(09/07/2020) Chosen Because Already Committed

A depiction of the Angel Gabriel announcing to Mary that she is to be the mother of Jesus

Today, reply is on whether the Virgin Mary was free to refuse carrying out the will of GOD, and could quarrel against the Angel Gabriel who announced to her that she was chosen by divinity to become the mother of Jesus. The visitation she received was in the nature of a sovereign proclamation to publish a royal decision, rather than a request for acceptance and accord, or a secret communication intended to preserve confidentiality and trust. The purpose of the visit to Mary was not the foretelling of future events or an occasion for her to worship an angel so much as the making visible of otherwise invisible and unseen divine purposes. There would be no question and answer sessions; and the young woman would have to develop her understanding through such tools as discovery, gradual growth, edification by the Spirit, study of the holy writings, and suffering. Mary was raised as one dedicated, sanctified, and set apart for divine service. Her lifestyle and daily routines would encourage no defiance, no hesitation to serve, and no rebellion. She was chosen to serve because she was both committed and prepared. It is written: Luke 1: 28-35, King James Version (KJV): 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

What if Mary had said "No thanks" to the angel?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (Galatians 4: 3-7, KJV)

DOUBLE DAGGER: Angels Appearing As Men (04/09/2020); Divinity and Human Reproduction (11/08/2019); The Virginity of Mary (01/14/2019); Mary and Joseph Followed (11/28/2018); Jacob Wrestled With GOD? (09/26/2018); Doctrine, Faith and Mary? (09/01/2017); The Mother of GOD? (12/09/2016)

“Anonymous”, the Annunciation should be accepted as another important aspect of full gospel truth. Christian believers have found that conjecture and speculation that contradict Bible truth often generates confusion and does not edify or increase their spiritual growth. Mary was chosen to serve as the female vessel for the birth of Jesus because she was sanctified and connected to GOD through her faith. Mary’s responses to angelic visitation flowed from her inner spirit that had been nurtured and prepared to unselfishly serve and exalt Almighty GOD. The divine process and substance of such sacred events center in the message, and not in the appearance or manner of the messenger. The one who receives a divine communication has understanding of the event by exercising discernment. Only through operations by the Holy Spirit are the authority, origin, source, value, and weight of the message established and proclaimed as authentic expression of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, prophetic revelation, and the sovereign will of GOD. The frameworks of divine law, covenant relationship, redemption and salvation are correctly understood as the context wherein the message must fit, more than the frameworks of politics, secular knowledge or time and space. As servants who also carry out and perform aspects of the divine will that include judgment, angels are privileged to use admonition, sharpness, and warnings even when dealing with those beloved and blessed of GOD. Because matters having eternal consequences and effects are involved, the messenger expects and requires displays and responses of accountability, gravity, maturity, and sobriety. The angels are to tolerate no challenges, impropriety, presumption, or skepticism. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible describing the birth of John the Baptist, and a selection from the music ministry of the Pro Musica Girl’s Choir from Hungary acknowledging the Angelus that was offered as daily prayer by Catholic believers:

(1.) Joshua 5: 13-15, King James Version (KJV): 13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? 14 And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my LORD unto his servant? 15 And the captain of the LORD’s host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so.

(2.) Luke 1: 9-20, KJV: 9 According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. 11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. 14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. 15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother’s womb. 16 And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. 17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. 18 And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. 19 And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. 20 And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.

(3.) Luke 1: 59-66, KJV: 59 And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. 60 And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John. 61 And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. 62 And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. 63 And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all. 64 And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God. 65 And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. 66 And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

(4.) Luke 1: 67-79, KJV: 67 And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, 68 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, 69 And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;  70 As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: 71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; 72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; 73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 74 That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, 75 In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. 76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; 77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, 79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV7l0uqOD_8&list=PLN-HWgUQXbLN0d5BuUaMYlRM-Z4tim65s&index=4&t=0s.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:23 PM, September 07, 2020 @ https://billditewig.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/annunciation.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/11/2020) Born Mortal or Immortal?

Today, reply is on the humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ at his birth. In the same way Eve was fashioned from Creation appearing within the rib of Adam, and was not fashioned from the soil of the earth, Jesus Christ was not fashioned from dust, and was made manifest from the substance of Mary as a sanctified vessel containing aspects of divine Creation. It is written: Luke 1: 26-33, King James Version (KJV): 26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Nick” (Level 1 with 247 points) posted the following:

Was Jesus Christ born mortal or immortal?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (John 1: 10-14, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Acknowledging Christ as Son (03/08/2020); Aspects Defining Human Life? (03/02/2020); Spirit Process and Substance (02/27/2020); Godliness Characterizes Authentic Humanity (02/06/2020); Do Animals Have “Souls”? (01/19/2020); Will Jesus Come Soon? (01/09/2020); Fully Communicating Human Potential? (09/30/2019); The Penalty of Death? (04/26/2019)

“Nick”, Jesus was born filled with the Holy Spirit, consecrated and sanctified, yet, was mortal. At present, only divinity exists as having immortality; mankind is mortal; and angels and the sacred beasts in heaven have “duration” within the frameworks of time and space, yet, are neither mortal nor immortal. Existing as spirit in form, divinity also is incorruptible and invisible. The appearance of divinity on earth using human form and process as Jesus Christ to provide an atonement for sin, redemption, and salvation required authentic humanity be displayed through birth from a woman, acknowledgment of sacred law, aging, growth, learning, mortality, suffering, death, and resurrection from the dead. The divine process for those living on the earth to recover and be restored from the sin of Adam has been demonstrated in the life and ministry of Jesus including the imparting of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity (we say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Spirit of Prophecy; the Spirit of Truth). Inseparable aspects of divine fullness (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) make possible the forms of communication, exchange and interaction among the living that we speak of as a new covenant relationship with GOD. Examples are balance, commitment, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Sinners who turn to GOD through Christ become developing believers who are “born again”, must become mature again, and are to display the image of GOD while living on the earth. As mature believers, the saints are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of the Lord. The full transformation from mortal to immortal that believers are to undergo will be completed at the appearing of Christ (we say, the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and selection from the music ministry of Pro Musica Leánykar; Pro Musica Girls Choir, Hungary (Nyíregyháza):

(1.) Isaiah 11: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: 2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; 3 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: 4 But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth: with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. 5 And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.

(2.) Isaiah 9: 6-7, KJV: 6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

(3.) Luke 1: 34-35, KJV: 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the Ave Maria of Franz Biebl is a Catholic prayer said at 6am, 12 noon and 6pm: "The Angel of the Lord Declared unto Mary and she conceived of the Holy Ghost" followed by the Hail Mary then "Mary said" "Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it done unto me according to Thy word". Hail Mary..then "and the Word(Jesus Christ)was made flesh and dwelt amongst us" followed by a final Hail Mary. (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV7l0uqOD_8&list=PLN-HWgUQXbLN0d5BuUaMYlRM-Z4tim65s&index=4&t=0s). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:38 AM, March 11, 2020 @ http://userpages.bright.net/~weenee/christmas/nativity.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/08/2019) Divinity and Human Reproduction

A depiction of the Blessed Virgin

Today, reply is on a debate about abortions, and judging others for their choices and opinions. Christians are encouraged to rely on counsels, guidance, and instruction within the household of faith that are available as divine law, sacred principles, a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity, and the holy writings. The man-made belief system that we call the world generates arguments, meanings, and quarrels along with standards and values that promote spiritual confusion, and that challenge and contradict Christian belief. The issue of abortion is more than one of correct medical practice, or private and public health. Many hold that a fetus (the unborn, developing organism within a female) is not a child; therefore, removing and destroying such organic material is no different than what we do with a cancer. Others understand that childbearing is more than a carnal and physical work of ones flesh; the fetus is established as having personhood through operations that occur within both parents long before birth that entail accountability, commitment and love with emotional, psychological, and spiritual imperatives that may not be dismissed or ignored. There are elements related to birth control, gender differences and disparities, political and social imbalance, and responding to unexpected and unwanted pregnancy. There are issues of freedom from the duties, responsibilities, pain, and unpleasantness of pregnancy. There are issues of adult independence; exercising the privilege and right of decision-making for ones own benefit; how best to fulfill ones sexual appetite; how to respond to life opportunities; and promoting oneself to profit in various social settings and situations. Those in covenant relationship with divinity, who willingly present themselves to GOD for unselfish service, raise no objection against being held accountable for works such as creating families and stable communities; displaying Christ-likeness and the image of GOD; holy matrimony; parenting; priesthood; and demonstrating lives dedicated and devoted to carrying out the will of GOD. Christian believers are granted the example of the Virgin Mary—who was called upon to serve as the mother of Jesus Christ. Mary had been raised set apart (sanctified) for divine service, yet, was despised because she was a childless woman. The angel Gabriel visited Mary as a sign that the things proclaimed, promised, and prophesied from GOD for Israel and for mankind would all appear, and become manifest. When it was announced that she would be a caretaker and mother, her response revealed a correct commitment and readiness to serve, and she acknowledged and proclaimed the name and works of GOD. It is written: Luke 1: 46-55, King James Version (KJV): 46 And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, 47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. 48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. 49 For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. 51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. 53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. 54 He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy; 55 As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shown) posted the following:

Is it Pro-choice or pro-abortion?

In religion class we we're having a debate about abortion. Pro-life vs. Pro choice. Someone then decided to talk about a girl who was pregnant and decided to keep the baby because that was HER CHOICE. Now one of the people who claimed to be pro choice started asking questions as to why the girl decided to keep the baby. She said that the girl should've had an abortion. "Why put yourself through that ****?" And I was there thinking, "because it was her choice. Why are you judging her choice when you believe a woman should do whatever they like with their body?" Keep in mind this was not a thought that made me want to hate her. This was just a thought of realization. I just want my question to be answered so I understand a person's beliefs. So I guess what I'm trying to ask, is someone that judges a girl for not getting an abortion still pro choice or is it pro abortion. I just want to understand. I'm sorry if I offended anyone, I just want to learn from you guys so I don't question a person's beliefs ever again on something like this.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. (Galatians 5: 16-26, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: By Death and Resurrection (10/29/2019); When Christians Weigh Abortion (05/17/2019); Divine Purposes Are Unchanging (04/22/2019); Life Exists Before Birth (01/23/2019); The Virginity of Mary (01/14/2019); Mary and Joseph Followed (11/28/2018); Saved in Childbearing (10/31/2012); After the Rapture? (11/01/2012)

“Anonymous”, here are some points you may find useful. Rather than focus on abortions and failed pregnancy (miscarriage, stillborn), the Scriptures provide accounts of miraculous birth, guidance regarding conditions and prenatal care for those born to become sacred servants of GOD as well as the “slaughter of innocents” by rulers who sought to maintain their political advantages by destroying every child that could have been sent from GOD. Many mature Christian believers think of their choice for Jesus Christ as their redeemer and savior as also having provided closure and resolution for multiple problems and questions pertaining to how created beings and living creatures should respond to one another, and how mankind should respond to divinity. The ideas and language to discuss “pro-abortion”, “pro-choice”, and “pro-life” are from the man-made world system developed for exchange, trade, and survival, and does not appear within the holy writings that speak to human reproduction, the divine process to populate the earth, the appearance of divinity using human form as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation), and the present embodiment of sacred spirit within humanity. Because Christians choose to acknowledge the authority, dominion, and sovereignty of GOD, abortion is widely understood as a medical procedure to terminate pregnancy where specific health conditions are diagnosed and evaluated that are obstacles to continuing the child’s development within the mother, and to completing a natural birth of her child. Practice of abortions by those who are not licensed and registered with the government as properly trained medical professionals has been regarded as criminal. For their collective survival, governments must address the issues of communication, population growth, the availability and distribution of shared resources (debts, fees, fines, taxes, etc.), and the provision of clean air, water, medicines, and food necessary for healthy living, and for maintenance of their commonwealth. New life in Jesus Christ and citizenship within the kingdom of heaven are not through human reproduction, childbearing, and birth so much as through the resurrection of Christ. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible on the birth of Samson, and a selection from the music ministry of the Pro Musica Girl’s Choir from Hungary:

(1.) Judges 13: 6-14, King James Version (KJV): 6 Then the woman came and told her husband, saying, A man of God came unto me, and his countenance was like the countenance of an angel of God, very terrible: but I asked him not whence he was, neither told he me his name: 7 But he said unto me, Behold, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and now drink no wine nor strong drink, neither eat any unclean thing: for the child shall be a Nazarite to God from the womb to the day of his death. 8 Then Manoah intreated the LORD, and said, O my Lord, let the man of God which thou didst send come again unto us, and teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born. 9 And God hearkened to the voice of Manoah; and the angel of God came again unto the woman as she sat in the field: but Manoah her husband was not with her. 10 And the woman made haste, and ran, and shewed her husband, and said unto him, Behold, the man hath appeared unto me, that came unto me the other day. 11 And Manoah arose, and went after his wife, and came to the man, and said unto him, Art thou the man that spakest unto the woman? And he said, I am. 12 And Manoah said, Now let thy words come to pass. How shall we order the child, and how shall we do unto him? 13 And the angel of the LORD said unto Manoah, Of all that I said unto the woman let her beware. 14 She may not eat of any thing that cometh of the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink, nor eat any unclean thing: all that I commanded her let her observe.

(2.) Psalms 127: 3-4, 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.

(3.) 1^st Timothy 2: 14-15, KJV: 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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV7l0uqOD_8.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:06 AM, November 08, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/originals/f1/5f/15/f15f157ed53f50f5e6d3c5106d970206.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/23/2019) Believers Minister Through Prayer

Today, reply is on practicing intercessory prayer as a necessary ministry among all Christians. As with praise, prayer is not a work completed apart from Christ, and without the Holy Spirit. Within the church founded by Jesus Christ, sharing praise and unselfish prayer are among the highest forms of service. While still on the earth, before his crucifixion, the Son of the Highest prayed that his followers would be made one with himself and with the Father. Believers are to take on a consciousness that goes beyond expressing individuality, self-promotion, or their own desires, emotions, lusts, and needs. There must be shared accord and action to accomplish the objectives of divine law, eternal purpose, mercy in judgment, and the sovereign will of GOD. It is written: Romans 8: 26-27, King James Version (KJV): 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

Why do Catholics say, "Pray for me"?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people’s: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore. (Hebrews 7: 23-28, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Make Me A Servant (04/08/2019); How GOD Speaks Today (12/10/2018); Anything We Ask For? (09/12/2018); Duties of a Christian? (03/13/2018); Benefits of the Rosary (02/14/2017); The Power in Prayer? (08/22/2014); The Rosary and Other Prayers? (08/23/2014)

“Anonymous”, within the church of Jesus Christ, prayer is not supposed to be a work carried out only by the clergy. In the same way many Christians have grown up being familiar with and reciting the Lord’s prayer, yet, not also studying the Bible or regularly performing other sacred practices, many Christians are familiar with the prayers of the Rosary that include language requesting the Mother of Jesus will provide ministry through intercessory prayer. Many object that Mary can not serve as a mediator between GOD and mankind; however, as one of the saints who first received the gifts of the Holy Spirit within the upper room, Mary can serve as a mediator with her son. The ability to properly approach divinity with compassion, sincerity, and unselfishness on behalf of others only becomes possible in the life of sinners through endowments of life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup and substance of GOD, and through operations of the Holy Spirit. The power in prayer does not appear by importuning and humbly repeating ones requests so much as by ones return of spirit content from GOD (e.g., commitment, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, wrath against sin). In the same way an anointed pastor (shepherd) or ordained priest is a caretaker who must continually provide guidance, instruction and preaching that nourishes and strengthens the full congregation, all the members are to acknowledge an accountability for offering prayer, and a duty to pray for one another. Even those having limited resources and talents, and those who are recently become part within the community of faith, can make their voices heard in group and private prayer that petition for comfort, edification, and zeal (i.e., outpouring of the Holy Spirit; prophecy). Consider again the following that uses language from the Rosary, the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amoung women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen

2. Philippians 4: 6-7, King James Version (KJV): 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

3. 1^st Timothy 2: 1-6, KJV: 1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

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

Image downloaded 6:02 PM, September 22, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/94/2d/e5/942de590f92432e9108921bb8776e3f8.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/09/2019) According To Divine Purpose

Today, reply is on the continuing acknowledgment of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD that appears in Christian prayer. To become a Christian is more than simply be a part of a casual or loose association of neighbors. To become a Christian is to become a member within a sacred priesthood. Therefore, the prayer uttered by a believer should display their correct sacred knowledge of divine process, of properly displaying reverence to divinity, and of the workings of prophecy. The content and focus of prayer is to be the shared divine purpose. Prayer as leaders and workers within the body of Christ may be expected from mature believers endowed with spirit substance from GOD more than from those who are yet developing whose primary concerns continue to center on oneself and ones own family. Prayer in accord with the will of GOD does not express ambition, covetousness, envy, exaggerated pride, selfishness, and other works of the flesh. All Christian believers are recruited to serve divinity in roles that include judges who administer divine law and sacred judgment; kings who govern and rule as agents of the dominion; pastors and shepherds who maintain consecrated flocks; priests who offer required and voluntary gifts; and prophets and spokespersons declaring the oracles from GOD, and the needs or petitions of his covenant people. There may be family and private prayer as communication to express otherwise hidden emotion and personal secrets to GOD; even so, prayer for the full body is an indispensable sacred work that has formal elements and structure. The name, reputation, and how we are to speak of GOD are framed by gratitude, praise, and reverence. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “rollickingredsfan” (Level 5 with 6,496 points, a member since March 02, 2010) posted the following:

Christians : Why, in the Lord's Prayer, do you pray ' thy will be done ', yet when you pray on behalf of yourself or a loved, you pray for..?

your own, desired outcome ?...Not trying to be smart alec here, just that this is something I've always wondered about . Thank you .

Update: Oh, and just to add to my thoughts here, lotsa people consider a ' no ' answer from God to be a non - answer...Ever notice that ?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy; As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever. (Luke 1: 46-55, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Process Is Unselfish (05/12/2019); Receiving What We Ask (09/20/2018); Anything We Ask For? (09/12/2018); What May We Request? (05/24/2018); Praying For “More Faith”? (01/12/2018); As An Anointed Body (10/04/2017); Names For Sacred Persons? (08/01/2017)

“rollickingredsfan”, here are some points to consider that often are overlooked by sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ, and become developing Christians:

A person’s focus on salvation may begin and continue indefinitely as a form of introspection, judgment, and self-assessment; however, properly understood, those who turn to Christ enter into a relationship of service to divinity wherein they are to display Christ-likeness, and reflect the image of GOD.

Those who are “born again” receive a fresh endowment of life essence (we also say, breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup of divinity, and are to “grow up again” to become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his appearing.

The developing believer must undergo a transformation to exist as a life companion to immortal, incorruptible, invisible divinity. In addition to fulfilling duties and works for disciples, developing and mature believers are molded through discovery; fellowship with those anointed and ordained by divinity; giving; gradual growth; practice of discernment; praise; prophecy; study of the holy writings; unselfish service; teaching; suffering; and worship.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, Christians are all called to operate as members within the full body of Jesus Christ on the earth. All are called to serve in his priesthood proclaiming divine law, sacred promise, prophecy, and revelation. With this in view, communication with divinity and prayer also are transformed. Prayers from the Bible that best serve as examples to believers acknowledge eternal purpose, and express confession of sin, gratitude, and humility along with petitions for supplies.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 5:10 AM, June 09, 2019 @ http://www.relatably.com/q/img/good-friday-bible-verses-kjv/d6551c603806433b44c7855d57de6239.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/25/2019) No Respecter Of Persons

Today, reply is on the favor shown to Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, and behaving as a respecter of persons. There are two forms of “respecting persons” that appear within the holy writings: 1. judicial respect of persons is the transgression of sacred law that sees bias, influence and partiality in carrying out tribunals, applying sacred law to resolve conflicts and settle disputes, or in determining outcomes and sentences of trials; and 2. social respect of persons that sees undue favor and preference shown to someone on the basis of such features as their formal education, their ethnic background and national origin, their family connections, their office and position, their reputation, their status, or their wealth. Early Christian believers were commanded to maintain decorum, hierarchy and order among members within the church and the larger community by showing obedience, respect and reverence. Thus, Romans 13: 7-8 King James Version (KJV): 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. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes” (Level 1 with no points shown, a member since May 18, 2018) posted the following:

Luke 1:28 says that Mary is very favored, so how is God no respecter of persons(Rom 2:11)?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. (James 2: 1-10, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Virginity of Mary (01/14/2019); Chosen Through Sacred Process (09/06/2018); Divine Law Is Demanding (04/10/2018); A Descendant of David? (03/18/2018); The First To Help? (12/22/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); Laws Favoring the Poor? (03/06/2017); The Respect of Persons? (10/14/2016)

“Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes”, there are multiple differences among created beings and living creatures, yet, GOD has authority to set apart (sanctify) individuals to himself, and to punish or reward according to the provisions of divine law. In the holy writings, divinity is revealed as the Creator and Maker who has put forth all existence, life, and duration. Divine fullness (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is known through active presence; by sacred operations and divine processes such as forgiveness, healing, judgment, praise, prayer, thanksgiving, sanctification, and worship; by such inseparable attributes as faith, forbearance, holiness, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, and wisdom as well as by being the embodiment of dominion, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign will. While the divine work of final judgment expresses the wrath of GOD against sin, all divine judgment is carried out with balance, impartiality, restraint, and righteousness. The spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that resides within the living is examined using the record of a person’s deeds appearing within the Book of Life. Influences that would result in errors of judgment are not indulged. Included are ethnic and racial bias; age discrimination; caste or class distinctions based on finances, poverty, and wealth; marital status; national origin; prejudice based on employment and vocation (e.g., sanitation workers); and ones sexual purity. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Deuteronomy 1: 15-18, King James Version (KJV): 15 So I took the chief of your tribes, wise men, and known, and made them heads over you, captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, and captains over fifties, and captains over tens, and officers among your tribes. 16 And I charged your judges at that time, saying, Hear the causes between your brethren, and judge righteously between every man and his brother, and the stranger that is with him. 17 Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring it unto me, and I will hear it. 18 And I commanded you at that time all the things which ye should do.

2. Psalms 4: 3, KJV: 3 But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.

3. Psalms 7: 10-11, KJV: 10 My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart. 11 God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.

4. Ezekiel 16: 49-50, KJV: 49 Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. 50 And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw good.

5. Acts 10: 30-35, KJV: 30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. 33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. 34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 6. 1^st Peter 1: 16-21, KJV: 16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. 17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: 18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/14/2019) The Virginity of Mary

A depiction of Mary

Today, the reply is on the holiness and virginity of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. Ordinarily, a woman loses her virginity, and sheds her blood of innocence during her first sexual intercourse when her hymen (i.e., a small piece of flesh within her vagina that serves as a seal upon her womb) is broken by the penetration of a male penis. The hymen of the mother of Jesus Christ was broken at his birth, and his coming was by water and the blood. The importance of Mary is not due to her own merit, divine nature, and sacred accomplishments, rather, it is because she has been an instrument for fulfillment of sacred prophecy, divine promises, eternal purpose, and the revelation of Jesus Christ. As we ourselves also are to be, Mary appears as a vessel to contain spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD, and to whom sin is no longer imputed. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Nathan H” (Level 3 with 1,856 points, a member since April 17, 2008) posted the following:

Why does the people of the Catholics beleivesing that Mary was always virginized, when Mattnew says Joseph had sex with her?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. 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. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus. (Matthew 1: 18-25, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divinity Embodied In Flesh (12/30/2018); Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); Benefits of the Rosary (02/14/2017); About Praying to Mary (08/21/2015); Sodom and Gomorrah Again? (05/30/2016); It Is Our Wisdom To Ask (05/18/2015); The Power in Prayer? (08/22/2014); The Rosary and Other Prayers? (08/23/2014)

“Nathan H”, many mature Christians acknowledge that, in the same way Mary, who gave birth to their Savior Jesus Christ, experienced having gender as a human female, she also experienced human sexuality as a female with the birth of her other children. Even so, these same believers understand that her virginity was, and continues to be, a spiritual condition established through operations of the same Holy Spirit that performed to create heaven and earth. Inseparable aspects from the makeup of divinity appear that include faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, purity, and simplicty.

Mary is important to Christian belief as an instrument of GOD for the full revelation of divinity. The birth of Jesus was not through human reproduction and sexuality: Jesus was made to be and exist within Mary by operations of the Holy Spirit. Believers are to see the workings of divine authority, love, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The embodiment (we say, Incarnation) of divinity appearing as Jesus Christ, and using the human forms of flesh and mind, required both the birth and death of Jesus to establish his humanity as authentic. Similarly, the humanity of Mary is shown to be genuine, and displays the full range of human challenges, needs, and possibilities that include humility and covenant relationship with GOD.

There is no report in the holy writings, that Mary was baptized as Jesus was by John the Baptist. Even so, after fasting and prayer in the Upper Room, Mary received the gifts of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost along with the apostles of Jesus. She served as one of the witnesses to his crucifixion, and to his resurrection. To those of the early church, Mary was an evidence of things unseen, and a “foretaste” of things to come.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, because the character, makeup and substance of GOD are the actual focus, many Christians are comfortable with the Scriptures and teachings concerning Mary that can only be embraced correctly through operations of faith and of the Holy Spirit. Included are the ascension of Mary, the coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven, the acknowledgment of sacred mysteries from the lives of Jesus and Mary using the Rosary prayers, and the sanctification of Mary as a perpetual virgin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/28/2018) Mary and Joseph Followed

The image displays a lithograph from L. Turgis et Fils Editeurs Paris, 1893

Today, reply is on the faith, works, and embodiment of divinity that was displayed through the human pair sanctified to serve as the parents of Jesus Christ. What believers should expect from the sacred pair, Mary and Joseph, is very much the same as the events and expressions shared by other sacred pairs throughout the holy writings that share in the revelation of Jesus Christ. Adam and Eve, Abraham and Sarah, Elizabeth and Zacharias, Anna and Simeon all display the patterns of childbearing as a sacred event and an important element of prophetic demonstration for those serving as spokespersons (prophets) of GOD. These divine parental figures appear as “earthen vessels” who are imperfect and who lack full sacred knowledge, yet, are filled with consecrated treasure. Thus, keeping in mind that the birth of Jesus was at a time before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit when Jerusalem meant the law, the covenant of Moses, the Temple, and tradition, Mary and Joseph were ignorant and short sighted, yet, fed and nourished the Spirit within Jesus sharing their own blood, sweat, tears, and sacred substance. It is written: Luke 2: 40-45, King James Version (KJV): 40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. 41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. 43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. 44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. 45 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Godless Goddess” (Level 6 with 17,956 points, a member since September 09, 2009) posted the following:

Wouldn't we expect Mary and Joseph..?

to be highly involved with sharing their sons's holy status? Instead, we don't hear anything mentioned about Mary and Joseph spreading the good news all his life, and Jesus leaves town to go do the miracles.. if Mary and Joseph knew he was so holy and special, wouldn't they be exclaiming that and following him their entire lives?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man. (Luke 2: 46-52, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); A Descendent of David? (03/18/2018); In The Image of Man (05/04/2016); (08/21/2015) About Praying to Mary (08/21/2015); Christ the Son of David? (06/12/2015); The Divine Use of a Human Life? (04/23/2013); Quoting Scripture to GOD? (04/24/2013)

“Godless Goddess”, here are some points for developing Christian believers to prayerfully consider regarding the accountability, faithfulness, and service as holy prophets that was demonstrated by Mary and Joseph as the earthly caretakers of Jesus Christ:

1. An overabundance of divine presence, foreknowledge, sacred mystery, and revelation to the sacred pair would have blemished the presentation of authentic humanity that the Word was sent to demonstrate on the earth. In addition to sharing limitations through the frameworks of time and space, they all were subject to the finite elements of flesh such as aging, fatigue, lack of information, physical pain, and the inheritance of mortality as the lawful consequence from the sin of the first pair, Adam. Matthew 20: 22-23, King James Version (KJV): 22 But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. 23 And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.

2. Guiding, nourishing and protecting the holy child, the sacred pair endured the same fear, hardship, mental anguish, and uncertainties that came upon him, yet, did not operate having the same anointing, sacred opportunities, eternal purpose, and focused possibilities. Childbearing, parenting, and fulfillment of covenant duty are contrasted against redemption, salvation, and provision of a new testament in his blood. Luke 8: 34-38, KJV: 34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; 35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. 36 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; 37 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Chosen to be a sanctified vessel for divinity using flesh and human form (we say, Incarnation), the mother of Jesus, Mary, would demonstrate release from the law through death by having new life as the widow of Joseph. Mary also would be an eyewitness to the death of Jesus on the cross; be among the first to acknowledge and proclaim the resurrection of Christ; and, with the brothers and sisters of Jesus, be among those disciples and apostles who tarried together in the upper room waiting to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit that were poured out on the day of Pentecost. Continuing as a vessel for the Godhead, Mary was among the first to become a new creation and serve also as a vessel for the Holy Spirit. Acts 2: 16-21, KJV: 16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: 18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come: 21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC