A voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
23 Now Jesus himself was about thirty years old when he began his ministry.
He was the son,
so it was thought, of Joseph, the son of Heli,
24 the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Melki, the son of Jannai, the son of Joseph,
25 the son of Mattathias, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli, the son of Naggai,
26 the son of Maath, the son of Mattathias, the son of Semein, the son of Josek, the son of Joda,
27 the son of Joanan, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, the son of Neri,
28 the son of Melki, the son of Addi, the son of Cosam, the son of Elmadam, the son of Er,
29 the son of Joshua, the son of Eliezer, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi,
30 the son of Simeon, the son of Judah, the son of Joseph, the son of Jonam, the son of Eliakim,
31 the son of Melea, the son of Menna, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David,
32 the son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Boaz, the son of Salmon, the son of Nahshon,
33 the son of Amminadab, the son of Ram,the son of Hezron, the son of Perez, the son of Judah,
34 the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor,
35 the son of Serug, the son of Reu, the son of Peleg, the son of Eber, the son of Shelah,
36 the son of Cainan, the son of Arphaxad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech,
37 the son of Methuselah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Mahalalel, the son of Kenan,
38 the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.
Isaiah 7 10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz: 11 “Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.” 12 But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, and I will not put the Lord to the test.” 13 And he said, “Hear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. 15 He shall eat curds and honey when he knows how to refuse the evil and choose the good
Matthew 13:55-56 His mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? 56 Aren’t all his sisters with us? Acta 1:14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers and sisters.
John 17:15-24 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. 20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.
Hebrews 2:11
For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers
Matthew 12:50
For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”
Matthew 25:40
And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me
Romans 12:10
Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
Hebrews 13:1
Let brotherly love continue
1 Peter 3:8
Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love,
a tender heart, and a humble mind
2 Corinthians 13:11
Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
Ephesians 4:3
Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Abba, Father God. “It is no use walking anywhere to preach, unless our walking is our preaching.” St. Francis of Assisi. If we love King James Version, The Message, NIV, English Standard Version, well, Preach the Gospel at all times. When necessary, use words.
We are Blessed. Blessed to know Jesus. To be directed to know the Goodness of God. Blessed to be told praying is to ask for Heaven. Heaven on earth for His Good Will. Blessed to ask for this day. Blessed to be told to seek Him First and All His Righteousness, Our Father God delights to give us The Kingdom. Blessed to awaken to see the Kingdom of Heaven glimpsed each day. Blessed to look for His Mercies Renew.
Blessed to fully know to have trouble in life is not abandonment, our God is with us and has told us Life is trouble. Our God told us 'work' to believe God. You are the Father with reasonable expectations and Glorious Love. Blessed to pray for the whole world and believe He rejoices to save the world in Jesus Christ. Joining with You, our God in the Larger Vision.
We ask Your Abundant and Flowing Blessings upon us. Keep us safe from disasters, quieten storms and keep the Oceans safe. Help us to seek You first and Your Kingdom. To Live Love, Joy and Peace. Uphold those we Love. We Trust You. We ask for the Virus to end and Joy in Recovery. We pray for Your Healing Word to be Spoken. Your help for a vaccine. God, Himself Bless, Sustain, Comfort, Guide President Donald Trump, Vice President Pence, Governor Abbott and these 50 United States Governors. The Administration Coronavirus Response Team, Dr. Deborah Birx, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Dr. Robert Redfield. May God Willingly and Abundantly Bless The United States of America,
we seek and ask. Jesus Christ Live in us. Amen!
God had given us all Gifts and Talents. We all have had some similarities and differences in our 'seat' in the Pandemic.
So we stand in a new place now.
We have had 500 deaths, the lowest number since Covid-19 began. We are reopening almost all the 50 states.
Our buying needs changed, our buying habits changed. Ideas of travel have changed some. More jobs are thinking about less commuting.
Yesterday, we looked at the Babylonian Exile or the 2nd Exodus. Bible Histories exist for us to see our place at the table. Let's look:
The Exilic period was a rich one:
Book of Jeremiah 39–43 (saw the Exile as a lost opportunity); the final section of 2 Kings (portrays this as the temporary end of history); 2 Chronicles (The Exile is the "Sabbath of the land"); and the opening chapters of Ezra, which records a new beginning.
Other works from or about the exile include the stories in Daniel 1–6 (the ideas of God and the forces of good and evil), Susanna (how society functions), Bel and the Dragon (miracles), the "Story of the Three Youths" (1 Esdras 3:1–5:6) (Governing), and the books of Tobit (stress and turmoil in near panic) and Book of Judith (war and violence with redemption). The Book of Lamentations arose from the Babylonian captivity (finding beauty in all seasons).
Oh no, the Apocrypha. When the world was in upheaval in the first two or three centuries, in the Year of the Lord, the Apocrypha was seen as necessary during the Council of Nicaea. Ok, fine if you aren't a fan. Fine.
Prior to exile, the people of Israel had been organized according to tribe. Afterwards, when all paperwork was stripped and gone - the Nation was organized by smaller family groups. Only the tribe of Levi continued in its temple role after the return. After this time, there were always sizable numbers of Jews living outside Israel; thus, the beginning of the "Jewish diaspora".
Fortunately for us all, we had a way to connect to our Churches during Covid.
How are you sorting your Pandemic?
Lost Opportunity
The Temporary End of History
Sabbath of the Land
God, and the Functions of Good and Evil
How Society Functions
Miracles
Governing
Stress and Turmoil in Near Panic
War and Violence with Redemption
Finding Beauty in all Seasons
New Groups
Lost Opportunity
Didn't we all spend some time complaining 'last year.' When I look at last year's videos of Church, I'm seeing Blessings given of Life - not even aware of Life to celebrate. Didn't we hop on planes and highways and take our freedom for granted?
And if we ignore the time we had to think during this season, we will miss this season and have Lost Opportunity.
Ephesians 5:14
For anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore, it says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”
Isaiah 51:9
Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the Lord; awake, as in days of old, the generations of long ago.
Ephesians 6:18
Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints
The Temporary End of History
One of the most surprising aspects of the Pandemic to me, the major choice of television movie was "Plague". An exploration of emotional stamina? Having a conversation without words?
Seeing people crying in public seemed to wake us all up, maybe news has to have some sensitivities. Suddenly, it was important to protect each other. Even if we weren't "The Greatest Generation" fighting for world history in trenches, we could sit at home and think of all the people as a chain, instead of Dominoes, the chain caring for one another.
Isaiah 43:18-19 Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
The Sabbath of the Land
So many prayers were answered about life tearing past families. Families had time to just be together. Prayers of Thanksgiving were offered. And suddenly, Grocery Stories were the place we all felt we would find continuance and security. Finding new realizations of the Blessings of abundance we have lived all our lives.
Home Depot and Lowes were filled with people desiring to be busy and useful. To provide for what is given to us to care for. Art and Craft Stores geared up, probably for mementos for Christmas and years to come.
We learned from the White House, Local News, some National News many heart warming, brave and heroic deeds we have done for one another. The time President Trump and Vice President Pence have ceaselessly given to ensure safety and well being. Our Bible Study was so pleased to have good news during Quarantine of the ongoing efforts we made for each other.
Churches kept the Flame of the Holy Spirit alive.
Malachi 4:2 For you who reverence my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall.
God, and the Functions of Good and Evil
Was God listening to our prayers. No one seemed to be concerned about the imbalances causing illness. A political play for a virus spread. A gigantic nation with few routes of protein in their food sources. Why borders didn't close. A blame game started appearing to be so fruitless.
How will we care for the elderly?
United in our hopes to protect one another. We began to Ascend in Unity.
We could have seen riots.
Instead, we saw people in dire straits being peaceful and trusting good would be found. Huge numbers of people in various stages of employment, seeing delays in the food chain, seeing family isolated from one another and standing and believing - Good would be Accomplished.
Violence. Implied and actual violence.
From the Highest Level of Government, to people sitting in cars at parks and Churches, we have found Unity in our desire to see solid and good people provide Justice with Respect and Balance. A desire to find Law serves Justice with Mercy.
Finding the results to the new stories we cared about had to come from our own searches. And in seeing the results, finding Good People press forth for goodness.
How Society Functions
In Pandemics and Plagues, Blame has to be assigned. We have miraculously avoided violence. And have instead, some times seen the denial of information due to massive amounts of data changing shape as facts are found.
We have seen our Nation flow back to the efficiency of World War II. Divisions have been cast aside to see our Nation fight to survive and then thrive again. Authority has been cast aspersions for even the place they have to decide. This season we have watched Authority and approved. And felt comforted. We have seen the Nation move mountains to cope. And find the abundance to provide for other nations.
We have seen Governors put aside differences and work with the National Leaders to promote wellness and well being, giving hope over coldness.
And in sorting the facts we have efficiently and quickly found Zoom and other methods to reassure one another. Bible Studies have truly helped.
Power plays have been seen. Where failure is actually hoped for. A revealing time for hearts.
Miracles
Finding people have been largely silent by the aspects of this Covid-19 Virus so puzzling even the doctors quietly admit they can think of no other illness sparing the young.
The exact opposite of the Polio Epidemics and the prayers of parents and grandparents.
Hospitals did not overflow. The death rates were cheated. People stood to cheer the Brave First Responders. The Gratitude was unrelenting. Prayers came from the Highest Levels of 'our' land.
Some of our States have seen Unemployment decreasing in amazing rates. In Texas, we have seen Unemployment fall 4% in two weeks. Praying for our nation is occurring in all states. We are praying for more miracles and believing.
Governing
Has any election year had more coverage? We saw the Protesters tell the news media to back off and watch out for telling tall tales. We've seen the exodus of nightly news. And now we have seen news pick up and have more comments about the news media as the news itself. I have to say I've really enjoyed the efficiency and heart of our Local News Station.
For the National News, I'd have to comment the Democrats and Republicans have treated each other with more respect, at times, than shown for Elected, Hard Working, Officials. For matters of National Security and the smooth communication of our People, I'd suggest new guidelines of courtesy displayed in our commercial employments. Sensitivity Training. Or perhaps, Anger Management. This would probably be more effective if the top management attended these classes each time a conflict develops.
Maybe it's time for national attention to be rewarded to our journalists when licensed guidelines could be observed or revoked.
We have seen news rating fall to the depths. Worldwide Wrestling never was a National Pastime.
We are leaders in the World.
Perhaps we should try to lead with more elegance, grace, communication and wisdom.
Fingers fly easily, perhaps more care should be employed in all directions.
Abraham Lincoln had the policy of open doors. We could improve on the policy of Civility.
And during this time we have seen Government reflect on the ability to Government to treat one another with the courtesy, mercy, fairness we want our Nation to exist well within.
Governing has found all layers in surprising depths.
Stress and Turmoil in Near Panic Has anyone mentioned the United States Congress
was open during the Pandemic?
We have one person to thank for holding
the Legislative Branch open.
The Fires of Liberty did not go out.
Fifty Governors worked harder then ever.
The Nation has gratitude for all the efforts
of President Donald Trump
and Vice President Pence. Their ceaseless efforts
and of Dr Fauci and Dr Birx with all of the Massive
Logistics, Facts and Team Work.
The Prayers of the Leaders have
been heeded.
Schools fed Children. And the School System
showed it's strength to massively care and provide.
Teachers paraded for their students.
Love!
First Responders came from all over.
Other States. Retirement.
Hands were held.
Ultimate Care was shown.
War and Violence with Redemption Let this Portion be met with only Thanksgiving, we Pray.
And we will have our Redemption.
Finding Beauty in all Seasons
Abba, Holy Father, We are Blessed. Blessed to know Jesus. To be directed to know the Goodness of God. Blessed to be told praying is to ask for Heaven. Heaven on earth for His Good Will. Blessed to ask for this day. Blessed to be told to seek You First and All His Righteousness, Our Father God delights to give us The Kingdom. Blessed to awaken to see the Kingdom of Heaven glimpsed each day. Blessed to look for His Mercies Renew. Blessed to fully know to have trouble in life is not abandonment, our God is with us and has told us Life is trouble. Our God told us 'work' is believing God. You are the Father with reasonable expectations and Glorious Love. Blessed to pray for the whole world and believe He rejoices to save the world in Jesus Christ. Joining with You, our God in the Larger Vision.
Believing as we pray for the world, not only do hearts and opportunities arrive, our Father God Mercifully Helps.
We ask Your Abundant and Flowing Blessings upon us. Keep us safe from disasters, quieten storms and keep the Oceans safe. Help us to seek You first and Your Kingdom. To Live Love, Joy and Peace. Uphold those we Love. We Trust You. We ask for the virus to end and Joy in Recovery. We pray for Your Healing Word to be Spoken. Your help for a vaccine. God Himself Bless, Sustain, Comfort, Guide President Donald Trump, Vice President Pence, Governor Abbott and these 50 United States Governors. The Administration Coronavirus Response Team, Dr. Deborah Birx, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Dr. Robert Redfield May God Graciously Bless The United States of America, we seek and ask. Jesus Christ Live in us. Amen!
1 This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham:
2 Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob,
strike one- Ishmael
Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,
strike two the blessings thief to blind father
3 Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron,
strike three Judah did not help Tamar
Hezron the father of Ram,
4 Ram the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon,
5 Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab,
strike four Rahab
Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse,
6 and Jesse the father of King David.
strike five - with the Prophet Samuel. Jesse showed very poor parenting
David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife,
strike six Uriah was killed
7 Solomon the father of Rehoboam,
strike seven failed to live wisely until old age
Rehoboam the father of Abijah,
ok unstrike seven Rehoboam was unwise and lost Israel
Abijah the father of Asa,
8 Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram,
Jehoram the father of Uzziah,
strike seven -failure to honor God
9 Uzziah the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz,
strike eight - plans to melt down the Temple for a client state existence.
Ahaz the father of Hezekiah,
unstrike eight - Wow Hezekiah!
10 Hezekiah the father of Manasseh,
Strike 9 poor parenting Hezekiah
Manasseh the father of Amon,
Amon the father of Josiah,
Unstrike one for Josiah had to clean out to discover there was a set of Papyrus called the Bible.
11 and Josiah the father of Jeconiah and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon.
Strike 10 Josiah was prophetically warned and chose not to listen and died.
12 After the exile to Babylon: Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel,
Strike 11 lost Jerusalem for unholy behavior
Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel,
13 Zerubbabel the father of Abihud, Abihud the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor,
14 Azor the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Akim, Akim the father of Elihud,
15 Elihud the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob,
16 and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah.
17 Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon,
and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah.
When we read the struggle of mankind with Father God and see how flawed all people are - we could wonder why Father God delights in us. Instead, God declares over and over; He tells us He wants to save us all in Jesus Christ.
Abba, our Father,
We would ask You, the Gift of Faith. Knowing in expectation. Elijah found Your Voice to be the small, inner voice of assurance.
With Jesus and Your Gift of Faith, we will live in Love, Peace and Joy. Having the Blessing from Your Son to ask for more Heaven upon earth for all of Creation. God of Love. God of Encouragement.
Living in the Freedom and Expectation to Seek You first and find Your Kingdom glimpsed around us.
Keep us safe from disasters, quieten storms and keep the Oceans safe.
Uphold those we Love. We Trust You.
We ask for the Virus to end and Joy in Recovery. We pray for Your Healing Word to be Spoken. Your Help for a vaccine.
God Himself Bless, Sustain, Comfort, Guide President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, Governor Abbott and these 50 United States Governors and Legislatures. The Administration Coronavirus Response Team, Dr. Deborah Birx, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Dr. Robert Redfield
Jesus Christ, Thank You our faith is exactly placed in You. Amen!
… Thou shalt call his name Jesus for he shall save his people from their sins. Matthew 1: 21
…His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, The Might God,
…The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace Isaiah 9:6
… God hath made that same Jesus… both Lord& ChristActs 2:36
…Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world! John 1:29
…they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, the song of The Lamb Revelation 15:3
…Behold, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah Revelation 5:5
..and the Bright & Morning Star Revelation 22:16
..and our hands have handled, of the Word of Life 1 John 1:1
…we have and advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ The Righteous 1 John 2:1
…whereby the Dayspring from on high hath visited us. Luke 1:78
…Before Abraham, I Am. John 8:58
…And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God. John 1: 34
…are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. 1 Peter 2:25
…We have found the Messiah which, is being interpreted, the Christ. John 1:41
…I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 14:6
…through the knowledge of the Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. II Peter 2: 20
..a name written King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Revelation 19:16
…I am the Light of the World. John 8:12
…The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world… John 1:9
…I am Alpha & Omega the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come
Babylon's City Gate of Nebuchadnezzar II, Perfectly preserved in Archaeology. Today in Berlin.
Daniel 1:17-21
17 As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. 18 At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. 20 And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. 21 And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus.
When we read Jeremiah, the First Chapter does something 1 Corinthians 14 tells us we should long for in God's Love: Proclaim the outcome - Prophesy.
Jeremiah 1 6 Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” 7 But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord.”
Daniel is not going to be erased. We know Daniel who was part of Nebuchadnezzar II's Chaldean Babylonian Dynasty. So Daniel is alive in 600 B.C. 2,600 years later , we know quite a lot about Daniel.
Daniel is going to go far in God Himself.
How did Daniel survive the furnace from Nebuchadnezzar's gold 60 cubits, 90 foot Statue? Good question. Daniel was given an "exile" name, Belteshazzar, the largest god of the Chaldean Babylonian Empire. So, this must have carried Daniel past that particular Drama. Later, with the next ruler, this escape didn't happen and the Lions occurred. God stepped in to miraculously save Daniel.
"I (Nebuchadnezzar) laid the foundation of the gates down to the ground water level and had them built out of pure blue stone. Upon the walls in the inner room of the gate are bulls and dragons and thus I magnificently adorned them with luxurious splendor for all mankind to behold in awe." Inscription on the Gate of Babylon.
Nebuchadnezzar II is a very interesting spiritual person.
We don't see his reign go smoothly. In 2,600 years, there are some clues in the footnotes of the Scriptures and Babylonian Chronicles which mirror the Scriptures themselves. Nebuchadnezzar II is very invested in God Himself. He sees Isaiah 13 as written about himself. He is very probably exactly correct. Nebuchadnezzar invests in his people and sees to their welfare. We know the Hanging Gardens were built for his wife, Amytis of Media. Nebuchadnezzar made a marriage alliance with a neighboring nation and leaves behind a tale of the love found in their marriage 2,600 years later. He was a very interesting spiritual person.
Nebuchadnezzar not only has his dreams interpreted by Daniel, he has a time he becomes a mental werewolf for his pride according to Scriptures. When Historical records describe Babylon, build by this Emperor, we find an incredible city surrounded by an impenetrable wall. Repelling invaders from the two rivers running through Babylon, the lush city, and mentioned in the Garden of Eden in Genesis. Nebuchadnezzar has built an incredible Architecture and city.
Without clear flow, we find Daniel 5 5 King Belshazzar made a great feast for a thousand of his lords and drank wine in front of the thousand. 2 Belshazzar, when he tasted the wine, commanded that the vessels of gold and of silver that Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken out of the temple in Jerusalem be brought, that the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines might drink from them. 3 Then they brought in the golden vessels that had been taken out of the temple, the house of God in Jerusalem, and the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines drank from them. 4 They drank wine and praised the gods of gold and silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone. 5 Immediately the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall of the king's palace, opposite the lampstand. And the king saw the hand as it wrote. 6 Then the king's color changed, and his thoughts alarmed him; his limbs gave way, and his knees knocked together. 7 The king called loudly to bring in the enchanters, the Chaldeans, and the astrologers. The king declared to the wise men of Babylon, “Whoever reads this writing, and shows me its interpretation, shall be clothed with purple and have a chain of gold around his neck and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.” 8 Then all the king's wise men came in, but they could not read the writing or make known to the king the interpretation. 9 Then King Belshazzar was greatly alarmed, and his color changed, and his lords were perplexed. 10 The queen, because of the words of the king and his lords, came into the banqueting hall, and the queen declared, “O king, live forever! Let not your thoughts alarm you or your color change. 11 There is a man in your kingdom in whom is the spirit of the holy gods. In the days of your father, light and understanding and wisdom like the wisdom of the gods were found in him, and King Nebuchadnezzar, your father—your father the king—made him chief of the magicians, enchanters, Chaldeans, and astrologers, 12 because an excellent spirit, knowledge, and understanding to interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve problems were found in this Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar. Now let Daniel be called, and he will show the interpretation.” Daniel Interprets 13 Then Daniel was brought in before the king. The king answered and said to Daniel, “You are that Daniel, one of the exiles of Judah, whom the king my father brought from Judah. 14 I have heard of you that the spirit of the gods is in you, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom are found in you. 15 Now the wise men, the enchanters, have been brought in before me to read this writing and make known to me its interpretation, but they could not show the interpretation of the matter. 16 But I have heard that you can give interpretations and solve problems. Now if you can read the writing and make known to me its interpretation, you shall be clothed with purple and have a chain of gold around your neck and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.” 17 Then Daniel answered and said before the king, “Let your gifts be for yourself, and give your rewards to another. Nevertheless, I will read the writing to the king and make known to him the interpretation. 18 O king, the Most High God gave Nebuchadnezzar your father kingship and greatness and glory and majesty. 19 And because of the greatness that he gave him, all peoples, nations, and languages trembled and feared before him. Whom he would, he killed, and whom he would, he kept alive; whom he would, he raised up, and whom he would, he humbled. 20 But when his heart was lifted up and his spirit was hardened so that he dealt proudly, he was brought down from his kingly throne, and his glory was taken from him. 21 He was driven from among the children of mankind, and his mind was made like that of a beast, and his dwelling was with the wild donkeys. He was fed grass like an ox, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, until he knew that the Most High God rules the kingdom of mankind and sets over it whom he will. 22 And you his son, Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, though you knew all this, 23 but you have lifted up yourself against the Lord of heaven. And the vessels of his house have been brought in before you, and you and your lords, your wives, and your concubines have drunk wine from them. And you have praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood, and stone, which do not see or hear or know, but the God in whose hand is your breath, and whose are all your ways, you have not honored. 24 “Then from his presence the hand was sent, and this writing was inscribed. 25 And this is the writing that was inscribed: Mene, Mene, Tekel, and Parsin. 26 This is the interpretation of the matter: Mene, God has numbered the days of your kingdom and brought it to an end; 27 Tekel, you have been weighed in the balances and found wanting; 28 Peres, your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.”
So who is King Belshazzar?
It's an alternative spelling to Daniel's Belteshazzar, the largest god of the Chaldean Babylonian Empire. In History this is quite common. So who is this King sitting in Nebuchadnezzar's place? Nebuchadnezzar's son is Amel-Marduk. Meaning 'man of Marduk', Marduk - another very large god of the Chaldean Babylonian Empire.
It really wouldn't do to inherit Nebuchadnezzar's throne and be the second god when Daniel has been wowing everyone as Nebuchadnezzar's advisor as the major god namesake Belshazzar (the god Belteshazzar). Scriptures say King Belshazzar is either Amel-Marduk, renaming himself - extremely likely. Or his predecessor - which is a very interesting History. The best quasi guess of this ancient history follows the Book of Jeremiah and Babylonian History. Tying into the Book of Daniel and reflecting as accurate.
We know Emperor Nebuchadnezzar II had 7 years of mental extreme issues when he praised himself for all of his successes. Like Herod did in the New Testament. And seven years is not going to end an Emperor.
History tells us Amel-Marduk is politically murdered by people in the court. And History also records he is killed by his sister, Princess Nitocris of Babylon's, husband. Nergal-sharezer or Neriglissar is mentioned in Jeremiah 39:13 and is the Chaldean Empire's go to ex-Royal. Very definitely a deal has been made to marry the extremely popular Princess Nitocris to the dark "Nergal." In fact, History tells us Nitocris, called a temporary queen, made the city of Babylon grow and expanded upon the safety of the city wall. Princess Nitocris is seen in ancient history as a rare, successful woman queen. And History records she overthrows her evil husband, probably "King Belshazzar". Very Possibly that very night! Many advances occur during her reign, but ultimately Emperor Nebuchadnezzar returns telling everyone without his son, he knows the Chaldean Empire Dynasty will fall to another. Usually Emperors don't predict the downfall of their work.
Who is Darius?
Darius promises to return all 'exiles' other nations would call slaves. And at the base of his mosaic he praises God as his Helper. Who is Darius? It's difficult to tell, there are a lot of Kings named Darius with various numbers behind their name. The really famous one is going to be from another Dynasty. We could probably be safe to guess this is the husband of Nitocris. Helping her reign and being recorded in Scriptures.
Darius, the son of Ahasuerus, by descent a Mede is the same nationality as Nitocris' mother. So probably her mother made a second marriage match for Princess Nitocris. The Babylonian Chaldeans are conquerors of the Medes, so it's unlikely Darius is "the" Ruler.
Because the Next King is the 3rd King promising to return the Children of Israel to Judah.
Fitting nicely into Jeremiah explaining 70 years of exile. (Israel was split in half almost immediately after King Solomon died due to the arrogance of his only son. And Judah or Judea will exist until 70 A.D. the natural time of death of Jesus, from the Tribe of Judah.)
Daniel
Now very interesting - very interesting, you have the King after Nebuchadnezzar using Daniel's given "exile" name. Daniel is seen as such a threat, he is fed to lions. Darius can be explained using Babylonian History plus protecting the reputation of the popular Princess Nitocris of Babylon from lion to Daniel tampering. Then Cyrus. One of the most unique portions in this time frame of History is the attention those in power given to what we today call "Human Rights." Nebuchadnezzar wanted the Priests of the Temple to have a private home. Nebuchadnezzar wanted the "exiles" to worship their God. He encouraged their culture to blend into what he considered to be the best and most wonderful place on earth.
Now consider Cyrus.
Archaeology has been kind to this area with extreme goodness!
The Cylinder of Cyrus was found with about six hundred pieces of inscribed terracottas.
An introduction reviling Nabonidus, (Nergal-sharezer or Neriglissar is also recorded as Nabonidus and is very hated for taking over in a murderous coupe from, basically Nebuchadnezzar II. Best to look like the Winner over evil.) the previous king of Babylon, and associating Cyrus with the god Marduk;
Lines 20–22: detailing Cyrus's royal titles and genealogy, and his peaceful entry to Babylon;
Lines 22–34: a commendation of Cyrus's policy of restoring Babylon;
Lines 34–35: a prayer to Marduk on behalf of Cyrus and his son Cambyses;
Lines 36–37: a declaration that Cyrus has enabled the people to live in peace and has increased the offerings made
The Cylinder of Cyrus is Human Rights. Now consider who was interested in Human Rights:
Daniel
Daniel Chapter 10, Daniel's Terrifying Vision of a Man. When we consider we can find statues in Egypt speaking of Joseph Vizier of Egypt, we might consider Daniel is still being spoken of and in political adversarial roles of some significance - well past his time advising Nebuchadnezzar. Cyrus might be influenced by Daniel - in the Word of God - as Nebuchadnezzar was.
Definitely a Wonder of God to Consider!
After all, it's Cyrus who allows The Children of Israel to return to burned out Jerusalem. Life has been so good to the "exiles" many will stay on in this Empire to become the Jews in The Book of Esther.
Another really amazing and God Centered point bringing King Cyrus and God into focus:
Psalm 18:29 New International Version With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall. New Living Translation In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall. English Standard Version For by you I can run against a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall.
Emperor Nebuchadnezzar II, Princess Nitocris and even Nergal proclaimed their own success and bragged about the impenetrable wall they'd invented around Babylon. King Cyrus simply used the wide wall as the highway into Babylon. The walls circled the City State using the wall as a "High" way. The River was flooded, or in time of Flood, simply took the troops to the top of the wall.
What God had said over and over in the Book of Daniel about pride was true. And when we trace the History of the Babylonian Chaldean Empire we find Scripture is accurate;
God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.
And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. 21 And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus.
Abba, Father God,
You are the Way, Truth and Life!
In the footprints of Your Living Word we find this:
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow (all You have Written) all the days of life, and we shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. You interweave all things for Good. When we are called according to Your Purpose. Thank You, Abba, Holy Father, our Father God, For all Your Word. Great is Your Word. You are merciful to Your Children, You call Beloved. From the small blessings to the great ones, help us to reason to our thanksgiving, being grateful. Help us to express our gratitude and thanks. Be our way, truth and Life to let our lives be living testaments to the Good You have Willingly Given. We ask you to put the Name of Jesus Christ upon us and we are Blessed of God. Jesus Christ, pray for us, Speak Your Word, bring more Heaven to earth. To Rejoice in all of Your world. We ask Your Abundant and Flowing Blessings upon us. Keep us safe from disasters, quieten storms and keep the Oceans safe. Help us to seek You first and Your Kingdom. To Live Love, Joy and Peace. Uphold those we Love. We Trust You. We ask for the virus to end and Joy in Recovery. We pray for Your Healing Word to be Spoken. Your Help for a vaccine. Jesus Son of God Himself Bless, Sustain, Comfort, Guide President Donald Trump, Vice President Pence, Governor Abbott and these 50 United States Governors and Legislatures. The Administration Coronavirus Response Team, Dr. Deborah Birx, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Dr. Robert Redfield Jesus Christ Live in us. Amen!
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We believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He has saved all who call upon His name and rely on Him for His Grace. The Scriptures are living & active and are for understanding the Lord Almighty. Biblical readings are chosen from the Ecumenical Christian Church and the Nicene Council, 325 A.D., approved Apocrypha. People remember not just from reading, but by sight and orally- an image has been added as well as audio readings. God tends to link the passages together with fascinates - this blogger, Anne-Laurel Gardere
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