a gripping narrative that unfolds within the family of Isaac and Rebekah. These twin brothers, born to Isaac, represent contrasting personalities and destinies. Their story is rich with themes of sibling rivalry, deception, and divine providence. The Birthright and the Stew Genesis 25:27-32 (NIV) As the boys grew up, Esau became a skilled hunter, while Jacob preferred the quiet life at home. Isaac loved Esau because of his taste for wild game, but Rebekah favored Jacob. One day, Jacob was cooking stew when Esau returned famished from the open country. Esau begged for some of the red stew, and Jacob seized the opportunity: “First sell me your birthright.” Esau, desperate and hungry, agreed, despising his birthright in exchange for a meal1 . The Deception and the Blessing Genesis 27:1-40 (NIV) Isaac, now old and blind, wanted to bless Esau before his death. Rebekah overheard and devised a plan. She dressed Jacob in Esau’s clothes and covered his hands with goat skins to mimic Esau’s hairy arms. Jacob approached Isaac, who was suspicious but blessed him, thinking he was Esau. When Esau discovered the deception, he wept bitterly and pleaded for a blessing. Isaac blessed him too, but Esau’s destiny was forever altered 2 . The Reconciliation Genesis 32:3-33 (NIV) After years of separation, Jacob returned to Canaan, fearing Esau’s wrath. He sent gifts to appease Esau and prayed for protection. The night before their meeting, Jacob wrestled with a mysterious man (possibly an angel) and received a new name: Israel. When Jacob finally faced Esau, they embraced, reconciling their differences and parting as brothers 3 . Conclusion The story of Jacob and Esau reminds us of the complexities of family relationships, the consequences of choices, and the sovereignty of God. It teaches us about forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative power of encounters with the divine. Note: The scriptures referenced are from the New International Version (NIV). 1 : Genesis 25:27-32 2 : Genesis 27 3 : Genesis 32:3-33

Message from Archbishop Victor Odhiambo  07/13/2024 “Our team is steadily expanding day by day. I feel grateful for the office provided by divine grace. Today, I had the privilege of meeting Pastor Jane during the church services in Migori County, Kenya and later, I connected with Pastor Methusella in Kisii County, Kenya. My lovely wife accompanied me on these visits. Interestingly, it seems that every pastor now eagerly anticipates my presence at their churches. As for my prayer request, I humbly ask for prayers that the Lord blesses us with a logo organization jeep, enabling us to travel within the nation and beyond more efficiently. Once again, I express my gratitude for the office."

By Michael Hopkins Introduction In the annals of history, few figures have left as indelible a mark as Jesus Christ. Born over two millennia ago in the humble town of Bethlehem, His life and teachings have shaped the course of human history, influencing billions of lives and spawning one of the world’s major religions. This article delves into the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of Jesus Christ, exploring how His message continues to resonate in the modern world. Early Life Jesus of Nazareth was born to Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem, a small town in Judea, around 4 BCE. According to the Gospel of Matthew, His birth was heralded by a star that guided wise men from the East to His birthplace, where they presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:1-12). The Gospels of Matthew and Luke provide accounts of His miraculous birth, emphasizing His divine nature and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Ministry and Teachings At the age of 30, Jesus began His public ministry, which lasted approximately three years. During this time, He traveled throughout Galilee, Judea, and beyond, preaching about the Kingdom of God, performing miracles, and gathering a group of devoted followers known as disciples. His teachings, often delivered through parables, emphasized love, compassion, forgiveness, and the importance of faith. One of His most famous sermons, the Sermon on the Mount, encapsulates many of His core teachings. In this sermon, Jesus presented the Beatitudes, a series of blessings that highlight the values of humility, mercy, and righteousness (Matthew 5:3-12). He also taught the Lord’s Prayer, a model for prayer that remains central to Christian worship today (Matthew 6:9-13). Miracles and Healings Jesus’ ministry was marked by numerous miracles and healings, which served to demonstrate His divine authority and compassion. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and even raised the dead. One of His most well-known miracles is the feeding of the 5,000, where He multiplied five loaves of bread and two fish to feed a large crowd (John 6:1-14). These acts of compassion and power drew large crowds and solidified His reputation as a prophet and healer. Crucifixion and Resurrection The climax of Jesus’ earthly ministry came with His crucifixion and resurrection. Betrayed by one of His own disciples, Judas Iscariot, Jesus was arrested, tried, and sentenced to death by crucifixion under the Roman governor Pontius Pilate. His crucifixion, which took place at Golgotha, was a brutal and public execution. However, Christians believe that His death was a sacrificial act to atone for the sins of humanity. Three days after His crucifixion, Jesus rose from the dead, an event celebrated as Easter. His resurrection is considered the cornerstone of Christian faith, symbolizing victory over sin and death. According to the Gospels, Jesus appeared to His disciples and many others over a period of 40 days before ascending to heaven (Acts 1:9-11). Legacy and Impact The impact of Jesus’ life and teachings extends far beyond His time on earth. Christianity, the religion founded on His teachings, has grown to become the world’s largest religion, with over two billion adherents. The principles of love, forgiveness, and compassion that Jesus espoused continue to inspire and guide people around the globe. Jesus’ teachings have also influenced various aspects of culture, art, and philosophy. His parables and sayings are frequently quoted, and His life has been depicted in countless works of art, literature, and film. The ethical and moral teachings of Jesus have shaped Western civilization and continue to inform contemporary discussions on justice, human rights, and social responsibility. Conclusion The life of Jesus Christ is a testament to the power of faith, love, and sacrifice. His teachings have transcended time and culture, offering a message of hope and redemption to all who seek it. As we reflect on His legacy, we are reminded of the enduring relevance of His words: “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Jesus’ life and message continue to inspire and challenge us to live with compassion, integrity, and faith. I hope you find this article insightful! If you have any specific aspects of Jesus’ life or teachings you’d like to explore further, feel free to let me know.

By Michael Hopkins In the annals of history, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Gideon and the Midianites. This biblical narrative, found in Judges 6:1-16 and 7:1-22, is a testament to faith, courage, and divine intervention. It is a story that continues to inspire and teach valuable lessons about trust in God and the power of humble obedience. The Oppression of Israel The story begins with the Israelites suffering under the oppressive rule of the Midianites. Judges 6:1-6 paints a grim picture: “The Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord, and for seven years he gave them into the hands of the Midianites. Because the power of Midian was so oppressive, the Israelites prepared shelters for themselves in mountain clefts, caves, and strongholds.” The Midianites, along with the Amalekites and other eastern peoples, would invade Israel, destroying crops and livestock, leaving the Israelites impoverished and desperate. Gideon’s Calling In the midst of this turmoil, God called upon Gideon, a humble man from the tribe of Manasseh. Judges 6:11-12 recounts this divine encounter: “The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, ‘The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.’” Despite his initial doubts and feelings of inadequacy, Gideon responded to God’s call. Judges 6:14-16 highlights this pivotal moment: “The Lord turned to him and said, ‘Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?’ ‘Pardon me, my lord,’ Gideon replied, ‘but how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.’ The Lord answered, ‘I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites, leaving none alive.’” The Test of Faith Gideon’s journey was marked by tests of faith. He sought confirmation from God through signs, including the famous fleece test (Judges 6:36-40). Each time, God reassured Gideon, demonstrating His patience and willingness to strengthen Gideon’s faith. The Battle Plan As Gideon prepared for battle, God had a surprising strategy. Judges 7:2-3 reveals God’s plan to reduce Gideon’s army: “The Lord said to Gideon, 'You have too many men. I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against me, ‘My own strength has saved me.’ Now announce to the army, ‘Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.’ So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained.” But God wasn’t done. He further reduced the army to just 300 men, selecting those who drank water with their hands to their mouths (Judges 7:4-7). This small, seemingly insignificant group would be the instruments of God’s deliverance. The Victory Armed with trumpets, empty jars, and torches, Gideon’s 300 men surrounded the Midianite camp. Judges 7:19-22 describes the dramatic victory: “Gideon and the hundred men with him reached the edge of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, just after they had changed the guard. They blew their trumpets and broke the jars that were in their hands. The three companies blew the trumpets and smashed the jars. Grasping the torches in their left hands and holding in their right hands the trumpets they were to blow, they shouted, ‘A sword for the Lord and for Gideon!’ While each man held his position around the camp, all the Midianites ran, crying out as they fled.” Lessons in Faith and Obedience The story of Gideon and the Midianites is rich with lessons. It teaches us that God often uses the least likely individuals to accomplish His purposes. Gideon’s initial fear and doubt were transformed into unwavering faith through God’s guidance and reassurance. This narrative also underscores the importance of obedience and trust in God’s plan, even when it defies human logic. In a world where true heroes are often hard to find, the story of Gideon stands as a timeless reminder that courage, faith, and humility are the hallmarks of true heroism. As we reflect on this powerful story, may we be inspired to trust in God’s plan for our lives and to step forward in faith, knowing that with God, all things are possible.

by Michael Hopkins In the ancient Persian Empire, a young Jewish woman named Esther rose to prominence and became queen. Her story, as recounted in the Book of Esther, chapters 2 through 7, is a powerful testament to courage, faith, and the importance of doing our part in the face of adversity. Esther’s Rise to Queenship After King Xerxes deposed Queen Vashti, a search began for her replacement. Esther, a beautiful and virtuous young woman, was chosen to be part of the king’s harem. “Now the young woman pleased him and won his favor. So he readily gave beauty preparations to her, besides her allowance” (Esther 2:9, NKJV). Despite her humble beginnings and Jewish heritage, Esther found favor with everyone she met, including the king, who eventually made her queen. Mordecai’s Warning Esther’s cousin Mordecai, who had raised her, discovered a plot to assassinate the king and informed Esther. She, in turn, relayed the information to the king, saving his life. This act of loyalty would later prove crucial. “When the report was investigated and found to be true, the two officials were impaled on poles. All this was recorded in the book of the annals in the presence of the king” (Esther 2:23, NIV). Haman’s Plot Haman, a high-ranking official, harbored a deep hatred for the Jews, particularly Mordecai, who refused to bow to him. In his rage, Haman convinced the king to issue a decree to annihilate all Jews in the empire. “Then Haman said to King Xerxes, ‘There is a certain people dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom who keep themselves separate. Their customs are different from those of all other people, and they do not obey the king’s laws; it is not in the king’s best interest to tolerate them’” (Esther 3:8, NIV). Esther’s Dilemma Mordecai urged Esther to intervene, reminding her that her position as queen might be divinely ordained for such a time. “For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14, NIV). Esther, aware of the risk, decided to approach the king, even though it could cost her life. Esther’s Courageous Act Esther fasted and prayed for three days before approaching the king. “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16, NIV). Her bravery paid off; the king extended his scepter to her, sparing her life and granting her request to host a banquet. The Banquet and Haman’s Downfall At the banquet, Esther revealed Haman’s plot to annihilate her people. “Then Queen Esther answered, ‘If I have found favor with you, Your Majesty, and if it pleases you, grant me my life—this is my petition. And spare my people—this is my request. For I and my people have been sold to be destroyed, killed and annihilated’” (Esther 7:3-4, NIV). The king, enraged, ordered Haman to be executed on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. Doing Our Part Esther’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when they choose to act with courage and faith. Her willingness to risk her life for her people exemplifies the importance of doing our part, no matter the cost. As we reflect on Esther’s journey, let us be inspired to stand up for justice and righteousness in our own lives, trusting that our actions, no matter how small, can make a significant difference. In the words of Mordecai, “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14, NIV). May we all find the strength to rise to the occasion and fulfill our purpose, just as Queen Esther did. I hope this article captures the essence of Esther’s story and inspires you to reflect on the importance of doing our part. If you have any specific details or additional scriptures you’d like to include, feel free to let me know!

by Michael Hopkins Matthew Chapter 13 is a significant chapter in the New Testament, where Jesus uses parables to teach important lessons about the Kingdom of Heaven. Let’s delve into some of the key verses and their meanings. The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-9) The chapter begins with Jesus teaching the crowd by the lake. He shares the Parable of the Sower, where a farmer sows seeds that fall in different places1 . Some seeds fall along the path and are eaten by birds, some fall on rocky places and wither because they have no root, some fall among thorns and are choked, and some fall on good soil and produce a crop1 . This parable illustrates how people receive the word of God differently. Some hear the word but do not understand it, and so the evil one snatches it away. Others receive the word with joy but quickly fall away when trouble comes. Still others hear the word, but the worries of life and deceitfulness of wealth choke it. But those who hear the word and understand it produce a crop1 . The Purpose of Parables (Matthew 13:10-17) When the disciples ask Jesus why he speaks to the people in parables, He explains that the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to them, but not to everyone1 . He quotes the prophecy of Isaiah, saying that though people hear, they do not understand, and though they see, they do not perceive1 . But the disciples are blessed because they see and hear1 . The Parable of the Weeds (Matthew 13:24-30) Jesus tells another parable about the kingdom of heaven. A man sows good seed in his field, but while everyone is sleeping, his enemy sows weeds among the wheat1 . This parable teaches us about the coexistence of good and evil in the world until the end of the age, when there will be a separation1 . In conclusion, Matthew Chapter 13 is a profound chapter filled with parables that provide us with a deeper understanding of the Kingdom of Heaven. It encourages us to be like the good soil, to hear the word, understand it, and bear fruit.

by Michael Hopkins The Bible, in 2 Kings 4:1-7, tells a remarkable story of the prophet Elisha and a widow’s miraculous escape from debt through the multiplication of olive oil1 . This story, when juxtaposed with the historical event known as "The Big Lift" 2 , provides a profound exploration of faith, miracles, and divine intervention in times of crisis. The Widow’s Plight and Elisha’s Intervention The story begins with a widow’s desperate plea to Elisha. Her husband, a man who revered the Lord, had died, leaving her with a debt she could not pay. The creditor threatened to take her two sons as slaves1 . In response to her plight, Elisha asked, “What do you have in your house?” The widow replied that she had nothing but a small jar of olive oil1 . Elisha instructed her to borrow as many empty jars as she could from her neighbors. Then, behind closed doors, she was to pour oil from her small jar into all the other jars1 . As she did this, the oil miraculously multiplied until all the jars were filled1 . Elisha then told her to sell the oil, pay her debts, and live on what was left1 . The Big Lift: A Modern-Day Miracle “The Big Lift” refers to the Berlin Airlift of 1948-49 2 . After the Soviet Union blockaded West Berlin, the U.S. Air Force and other allies airlifted food and supplies to the city2 . Despite dangerous flying conditions and political tensions, the airlift continued, providing a lifeline to the people of Berlin 2 . Drawing Parallels: Faith in the Face of Adversity In both stories, we see a crisis that seems insurmountable from a human perspective - a widow facing the loss of her sons to slavery, and a city facing starvation due to a blockade1 2 . Yet, in both cases, deliverance comes in an unexpected and miraculous way. The widow, acting on Elisha’s instructions, sees a small jar of oil fill many jars1 . The people of Berlin, trapped by the blockade, see planes fill the sky, bringing much-needed supplies 2 . In both cases, the response to the crisis is not just a solution, but a miracle that exceeds all expectations. Lessons Learned: The Power of Faith and Divine Intervention These stories remind us of the power of faith and the possibility of divine intervention in our lives. The widow acted on Elisha’s instructions, showing her faith in God’s power1 . Similarly, the pilots and crews involved in The Big Lift showed determination and courage, believing in their mission’s success despite the odds 2 . In conclusion, the story of Elisha and the widow, along with the historical event of The Big Lift, serve as powerful reminders of how faith can bring about miraculous solutions in times of crisis. They encourage us to trust in divine provision and intervention, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. As we reflect on these stories, may we be inspired to live out our faith with courage and conviction.

by Archbshop Elisha Chennaiah One of the most profound questions in Christian theology is: Why did God send His Son into the world? What was the purpose? The Divine Mission God the Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth to pay the ransom price for humanity, to restore our access to God so that we can have eternal life (John 3:16). But there’s more to this divine mission than meets the eye. The Original State of Mankind When God originally created mankind, He placed them in a position of free will. This means that they had the choice to do right or wrong, just as we still do today. Man was given dominion over the earth and everything in nature was in harmony. There was no sin, sickness, pain, death, hatred, or evil in natural existence (Genesis 1 & 2). The Fall of Satan However, in the spiritual realm, Satan fell from his position in heaven as one of God’s archangels, desiring to be greater than his creator (Isaiah 14:12-17). This is where sin originated. With him, he dragged a large number of the angels who believed his lie into their fallen state. The First Sin God gave mankind (at that time Adam and Eve) a very simple commandment to keep: not to eat the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. It is not a physical fruit, there is a much deeper meaning behind it, but that’s a topic for another time. God told them that if they ate the forbidden fruit they would die (Genesis 2:17). Satan subtly approached Eve in the body of a serpent (which was physically the closest to a human being, but was later cursed by God and became a serpent as we know it today - Genesis 3:14) and began to plant seeds of doubt in her mind, suggesting that she would be better off eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge (Genesis 3:1–5). The Turning Point When Eve began to doubt God’s word and believe Satan’s lie, it was a turning point for the entire creation. She ate the forbidden fruit and gave it to her husband Adam, and thereby the entire human race was plunged into darkness (Genesis 3:6-24). Man began to die just as God had warned. Mankind fell from its former position of heir and ruler over the earth. All the evil we see today came into existence from then (Romans 5:18). God’s Control and Plan Did God lose control of His creation? Absolutely not. He was in control then and still is, but allowed these things for a purpose. Before anything else existed, God dwelt alone in eternity with His thoughts. He has many qualities within Him. As Father, Creator, Savior, Healer, Comforter, Provider, and so much more, He sought a way to express these attributes… The Purpose of Creation God, being the object of worship, cannot be without something to worship Him. When He created the angels, they worshipped Him. But the worship of angels was mechanical. They had no real understanding or appreciation of the qualities that God possesses because they had never experienced them. True worship comes only by experiencing the reality of God. To have beings who can worship God wholeheartedly, He created the universe and placed mankind on earth. Adam and Eve (the first humans) had fellowship with God (Genesis 3:8) but they could not yet fully worship God. In their perfect state with nature, there was nothing evil, no sin, nothing contrary. Since creation in its perfection still did not allow for the full expression of God’s attributes, God placed man on free moral agency, knowing that they would fall if left to their own devices. The Downfall of Mankind This is when Satan entered in, and using his subtlety, he led God’s children away from the stronghold of God’s Word. This caused them to lose their place, resulting in the downfall of mankind. But was God afraid? No. It was all part of God’s plan to have sons and daughters who would know His reality, and know who He is and what He means to them, and worship Him… The Lineages of Cain and Abel When Adam and Eve fell and sin entered the world, two lineages began (Genesis 4). The family of Cain was the wicked family, and the family of Abel was the righteous family. After thousands of years, these clans intermingled so much that very few of these clans remained pure. However, God’s provision for salvation is not limited to the righteous lineage, but only to those willing to accept it (Genesis 4:6-7). Inevitably, the righteous lineage accepted it and the unrighteous lineage rejected it, with few exceptions. God’s Grace Although it was man’s decision to disobey God, God’s grace provided a way of escape after the fall of Adam and Eve. They had to sacrifice certain clean animals (cattle, sheep, goats)… (To be continued…)

by Michael Hopkins The story of Elisha and Naaman, as told in 2 Kings 5:1-17, is a powerful narrative of healing, faith, and divine intervention. It’s a tale that provides aid and comfort to those in need, demonstrating the power of God’s love and mercy. Naaman’s Predicament Naaman was a highly respected and honored commander of the Aramean king’s army1 . He was a mighty man of valor, but he was also a leper 2 . Leprosy, a severe skin disease, was a significant affliction that brought not only physical suffering but also social stigma. The Hope from an Unlikely Source In the midst of his suffering, hope came from an unlikely source. A young Israelite girl, who was brought back from one of the Aramean raids and served Naaman’s wife, knew about the prophet Elisha in Samaria1 . She believed that Elisha could heal Naaman of his leprosy and shared this belief with her mistress 3 . The Journey to Healing Upon hearing this, Naaman went to his master, the king of Aram, who gave him permission to seek Elisha’s help1 . Naaman then embarked on his journey to Israel, carrying with him gifts of silver, gold, and clothing1 . However, when Naaman arrived in Israel and presented his letter from the king of Aram, the king of Israel was distressed, thinking that this was a pretext for conflict1 . But when Elisha heard about this, he sent a message to the king, asking him to send Naaman to him 4 . Elisha’s Unconventional Method When Naaman arrived at Elisha’s house, Elisha sent a messenger to him with simple instructions: "Wash yourself seven times in the Jordan River, and your skin will be healthy and clean"1 . This was not what Naaman expected. He had anticipated that Elisha would perform some extraordinary act, call on the name of the Lord, wave his hand over the infected place, and heal the skin disease1 . Naaman’s Healing Initially, Naaman was angry and left in a huff. However, his servants persuaded him to follow Elisha’s instructions1 . Naaman then went to the Jordan River and dipped himself seven times. As he emerged from the water the seventh time, his skin became as healthy as a little child’s1 . The Acknowledgment of God’s Power Overwhelmed by his healing, Naaman returned to Elisha and declared, "Now I know that there’s no god in the whole world, except the God of Israel"1 . He offered Elisha gifts as a token of his gratitude, but Elisha refused to accept them1 . Naaman then asked for some soil from Israel, vowing to offer sacrifices to the Lord alone1 . Conclusion The story of Elisha and Naaman is a testament to the power of faith, humility, and obedience. It reminds us that God’s ways are not our ways, and His healing often comes in unexpected forms. This narrative provides aid and comfort to all who seek healing, reminding us of God’s unfailing love and mercy.