A Christmas Story
On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me, the Son of God for everyone to love.
On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.
On the third day of Christmas my true love gave to me, three gifts of Gold, frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.
On the fourth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, four Hosts of Angels singing, three gifts of, gold, frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.…
On the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, five… loaves of bread…four hosts of angels singing, three gifts of gold frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.
On the sixth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, six sheep a baying, five… loaves of bread, four host of angels singing, three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.…
On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, seven shepherd’s watching, six sheep a baying, five… loaves of bread, four host of angels singing, three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.…
On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, eight hallelujahs, seven shepherd’s watching, six sheep a baying, five… loaves of bread, four host of angels singing, three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.…
On the nineth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, nine stars a shining, eight hallelujahs, seven shepherd’s watching, six sheep a baying, five… loaves of bread, four host of angels singing, three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.
On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, ten lepers healed, nine stars a shining eight hallelujahs, seven shepherd’s watching, six sheep a baying, five… loaves of bread, four host of angels singing, three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.…
On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, eleven parables given, ten lepers healed, nine stars a shining, eight hallelujahs, seven shepherd’s watching, six sheep a baying, five… loaves of bread, four host of angels singing, three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God for everyone to love.…
On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, twelve disciples preaching, eleven parables given, ten lepers healed, nine stars a shining, eight hallelujahs, seven shepherd’s watching, six sheep a baying, five… loaves of bread, four host of angels singing, three gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, two glory-in-the-highest and the Son of God, for everyone, to, love.…
~Marla Shaw O’Neill, December 20, 2023
Luke 2 The Birth of Jesus
2 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while[a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.
4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived.
Come in and Take a Seat
Welcome, I’m so glad you came!
Family’s always welcome, I know you, by name!
I’ve been expecting you all day long…
Before we begin, let’s sing our traditional song…
Oh, come let us adore him…
Oh, come let us adore him…
Oh, come let us adore him…
Christ, the, Lord!
There is Joe, and Mary and Steven and Grace, Mike and Terry, oh just wait ‘til you taste…
The good things I’ve prepared with all of you in mind…
Gifts of Love, Joy and Peace, you’ve all been so kind.
Peter, James and John’s sitting on my right…
Waiting diligently the candles to light…
Now we’ll say a blessing, before we take one bite…
You, being here is my greatest delight.
A knock comes at the door…one last person to enter our feast…
Come on in Son and take your seat!
Eyes all follow as he sits down to eat.
Dinner begins, now that all is complete!
The guest of honor lifts his glass in a toast…
To Father, Son and Holy Ghost…
And to all the family, we gladly host…
Let the banquet begin, there will be no end…
Seated in, the Holy of holies…
Everyone rejoices as the party begins!
~Marla Shaw O’Neill December 12, 2023
Luke 14:15 New International Version – When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.”
Presence driven, not, purpose driven!
The Presence of God…
When someone is away from you on a trip, at work, simply in another room…and they come into your presence, there is no longer a distance between you…but they are with you, and you’re together.
You are aware of their presence…especially if it’s someone you love, cherish and long to be with on a consistent basis…and when they go to heaven you may sense them, but their presence is no longer there, and you miss them.
As children of God, we learn about God, we talk about him, sing about him, we even pray to him but, it’s, as if, he is in a faraway place. We paint pictures of him, write stories about him, think about him, we love him but act like he’s not really there. He’s up in heaven sitting on his throne, he’s too busy with more important things to do than to be bothered by our insignificant lives. But that’s not what He wants.
He said, draw near to him…he said come unto me all you who are burdened and heavy laden and I will give you rest. He said, to enter his courts with praise and thanksgiving. He calls to us, “Where are you?” He says, “You are mine; I’ve called you by name.”
He even sent His son so that he could be closer to us. He gave us His Spirit to be in us so we could be with him all the time. We are the ones who are too busy, too consumed with our own agenda’s. Living complicated lives that could not stop for a moment to inquire of Him!
He waits patiently and lovingly for us to acknowledge Him; he wants us to know him in a deep intimate way so that we dwell (be aware of him) in His Presence. Oh, but when we learn to do that, it’s a time of such peace that you never want to leave. That’s when we begin to be transformed into His image. Here’s some guidelines I found that may help…
How to Cultivate a Sense of God’s Presence
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Meditate on God’s Word. Don’t just read it; reflect on it. …
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Confess and forsake any known sin. Sin creates a gap between us and God (Isa. …
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Pray in the Holy Spirit. …
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Fast to the Lord. …
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Sing to the Lord. …
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Go to church. …
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Be a generous giver. …
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Tell others about Jesus.
God’s presence can be felt in different ways. If you’ve ever been in a group of people who are praying, sometimes it feels like there is a large, comforting, presence in the room, other than that of the people you are with. Sometimes you sense that same presence in church, as I said above.
We lie down and sleep in peace because we are always in His presence. When the Lord God Almighty is your dwelling place, you possess peace. You have guidance, protection, deliverance, spiritual blessings and eternal security. You will never be separated from His love. What does it mean to walk in the presence of God?
Secondly, it dispels our fear because wherever we are His presence is with us and we will not lose our way. Thirdly, walking in the light of God’s presence ensures His blessing because it is the way of obedience. In Scripture obedience and blessing go hand in hand.
How do I get closer to God and feel his presence?
Here are some things each of us can do to foster a greater relationship with our creator.
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Pray. This is how we talk with God. …
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Read the Bible. …He speaks to us…
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Give thanks. …
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Practice humility. …
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Memorize scripture. …
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Honor God with your body. …
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Start and End your day with God. …
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Take thoughts captive.
What does the tangible presence of God feel like?
I compare a touch from the Holy Spirit to a butterfly who has alighted on my arm; some say it is like a dove on the shoulder. It is tender, precious and easy to miss if we are not looking for it.
What is God’s presence called?
God’s omnipresence means He is always there—even when the awareness is not. His Holy Spirit indwells believers at all times. God’s manifest presence, however, is something that occurs in our lives as He chooses to reveal Himself. It is something that is sometimes experienced and other times not.
God’s presence is an awareness, a smell, a knowing of total and complete peace, tranquility, engulfed in Him. There’s no time, no space just a place of being still and you don’t want to leave… ~MO.
(David Hernandez Ministries) The Power of the Holy Spirit is what He does. The Presence of the Holy Spirit is Himself. God’s message is endorsed by the power of the Holy Spirit. God’s people are endorsed by the presence of the Holy Spirit. The power of the Holy Spirit can change your circumstance, but the presence of the Holy Spirit can change your heart. The Power of the Holy Spirit comes upon you. The Presence of the Holy Spirit dwells within you.
The Power is for service.
The Presence is for salvation.
The Power helps you to do.
The Presence helps you to become.
Here is the presence within you:
Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? (1 Corinthians 6:19, NLT)
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. (Acts 1:8, NLT)
The power stirs you.
The presence stills you.
The power activates the gifts.
The presence is the glory.
The power inspires praise.
The presence inspires worship.
The key to the power of the Holy Spirit is the presence of the Holy Spirit. ~David Hernandez Ministries.
References: Exodus 3:2-6, 1 Kings 19:9–13, (Luke 1:26-38), Psalm 16:11, James 4:8, Hebrews 10:19-22,
Exodus 33 :13-14
Now therefore, if I have found favor in your sight, please show me now your ways, that I may know you in order to find favor in your sight. Consider too that this nation is your people. And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave or forsake You.
Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Being in the Presence of God changes your perspective for the better…and your purpose will automatically, show up!
Without the Presence of God, your Purpose won’t matter.
Find a quiet place and worship Him until you are engulfed (surrounded, amerced, saturated) in His presence…there is nothing like being in the Presence of the Living God…you won’t, want, to leave. I promise it will change your life. In His presence if fullness of Joy and at His right hand there are pleasures forevermore!!
Just like being with family and enjoying their fellowship…God desires us to fellowship with him…it’s so sweet, so good, fulfilling it’s a peace that is indescribable…
Lord, I come into your presence with praise and thanksgiving, I love you Papa God because you first loved me! Amen! Oh, father how good and pleasant it is to dwell with you in heavenly places…I will come often and stay late…
“Come on child…I can’t wait!”
~Marla Shaw O’Neill, December 12, 2023
People, We Are Born to Serve
For a while now, quite a while…I have been weary, in a spiritual battle. We are all in the battle. Some are more aware than others. If you are breathing, whether you know it or not, you’re in the struggle of your lives. It’s a battle for the lives of your children and children’s children. It’s a battle for one another. We’re all in this together. That’ s why it is so vital for those of us who are of the household faith, to pray. Prayer is communion with God. When we pray, we are talking to our creator the one who is the only one, who can save us, help us, deliver us! He hears our prayers and he answers. He answers with, Yes, No, or Not yet! He sees the whole picture. He sees all lives, in all places, and how it affects eternity. It’s a ripple effect. So, it’s not just what we want, it’s about what He wants.
In this battle…we have an enemy and that enemy is shrewd and strategic, more cunning than all other beings. He’s a master liar, a putrid deceiver, a constant destroyer of anything and anyone living and of those to come. It doesn’t matter who you are, your status, your race, your religion, your creed. Everyone is the same to him. He sees all mankind as an enemy and he is determined to wipe us all out. He is forever lost and wants to take as many as he can with him.
But know this, Jesus has already defeated him and if you are in the family of God, you have an advocate with Jesus the son of God. Jesus is praying for you!
Last Sunday before the service, we have time set aside to pray before the service begins. Many people were visiting with each other which was totally fine. The fellowship was sweet. Gathering together after a week of hard work it’s a nice time to see one another. But I had a heaviness in my spirit and I needed to pray. So, I went down front, I think there was one other person praying at that time. I sat in a seat and silently began to pour my heart out to the Lord. It was as if every sound, all the voices around me became quiet and I was engulfed in the Presence of the Lord. In other words, I didn’t hear anything going on around me. I had an audience with the Lord and it was powerful. Tears ran down my face as I prayed. I prayed that God would forgive me for my faults. I prayed that He would be glorified. I prayed for souls to have a deeper relationship with Him. I prayed more of him and less of me. I prayed for families and for the Church. I prayed he would show me what he wanted me to pray for, that His Heart would be my prayer. Then I heard him say these words, “It’s about people.”
After I heard those words, I felt peace settle within me but those words stayed with me. As Pastor Perry brought the message he began to expound on how, it is all about People. I was elated, he had confirmed that what I heard was from the Lord.
I’m going to get very real right here, right now…we all have challenges we deal with on a daily basis. Sickness, conflicts, jobs, homelessness, finances, Christmas, unsurmountable tasks, wars and rumors of wars, hopelessness, discouragement, endless life struggles, news that shatters your resolve, you know what I’m talking about. Life is hard. But God is good! We as individuals face many, many issues in our lives. From the very young to the very not so young, the time-worn ones. This battle we’re in never ends. It is ongoing, from conception to the passing from this life we are in a fight. We fight physically, spiritually, and mentally. The battle never ends. But as brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, we’ve been given weapons of; Prayer (seeking God), Power (the Holy Spirit), Love (God’s love) and a Sound Mind (the mind of Christ, the anointed) we’ve been given the Armor of God, to fight in this battle we will overcome fear (false evidence of appearing real). We are not alone. Jesus, Is, With us!
I needed encouragement as my flesh and my spirit battled it out. I’ve been down, discouraged, and I couldn’t seem to find my footing. I’ve prayed, asked all the questions, talked to my heavenly father about all the “stuff” and He listened patiently, waiting for me to be in a position to receive from Him, when he did speak. Oh, there has been encouragement from others as they shared with me their insights, not knowing Papa God was speaking to me through them. They didn’t know I was in the middle of a battle. God was speaking through them trying to get my attention.
In the early morning hours that’s when I hear Him most clearly. Holy Spirit said, “I’ve called you to serve.” The Way he said it, was so reassuring not burdensome. It was light and joyful. It was no longer a thing of, what I was going through, or how I felt, or what I wanted. It wasn’t, what is my purpose? Why am I here? It was what, He said, “I’ve called you to serve.” He turned everything around and put it in a perspective so profound that I understood it was about helping others… “It’s about People!”
The struggle ended. I was no longer the spotlight. It was about “They, Them, He, She, Young, the Time-Worn Ones! The focus changed. Serving, not being served. Giving, not wanting for selfish reasons. He turned the whole battle around and it was no longer a drudge, it was a privileged.
The battle only becomes overwhelming when we focus on the “Me, Myself and I.”
So, battle, weary, soldiers, pick up your sword, the word of God! Put on the Breastplate of Righteousness, doing what is right in God’s eyes not our own! Take the Helmet of Salvation and place it on your head, Jesus didn’t die in vain! He, is the savior of the world! Let the Belt of Truth be worn as a mantra to do what God says is true, a good report, steadfast, immovable, standing in His strength! Walk with your feet prepared with the Gospel (Good News) of Peace, His Shalom! Allowing His peace, to carry you to others! Above all, do this, hold the Shield of Faith in front of you, ever ready to deflect all the fiery darts of the evil one! Pray, being thankful and with all supplication (plead humbly) pray in the Spirit, He knows what is needed most and what to ask for! Watch and be prepared with perseverance for the saints, we are all in this battle together!
Come on Servants of the Highest, we’ve got a battle to run toward and not to retreat! Build up the body of Christ by serving one another. Don’t look back, if you do, you’ll get stuck in the rearview mirror of time. Stop complaining! What you say is powerful let your words be life provoking. God is listening and he is waiting for you to put on your uniform and serve with gladness. A merry heart does good like a medicine. Laugh, love, serve Him by serving others. Amen!!!
After all God’s got you! No matter what happens we have already won. This place is not our final home, we are all just passing through. What we do here on this journey will determine who and where we are when it’s all said and done!
You are in service of the King of Glory! I salute you! Go in Peace! Fight the Good Fight of Faith! Don’t fight each other, Serve each other! In Jesus Name, Amen!
~Marla Shaw O’Neill December 6, 2023
Ephesians 6 The Message
6 1-3 Children, do what your parents tell you. This is only right. “Honor your father and mother” is the first commandment that has a promise attached to it, namely, “so you will live well and have a long life.”
4 Fathers, don’t frustrate your children with no-win scenarios. Take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master.
5-8 Servants, respectfully obey your earthly masters but always with an eye to obeying the real master, Christ. Don’t just do what you have to do to get by, but work heartily, as Christ’s servants doing what God wants you to do. And work with a smile on your face, always keeping in mind that no matter who happens to be giving the orders, you’re really serving God. Good work will get you good pay from the Master, regardless of whether you are slave or free.
9 Masters, it’s the same with you. No abuse, please, and no threats. You and your servants are both under the same Master in heaven. He makes no distinction between you and them.
A Fight to the Finish
10-12 And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no weekend war that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.
13-18 Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.
19-20 And don’t forget to pray for me. Pray that I’ll know what to say and have the courage to say it at the right time, telling the mystery to one and all, the Message that I, jailbird preacher that I am, am responsible for getting out.
21-22 Tychicus, my good friend here, will tell you what I’m doing and how things are going with me. He is certainly a dependable servant of the Master! I’ve sent him not only to tell you about us but to cheer you on in your faith.
23-24 Good-bye, friends. Love mixed with faith be yours from God the Father and from the Master, Jesus Christ. Pure grace and nothing but grace be with all who love our Master, Jesus Christ.
In Love
In the early morning in that in-between-time right before fully awake, I hear the familiar whisper of my heavenly father speaking…
“Turn around you’re looking the wrong way…I’m trying to give you the promised land, but you are still living in the desert…and you keep looking back to Egypt! There is nothing for you back there. It is a fantasy. It no longer exists…”
Ouch…
Oh, Abba how well you see and know me.
Throughout my life I’ve longed for the fairy tale…the home with the white-picket-fence where loved ones gather for family dinners and birthdays and just day-days…to be together. Laugh, cry, go through all the life-things, together. But I never achieved the fairy-tale, because it doesn’t exist. The prince and the princess with a life of happily-ever-after. TV families like; Leave it to Beaver, My three sons, the Walton’s, to name a few…that’s Hollywood feel-good, make-believe-stuff…where in TV land, everything has a happy ending. At least back then it did.
Reality is a hard taskmaster…but in all of life’s struggles there are moments where life is good…it’s joyful and we find moments of contentment…My mom would say, “Life never runs smooth.”
What I’ve come to learn over the sixty-nine years I’ve lived this life, is that we are all still just little kids trying to figure it all out. With experience, comes wisdom, at least it should. I suppose some never learn the lesson.
I was young once believe it or not…I had silly little dreams but as life unfolded, I didn’t have the how to, to accomplish, and looking back at now would have been completely different. Age gives you a certain perspective you don’t have when you are young. “Hindsight is 20/20 they say.” Whoever they are.
I’m not complaining though, because even with the “stupid” mistakes (unwise choices) I made they brought me to this amazing time in my life where I’ve made life-long friends, great memories. I’ve learned to leave the bad memories buried and forgiven. That’s what Papa God told me one time. “Stop digging up dead things!” It’s a process.
But I find myself, if I’m not alert to it, I dwell in the desert and try to figure out why things are the way they are. Dumb I know. Thus, the Spirit of Papa God, telling me to stop it.
I think about many things, and that may be part of my challenge…but that’s me, a thinker of deep things…I guess that is the artist in me…to create…but sometimes those creations are not for the better…thank goodness for Holy Spirit…he tells us to think on good things, praiseworthy things.
This is who I am. I was once someone else, but Jesus changed all of that. I continue to be transformed into His likeness day by day, moment by moment, and for that I am grateful.
I am saying all of this to tell you…Do not look back! There’s nothing there for you. Live in the present! Live in His presence because in Him you’ll have the Promised Land…where milk and honey flow continuously. But if we look back, if we listen to the evil one, he will trap us in a place of despondency, regret, unhappiness, defeat, unforgiveness and death.
Turn around, live in the now!
You may ask, “But how do you do it?”
Have you ever been in love? That euphoric feeling of all you think about, all you care about, all you talk about, and all you want is to be with that person. Well, it’s kind of like that.
Fall so in love with Jesus that he is all that matters. When you do that, your heart is made new and all you want to do is love. Read His love letters. Get to know him better and better. Learn of him, see how he acted, what he’d say, what he’d do and follow His example.
Hate is an extremely damaging emotion. It doesn’t just kill the spirit of the person you hate; it kills you. Just like eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil it kills you spiritually and damages your whole life. When Steven, one of the early disciples was being stoned to death, he said, “Forgive them father for they don’t know what they are doing.” He followed Jesus’ example. Jesus stood up…if Steven had not prayed, forgive them…Oh my! (Someone gave me this insight the other day.) (Todd)
When Jesus was dying on the cross, He said, “Forgive them father, they don’t know what they are doing.” Had he not prayed that prayer, this is just a personal thought, God would have destroyed mankind right then, for what they were doing to his son, it hurt him to the depths of his soul that he had to turn his head…but Jesus loved us so much, he gave up His life for us. You and me and for all generations to come. All he asks is that we ask him too, he doesn’t force anyone.
A very good friend of mine (Amye Still) says this, “Hurting people, hurt people. Freed people, free people!”
Simply ask Jesus to come into your life, your heart, and show you how to love him. I promise you he will Love you right back…
Jesus loves you so, so much…when you love him, it makes you love everyone even your worst enemies…even those who hurt you, abused you, abandoned, betrayed you, crushed you. But with the love Jesus gives you, you can forgive. Not that you continue in those relationships. Sometimes you have to love people from a distance. You will be freed!
~Marla Shaw O’Neill November 27 & 28, 2023
1 Corinthians 13 New Living Translation
Love Is the Greatest
13 If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. 3 If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; [a] but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing.
4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6 It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
8 Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages[b] and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! 9 Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture! 10 But when the time of perfection comes, these partial things will become useless.
11 When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things. 12 Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. [c] All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.
13 Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.
Footnotes
Only One Master
Adam was created to tend God’s Garden…
Adam was not the master; he was created to serve…
We are not the masters of the earth, there is only one Master…
We’re here to serve him!
In the beautiful garden where life began, where streams of living waters ran…
Trees gently waved, touched, by the wind…
Flowers grew abundantly, their fragrance sent…
Sweet smelling savors to the nostrils of Him…
As He blessed the two of them.
Whole and complete, no sorrow, no sin…
Joy and pleasures experienced there, living in the garden.
Serving was a pleasure. There was no thought of days end…
Life was fulfilling, true peace came from within
No secret desires, their hearts were content…
Serving in the garden wherever they went.
Mountains and valleys, fields and forests, found, in the garden of life…
Thousands of years went by…
Serving was their hearts cry…
Eagle’s soar and Lion’s roar, revealing God’s presence is so much more…
As the two serve the sovereign Lord…nothing broken or shaken
While serving in the garden!
Life was good, where the two stood.
In the garden where they abide…
Forever, loving and serving the master, side by side!
Until…
~Marla Shaw O’Neill November 17, 2023
Genesis 2:15 King James Version-And the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.
The Lord is Asking
I was standing in His presence, when I heard YHWH ask…
“Whom shall I send to this people? Who will go for us and achieve this task?”
I waited and listened. My words came strong and true…
“Hear am I, send me. I will go for you!”
God is calling an army, to be courageous and bold…
Doesn’t matter your age or status, male and female, child who…
Have their garments washed in the blood of his own dear son…
The battle cry is heard the raging war; begun…
He has gone before us; the way has been made clear…
Let sainted army in faith and valor come now and appear…
The battle is the Lord’s and everyone who hears…
Will put on God’s Holy Armor without doubt, and have no fear…
This army is full of God’s love!
Demons beware! Your evil tactics are shattered, God’s army draws near.
Holy Spirit leads them, praising God as they go.
Lifting High the Standard for everyone to know!
We are God’s army, slaying giants where evil has trod…
Fierce, and brave we sing God’s praise…
Saving souls once gripped by hell…
The blood of Jesus pouring forth on earth and where angels dwell…
He keeps us on the winning side…
And there with Jesus we abide…
Conquering death where darkness advanced…
This army of God takes their battle stance…
Receiving the Crown of Life…
Hear and now because we fight…in Holiness and doing what’s right…
With God we will prevail, with Jesus we will not fail!!
Oh, hear the Spirit call…
Come now one and all…
Join the Army of God!
~Marla Shaw O’Neill November 6, 2023
Isaiah 6:8 New Living Translation
Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?”
I said, “Here I am. Send me.”
Arise, and Do Not Be Afraid!
Arise, and do not be afraid! When I read these six words from a Bible study, we’ve been doing, (Fearless) they made a tremendous impact on me. In other words, Jesus said, “Get UP and don’t be afraid!”
In Matthew 17:1-7, Jesus took three of his closest disciples and led them up on a high mountain by themselves; and right there, He was transfigured before them. It says His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. Can you imagine how amazed and awe-struck Peter, James and John must have been. They were seeing something they’d never seen before. They knew Jesus was different and believed he was, who he said he was…but there was still some question in their hearts. They were looking in the natural, but Jesus came to show them the supernatural…from our perspective we mostly get it…we’ve read about who Jesus is. We’ve heard all the stories of the Bible, and have accepted him as our Lord and Savior, well those who have, know what I’m talking about. But these three men were experiencing this first-hand…it’s difficult to even imagine what they must have thought and felt. Seeing Moses and Elijah appear before them talking with Jesus…
What?
Of course, Peter, who was strong headed, outspoken and bold made the suggestion to build three tabernacles: One for Jesus, one for Moses and one for Elijah. But while he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly, God said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well please. Hear Him!”
Woe! This wasn’t the first time God had spoken those words about His Son. This was serious…When Peter, James and John heard it, they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid. I think I would have been too. I mean this is God speaking…
But Jesus…
Our precious, compassionate, understanding savior, came and touched them. Oh, the touch of Jesus, there’s nothing like it. Then He said, “Arise, and Do Not Be Afraid!”
Jesus is saying to us today, “Arise, get up, don’t be afraid!”
Are you frightened, are you feeling anxious and weary! Child of God, look to Jesus. He wants to touch you with His presence. He wants you to get up and don’t be afraid!
When your life seems out of control and you don’t want to think of where to go, or how to act, and with all the crazy going on around you and in the world, you fall on your face and wonder how is this going to end? You just want it to stop…and fear has its icy grip on you…
Let Jesus touch you! Then get up and don’t be afraid!
Don’t be anxious for anything…but in all things, the good and the bad, give thanks for this is the will of God concerning you in Christ Jesus! (Philippians 4:6-7)
Get up! Stand and put on the armor of God… (Ephesians 6:10-18)
Pray and Praise for this brings you into the very presence of God! And don’t let anything or anyone take the place of Jesus. He is God’s son, Hear Him! Amen!
Arise, and do not be afraid!
~Marla Shaw O’Neill November 6, 2023
Matthew 17:1-7 New King James Version Jesus Transfigured on the Mount
Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!” And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid. But Jesus came and touched them and said, “Arise, and do not be afraid.”
Philippians 4:6-7 New International Version
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Ephesians 6:10-18 New International Version
The Armor of God Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
The Choice
To those who choose Broad-way.
The town was lit-up, like the Fourth of July on a warm summer’s night.
Laughter and singing and dancing in the streets. Strangers at the party were not discreet…
There was drinking, and games and no one seemed to care, they’re on the road called, Broad-way.
Innocence beware!
“Let the party begin!” As the gate opens wide. “Don’t lag behind, come on inside!”
Once you’ve tasted the wine, left the world behind, there will be nowhere else you will want to dine…
It’s, “Do what feels good, you have nothing to fear, it’s time to be happy right now, right here…”
Soon morning comes, all the good times disappear. It was nothing more than a façade. Cloaked in light, but the life was fake. Now my friends, it is way too late…you’re thrown into an eternal, bottomless pit.
Gnashing of teeth with horrific, uncontrollable dread and fear~
The road called Broad-way had merely been a snare.
Trapped in this illusion no one could escape. The night of celebration had been a terrible mistake…
Tormented souls in this cycle of disgrace, no going back, no hope, not a trace…
While the looking glass, of what could have been was broken, lives shattered; destroyed from within. Victims of deception’s greatest sin… “Do whatever you like,” spoken by the evil friend.
Cries and screams of torment were heard. Blood curdling groans: there were no words, to describe the place Broad-way had led them. Down, down without a trace as destruction and regret were now worn on each face.
No happiness, no joy, no peace could be found…
This highway called Broad-way, had them forever bound!
If they had only listened when the warning went out, “Turn around don’t go down to that empty unfulfilled place. They did not listen there would be no more grace…”
To those who choose Narrow-way.
Narrow-way is straight and long, and what you choose now, will help you hold on.
There will be tears and sorrow and the journey, is far.
But~ you’ll be guided by the One, who made the sky and the stars…
It’ll feel as if you walk alone but the joy you’ll receive as you face the task, it will not fade, it will forever last.
No glamorous lights or parties to share, no easy-street-concessions on this path will you find there…
At the end of the road, you will finally see, your life will be sweet for taking Narrow-way Street.
Your heart will be glad, for all the hardships you had, they’ll be turned into treasures of peace, joy and love, and that’s not so bad…
Your brothers and sisters will welcome you home!
A new song will be sung!
“Well done my child, my precious one!”
Broad-way leads to destruction and death.
On Narrow-way you’ll find peace and rest.
Two roads await you, which one will you take? I pray you choose wisely, and the Narrow-way make!
~Marla Shaw O’Neill October 15, 2023
Matthew 7:13-14 New International Version the Narrow and Wide Gates “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.