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Jesus in the Quran: A Comprehensive Exploration Jesus, known as Isa in Arabic, is a significant figure in the Quran. His story, though different from the narrative in the Christian Bible, holds a central place in Islamic theology. This blog post delves into what the Quran says about Jesus, covering his miraculous birth, prophetic mission, miracles, ascension, and his return before the Day of Judgment. Miraculous Birth The Quran recounts the miraculous birth of Jesus, emphasizing that he was born to the Virgin Mary (Maryam) by the will of God. This event is celebrated and revered, highlighting the power and mercy of God. Mary's devoutness and the miraculous nature of Jesus' birth are significant aspects of the Islamic narrative. Quranic Verse: "Mary said, 'My Lord, how will I have a child when no man has touched me?' [The angel] said, 'Such is Allah; He creates what He wills. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, "Be," and it is.'" (Surah Aal-E-Imran 3:47) Messiah and Prophet Jesus is recognized as the Messiah (al-Masih) and a prophet sent by God to guide the Children of Israel. However, unlike in Christianity, Islam does not consider Jesus to be divine or the Son of God. Instead, he is seen as a revered prophet who delivered God's message. Quranic Verses: "And [mention] when the angels said, 'O Mary, indeed Allah gives you good tidings of a word from Him, whose name will be the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary - distinguished in this world and the Hereafter and among those brought near [to Allah].'" (Surah Aal-E-Imran 3:45) Miracles The Quran attributes several miracles to Jesus, showcasing his divine mission. These miracles include healing the blind and lepers, raising the dead, and even speaking as a baby in the cradle to defend his mother from slander. These acts are seen as signs of his prophetic mission and God's power working through him. Quranic Verses: Jesus speaking, "And make him a messenger to the Children of Israel, [who will say], 'Indeed I have come to you with a sign from your Lord in that I design for you from clay [that which is] like the form of a bird, then I breathe into it and it becomes a bird by permission of Allah. And I cure the blind and the leper, and I give life to the dead - by permission of Allah. And I inform you of what you eat and what you store in your houses. Indeed in that is a sign for you, if you are believers.'" (Surah Aal-E-Imran 3:49) Rejection by the Jewish Establishment Jesus' message of monotheism and his call for the Children of Israel to return to the pure worship of God faced opposition from the Jewish religious leaders. This theme of resistance to prophetic messages is a common thread in the Quran. Quranic Verses: "And when Jesus brought clear proofs, he said, 'I have come to you with wisdom and to make clear to you some of that over which you differ, so fear Allah and obey me.'" (Surah Az-Zukhruf 43:63) Ascension A significant difference between the Islamic and Christian narratives is the Quran's assertion that Jesus was not crucified. Instead, it states that he was taken up to heaven by God, and it only appeared to people that he was crucified. Quranic Verses: "And [for] their saying, 'Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.' And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain. Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise." (Surah An-Nisa 4:157-158) Return Before the Day of Judgment The Quran and Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad) indicate that Jesus will return before the Day of Judgment to restore justice and defeat the Antichrist (Dajjal). This eschatological role highlights Jesus' significance in the Islamic end-times narrative. Quranic Verse: "And indeed, Jesus will be [a sign for] knowledge of the Hour, so be not in doubt of it, and follow Me. This is a straight path." (Surah Az-Zukhruf 43:61) Conclusion Jesus' story in the Quran, while different from the Christian narrative, emphasizes his miraculous birth, prophetic mission, performance of miracles, ascension, and his anticipated return before the Day of Judgment. Understanding these aspects provides a richer perspective on Jesus' role in Islam and highlights the common ground and differences between Islamic and Christian beliefs about this revered figure. By exploring these narratives, we can foster greater interfaith understanding and appreciation of Jesus in Christianity and Islam World. The Life and Teachings of Jesus in the Bible: A Comprehensive Exploration Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity, is known for his profound teachings, miraculous deeds, and his sacrificial death and resurrection. The Bible provides a detailed account of his life, teachings, miracles, and the impact he had on his followers. This blog post delves into the various aspects of Jesus' life as presented in the Bible, covering his birth, ministry, miracles, crucifixion, resurrection, and the significance of his teachings. The Birth of Jesus The story of Jesus begins with his miraculous birth. According to the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary in Bethlehem. His birth was announced by the angel Gabriel and was marked by the visitation of shepherds and wise men from the East. Biblical Scriptures: "But the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary ; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.'" (Luke 1:30-31) "After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem." (Matthew 2:1) Early Life and Ministry Jesus' early life is briefly mentioned in the Bible, including his family's escape to Egypt to avoid King Herod's massacre and their return to Nazareth. At the age of twelve, Jesus was found in the temple, discussing scriptures with the teachers, showcasing his deep understanding and wisdom. Biblical Scriptures: "When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. 'Get up,' he said, 'take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.'" (Matthew 2:13) "After three days they found Jesus in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers." (Luke 2:46-47) The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus Jesus' public ministry began with his baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, followed by a period of fasting and temptation in the wilderness. Biblical Scriptures: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him." (Matthew 3:16) "Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry." (Matthew 4:1-2) Teaching and Miracles Jesus' teachings and miracles form the core of his ministry. He preached about the Kingdom of God, love, forgiveness, and compassion. His Sermon on the Mount is particularly renowned for its moral and ethical guidelines. Jesus also performed numerous miracles, including healing the sick, raising the dead, and calming storms. Biblical Scriptures: "Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them." (Matthew 5:1-2) "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people." (Matthew 4:23) The Last Supper and Betrayal Before his crucifixion, Jesus shared a final meal with his disciples, known as the Last Supper, where he instituted the practice of Communion. He was later betrayed by Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples. Biblical Scriptures: "While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, 'Take and eat; this is my body.'" (Matthew 26:26) "Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?' So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver." (Matthew 26:14-15) The Crucifixion and Resurrection Jesus' crucifixion is a pivotal event in the Christian faith, symbolizing his sacrificial death for humanity's sins. According to the Gospels, Jesus was crucified under the Roman governor Pontius Pilate, died, and was buried. However, on the third day, he rose from the dead, an event celebrated as Easter. Biblical Scriptures: "Then they crucified Jesus , and divided His garments, casting lots, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet: 'They divided My garments among them, and for My clothing they cast lots.'" (Matthew 27:35) "He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay." (Matthew 28:6) The Great Commission and Ascension After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples and gave them the Great Commission, instructing them to spread his teachings to all nations. He then ascended to heaven. Biblical Scriptures: "Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.'" (Matthew 28:18-19) "After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God." (Mark 16:19) Revelations 1:5 Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. Conclusion The life and teachings of Jesus in the Bible offer a profound and transformative message of love, forgiveness, and redemption. His miraculous birth, compassionate ministry, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection continue to inspire and guide millions of believers worldwide. By exploring these aspects, we gain a deeper understanding of Jesus' significance and his enduring impact on Christianity and the Islam world.

The Transformative Journey of Daily Devotionals In the serene village of Meadowbrook, where the gentle hum of nature provided a soothing backdrop to daily life, stood a small, white chapel named St. Gabriel’s. This chapel had been a spiritual home to the villagers for generations, offering a sanctuary for prayer, reflection, and community gatherings. Yet, as the years passed and life grew busier, fewer people found the time to pause and reflect on their faith. Recognizing this shift, Father Thomas, the wise and compassionate priest of St. Gabriel’s, felt a deep calling to help his congregation reconnect with their spiritual roots. He pondered ways to bring the essence of faith into the daily lives of his parishioners. After much prayer and reflection, an idea blossomed: daily devotionals. Father Thomas envisioned these devotionals as brief yet powerful reflections that would guide the hearts and minds of his congregation each day. He imagined them as a small but significant pause in the hustle of daily life—a moment to breathe, reflect, and find peace in the presence of God. With a heart full of hope, Father Thomas began writing the devotionals. Each morning, he would rise before dawn, inspired by the quiet beauty of the village waking up. He chose scripture passages that spoke to the challenges and joys of everyday life, weaving in personal stories and reflections to make the messages relatable and heartfelt. The first devotional was shared on a chilly winter morning. It was a simple message about hope and renewal, inspired by the changing seasons. Father Thomas sent it out via email to his parishioners and posted it on the church's bulletin board. He prayed that these words would touch someone’s heart and bring a moment of peace. To his delight, the response was immediate and heartfelt. Mary, a local schoolteacher, wrote to him, “Father Thomas, your words were exactly what I needed today. I’ve been feeling overwhelmed, and this devotional reminded me to trust in God’s timing.” Encouraged by Mary’s response, Father Thomas continued his daily devotionals. Each day, he found new inspiration in the scriptures, connecting them to the lives of his parishioners. The devotionals became a cherished part of the community’s daily routine, eagerly anticipated by many. One day, Father Thomas received an unexpected letter from a young man named Alex, who had recently moved to the village. Alex shared how he had stumbled upon the devotionals online and how they had become a source of strength and guidance during a challenging time. “Your words have helped me find my way back to faith,” he wrote. “Thank you for being a light in my life.” The impact of the daily devotionals began to ripple through the community. People started sharing them with friends and family, both near and far. The devotionals became a bridge, connecting people across distances and differences, uniting them in shared reflection and faith. Inspired by the growing community of readers, Father Thomas decided to expand the devotionals’ reach. He collaborated with a group of volunteers to create a website dedicated to the daily messages. The site featured not only the devotionals but also a forum where readers could share their reflections and support one another. The forum blossomed into a vibrant community. People from all walks of life shared their stories, asked questions, and offered prayers for one another. It became a place of connection and encouragement, where people found strength in their shared journey of faith. As the devotionals continued to touch lives, Father Thomas realized their true power lay not just in the words themselves, but in the community they fostered. People were finding hope and healing, discovering new perspectives, and deepening their faith together. One evening, Father Thomas received a phone call from Emily, a young woman who had been struggling with grief after losing her mother. Through tears, she thanked him for the devotionals, sharing how they had helped her find solace and strength during her darkest days. “Your words reminded me that I am not alone,” she said. “They helped me see God’s love in the midst of my pain.” Deeply moved by Emily’s words, Father Thomas reflected on the journey of the daily devotionals. What had started as a simple idea had grown into a powerful ministry, transforming lives and building a community of faith and love. In the heart of Meadowbrook, the little white chapel continued to stand as a beacon of hope and peace. The daily devotionals, now reaching far beyond the village, carried the spirit of St. Gabriel’s into the world, spreading light and love wherever they were read. And so, the story of the daily devotionals continued, weaving together the lives of those who read them, reminding each person of the beauty and strength found in faith, one day at a time.

The Journey of Discovery: The Bible Study Resource Project In the picturesque town of Willow Creek, known for its lush landscapes and close-knit community, stood an old church named St. Andrew’s Parish. The church was a cornerstone of the town, with its history deeply intertwined with the lives of its residents. For generations, families had gathered there to worship, celebrate, and find solace in times of need. Despite its rich heritage, St. Andrew’s faced a challenge common to many churches: engaging the younger generation in meaningful Bible study. The traditional methods, while cherished by the older members, didn't resonate as strongly with the youth, who were more accustomed to digital interactions and instant access to information. Recognizing this, Pastor Rachel, a dynamic and forward-thinking leader, decided to embark on a new initiative: creating a comprehensive and interactive Bible study resource hub. Her vision was to blend the timeless wisdom of scripture with modern technology, making Bible study accessible, engaging, and relevant for all ages. The project began with a brainstorming session involving church members of all ages. Pastor Rachel encouraged everyone to share their ideas and experiences. The meeting room buzzed with excitement as people suggested using videos, podcasts, interactive quizzes, and discussion forums. The goal was to create a resource that not only educated but also inspired and connected people. With a clear vision in mind, Pastor Rachel assembled a team of volunteers with diverse skills: tech-savvy teenagers, creative writers, seasoned theologians, and enthusiastic retirees. Each member brought a unique perspective, and together, they began crafting the Bible study resource hub. The first step was to create a series of engaging video lessons. The team decided to focus on key themes and stories from the Bible, presenting them in a way that was both informative and relatable. They set up a small studio in the church basement, where Pastor Rachel and other volunteers recorded the lessons. They used storytelling techniques, visuals, and real-life applications to bring the scriptures to life. Next, the team developed interactive quizzes and games to reinforce the lessons. These were designed to be fun and challenging, encouraging users to delve deeper into the material. The quizzes quickly became a favorite feature, sparking friendly competitions among the youth group and even some of the adults. To foster community and discussion, the team set up an online forum where users could share insights, ask questions, and support one another in their faith journeys. The forum became a vibrant space for dialogue, with people from different backgrounds and perspectives coming together to explore scripture. As the resource hub took shape, word began to spread beyond Willow Creek. People from neighboring towns and even other states started accessing the materials online. The project, initially intended for the local community, was now reaching a global audience. One day, Pastor Rachel received an email from a woman named Maria in Brazil. Maria wrote about how she had discovered the resource hub through a friend and how it had reignited her passion for Bible study. She shared how the videos and discussions had helped her see scripture in a new light, deepening her understanding and faith. Inspired by Maria's story, the team decided to expand the resource hub further, adding content in multiple languages and exploring new formats like podcasts and live webinars. They also began collaborating with other churches and organizations, sharing resources and ideas to enhance the project. The impact of the Bible study resource hub was profound. In Willow Creek, it revitalized the church community, bridging the gap between generations and fostering a renewed enthusiasm for scripture. The youth group grew in numbers and engagement, often leading their own study sessions and outreach activities. The older members found joy in learning new technologies and connecting with people worldwide. For Pastor Rachel, the project was a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in spreading faith. It showed that by embracing change and working together, the timeless message of the Bible could be shared in ways that resonate with people today. As the sun set over the rolling hills of Willow Creek, the lights of St. Andrew’s Parish glowed warmly. Inside, a group of teenagers gathered around a computer, excitedly discussing the latest Bible study video. Nearby, an elderly couple shared insights from a forum discussion with a friend over the phone. The church was alive with the sounds of discovery and connection, a living testament to the enduring power of faith and community. And so, the Bible study resource hub continued to grow and evolve, a beacon of learning and inspiration for all who sought to deepen their understanding of scripture. It was a journey of discovery, one that brought people together in faith, no matter where they were in the world.

The Hidden Masters of Modern-Day Slavery Author Michael Hopkins Unveiling the Truth Behind Taxes and Currency The concept of property being taken due to unpaid taxes can indeed feel like theft. Legally, it’s known as a tax lien or tax foreclosure, where the government claims property to recover unpaid taxes. This process is often seen as unfair by many people. But let’s delve deeper into the roots of this system. The first person to make a $1 bill is your master. Who created the first $1 bill? Or who was the first person to implement a coin, which is essentially the same thing—a currency coin form of trade? Imagine I created the first gold coin and told you to do some work for me. In return, I would give you this coin, but you would have to give me 10% of the coin back as taxes. Where would you get the second coin, a 10% coin, to pay me back? This is a pyramid scheme that’s been going on throughout history. You cannot create a $1 bill, hire someone to do some work for you, give them a $1 bill, and expect them to pay back a portion when there’s only one in existence. So where does the second one come from? The answer is your master. And there are many masters in this world; each country has a master because all countries do the exact same thing in creating currency coins and digits on the computer. Long ago, do you think people would work for you for some digits on a computer? These concepts are instilled in children’s minds through our current schooling system. Your master or masters are the ones who write the books for your kids to read. What has your child been learning lately? People don’t even understand what slavery is, and they don’t know what taxes are. You’re forced to pay taxes or go to jail, which is a form of slavery. If you don’t pay your property tax, the county will sell your property because they own it. This is modern-day slavery. Do you think God is happy with this? The Treasury of the United States used to create our currency. Now, America has to borrow money from an unknown entity that owns the Federal Reserve. If we had the power to create our own currency before, why don’t we now? The answer is the Federal Reserve is your master. We don’t own anything anymore. We were robbed when the Federal Reserve was enacted. America doesn’t create its own currency anymore. Our currency used to have the phrase “Treasury of the United States” printed on it. In today’s world, it says “Federal Reserve,” from which the government borrows money. This means America doesn’t own anything anymore; we’re broke because we have to borrow from somebody else. Taxation and the creation of money are both pyramid schemes and forms of modern-day slavery. If you don’t pay your taxes, you go to jail. If you don’t pay your taxes on your property, they will sell your property or steal it—same thing. So who is your true master? Who really owns America? If we owned America, we wouldn’t have to borrow money all the time. End of story.

Missouri Property Tax Credit 09/19/2024 Understanding the Missouri Property Tax Credit Claim The Missouri Property Tax Credit Claim is a valuable program designed to provide financial relief to certain senior citizens and 100 percent disabled individuals. This program offers a credit based on the real estate taxes or rent paid for the year, helping to ease the financial burden on eligible residents. Key Benefits Maximum Credit: The credit can be up to $750 for renters and $1,100 for homeowners. Eligibility: The actual credit amount is determined by the amount paid and the total household income, both taxable and nontaxable. Eligibility Criteria Renters / Part-Year Owners: Single: Total household income must be $27,200 or less. Married Filing Combined: Total household income must be $29,200 or less. 100% Service-Connected Disabled Veterans: VA payments are not included in the income calculation. Owned and Occupied Your Home the Entire Year: Single: Total household income must be $30,000 or less. Married Filing Combined: Total household income must be $34,000 or less. 100% Service-Connected Disabled Veterans: VA payments are not included in the income calculation. How to Apply To apply for the Missouri Property Tax Credit, you can visit the Missouri Department of Revenue Tax Credit website1 . Here, you will find detailed information on the application process, required documentation, and additional resources to assist you. Conclusion The Missouri Property Tax Credit Claim is an essential program for eligible senior citizens and disabled individuals, offering significant financial relief. By understanding the eligibility criteria and applying for the credit, you can take advantage of this beneficial program to reduce your financial burden. For more detailed information and to apply, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue Tax Credit website1 .

Divine Chariots: Dreams of Spiritual Spaceships and Biblical Visions Author: Michael Hopkins I had a couple of dreams that felt deeply significant. In one of them, a spaceship with a rectangular shape, brown in color with rainbow hues around it, landed at my mother’s house. I boarded the spaceship and laid down in a bed with my arms slightly out to the side, and this position powered the spaceship. Once powered the spaceship stays powered unless you shut it off. The spaceship harnessed the energy within my body to power the spaceship. Considering that the human body can generate up to 6 volts of electricity, having several people on board could easily start the spaceship using their combined electrical currents. In another dream, I saw a similar spaceship that landed behind my house. These dreams remind me of the biblical imagery of flying chariots. For instance, in 2 Kings 2:11, it says, “As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind.” Similarly, Ezekiel 1:4-28 describes a vision of God’s chariot, with wheels and living creatures, moving with the spirit. Psalm 68:17 also mentions, “The chariots of God are tens of thousands and thousands of thousands; the Lord has come from Sinai into his sanctuary.” Additional scriptures that mention flying chariots and similar things: Isaiah 66:15: “For behold, the Lord will come with fire, and with His chariots, like a whirlwind, to render His anger with fury, and His rebuke with flames of fire.” Zechariah 6:1-5: “And I turned, and lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came four chariots out from between two mountains; and the mountains were mountains of brass. In the first chariot were red horses; and in the second chariot black horses; and in the third chariot white horses; and in the fourth chariot grisled and bay horses. Then I answered and said unto the angel that talked with me, What are these, my lord? And the angel answered and said unto me, These are the four spirits of the heavens, which go forth from standing before the Lord of all the earth.” Psalm 104:3: “He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters, Who makes the clouds His chariot, Who walks on the wings of the wind.” Habakkuk 3:8: “Was the Lord displeased against the rivers? Was Your anger against the rivers? Was Your wrath against the sea, that You rode on Your horses, Your chariots of salvation?”

Dreams and Angels in Our Lives The Significance of Dreams and Angels in Our Lives When I was younger, in my twenties, I would often dream of flying over treetops and revisiting the old trailer court where we grew up. Now, at 49, I recently had a vivid dream of an angel with wings descending from heaven and landing in front of our courthouse. The dream was so clear, like watching a 4K television. The angel was very tall and held a scroll that rolled out. A man, significantly smaller compared to her, wrote on the scroll and spoke aloud, “Michael, a Hopkins cherubim of Stoddard County.” This dream made me ponder the possibility of undercover angels on earth. We have all types of undercover people, so why wouldn’t God place someone undercover from heaven? Perhaps an angel who doesn’t realize he’s an angel, gathering information from his lifetime to report back to heaven. The Bible supports the idea of angels among us. Hebrews 13:2 states, “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unaware.” This verse reminds us to be kind to strangers, as they might be angels in disguise. Dreams hold significant meaning in the Bible. They are often used by God to communicate with His people. Here are some examples: Genesis 31:11: “And the angel of God spake unto me in a dream, saying, Jacob: And I said, Here am I.” Matthew 1:20: “But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.” Matthew 2:13: “And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.” Matthew 2:19: “But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt.” Revelation 8:13: “And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhibiter's of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!” The last scripture shows that angels do fly, and according to my dream and the Bible, they do have wings. These scriptures illustrate how God uses dreams to guide and protect His people. So, don’t take your dreams too lightly. How do you know that you don’t go somewhere when you sleep? Perhaps your spirit leaves your body and joins with other spirits in the invisible realm. Dreams can be a powerful way for God to communicate with us, offering guidance, warnings, and comfort. Pay attention to your dreams, for they may hold messages from the divine.

Cherubim and Flying Angels Discovering the Mystery of Cherubim and Flying Angels Have you ever wondered if you might be an angel, sent from heaven to observe and live among humans? It’s a fascinating thought, and one that has intrigued many throughout history. Let’s explore this idea through the lens of scripture and see what we can uncover about cherubim and flying angels. Discovering the Mystery of Cherubim and Flying Angels Have you ever wondered if you might be an angel, sent from heaven to observe and live among humans? It’s a fascinating thought, and one that has intrigued many throughout history. Let’s explore this idea through the lens of scripture and see what we can uncover about cherubim and flying angels. What Are Cherubim? Cherubim are a type of angelic being mentioned several times in the Bible. They are often depicted as having multiple faces and wings, symbolizing their divine nature and multifaceted roles. For instance, in Ezekiel 10:8, we read: “And there appeared in the cherubim’s the form of a man’s hand under their wings.” This imagery suggests that cherubim possess both human-like and divine attributes. In Ezekiel 10:19, the cherubim are described as lifting up their wings and mounting up from the earth, accompanied by wheels and the glory of God: “And the cherubim’s lifted up their wings and mounted up from the earth in my sight: when they went out, the wheels also were beside them, and everyone stood at the door of the east gate of the Lord’s house; and the glory of the God of Israel was over them above.” This powerful vision emphasizes their close connection to God’s presence and their role as His messengers and protectors. Flying Angels in Scripture The concept of flying angels is also prevalent in the Bible. 2 Samuel 22:11 and Psalm 18:10 both describe God riding upon a cherub and flying upon the wings of the wind: “And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly, and he was seen upon the wings of the wind.” (2 Samuel 22:11) “And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly; yes, he did fly upon the wings of the wind.” (Psalm 18:10) These verses highlight the swiftness and majesty of God’s messengers as they carry out His will. In Revelation 8:13, an angel is seen flying through the midst of heaven, proclaiming a message of woe to the inhabitants of the earth: “And I beheld and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabitants of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet to sound!” Similarly, Revelation 14:6 speaks of another angel flying in the midst of heaven, carrying the everlasting gospel to preach to all people: “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,” These passages illustrate the role of angels as bearers of divine messages and their ability to traverse the heavens. Could You Be an Angel? The idea of being an angel sent from heaven to live among humans is intriguing. While there is no definitive way to know if you are an angel, there are a few things to consider: Divine Encounters: Have you experienced dreams or visions that suggest a higher purpose? My dream about being a cherubim could be a sign of a special calling. Spiritual Gifts: Do you possess unique spiritual gifts or abilities that set you apart? Angels often have extraordinary capabilities that aid them in their divine missions. Inner Calling: Do you feel a deep sense of purpose and connection to the divine? This inner calling might be a clue to your true nature. Seeking Wisdom and Understanding Ultimately, whether you are an angel or not, the pursuit of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding is a noble endeavor. As you explore your spiritual journey, remember the words of Psalm 55:6: “And I said, Oh, that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away and be at rest.” Seek peace and rest in your quest for divine truth, and trust that God will guide you on your path. Conclusion The mystery of cherubim and flying angels is a profound and captivating topic. While we may not have all the answers, the scriptures provide us with glimpses of their divine nature and purpose. Whether you are an angel or a human seeking wisdom, your journey is a valuable part of God’s plan.

The Illusion of Ownership: A Modern-Day Slavery? Author: Michael Hopkins Slavery: This is when one person completely owns and controls another person, forced or forcing them to do things, and taking away their freedom and rights. When we talk about freedom and rights, a glaring question arises: why can you not truly own your property? You paid for it, not the government. Yet, if you can’t afford to pay property taxes, the government will take it away, lining their pockets in the process. Does this mean we were robbed years ago when property taxes were introduced? You don’t have the right to own anything except your vehicle and personal belongings inside your house. You don’t actually own the house itself, as the government can claim your property as their own if you fail to pay your property taxes. This essentially makes you homeless, and forced off your property you paid for. People claim they want to help the homeless, but how can they when they continue to take away homes from those who can’t afford property taxes? If you can’t afford to pay your property taxes, it means you’re already financially struggling. You’ve worked all your life to pay for that house, and yet, they believe they have the right to take it from you. Did you ever vote to give them the rights to your property? Did you vote for them to steal your property if you’re unable to pay for it? If you can’t afford to pay your property taxes, it means you don’t have any money, and you’re at risk of becoming homeless because they’re taking your house from you for not paying the property taxes. Being Forced to Do Something: This can happen in many ways. For example, you feel forced to pay taxes or follow certain rules to avoid jail. Did you vote for this? Did you vote for them to send you to jail because you couldn’t pay your taxes? If you don’t pay your property taxes, they will take your property from you. This means they own the property because if you don’t pay your taxes, also called rent, they will take it back. The only thing free in this world is air. If you can’t afford to pay taxes, it means you are broke, you don’t have any money, and you’re at risk of becoming homeless. Do you think they really care? Some people care, and I know I do. God cares too. This post aims to highlight the parallels between historical slavery and modern-day financial obligations that can strip away one’s sense of ownership and security. It questions the fairness of property taxes and the broader implications on personal freedom and rights. What are your thoughts on this issue? How do you think we can address these concerns in a way that aligns with our values of freedom and justice?