Remember Our Ancestors

Submitted by Rev. V. Young
January 6, 2025

Key points from this story:

• Ancestors prioritized spiritual needs after basic necessities
• Modern society often neglects spiritual aspects
• Bible verses emphasize importance of faith
• God offers love, mercy, and understanding
• Faith provides comfort and guidance
• New Year's resolution to embrace spirituality

Our ancestors came from all over the world. They usually arrived in groups, friends and / or families, looking for land or businesses in a new country. There were no opportunities in the old countries. Land and wealth were taken up by the rich. Usually there was one thing common among the settlers. In their new world they built a roof over their heads, then they built a church. The Pioneers looked after their personal needs and then looked after their spiritual needs. They knew we are created beings with an all-powerful Creator. Children were brought up to love and respect their God. He is our Father and we are His children. He loves us all as we love our own children.

Scripture says "Thou shall have no other God before me." There is no other God. Over the years we've parted from our ancestors' beliefs, not following in their footsteps. Other gods are placed in high places. Money, fame and fortune top the list. When we leave out our God, we leave out our source of joy, peace, understanding, wisdom, compassion, mercy and love. Other things fill the void left in our hearts. Nothing fills that void like Jesus Christ. He is our life! We live in the best country of our world. Let us give thanks for all our blessings.

Personal New Year's Resolution! Show love and respect for one another. Read the Bible. Pray! Talk to God. God is always waiting to hear from us. Just talk to Him as though He is sitting beside you because He is. He is the very air we breathe. Say thankyou to God for all His blessings. "Time has come," Jesus said. "The Kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news." (Mark 1:15) (Hebrews 1:1,3) "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command so what we see was not made out of what is visible." Our Lord gives us mercy instead of condemnation, love instead of despair. (1 Samuel 16:7) The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance but the Lord looks at the heart." (Hebrews 4:13) Nothing in all God's creation is hidden from sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account." (Matthew 10:28)" Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both body and soul in hell." (Hebrews 12:2,3) "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

The Peace of our Lord be with us all in 2025 and forever! Amen!