Thursday, January 5, 2017 Twelfth Night

“Fear not that thy life shall come to an end, but rather that it shall never have a beginning.”

Cardinal John Newman

Genesis, Chapter 19, Verse 30

Since Lot was afraid to stay in Zoar, he and his two daughters went up from Zoar and settled in the hill country, where he lived with his two daughters in a cave.

We cannot soar if we are afraid of Zoar. I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me. (Philippians 4:13) Our fears can, at times, be like a handicap. Fears can either immobilize us or if we are up to the challenge they can propel us to greater heights. Are we going to be like Lot afraid to Zoar or more like a Helen Keller[1] or Tom Dempsey? Dempsey set a 43 year NFL record for the longest field goal yet he was born with no right fingers and half a right foot.

I thank God for my handicaps, for through them, I have found myself, my work, and my God. (Helen Keller)

Today is the Twelfth day of Christmas. The Twelve drummers drumming represent the twelve points of the Apostles Creed. It is interesting to note that these 12 points are indeed pointing to the abode of God and that our Lord is the gate of heaven.

1. I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

2. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.

3. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary.

4. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.

5. He descended into hell. On the third day he rose again.

6. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.

7. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

8. I believe in the Holy Spirit,

9. the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints,

10. the forgiveness of sins,

11. the resurrection of the body,

Additionally the 12^th Station of the Cross is Jesus dies on the cross.