(06/17/2020) Uniting In The Struggle

A photograph showing George Floyd in an arrest confrontation with a police officer, May 25, 2020, Minneapolis, MN.

Today, I share the comment I wanted to post at FACEBOOK responding to Bishop Elect Marvin L. Winans Statement Against Racism from Perfecting Church (Detroit, MI) posted June 10, 2020, 3:18 PM. Daily, Jesus Christ taught the law and the prophets; and Jesus did not present himself as an heroic military or political figure seeking to expand his territory through conquest and guile. Even so, the Zealots and many among the multitude who had been fed and healed by Christ were preparing to force Jesus to accept a crown ripped from Herod through insurrection and overthrow. These supporters became specially dismayed by the Lord’s lack of outrage at recent tragedies forced by Rome upon the Galileans comparing it to what befell others in Jerusalem by chance (except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish). Those who yearned for Jesus as a prince and an earthly ruler misunderstood the character and nature of the peace and prosperity then being offered by divinity. Believers now must exercise discernment and vigilance to avoid making the same mistakes seen at the Savior’s first appearing. The concluding paragraph of the Bishop’s post (following below) struck me with great power. The many broadcast news and other presentations of recent arrest confrontation deaths across the Nation repeatedly show a single, isolated, victim having no one to turn to, and nowhere to run. Surely, good counsel to black teens, young adults, and even those who are seniors at this time is GET YOU SOMEBODY! Where you see the pattern developing (ABCDEFG, xyz IS COMING). Hit the pause button; freeze the action. Call for immediate assistance before any further action takes place. The crisis is not later at the police station, or in the action that will occur within the courtroom. While yet on the street, there is a need for clear information on options and possibilities for a suspect that police repeatedly have shown they are unable to provide; there is a need for simple agreements (handshakes) and assurances to resolve conflict that police are not authorized to provide. There is a need for impartial decision-making; there is a need for respect; there is a need for trust; and there is a need for unbiased witness. It is written: Romans 13: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

I believe we should unite in this struggle for racial equity and justice. One such step is to become involved in the political process. Not just voting for a President, but your local government as well. The judges, prosecutors, mayor, city council. These positions have a more direct bearing on reigning in the injustices we see at the local level and work on improving your schools and communities.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave my soul of good? This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail. Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4: 8-12, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Law And The Prophets (06/10/2020); Elephant In The Room? (06/05/2020); The Nearness Of Kingdom (06/02/2020); Knowing The True Messiah (05/31/2020); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); Fulfillment of His Dream? (04/05/2017); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)

“Bishop Winans”, responding to your statement on racism recently published in the FACEBOOK public forum, sound counsel within the black community these days is don’t try to face challenges by the police alone, and when there are problems on the street, do not put yourself in the role of a fugitive. An important aspect of the arrest confrontation scenario has been the willingness of victims to operate while outnumbered, and as though they are unaware of the great danger they are being challenged to meet unassisted. For some, this is a matter of exaggerated pride; for some it is that they are guiltless; and for others, it is a misapplication and inaccurate understanding of the promises for civil freedom, free speech, etc. According to what has been displayed in multiple incidents, the police are not trained to “think on their feet.” Properly understood, guilt and innocence are not the primary focus of the police. (Unasked-for explanations are called “excuses” and “too much information.”) Also, the police are representations of the law, and the law will not be changed or altered during their actions on the street. (This is not the time, this is not the place.) The law embodied as the police lawfully can not be argued with, challenged, or quarreled against. (Tell it to the judge, to the legislatures, and to your elected officials.) In their confusion and humanity (that may express an animal, human or divine nature all at the same time), even after striking a victim multiple times with hands, fists or weapons, the police will operate with the idea that their victim does not feel pain until all movement and resistance are crushed. Unknowingly, they demand no complaint, moaning, groaning, cursing and swearing, or other sounds of distress; and their immediate goals for their victim become deny all escape or flight, paralysis, unconsciousness, or death.

With the goal that no one becomes injured through a police action, policies can be established that will allow both a suspect and an officer at the scene to avoid becoming a victim or an assailant by immediately notifying someone of their choice regarding their need for an intervention agent, be it family, friend, co-worker, police supervisor (e.g., desk sergeant, chief, sheriff), or an elected official (city counsel member, county executive, mayor). After exchanging information, a confrontation may be ended with a verbal pledge by the suspect to appear at the police station the next day, in night court, or some other venue. Terms of the pledge may include agreeing to be accountable as a full resident, and having to acknowledge that unwillingness to cooperate with the police implies a rejection of all privileges as a good neighbor granted by the community at large (e.g., driving, parking, trash collection). An attorney could be appointed as a one-time, emergency legal assistant to resolve the developing arrest confrontation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Hezekiah Walker:

(1.) Proverbs 11: 14, King James Version (KJV): 14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

(2.) Proverbs 12: 15, KJV: 15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

(3.) Proverbs 20: 18, KJV: 18 Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.

(4.) James 1: 5-8, KJV: 5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. 7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. 8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnaHTOUigJM.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:23 AM, June 17, 2020 @ https://reason.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/George-Floyd-arrest-5-25-20-cellphone-video-1200x630.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/05/2020) Elephant In The Room?

Today, focus is on “the elephant in the room,” the critical issues, opportunities, and problems that are ignored, neglected and suppressed as if they do not exist at a time when public outcries are being made. The failure of problem-solving efforts to respond to the elephant in the room increases stumbling blocks that include rush-to-judgment behavior, exaggerated pride, emotional imbalance, self-promotion, silence where there should be dialogue, stubbornness, and “I’m right when I’m wrong, because...”. Rather than evading accountability, dodging duty, and selective blindness, there must be commitment to continuing practical efforts that will build lasting solutions. Healthy change will come when the people of our country realize that, right now, there are increased possibilities for benefit and good. All must see with new eyes and truly godly vision when up against the recurring issues and ungodly problems of racism in America, police violence, the goals and outcomes for protest events, and the fruit (take-away) that should come by leadership from those in the streets as well as from elected officials. Where the honest intent of everyone involved is to improve the quality of life, and share the benefits and privileges of working and keeping our homes within the U.S., the first response to arrest confrontations and similar outrages should be in providing and recording a public statement of agreement that encourages attitudes and expressions that support the lawful and thoughtful process that must be used to achieve justice while increasing understanding. A form that peaceful protest might assume that would give voice to the community at large and allow citizens to go on record would be a kind of petition or pledge to carefully investigate and pursue full disclosure of questionable, criminal and unlawful acts by public servants. Our law does not condone condemnation and punishment before the hearing of evidence and trial: those who administer the law also must minister discipline, self-control, and restraint. Consider again John 18: 19-24, King James Version (KJV): 19 The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine. 20 Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. 21 Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said. 22 And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest thou the high priest so? 23 Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me? 24 Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. (Matthew 22: 35-40, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Meaning Of “Persecution” (02/12/2020); White People Becoming Atheists? (10/03/2019); Catholic and Protestant Bibles? (10/11/2018); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); No Less GOD’s Creation (12/01/2016); Diversity and Divine Purpose (08/28/2016); Can Christians Be Racists? (07/25/2016); The Provision Against Racists? (01/19/2016)

While we are yet in a season of divine grace, Christian believers are to speak up and call attention to the elephant in the room, even where “the room” may be the pulpit, the Internet, the prayer chamber, the throne room, or the consecrated Sanctuary. Where earthly challenges, difficulties, and formidable obstacles are not to be downplayed or overlooked, neither are simple and godly solutions to be despised, refused, and underestimated:

(1.) There is a need for a process that will not employ violence where public expressions of protest may be openly presented, recorded, and made accessible for public exchange and response. More than simply making statements of anger, fear, frustration, and other feelings, all will be welcome to offer useful conclusions and specific recommendations that can be further researched and serve as the beginning of action plans, goals for growth, and targets for development.

(2.) Late one night, the President of the United States of America chose to walk over to a nearby church in his home neighborhood. It could not be assumed that the President would be safe to walk within his own familiar area. There were no believers on look-out to see the presidential party approaching. No one was there charged to watch and pray or to greet the President at his coming. There was no one immediately available to serve as a crisis counselor, a comforter, a prayer partner, or an emergency spiritual adviser. Even so, those “looking for an occasion” and hiding to attack came out to condemn the President for lacking and not applying the sacred knowledge found in the Bible, and they have yet to provide an authentic standard for the use of the Scriptures by those in our Nation’s public offices and worship congregations.

(3.) Where Christ prayed, Father forgive them, they know not what they do, many have come forward to criticize the President (who, like a drowning man, can be seen clutching at straws). Those who acknowledge his need and that of those around him will be making efforts (in private as well as public displays) to comfort, edify, and reinforce the faith and resolve of those in the Oval Office.

(4.) There is a need for a process where, when a police officer feels that his or her actions have initiated a pattern of arrest confrontation, (ABCDEFG, we know XYZ is coming) they should be free to negotiate a handshake agreement with the suspect that will avoid escalation of conflict and disagreement. There can be an offer to share assistance by telephone contact with an attorney, police officials, a member of the city council, or even, an emergency conference call with the Mayor. Someone trusted by all must clarify for them the rights of the many involved parties, the lawful process, and their questions on what they are to do next.

(5.) An Archbishop of the Anglican Church (UK) with whom I have been sharing prayer and contemplation published the following tweet on June 2, 2020 that continues to advance subtlety and error as harmless and unintended (i.e., as therefore innocent and acceptable): @JustinWelby Jun 2 I pray that those of us who are white Christians repent of our own prejudices, and do the urgent work of becoming better allies to our brothers and sisters of colour.

9:11 AM · Jun 2, 2020·Twitter for iPhone My response was: @JustinWelby The battle is for the mind; and this is the gulf between us: There are no white Christians; there are no black Christians; there are only developing and mature Christians. Saying this another way, Ephesians 4: 4-6 (KJV): 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, from the music ministry of John Michael and Terry Talbot (6.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4TP81Uy72Q.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:12 PM, June 04, 2020 @ https://bassamsalem.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/elephant-in-the-room.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/17/2020) Twenty, 20-20

Today, choosing a gift to give suitable for celebrating the coming Citizen King holiday, I share an original poem, that does not have to be ribbon-ed and wrapped, along with special music selections to put us all on the same page. Happy Holiday.

Twenty, 20-20

[A poem acknowledging Martin Luther King, Jr. - January 20, 2020]

The citizen day will be shackled to the cold

again and flakes of white may drift to fill the distant

lover thoughts that rise like childless parents

turning to wake their charges with news of a snow day

we once more brace ourselves

for the bathroom bedroom rush

to the break off fasting table

manners if you please

awaken sleeping joy with freedom call

have we now overcome

the street safe classroom pull

we cant resist

nonviolence hushed to work for climate change

awed by new gun lawlessness

the old ways will not linger

for dressed in pjs we vow to be on time

not wanting things to start before we get there

have I become an old man

racism out of the closet

or is it just the sun is not as warm

and love will never die

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2020. All rights reserved.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. (Philippians 2: 14-16, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Was Divine Power Squandered? (01/14/2020); White People Becoming Atheists? (10/03/2019); Black History Month, 2019 (02/24/2019); Cultural, Political, Spiritual Growth? (07/10/2016); Poem, 2015: MOONLIGHT (01/19/2015); A Godly Take on Guns (01/18/2013); It Is Finished (01/19/2013)

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. Hear Marvin Gaye: “I want you” and “I want you extended remix 62889”

@ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjRLbzxz_3Y  

and @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_Z0eEnS-pI. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/16/2019) Presuming To Judge Others?

A depiction of the Parable of the Talents

Today, reply is on a parable from Jesus Christ that speaks to condemning and presuming on those having lawful authority who become attacked and slandered when they act to build and show trust to others. Being afraid and fear are very different from being correctly in awe, having respect, and showing due reverence. In the same way some despise their own parents, many express ingratitude and resentment against divinity failing to realize they are practicing forms of blasphemy, self-destruction, slander, violence, and transgression of sacred law. A servant who was shown respect and trust by his master, went so far in error, he declared that his master would find what was due him in the grave (hell). It is written: Luke 12: 42-48, King James Version (KJV): 42 And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? 43 Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. 44 Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath. 45 But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; 46 The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47 And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48 But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more. Lukas 12: 42-48, Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB): 42 And HaAdon said, Who then is the sochen haneeman and navon (faithful and wise steward) whom HaAdon will appoint over his avadim to give them their okhel (food) allowance at the proper time? 43 Ashrey is that eved, whom, having come, his Adon will find doing thus. 44 Omein, I say to you, that he will appoint him over all that he has. 45 But if that eved says in his lev, Adoni delays to come to me, and if that eved begins to beat the avadim (servants) and the shfakhot (maid servants), and to gluttonize and get down in his schnapps, 46 HaAdon of that eved will come on a day which he does not expect and at an hour of which he does not have da’as, and will cut him in pieces and assign him the portion of the Apikoros with the koferim (unbelievers). 47 That eved, who had daas of the ratzon of his Adon and did not get prepared or do according to his ratzon, will be beaten with a klap (blow) and not a few. [DEVARIM 25:2] 48 But the one not having had daas, but having done things worthy of a klap, will receive but a few. But to everyone to whom much was given, much will be required from him, and to whom was entrusted much, even more achraius (accountability) will be required. [VAYIKRA 5:17; BAMIDBAR 15:27-30] One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “olam hazeh... 'olam haba” (Level 7 with 58,929 points) posted the following:

Why was The Servant punished for fearing The Master?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12: 32, KJV)

Do not have pachad (terror, fear), Eder Katan (Little Flock), because it is the ratzon, the chefetz (desire) of your Av [shbaShomayim] to give you the Malchut. (Lukas 12: 32, OJB)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Willingness To Forgive Others? (05/24/2019); Doing The Devil's Work? (02/21/2019); Applying The Divine Standards (10/02/2018); Ye That Work Iniquity (09/24/2018); The Relationship As Servant (06/03/2018); “Occupy Till I Come” (08/30/2017); Opinions and Thought Crimes? (08/25/2017); Called To Be Servants? (11/25/2015)

“olam hazeh... 'olam haba”, a parable (object lesson) was used by Jesus Christ to clarify the operations and substance describing the kingdom of GOD that, like the divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit), is spirit in image, character, nature, and possibilities. A servant was entrusted with a sum of money, and this provided him with an opportunity to please the master. More than this, it gave the servant opportunity to display his willingness to be held accountable, his gratitude, and his otherwise unseen purpose to be an asset or liability bringing honor or disrespect to the master. Not only did the servant repeat insults others had made against his master who provided him with food, shelter and meaningful activity (work), he behaved with presumption (i.e., as one who could appoint himself as a legitimate authority to condemn another). Our fear that derives from the aspects of flesh (e.g., appetite; sensation; emotion/mind) is worthless, does not edify (build up understanding), and does not justify enmity, excuse-making, ignorance, judging others, laziness, or selfishness. Consider again the following that uses language from the holy writings, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Matthew 25: 22-30, King James Version (KJV): 22 He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them. 23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 24 Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: 25 And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. 26 His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: 27 Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. 28 Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. 29 For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. 30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Mattiyahu 25: 22-30, Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB): 22 And having come forward, the one having received two talents, said, You bestowed upon me two talents. Hinei! Two more talents I gained. 23 His Adon said to him, Shkoyach (well done), eved tov vneeman! A few things you were faithful over, over many things I will ordain you. Enter into the simcha of your Adon. 24 And also the one who had received one talent stepped forward. He said, Adoni, I knew that you are a hard man, reaping where you did not sow and gathering from that which you did not scatter seed. 25 And having been afraid and having gone away, I hid your talent by burying it in the ground. Here, see, you have that which belongs to you. 26 And, in reply, his Adon said to him, You farbissener (mean) eved rah vatzel (wicked and lazy slave), so you had daas that I reap where I did not sow and I gather from which I did not scatter seed? 27 Then why was it not necessary for you to deposit my gelt with the bankers, and having returned, I would have received back that which was mine with interest? 28 Take, therefore, from him the talent and give it to the one having the ten talents. 29 For to every one having, it will be given and he will have abundance; but from the one not having, even what he has will be taken from him. 30 And as for the useless slave, throw him into the outer choshech, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.

(2.) Luke 6: 36-38, KJV: 36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. 37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: 38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

Lukas 6: 36-38, OJB: 36 Be anashim of rachamanut (compassion) just as also your Elohim HaAv is merciful. [TEHILLIM 103:8] 37 Judge not, lest you be judged. And do not condemn, and by no means may you be condemned. If you pardon with mechila (forgiveness), you will be pardoned with selicha (forgiveness). 38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, having been pressed down and having been shaken, overflowing, will be put into your kheyk (lap). For by what measure you measure it will be measured in return to you. [Ps 79:12; Isa 65:6,7]

(3.) Matthew 12: 31-33, KJV: 31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. 32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come. 33 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit.

Mattityahu 12: 31-33, Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB): 31 Therefore, I say to you, every chet (sin) and gidduf (blasphemy) will be forgiven men, but whoever commits Chillul Hashem against the Ruach Hakodesh will not be forgiven. 32 And whoever speaks a word against the Ben HaAdam [Moshiach] will be granted selicha (forgiveness), but whoever speaks against the Ruach Hakodesh, selicha will not be granted him either in the Olam Hazeh or in the Olam Habah. 33 Either make the etz (tree) tov (good) and its pri (fruit) will be tov, or make the etz nishchat (corrupt) and its pri will be rah; for by its pri the etz is known.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Xxl9Wk3idA.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB) Copyright © 2002, 2003, 2008, 2010, 2011 by Artists for Israel International

Image downloaded 2:45 PM, December 15, 2019 @ saintjanedechantal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/parable-of-talents.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/05/2019) In Fear To GOD?

Today, reply is on the awe, respect, and reverence Christian believers express in their relationships with divinity. Because they fear the physical strength of an abusive partner, many women and children continue in homes that are destructive and toxic as victims of domestic violence. Fear of the Lord that should be expressed within relationships to divinity is very different than the emotional, psychological, and spiritual cruelty that occurs within dysfunctional families. Christian believers are encouraged to willingly be in an ongoing relationship with divinity that features discovery, gradual growth, sacred practices, study, and unselfish service. The overwhelming authority, knowledge, and power of GOD are expressed in multiple sacred operations whereby believers may resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and nature of Jesus Christ. As the most complete belief system on the earth, Christianity provides focus, intelligence, integrity, and maturity. There will be increased acknowledgment of accountability, commitment, and the practice of discernment. None are to experience the coercion, confusion, intimidation, threats, and violence that appear when pursuing self-destruction, the supernatural, superstition, and the occult. It is written: Matthew 11: 28-30, King James Version (KJV): 28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appears) posted the following:

Should I bow down in fear to God because of his enormous supernatural powers?

The miracle of life is incredible.

It's also frightening to think of the power behind it.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. (1^st John 1: 5-7, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Better Safe Than Sorry (10/21/2019); Divinity’s Threat to Humanity (05/21/2019); Awe Through Sacred Revelation (12/05/2018); Fear of the Unknown (03/29/2018); No Fear In Love? (05/17/2017); Fear That Acknowledges GOD? (07/15/2016); Correct Awe and Respect (02/04/2016)

“Anonymous”, mankind is being drawn to GOD through multiple sacred operations that make otherwise invisible and unseen aspects of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) alive and present within the consciousness and self-will (willpower) of the living. Included are atonement, forgiveness, and reconciliation to mankind regarding sin; comfort and lovingkindness to relieve bereavement, mourning, and suffering; the provision of mercy to those guilty in judgment; using human form to appear on the earth as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation); the use of covenant relationships grounded in sacred law and divine promises as well as multiple opportunities and possibilities for healthy fellowship within assemblies and communities of faith. Awe, respect, and reverence to GOD is very different from the “fear” that many have faced in relationships displaying domestic violence, where a spouse is forced to remain in submission by use of beatings; destruction of property in the home; death threats against herself and the children; displays of exaggerated jealousy, possessiveness, and temper; unresponsiveness to reasoned appeals; and continuous verbal aggression. While GOD displays wrath against sin in divine judgment, what Christians express as “fear of the Lord” is their correct acknowledgment of GOD as the origin of existence and life, and the caretaker for all Creation. GOD is an immortal, incorruptible spirit, who has put forth created beings and living creatures, their spheres of life (i.e., heaven and earth), and the conditions for their duration. GOD appears to the living through displays of authority, dominion, personhood, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign majesty. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a special music presentation from Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sarah Brightman, Paul Miles-Kingston - Pie Jesu:

(1.) 2^nd Timothy 1: 7, King James Version (KJV): 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

(2.) Luke 12: 4-6, KJV: 4 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, (3.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31oAcmBz044.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 7:50 AM, December 05, 2019 @ https://ldsblogs.com/files/2011/08/WhomshouldIfear-300x300.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/17/2019) When Christians Weigh Abortion

Today, the reply focuses on doctrine and teachings among Christian believers that are important when considering abortion. Mature Christians will not be deceived by those who promote abortion, birth control pills, condoms and Viagra as resources necessary for pubic health and reproduction to disguise their actual goal is no more than making money by selling popular products that have questionable value. Many believers acknowledge that mothering may be contrary to a woman’s ambitions and personality, yet, it is not contrary to divine law, eternal purpose, and a woman’s sacred inheritance. In addition to divorce, entitlements, family, fornication, physical beauty, exaggerated pride, abuse of drugs and medicines, there are many topics that require believers to re-examine and weigh the meaning and value of life to the unborn child. For many years, abortions were often criminally performed in settings that were not medically sound, and methods were used that included violence against women. Prostitutes, sex workers, and women caught in adultery would be forced to destroy any egg (a woman’s seed) that might become fertilized. Crude attempts to cause a miscarriage or stillbirth were relied on that ranged from pushing a woman down a stairwell to scraping her placenta using a wire coat-hanger. The process of divinity for mankind promotes life as an immutable, unchanging purpose. Divinity therefore provides continuity and stability for relationships with the Creator in spite of the mortality of man that allows life to be cut off without warning. The careless and malicious destruction of life are understood as a form of betrayal, blasphemy, murder, rebellion, withholding glory and praise to GOD as well as usurpation. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 3: 11-19, King James Version (KJV): 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. 14 If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. 16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

Why are people so against abortion? It isn’t murder?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Gavest thou the goodly wings unto the peacocks? or wings and feathers unto the ostrich? Which leaveth her eggs in the earth, and warmeth them in dust, And forgetteth that the foot may crush them, or that the wild beast may break them. She is hardened against her young ones, as though they were not her’s: her labour is in vain without fear; Because God hath deprived her of wisdom, neither hath he imparted to her understanding. What time she lifteth up herself on high, she scorneth the horse and his rider. (Job 39: 13-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Life Exists Before Birth (01/23/2019); A Lawless, Violent GOD? (11/16/2017); The Work of Forgiving (11/23/2016); The Death Penalty? (10/08/2015); Meanings That Support Eternal Existence? (06/02/2015); Babies Given A Second Life? (01/25/2015); About “The Just” (10/29/2014); Antidotes to the Poisons (10/30/2014); Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013); Confusion 2013 (01/13/2013)

“Anonymous”, there are multiple themes and streams of sacred knowledge that come together when prayerfully examining the issues of abortion. All Christian believers are cautioned to “judge nothing before the time” (i.e., render no final sacred decisions against error and sin before the tribunal of White Throne judgment). Christians are entered into a broad system of belief and eternal life that begins before death wherein apprehension of sacred knowledge is to be unending. Fullness and maturity are accomplished through such features as change, discovery, gradual growth, learning, rebirth, focused study, unselfish service, and suffering.

Developing and mature believers are to be conscious of the reflections and teachings recorded as the holy writings that provide the meaningful guidelines and principles needed for accord with divinity to be uninterrupted. Just as there are differences between life and death, there are clear conflicts that must be resolved between the operations from self-will and those that accompany performing the divine will. The origin, process, purpose and substance of existence, life, and continuing relationship with the Creator are to be acknowledged as provided through the operations of divinity (we also say, divine fullness; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). There are in place sacred law and divine order that must remain for the universe to continue as we now know it.

Therefore, with the people of GOD, a charge of “murder” addresses more than simple accountability for ones own behavior. The authority, dominion, intent, and eternal purpose of GOD must come into view as aspects of covenant with divinity, and with the community of believers. In the same way parents begin their communications, relationships, and responsibilities for their child before its actual birth, GOD endows a developing child with personhood and other inseparable aspects of his own makeup. Included are faith, holiness, joy, meekness, and righteousness. The earth and Creation have been put forth by divinity, and their duration is on the basis of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD, not simply mechanical process and natural laws. The world has been created by mankind as a finite system for communication, exchange, interaction and survival. While death will stop a sinner from continuing to commit sin, the consequences for their sin among the living may continue as a challenge and an unseen influence for as many as four generations (160 years). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Psalms 115: 16-18, King James Version (KJV): 16 The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD’s: but the earth hath he given to the children of men. 17 The dead praise not the Lord, neither any that go down into silence. 18 But we will bless the LORD from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the LORD.

2. 1^st Timothy 2: 13-15, KJV: 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve.

14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

3. Psalms 127: 3-5, KJV: 3 Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. 4 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. 5 Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

4. Psalms 139: 11-18, KJV: 11 If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. 12 Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. 13 For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. 14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. 15 My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16 Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. 17 How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! 18 If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. Jeremiah 1: 5-10, KJV: 5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. 6 Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. 7 But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. 8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD. 9 Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth. 10 See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 5:55 PM @ https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/2-DL5NGr8F1zIWqWJs9dpyiiTkI/fit-in/1200x630/filters:format_auto-!!-:strip_icc-!!-:fill-!white!-/2016/03/23/599/n/24155406/41d2c50d64167a66_She-remained-so-peaceful-serene-during-her-labor/i/Photos-Water-Births.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/12/2018) The World War Centennial

WW1 British Soldiers Marching into Jerusalem (see reference below)

Acknowledging the great human event of World War I, and the greater event of armistice and multiple peace accords that have followed since that earlier time along with both Armistice Day 2018 and Veterans Day 2018, a blog is reprinted that was originally published as THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD: (01/06/2016) A Note On Spirit Warfare (the image above was downloaded from the Wikimedia Commons Internet site, 7:05 PM (11/11/2018) @

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Israel_in_World_War_I_-_British_soldiers_marching_into_Jerusalem_H_OP_040.JPG ).

Today, Scriptures are shared responding to a question on spirit warfare.  Properly understood, destruction and death are not the highest manifestation of divine glory.  The most sublime display of supernal glory is incarnation, where divinity takes on carnal form, or operates from within created beings and living creatures as an imparted, indwelling, Spirit from GOD (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  As those in warfare under the authority of GOD, believers do not decide who is the enemy, or what is their target, any more than those in secular forces may choose the flag to be raised, or the uniform to be worn.  Christian believers do not embrace any teaching on jihad that identifies divine warfare where mankind is set in opposition to mankind. Because cleansing, the works of faith, eternal life, healing, and salvation are the primary purposes revealed by divinity through Jesus Christ, Christian warfare does not center in the usual carnal objectives of conquest, conscripting laborers and slaves, expanding territory, and seizing the property and wealth of others.  The Holy Spirit empowers and enables operations to prepare a harvest from the earth of those who are spiritually ripe.  No works in the name of GOD—including those to carry out divine judgment and wrath against sin—are driven or fueled by the finite human tools that typically ignite and maintain deadly conflict such as anger, bitterness, spiritual confusion, envy, error, ethnic arrogance, hatred, immaturity, malice, racism, and revenge.  Readers are encouraged to think about the following verses from the Bible as they review the comments below:

2nd Timothy 2:  23-26, King James Version (KJV):  23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.  24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,  25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;  26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

2nd Timothy 2:  3-5, KJV:  3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.  4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.  5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

Romans 13:  11-12, KJV:  11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep:  for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.  12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand:  let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.

2nd Timothy 4:  6-8, KJV:  6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.  7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:  8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day:  and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Romans 8:  35-39, KJV:  35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?  36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.  37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.  38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,  39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

One of several fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (required profile data not shared) posted the following:

What if God gave you some spiritual weapons, like a translucent glowing bow, a sword covered in fire, or a bible that shoots lasers?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:  Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.  Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:  Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.  But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.  To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.  (1st Peter 5:  6-11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Different From ISIS/Daesh? (12/11/2015); Agents of Allah? (01/26/2015); Holy Wars? (11/06/2014); Crimes Christ Crucified For? (11/07/2014); Prince of Peace? 07/18/2014); War and Peace? (07/17/2014); A GOD of War? (03/12/2013); “Authorized Personnel Only” (03/13/2013); Mob Rule and Violence (09/27/2012); Suppose I Am Wrong? (09/28/2012)

“Anonymous”, the Deity a Christian serves is a god of Judgment, and one who never separates from anger against and opposition to sin.  The serious language of conflict and spiritual warfare is used among those who are disciples of Jesus Christ to establish awe (i.e., the correct awareness of divine authority and power as eternal and matchless; we also say, fear of the Lord) and humility as well as to complete baptism (i.e., death of ones inborn spirit; rebirth from divine seed) and sanctification (i.e., being isolated, or set apart for sacred service).  What we endure here, now, gets us ready to be fully transformed at the appearing of Jesus.  Until then, multiple works are being carried out by divinity to make permanent changes in a believers character, spirit content, and living nature.  Those born again must gradually “grow up again” while living upon the earth, and becoming mature and perfected through growing pains that may include bereavement, life challenges, disappointments, duties, obstacles, losses, repentance, reversals, sacrifice, and sufferings.  Consider again the following Scriptures:

(1.)  1st Corinthians 15:  50-56, King James Version (KJV):  50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.  51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:  for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.  55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?  56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

(2.)  2nd Corinthians 10:  3-5, KJV:  3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:  4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)  5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

(3.)  Ephesians 6:  10-12, KJV:  10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC