The Humble Shepherd King

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2 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” 3 Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor bears a son, and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites. 4 He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. 5 And he will be our peace. (Micah 5:2-5a NIV)

Dear Friend, A most wonderful of Wednesdays be yours today! You deserve it! You were made for this special day! All the joys and blessings that are coming to you were prepared with love from God for you! Also, if you're feeling a bit weak or unprepared because of the seemingly overwhelming nature of the challenges you are facing, God is with you and guess what? God is bigger than all the worries and cares you think you are facing! And God always wins! Let this be a day of worshipful prayer and work for the Lord.

Today's passage reminded me of my birth town, Kingsville, Kleberg County, Texas. This small town is located about forty (40) miles southeast of Corpus Christi, Texas. It is the county seat of Kleberg County, and it is home to Texas A & M University of Kingsville; the US Naval Base of Kingsville, and the world famoy King Ranch. The population of Kingville was always small, averaging about 12-14,000 during the years of my birth until 1965 when we left Kingsville, to Houston, Texas. There was no comparison then and even worse now. It was my home and I have many fond memories from living there.

This passage shares with us what the prophet Micah shared with us about this town and what it would come to mean in religious history. Bet Lehem, the name in Hebrew, translates to "House of Bread". This is quite fitting given the area's agricultural background and importance in producing grain and other crops. We should also know that this was also the birthplace of King David. The prophert was referring to a humble child was born to a virgin mother, fulfilling a prophecy given centuries before. Micah 5:2-5 reminds us of this incredible truth: God's greatest gift, His own Son, would come in the most unexpected way. Born not in a palace, but in a humble manger, this Savior was destined not just for the people of Israel, but for all nations. His birth would mark the beginning of a reign of peace and justice, not through power, but through humble, sacrificial love.

Micah’s prophecy offers us a powerful vision of this King who would come from the tiny town of Bethlehem to shepherd His people with the strength and majesty of God Himself. It speaks of His ability to bring peace, not through military might or political dominance, but through the quiet strength of a loving shepherd who cares for His flock. It is a reminder that God’s ways are often contrary to our expectations. While we may look for power, influence, and grandeur, He comes in the unexpected, humble form of a child, a ruler whose greatness would extend to the ends of the earth.

This passage also speaks of the time between His first coming and His second coming. The people of Israel longed for a Messiah who would rescue them from oppression, but they had to wait. Similarly, we now wait in hope for Christ's return, when He will bring ultimate peace and restore all things. This Advent season, we are called to not only remember the humble birth of Jesus, but to live in anticipation of His second coming when He will stand, shepherd His people, and bring lasting peace.

PRAYER: Bread of Heaven, We thank You for the gift of Jesus, who came to us in the quiet, humble town of Bethlehem, bringing peace and hope to a broken world. As we enter this season of Advent, we ask You to prepare our hearts to receive Him anew. Help us to embrace the humility of Christ and to reflect His love and peace to those around us. Stir within us a deep longing for His return, when He will come again to shepherd us and bring lasting peace. In this season of waiting, help us not only to look back at His first coming but also to live in anticipation of His secoming. May our lives be marked by hope, humility, and love. We pray this in the name of Jesus, our Savior and Shepherd. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Is there an area where you need to embrace humility, let go of control, or surrender to His leadership? Seek opportunities to shepherd those around you—whether through a word of encouragement, an act of service, or offering a listening ear. As we wait for Christ’s return, let us be a reflection of the peace and love He came to bring, sharing His light with those who need it most. REMEMBER! It's not the size of the city where you live or where you're from; it's the size of your faith in the One Who is bigger and stronger than all things!

I love you and I thank God for you! Let's win the world for Jesus!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Ready for the Gift

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5 Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: “Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; 6 with burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased. 7 Then I said, ‘Here I am—it is written about me in the scroll— I have come to do your will, my God.’ ” 8 First he said, “Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not desire, nor were you pleased with them”—though they were offered in accordance with the law. 9 Then he said, “Here I am, I have come to do your will.” He sets aside the first to establish the second. 10 And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. (Hebrews 10:5-10 NRSV Bible)

The best gift I ever received at Christmas was the knowledge of the love behind most things Christmas. Yes, there was that one Christmas when I badly, badly wanted a James Bond attaché case. Yes, I wanted 007's case that could shoot bullets, had an exploding note pad, a combination lock and contained the rifle that Mr. Bond sued with his license to kill; stock, scope, extension barrel; the works! And yes, I did indeed get that gift that year! I loved it but had to admit that deep down I knew that the real case of James Bond was not made of this cheap plastic like the one I received from Santa. Some years later I had the same feeling of joy as my bride and I assembled our first Christmas tree out of a paper towel roll, som alumnium foil and viola we had a tree complete with a handmade angel.

We come to a passage from Hebrews, our epistle reading for this coming Sunday in which the write reminds us of the precious and powerful gift of Jesus to the world. This passage from Hebrews challenges us to reflect deeply on the very purpose of Christ's coming, not just as a baby in Bethlehem, but as the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan of salvation. As we enter the season of Advent, the waiting, longing, and anticipation of Christ's coming stir our hearts and minds

In verses 5-7, we see the words of Jesus as He steps into human history. He doesn't come to offer more animal sacrifices or religious rituals that only cover sin temporarily. Instead, He brings Himself—a body prepared to do God's will perfectly. In a world where sacrifices were repeated year after year, Christ’s offering is once for all, final, and complete. His body, His life, offered in place of the endless rituals, is the very thing God desires. Jesus has the power to remove sin from our lives.

This passage invites us to ask: Are we offering to God the kinds of sacrifices He desires? Are we looking for external actions or rituals to make us feel justified, or are we willing to give ourselves fully to God's will? Christ came to do the Father’s will—He was not swayed by temporary measures of goodness but committed to complete obedience, even to the point of death on a cross. In His coming, He calls us into the same radical obedience: to lay down our own plans and agendas, and instead, to live according to the will of God. Advent is a time to renew our commitment to this deeper offering. It’s not about how many presents we give or how perfectly we decorate, but whether our hearts are truly ready to receive the gift of Christ and reflect His obedience in our lives. Christ’s offering invites us into a new way of living, where God’s will—shown through love, mercy, and sacrifice—becomes our own guiding principle. PRAYER: Gracious God, we thank You for the incredible gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who came to do Your will and offer Himself for our salvation. As we prepare our hearts for His coming, help us to lay down our own desires and to seek Your will in all things. May this Advent season be a time of deeper surrender, where we move beyond empty rituals and allow Christ to transform us from the inside out. Strengthen us to follow His example of obedience and love. We offer ourselves to You now, Lord, as living sacrifices, trusting in Your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: During this Advent season, let us take a moment to examine our lives and reflect on whether we are offering what God truly desires—our hearts, our obedience, and our willingness to follow His will. How can we make space in our daily lives to better align ourselves with Christ’s example of selfless love and devotion? I love you and I thank God for you! Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Magnificient! Yes, God Is!

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39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. 51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. 52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful 55 to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.” (Luke 1:39-55 NIV)

The ad ran only once in the Judean Times. WANTED: Mother of God. There was nothing else. People noticed and talked about it. The phones in the offices of the Times rang nonstop, and no one ever got through. Some even tried to get inside the editorial offices to speak to those who dared to run such an ad. What was funny was that no one wanted to apply. No one felt worthy; the thinking was that such a person might have to have perfection in their character and living. And there was that issue of getting pregnant and the rumor was that the person selected needed to be a virgin. And that was just the first ad. The second ad was just as cryptic. FOUND: Mother of God.

Of course, no such ads appeared in any newspaper of the area or time, for there were none. And the selection of such an imporant person to fill that role was solely a decison of Almighty God. And the qualifications for such a person were humility, integrity, honesty, love of God, love of others, and an unending awe and wonder for all things God. We also find that the woman chosen had to have the ability to convey an awesome description of all things God. We all know that it was Mary whom God selected as the mother of Jesus and in this passage we find one of the most profound expressions of joy and praise in the New Testament: Mary's song, known as the Magnificat. This beautiful hymn of thanksgiving reveals the heart of a young woman who has been chosen for an extraordinary role—yet she sees it as an act of God’s mercy toward the humble and lowly.

When Mary visits her relative Elizabeth, the Holy Spirit stirs within her, and her heart overflows with a powerful declaration of God’s faithfulness. She recognizes that the God who has looked upon her humble state has also done mighty things for the world. The focus of her praise is not on her own greatness, but on God's greatness and His mercy—how He lifts the lowly, fills the hungry, and scatters the proud.

Mary’s words echo the central theme of Advent: God is coming to His people in a way that is unexpected, humble, and transformative. The Savior is born not in a palace, but in a stable, not to the powerful, but to a young woman from a forgotten town. This is God’s surprising way of working—through the lowly and the humble.

Advent is a season of preparation, of waiting, but it is also a time to reflect on the God who has already come in Christ and who will come again in glory. It is a time to recognize that, like Mary, we too are called to rejoice in God’s goodness, to trust in His promises, and to live with hope for the transformation He is bringing to our world.

PRAYER: Loving God, As we wait for Your coming, we join with Mary in proclaiming Your greatness. Thank You for looking upon us with mercy and grace, and for lifting up the humble. We pray that Your love and joy would fill our hearts this Advent season. Help us to live with hope, humility, and a willingness to serve others as You have served us. May we reflect Your light in a world that longs for peace and redemption. Come, Lord Jesus, and make our hearts Your home, for we pray in Christ Jesus' strong name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Let us also reflect on the ways in which God is working in our lives. In this season of Advent, how can we make room for the lowly and the humble in our hearts and actions? Who are the “hungry” around us who need to be filled with good things? What ways can we, like Mary, magnify the Lord in our daily lives and rejoice in His mercy? Take a moment to pray and consider how you can embody the joy and humility of the Magnificat today. Is there someone you can serve? A way you can reflect Christ’s mercy and grace? Advent is a time not only to await Christ’s coming but to live out the values of His kingdom, even now.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Awaiting Renewal

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14 Sing, Daughter Zion; shout aloud, Israel! Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, Daughter Jerusalem! 15 The LORD has taken away your punishment, he has turned back your enemy. The LORD, the King of Israel, is with you; never again will you fear any harm. 16 On that day they will say to Jerusalem, “Do not fear, Zion; do not let your hands hang limp. 17 The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” 18 “I will remove from you all who mourn over the loss of your appointed festivals, which is a burden and reproach for you. 19 At that time I will deal with all who oppressed you. I will rescue the lame; I will gather the exiles. I will give them praise and honor in every land where they have suffered shame. 20 At that time I will gather you; at that time I will bring you home. I will give you honor and praise among all the peoples of the earth when I restore your fortunesbefore your very eyes,” says the LORD. (Zephaniah 3:14-20 NIV)

One of my favorite hymns is Tu Dejaste Tu Trono, which is the Spanish version of Room for Thee. (English version here: https://bit.ly/4fjGCb6. The words are haunting for they speak of not being room for His birth, i.e. the "no room at the inn" for Him, etc. As I matured and sang and sang that hymn every year it made me sad that He who had come to invite us in to a kingdom with room for everybody, suffered the reality of no room in what we could call a decent place for His birth, yet the hymn writer says the most important room we can offer Him today is the room we make for Him in our hearts.

Advent is the season of preparation and examination as we should quite purposefully and intentionally make room for Jesus, Who truly is the light of the world. Advent is a time of waiting, longing, and anticipation, but it is also a time of profound hope. In the midst of our expectations for Christ’s return, the Old Testament prophet Zephaniah offers us a powerful vision of God's promise of restoration and joy.

In Zephaniah 3:14-20, the prophet speaks to a people who are weary and burdened by their circumstances. Is he preaching or meddling? Israel, having suffered the consequences of their disobedience, is longing for deliverance. Yet, in the midst of judgment, God speaks words of comfort and hope. Zephaniah tells the people to "sing aloud" and "rejoice and exult with all your heart," for God is not distant but is in their midst, bringing salvation and restoration. The God who once judged and disciplined will now heal, restore, and gather the scattered. Have you ever stopped to ponder the awesomeness of singing in the Christmas story? Did you forget about the choir of angels who sang to the shepherds? The way Mary sang after she was told of her pregnancy and selection as the woman who would brith God's son? What keeps you from singing right now?

This passage points us forward to the hope that Advent offers: the coming of a Savior who will redeem and renew all things. God promises to deal with our brokenness and sin, to restore us to fullness, and to bring us peace. This season, we reflect not only on the first coming of Christ but on His second coming—when He will make all things new.

Zephaniah emphasizes the joy that accompanies God's intervention. The people of God are told that they will no longer have to fear. “The Lord your God is in your midst,” Zephaniah proclaims, “a warrior who gives victory.” These words remind us that God is not only with us but is actively working on our behalf. Just as the people of Israel longed for God's intervention, we too look to Christ as the one who will one day bring ultimate peace and justice.

As we wait for Christ to come, we are called to live in the assurance of God's love and presence, rejoicing in the hope that He brings. Advent is not just a season of waiting—it is a season of celebration, as we remember that God has already come in Jesus Christ and will come again.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the hope and joy that Advent brings. As we await the coming of Christ, may we be reminded of Your promise to restore, heal, and gather Your people. Help us to live in the joy of Your presence, knowing that You are near. Teach us to rejoice in the hope that You bring and to share that hope with those around us. In this season of waiting, fill our hearts with the peace and love that only You can give. Come, Lord Jesus, and make all things new. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Why not reflect on the joy and peace that God promises through the coming of Jesus. Take time each day to rejoice in God’s presence, knowing that He is near. How can you embody this joy in your daily life? Is there someone you can encourage with the hope of Christ, or a way you can share God’s love and peace in your community? Let this Advent be a season of joyful expectation, trusting that God is at work in our world and in our hearts, preparing us for His coming. Why not sing along to the Youtube video of Room for Thee?

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Prepare the Way!

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7 John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 9 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.” 10 “What should we do then?” the crowd asked. 11 John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.” 12 Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” 13 “Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told them. 14 Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.” 15 The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Messiah. 16 John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” 18 And with many other words John exhorted the people and proclaimed the good news to them. (Luke 3:7-18 NIV Bible)

I am an international preacher. Not bragging, but a fact. I was serving a church in the Rio Grande Valley, and thanks to some church members I received an invitation to preach in a church in Reynosa, Tamualipas, Mexico. And I felt led to take with me, a costume from our Christmas pageants, of a character like John the Baptist. And for that sermon I thought I would preach from this passage, verse 7 and thus began my sermon to a group of men. To this day I do not know how they received this message, or especially the reference to being a "brood of vipers!"

In Luke 3, we encounter John the Baptist, a figure who calls God's people to repentance and radical change. This is the season of preparation; we prepare for the coming of Christ Jesus, and in this passage we find John's message as a call to our own hearts. His words are urgent, challenging, and yet filled with hope.

John's words to the crowds in verse 7 are stark: "You brood of vipers!" This strong language isn't meant to shame, but to awaken people to the urgency of the times. The people had grown complacent, relying on their heritage—"We have Abraham as our father"—and their rituals, rather than living out true faith. John calls them to something deeper: a life of repentance that bears fruit. For us, this season of Advent is a time to look inward and ask: Is my life producing the fruit of repentance? Am I just going through the motions of faith, or am I genuinely turning my heart towards God, allowing Him to transform me?

When the crowd asks, "What should we do?" John doesn't give a vague answer. He offers practical, actionable steps:

Share with those in need (v. 11).

Be honest in your work (v. 13).

Be content and avoid greed (v. 14).

True repentance isn't just about feelings; it leads to active change in how we live, how we treat others, and how we align our lives with God's values. In Advent, we are invited not just to reflect on Christ's first coming but to live in anticipation of His return. How are we living out the ethics of the Kingdom now?

As John baptizes with water, he reminds the people that someone greater is coming—Jesus, who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. In this promise, John points to the hope of transformation, of cleansing, of new life. Advent is not just a time of waiting, but a time of hopeful expectation. Christ has come, and He will come again. The invitation for us in this season is to prepare our hearts not only for His birth in Bethlehem but for His return in glory.

PRAYER: Holy God, As we wait and prepare during this Advent season, we hear the call of John to prepare the way for Your coming. We confess that our hearts are often far from You, filled with distractions, complacency, and self-reliance. Forgive us, Lord. Help us to produce fruit in keeping with repentance. Open our eyes to the needs of those around us, and give us the courage to live out Your values with integrity and love. We await Your coming, not just as a baby in Bethlehem but as our returning King. Transform us this Advent so that we may be ready for Your glory. For it is in Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: This week, let’s respond to John’s call to repentance with tangible action: Find a way to serve someone in need: whether by sharing resources, offering a listening ear, or volunteering time. Examine your own life—are there areas where you are holding on to greed, selfishness, or complacency? Surrender these to God, and ask Him to help you live more fully in alignment with His Kingdom values. Take time each day to reflect on the hope of Christ’s coming. How can your life reflect the anticipation and joy of His return? Let this Advent be a time of true preparation—of heart, of action, and of deep hope.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Turn on the Light!

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68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has looked favorably on his people and redeemed them. 69 He has raised up a mighty savior for us in the house of his servant David, 70 as he spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, 71 that we would be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us. 72 Thus he has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors, and has remembered his holy covenant, 73 the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham, to grant us 74 that we, being rescued from the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear, 75 in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. 76 And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, 77 to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins. 78 By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, 79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Luke 1:68-79 NRSV)

PRAYER REQUEST: This afternoon at 1 pm Central Time, a dear friend, Rob Rocha undergoes oral surgery to remove all of his top teeth and some of his bottom teeth, and replace them with dentures. It's a long process and Rob has asked prayers from us. May God grant him a painless procedure and a comfortable recovery! And a means to help fund that costly process! Prayers for his wife, Pauline, as she tends for him during this time. Also, prayers for my dear friend, The Rev. Bill Henderson, who on this trip is now under the weather; may God heal him and bless his wife Jody with patience as he heals! May God bless you in your needs!

"You Can't Hurt My Feelings! I Used to Hold the Flashlight for my Dad!" I still laugh and want to cry as I read that. I saw that on the famous (Infamous?) Arroyo Cafe signs that speak volumes of truth. Those of you who have held or tried to hold a flashlight for your dad know the truth behind that saying. As hard as I/we tried, it was never quite right! Most dads could only work on their cars after dark, and with daylight savings time changes, a flashlight was crucial for dad to see where to place the bolt on the repair job. And for most kids, holding a light steady was the last thing on their mind. "What am I missing while I'm out here? Is it Friday? Are the Flintstones on? Dang, and I'm out here with my dad trying to fix this old car again? Why don't we just buy a new one??"

Let us not forget that on the day of our birth, our dads were elated with joy! The last thing on our dad's mind was the goofy, shaky hands we would have in our childhood when he tried yet again to fix his car. No sir! "God has blessed me with a child!" Amen and amen! Here in this passage we are reading the words of joy Zechariah expressed on the birth of his son, John. No, he did not know that this baby would grow up to wear camel's skin and eat locusts and honey, but he did know that he would call the people of God to prepare themselves for the coming of the Lord; truly "the prophet of the Most High," who did go forth to preapre the way of the Lord.

We have witnessed truly a moment of profound joy and gratitude, filled with hope for the coming of the Messiah. In these verses, we see Zechariah prophesy about God's promise to redeem Israel and bring salvation to the world through the coming of Jesus.

Zechariah’s song highlights two central themes: God’s faithfulness and the light of salvation. First, he praises God for fulfilling the promises made to the people of Israel, beginning with the covenant made to Abraham. This salvation, he says, will free God's people from their enemies and allow them to serve Him without fear.

But it’s the second part of Zechariah’s song that strikes a chord with the Advent season. He speaks of the dawn from on high breaking upon us—"the light to those who sit in darkness." In a world of shadow and despair, Advent is a season of waiting for the arrival of that very light: the birth of Jesus Christ, who is the light of the world. God's "flashlight" is not in any way shakey! It's a steady, strong beam of light right where it should be.

Advent invites us to reflect on our own darkness. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the uncertainties and struggles of life—the personal hardships, the global challenges, and the everyday shadows that seem to cloud our hearts. Yet, Zechariah’s prophecy reminds us that the light of Christ has already come and is still coming. It’s not just a future hope but a present reality that guides us in the here and now. Just as John the Baptist was called to prepare the way for Jesus, we too are invited to be bearers of that light to others.

In this season of Advent, we wait, but we do not wait passively. We wait with expectation, knowing that the light of Christ is already among us and calling us to walk in that light, to share it with those who still sit in darkness.

PRAYER: Loving God, We thank You for the promise of salvation and the light that shines in our darkness. As we await the celebration of Christ's birth, help us to live in the hope and joy that His coming brings. Illuminate our hearts with Your love, that we might reflect that light to those around us. Give us the courage to step into the shadows with compassion and grace, guiding others to the peace and light that only You can provide. In the name of Jesus, the Light of the World, we pray. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: As we reflect on the promise of light in our lives, consider how you can be a source of light to others this Advent season. Is there someone you know who is struggling with loneliness, grief, or despair? How might you shine the light of Christ’s love into their lives through a simple act of kindness, an encouraging word, or offering a listening ear?

In the busy rush of the season, take a moment each day to pause and reflect on the light that Christ brings to your own life. Let it fill you with peace, and then extend that peace to those around you. This Advent, may we be not only recipients of God’s mercy but also active participants in sharing His light with the world.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

The Purifying Fire

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1 See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. 2 But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap; 3 he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. 4 Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years. (Malachi 3:1-4 NRSV Bible)

I grew up in a small town near the railroad tracks. Every year, or so it seemed, the circus would come to town. I wish I could remember the name of the circus company, but it was quite the event. About a week or two before its arrival by train, the circus would hire men to walk the streets around the town handing out flyers. And what flyers they were! Full color, different type fonts, pictures of elephants and clowns, trapeze artists and other eye-catching scenes that made every little boy and girl want to go to the circus! These messengers had already sold the circus to the poprulation that had no money, but with what influence they could muster up, and if moms and dads had some money, you can be sure those seats inside the big top would be filled. The hearts and minds of the little ones were already filled with joy and wonder of what was coming!

So should it be with Advent. In this passage in the last book of the Old Testament, the prophet is relaying God's word about the excitment of the coming event. There would only be one messenger to prepare the way for this coming One. We know what that event was; it was the birth of the Christ child, and thank God we know of the impact that event continues to have on the world even today!

Advent is a season of preparation, of waiting and watching for the coming of Christ into our lives and our world. As we light the candles on our Advent wreath and count down the days to Christmas, Malachi's prophecy invites us to reflect on what it means for the Lord to come—to truly come—into our hearts.

In these verses, we hear of a coming "messenger" who will prepare the way, and of the Lord who will come suddenly to His temple. This moment is not one of mere celebration or sweetness, but one of deep refinement and purification. The imagery Malachi uses is striking: the Lord is described as a refiner's fire and as fuller’s soap.

The process of refining is not a comfortable one. Silver and gold must endure intense heat to be purified, and so too, our hearts must face the refining fire of God's presence to be made pure. The "fuller’s soap" refers to the harsh cleansing agents used to remove dirt and impurities from wool—again, a picture of intense purification. In these images, we are reminded that Christ's coming is not just about offering us a gentle peace or the joy of the holiday season; it is also a call to allow God to purify and refine us.

This Advent, as we prepare for the coming of Christ, let us not only long for His peace and joy but also for the refining work He desires to do within us. Are there areas of your life that need purification—attitudes, habits, or relationships that require God’s cleansing touch? Perhaps there are wounds or burdens that need healing before the fullness of God’s peace can take root in your heart. Advent is an invitation to open those places to God, to invite the refiner’s fire to purify and transform us.

PRAYER: Loving and awesome God, As we wait for Your coming this Advent season, we invite You into the depths of our hearts. We recognize that Your coming is not only a moment of celebration but also a call to be refined and purified. We ask that You would purify us like silver and gold, removing the impurities of sin and selfishness from our lives. Refine our hearts so that we may offer ourselves in righteousness to You, pleasing in Your sight. Help us to wait with patience, knowing that Your purification is for our good, and that in the end, we will be made more fully into the people You have called us to be. Come, Lord Jesus, and prepare our hearts for Your arrival.This we pray in Christ Jesus' strong name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Take some time each week to reflect on areas in your life where God may be calling you to a deeper purification. Is there a relationship that needs reconciliation? A habit that needs breaking? A burden that needs to be laid down? Why not set aside a moment of quiet reflection and invite God to purify your heart. Commit to actions of reconciliation, forgiveness, and healing, trusting that the refining fire of God is for your transformation. As you wait for Christ’s coming, let His love and grace refine you into the person He has created you to be.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Our King Forever!

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1 LORD, remember David and all his self-denial. 2 He swore an oath to the LORD, he made a vow to the Mighty One of Jacob: 3 “I will not enter my house or go to my bed, 4 I will allow no sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, 5 till I find a place for the LORD, a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob.” 6 We heard it in Ephrathah, we came upon it in the fields of Jaar: 7 “Let us go to his dwelling place, let us worship at his footstool, saying, 8 ‘Arise, LORD, and come to your resting place, you and the ark of your might. 9 May your priests be clothed with your righteousness; may your faithful people sing for joy.’ ” 10 For the sake of your servant David, do not reject your anointed one. 11 The LORD swore an oath to David, a sure oath he will not revoke: “One of your own descendants I will place on your throne. 12 If your sons keep my covenant and the statutes I teach them, then their sons will sit on your throne for ever and ever.” 13 For the LORD has chosen Zion, he has desired it for his dwelling, saying, 14 “This is my resting place for ever and ever; here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it. 15 I will bless her with abundant provisions; her poor I will satisfy with food. 16 I will clothe her priests with salvation, and her faithful people will ever sing for joy. 17 “Here I will make a horn grow for David and set up a lamp for my anointed one. 18 I will clothe his enemies with shame, but his head will be adorned with a radiant crown.” (Psalm 132:1-18 NIV)

Dear Friend, as we pray together this day, please remember Mr. Ricardo Gonzalez of Mission, TX, who returns to San Antonio for his seventh (7th) injection as he continues to battle MS. Let us pray the shot do the work it is supposed to and may God's hand be that which brings healing to our brother. Prayers for his wife, Maridol, as they journey together to San Antonio; may God bless them with traveling mercies and peace. Also, prayers for The Rev. Joel Salas, a former seminary classmate of mine at SMU, who is battling his final battle in Austin. I wish I had more information to share with you, but please pray these moments be fought valiently and in comfort. Prayers for his wife, Esther, and their children, as one can only imagine their sorrow and pain during these days. Rev. Salas served in Austin most of his career and we thank God for his faithfulness and service. And may God bless you and your needs today and all days!

The often faded bumpersticker made me smile the first time I saw it, about a thousand years ago: Keep Christ in Christmas. Comes year 1001 and I think, that's a good message but the more powerful and truer message is Keep Christ in your heart. It also makes me remember and chuckle at the old (being old those are the only jokes I know!) about the woman pulled over by the policman for driving erractically, for showing her displeasure at other drivers with the "California Howdy" finger, the consant honking and a list of other non-Christian displays. The woman was flabbergasted and asked why she was pulled over? The officer replied, "I read the bumpersticker that read 'Follow me to Sunday School,' and from the way you were driving I thought the car was stolen!"

This psalm is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the significance of Christ as King. The psalm recounts King David’s fervent desire to create a dwelling place for God among His people, showcasing David’s dedication and selflessness. His commitment to not rest until God had a rightful home mirrors our calling to prioritize God in our lives. We must make room for Jesus daily in our hearts, minds, and spirits.

As we reflect on verses 11 and 12, we are reminded of God’s covenant with David, promising that one of his descendants would sit on the throne forever. This is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who reigns as King, both in heaven and in our hearts. Christ the King invites us into a relationship with Him, where His presence transforms our lives and communities.

In verses 13 to 16, God declares Zion as His chosen dwelling place. Today, as believers, we are called the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). We must recognize our role in making our hearts and lives a welcoming dwelling for Christ, allowing His love and righteousness to overflow into the world around us.

The concluding verses proclaim victory over enemies and the promise of eternal blessing for His faithful ones. As we submit to Christ the King, we can trust in His sovereignty over our lives and the world. This psalm calls us not only to acknowledge Christ’s reign but also to actively participate in His kingdom work.

PRAYER: Loving God, thank You for Your faithfulness and the promise of Christ as our King. We praise You for choosing us to be part of Your kingdom. Help us to make our hearts a dwelling place for You and to seek Your presence above all else. Give us the courage to act as Your faithful servants, blessing others and proclaiming Your love in our communities. May we always honor You as the King of our lives, trusting in Your sovereign plan. In Jesus’ strong name, we pray. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Just as David sought to prepare a dwelling for the Lord, examine your life. Are there areas where you need to make room for Christ? Consider how you can prioritize your relationship with Him through prayer, worship, and service. Reflect on how you can be a source of blessing to those around you. Whether through acts of kindness, volunteering, or simply being present, let your actions reflect the love of Christ. Share the message of Christ the King with others. Look for opportunities to testify to His faithfulness and invite others into a relationship with Him.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

A King Speaks About THE King

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1 These are the last words of David: “The inspired utterance of David son of Jesse, the utterance of the man exalted by the Most High, the man anointed by the God of Jacob, the hero of Israel’s songs: 2 “The Spirit of the LORD spoke through me; his word was on my tongue. 3 The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me: ‘When one rules over people in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, 4 he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings grass from the earth.’ 5 “If my house were not right with God, surely he would not have made with me an everlasting covenant, arranged and secured in every part; surely he would not bring to fruition my salvation and grant me my every desire. 6 But evil men are all to be cast aside like thorns, which are not gathered with the hand. 7 Whoever touches thorns uses a tool of iron or the shaft of a spear; they are burned up where they lie.” (2 Samuel 23:1-7 NIV Bible)

There are kings and there are kings; of this and of that. As an example, some many years ago, Waylon Jennings wrote a song about who was the king of Texas. Here's a clue: "I grew up on music, That we call western swing; It don't matter whose in Austin"...anyone? "Bob Wills is still the king." And some years ago, I Austin in Zilker Park, a British rock group from the 1960s set up and played a concert and they played this song. Quite an image, Mick Jagger, lead singer of The Rolling Stones, considered by many as a king in his own right of his genre of music, sang the song that "Bob Wills is Still the King." But this is about the one true king being spoken of by the greatest king of Israel, King David.

Many of us will gather on this coming Christ the King Sunday, and we reflect on the profound truths encapsulated in the final words of King David. His declaration, filled with the weight of experience, reveals the essence of true leadership under God's authority. David’s life was marked by triumphs and failures, but ultimately, he recognized that his kingship was not merely a position of power, but a calling to govern with righteousness and reverence for God.

David speaks of a ruler who governs in righteousness and the fear of God, likening him to a bright morning sun that brings life and growth. This imagery invites us to consider Christ, our ultimate King, who perfectly embodies these qualities. As we celebrate Christ the King Sunday, we are reminded that Jesus reigns not with oppression, but with justice and love, illuminating our lives and guiding us in our walk of faith.

We find in Verses 5-7 words that emphasize the importance of aligning our lives with God’s covenant. David's confidence in God's promises challenges us to examine our own relationship with Him. Are we living in accordance with the covenant we have through Christ? Are we cultivating our hearts to reflect His light, or are we allowing the thorns of sin to take root? When Jesus brings us to His kingdom we will find ourselves surrounded in the purity of His holiness and anything in us that was unclean will be washed away by His blood. We can start now to prepare for that day by making the right decisions that glorify God and allows us to honor Him.

PRAYER: LOVING God, We thank You for the gift of Your Son, our King, who leads us with love and righteousness. As we celebrate Christ the King Sunday, help us to reflect Your light in all we do. Strengthen us to remove the thorns in our lives and empower us to live out our faith boldly. May we walk in Your ways, shining Your light in the darkness, and bringing hope to those around us. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our King. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Let us commit to living in a way that reflects the light of Christ in our communities. Identify areas in your life where thorns may be choking the growth of righteousness. Perhaps it is through forgiveness, service, or a commitment to justice. Make a conscious effort to remove those thorns and replace them with actions that glorify God. Share the hope and light of Christ with someone who needs it, whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or a prayer.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

King of Heaven

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Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, 6 and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen. 7 “Look, he is coming with the clouds,”and “every eye will see him, even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.”So shall it be! Amen. 8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” (Revelation 1:4b-8 NIV)

The pressures of life here on earth sometimes cloud our vision of the realm we call Heaven. Our prayer time and our worship is meant to take us there every time we do either. Sometimes we worry so much about what is to come in the here and now that we forget that we are not of this place; we are truly pilgrims in a foreign place. We are of God and from God we came, and to God we shall return. And when we are there we shall see Him as King there.

The writer of thsi book, John greets us with a message of grace and peace from God the Father, the Holy Spirit, and Jesus Christ Himself. Each of these divine persons is a source of strength and assurance, setting the stage for the grand revelation of Christ’s sovereignty.

Jesus is described as the "faithful witness" and "the firstborn of the dead," emphasizing His role in God's redemptive plan. He is not only a witness to the truth but also the ultimate testimony of God’s power over death. As the "ruler of kings on earth," Christ stands above all earthly powers and authorities. No matter the chaos or uncertainty we may face, we can take comfort in knowing that Christ reigns supreme.

Moreover, we are reminded that through His sacrificial love, Jesus has freed us from our sins and made us a kingdom of priests to God. This remarkable transformation means that we are called to serve Him and others, participating in His mission of reconciliation and love. Our identity as His kingdom reflects His glory and dominion, compelling us to live out our faith actively and authentically.

The passage culminates with a powerful promise of Christ's return: "Behold, he is coming with the clouds." This reminder stirs our hearts with hope and anticipation. Every eye will see Him, and every tribe will acknowledge His authority. This is not just a future event; it is a present reality that should inspire us to live with purpose and integrity, knowing that our King is coming back.

PRAYER: Loving God, we thank You for the incredible truth that Jesus is our King. Thank You for His sacrifice that has freed us from sin and made us a part of Your kingdom. Help us to live in a way that reflects Your love and authority in our lives. May we actively share the hope of Christ with others and be reminded of His glorious return. Empower us to be faithful witnesses and to bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' strong name, we pray. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Consider how you can reflect the love and authority of Christ in your daily interactions. This week, find one way to serve others, share the hope of Christ, or exemplify His grace in your community.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Jesus Christ, Our King!

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33 So Pilate entered his headquarters again and called Jesus and said to him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" 34 Jesus answered, "Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?" 35 Pilate answered, "Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?" 36 Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world." 37 Then Pilate said to him, "So you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world--to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice." (John 18:33-37 English Standard Version Bible)

Imagine being in the presene of the king and with him is one whom others have called king, too. Pilate was not as bad a person as Herod, for Herod was known to have killed his own sons for fear they would take the kingship from him; but here in this classic encounter Jesus shares a profound declaration of His own kingship. Pilate, representing worldly authority, questions Jesus about His identity. In response, Jesus clarifies that His kingdom does not belong to this world; it transcends earthly power and political structures. He came to bear witness to the truth, revealing the nature of His reign.

Jesus’ kingship is unlike any earthly authority. While kings and rulers may seek power for personal gain, Christ’s purpose was to serve, to redeem, and to reveal the truth. His kingdom is characterized by love, grace, and truth rather than coercion or violence. In this moment of interrogation, we see the contrast between worldly authority and divine sovereignty. Jesus stands before Pilate, not as a defeated prisoner, but as the sovereign King who has come to establish a different kind of reign.

As believers, we are called to acknowledge Christ as our King, not only in our worship but in our daily lives. His kingdom invites us to participate in His mission, to spread the truth of His love and grace, and to reflect His character in our interactions with others. In a world often filled with confusion and competing truths, we are challenged to listen to the voice of Jesus, who is the embodiment of truth.

Let us consider how we can submit to His authority and allow His kingdom values to shape our lives. Are we living in a way that reflects the truth of Christ’s kingship? Are we ambassadors of His kingdom, demonstrating His love in our communities and beyond?

PRAYER: Loving God, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, who reigns as King. Help us to recognize His authority in our lives and to embrace the truth He embodies. Empower us to live as faithful witnesses of Your kingdom, sharing Your love and grace with those around us. May our lives reflect the values of Your kingdom and draw others to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Reflect on your life and identify one area where you can better align with the values of Christ’s kingdom. Consider how you can be a witness to the truth in that area this week.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

A Song of Praise

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1 Hannah prayed: I'm bursting with God-news! I'm walking on air. I'm laughing at my rivals. I'm dancing my salvation. 2 Nothing and no one is holy like God, no rock mountain like our God. 3 Don't dare talk pretentiously - not a word of boasting, ever! For God knows what's going on. He takes the measure of everything that happens. 4 The weapons of the strong are smashed to pieces, while the weak are infused with fresh strength. 5 The well-fed are out begging in the streets for crusts, while the hungry are getting second helpings. The barren woman has a houseful of children, while the mother of many is bereft. 6 God brings death and God brings life, brings down to the grave and raises up. 7 God brings poverty and God brings wealth; he lowers, he also lifts up. 8 He puts poor people on their feet again; he rekindles burned-out lives with fresh hope, Restoring dignity and respect to their lives - a place in the sun! For the very structures of earth are God's; he has laid out his operations on a firm foundation. 9 He protectively cares for his faithful friends, step by step, but leaves the wicked to stumble in the dark. No one makes it in this life by sheer muscle! 10 God's enemies will be blasted out of the sky, crashed in a heap and burned. God will set things right all over the earth, he'll give strength to his king, he'll set his anointed on top of the world! (1 Samuel 2:1-10 The Message Bible)

Welcome to Part Two of yesterday's story of Hannah. This passage can serve as the Psalm reading for this week, for it contains all the wonderful components of a psalm. It is first and foremost, a psalm of celebration for all answered prayers merit celebration, and to use the language of this version, Walking on air, and dancing my salvation.

Hannah’s song of praise is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the transformative power of worship. After years of deep anguish and longing for a child, Hannah's prayer was answered with the birth of her son, Samuel. In her song, she not only expresses her personal joy but also acknowledges God's sovereignty and justice. It is evident that Hannah's heart is overflowing with praise for her God.

Hannah begins her song by exulting in the Lord, declaring that her heart is full of joy because of Him. In our lives, how often do we pause to recognize the blessings we have received? Gratitude opens our hearts to experience joy, even in difficult times.

In verses 4-5, Hannah proclaims that the bows of the mighty are broken while the weak are clothed with strength. This is a powerful truth about God’s ability to turn situations around. When we feel weak or defeated, we can trust that God is at work. His plans often transcend our understanding.

Hannah speaks of God’s judgment and power over the world. Verse 10 emphasizes that God’s enemies will be shattered, while those who serve Him will be strengthened. This reminds us that God is not only intimately involved in our personal lives but also in the larger picture of justice and righteousness in the world.

Hannah's journey was long and filled with pain, but she remained faithful. Her eventual joy did not come without struggle. We are called to trust God's timing and purpose, knowing that He sees the bigger picture.

PRAYER: Awesome God, Thank You for being a God who hears our cries and answers our prayers. We praise You for Your sovereignty and justice, and we ask for the strength to trust in Your timing. Help us to be like Hannah, filled with gratitude and joy, even in the midst of trials. May our hearts sing praises to You and may we recognize the blessings You have bestowed upon us. Guide us to reflect Your light and love in a world that desperately needs it. In Jesus’ strong name, we pray. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: What areas do you need to surrender to God? Where can you proclaim His goodness? This week, make a deliberate effort to thank God for His blessings, especially in challenging situations.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

In God's Time!

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4 When Elkanah sacrificed, he passed helpings from the sacrificial meal around to his wife Peninnah and all her children, 5 but he always gave an especially generous helping to Hannah because he loved her so much, and because God had not given her children. 6 But her rival wife taunted her cruelly, rubbing it in and never letting her forget that God had not given her children. 7 This went on year after year. Every time she went to the sanctuary of God she could expect to be taunted. Hannah was reduced to tears and had no appetite. 8 Her husband Elkanah said, "Oh, Hannah, why are you crying? Why aren't you eating? And why are you so upset? Am I not of more worth to you than ten sons?" 9 So Hannah ate. Then she pulled herself together, slipped away quietly, and entered the sanctuary. The priest Eli was on duty at the entrance to God's Temple in the customary seat. 10 Crushed in soul, Hannah prayed to God and cried and cried - inconsolably. 11 Then she made a vow: Oh, God-of-the-Angel-Armies, If you'll take a good, hard look at my pain, If you'll quit neglecting me and go into action for me By giving me a son, I'll give him completely, unreservedly to you. I'll set him apart for a life of holy discipline. 12 It so happened that as she continued in prayer before God, Eli was watching her closely. 13 Hannah was praying in her heart, silently. Her lips moved, but no sound was heard. Eli jumped to the conclusion that she was drunk. 14 He approached her and said, "You're drunk! How long do you plan to keep this up? Sober up, woman!"15 Hannah said, "Oh no, sir - please! I'm a woman hard used. I haven't been drinking. Not a drop of wine or beer. The only thing I've been pouring out is my heart, pouring it out to God. 16 Don't for a minute think I'm a bad woman. It's because I'm so desperately unhappy and in such pain that I've stayed here so long." 17 Eli answered her, "Go in peace. And may the God of Israel give you what you have asked of him." 18 "Think well of me - and pray for me!" she said, and went her way. Then she ate heartily, her face radiant. 19 Up before dawn, they worshiped God and returned home to Ramah. Elkanah slept with Hannah his wife, and God began making the necessary arrangements in response to what she had asked. Dedicating the Child to God 20 Before the year was out, Hannah had conceived and given birth to a son. She named him Samuel, explaining, "I asked God for him." (1 Samuel 1:4-20 The Message Bible)

Dear Friend, praise be to God for the surgery that was finally performed on my brother-in-law, José Armando Rosales, on Tuesday afternoon. The surgery went well and Armando is a bit groggy as he is in recovery. Please continue to pray for him and his recovery. The doctor said it was a clean break and only screws were needed to repair the injury. Armando expects to be in the hospital for a couple of days. We just spoke with him on the phone. Thanks be to God!

Dr. Hunter Thompson was the inventor of what he calloed, Gonzo Journalism. An online source defines it in this way: "Gonzo journalism is a style of journalism that is characterized by the reporter's involvement in the story to the point where they become a central figure in the narrative. Unlike traditional journalism, which aims to remain objective and detached, gonzo journalism often blurs the lines between fact and fiction, with the reporter's personal experiences, emotions, and opinions becoming integral to the story." Dr. Thompson, and for the record, he was not a doctor in any sense of the word; he bought a Doctor of Divinity diploma from the back pages of Rolling Stones magazine and proudly used the title for the rest of his life. And I say all this because he said that when he was stuck for a story or a way to start one, he would rely on the Holy Bible for inspiration. And no wonder, with a story such as the one we just read. It's got intrigue, mystery, awe and wonder, and an underlying theme that only God can understand at points; and the ending just blows us away!

There is a family, yes set in those times and with the accepted cultural things of that time, like multiple wives. The husband is a man named Elkanah, and he has two wives, Penninnah and Hannah. In the race for the number of kids named for either, Hannah is winning. The names, by the way, have different meaning; Peninnah means "prolific" and "fertile," as we read in the intro to the story; Hannah means "favored," and "grace." Keep that in mind as we continue our journey. Though modern televsions shows might call them "sister wives" but they were not; "rival wife" is more like it. Penni loved to torment Han by reminding her that "God had not given her children." "Thank you, Penni!" NOT!

Hannah's story is one of profound struggle and unwavering faith. She experiences deep heartache and humiliation, yet in her distress, she turns to God in prayer. Her desperation does not push her away from God; instead, it drives her closer to Him.

Hannah's prayer is a powerful example of vulnerability before God. She doesn't come with polished words or grand gestures; she simply expresses her heart's cry. This honesty invites us to reflect on our own prayer lives. Do we approach God with our true feelings, or do we hide behind a facade of strength?

In our modern world, we often seek instant gratification. We want answers now and solutions at our fingertips. Yet, Hannah teaches us about the beauty of waiting and trusting in God's timing. After years of barrenness, she not only receives a child but also experiences a transformation within herself. God’s plans often unfold in ways we don’t expect, but they are always for our good.

Hannah's commitment to dedicate Samuel to the Lord illustrates the importance of surrendering our gifts and blessings back to God. What are the gifts in your life that you need to offer back to God?

PRAYER: Loving God, Thank You for the example of Hannah, whose faith and dedication inspire us. Help us to come to You with our burdens, knowing that You hear our cries. Teach us to wait patiently for Your perfect timing, trusting that You have a plan for our lives that is far greater than our own. As we receive blessings, may we remember to dedicate them back to You and use them for Your glory. Strengthen our faith as we navigate our challenges, and let us find peace in Your presence. In Jesus' strong name, we pray. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Thank You for the example of Hannah, whose faith and dedication inspire us. Help us to come to You with our burdens, knowing that You hear our cries. Teach us to wait patiently for Your perfect timing, trusting that You have a plan for our lives that is far greater than our own. As we receive blessings, may we remember to dedicate them back to You and use them for Your glory. Strengthen our faith as we navigate our challenges, and let us find peace in Your presence. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr

Stay Faithful

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11 Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, 13 and since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool. 14 For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. 15 The Holy Spirit also testifies to us about this. First he says: 16 “This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.” 17 Then he adds: “Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more.” 18 And where these have been forgiven, sacrifice for sin is no longer necessary. 19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:11-25 NRSV)

There are countless things that I do that are more the result of muscle memory than deliberate planning. When I shower, it's a routine that I have had since the beginning of time; I shampoo, rub the shampoo into my hair, I guess that's called lathering, then I rinse. I seldom repeat. Then I add conditioner, and lather, leave in for the duration of the shower, use body wash, rinse, rinse the conditioner out and then wonder if I shampooed or if I used conditioner. Some of you will prepare your morning coffee, add to it what you will, drink it, and then wonder if you had your morning coffee. Or, whatever you do that is mindless. But I'll tell you what is not mindless; doing that which had profound meaning in your life. The priest to whom the writer of this passage refers, doing a day after day routine of "performing his religious duties; again and again." The sad thing, the author comments, is that these sacrifices can never truly take away sins. But when THE priest, the HIGh priest, Christ Jesus offered Himself for our sake, that was it - the full and final payment of our sin; then He entered into the presence of God and sat at God's right hand.

This profound truth is at the heart of our faith: we no longer need to live in the shadows of guilt and sin, for Christ’s sacrifice has secured our forgiveness and salvation. We can live free for we are forgiven. And best news? God has not only forgiven our sin, but has forgotten them as well. A friend told me of a story he heard about a little girl who, while in a dream statek could see and speak to God, and many times proved it to her pastor; finally, the pastor said, "Please ask God about my sin," which he named to the little girl. The next day, he asked the girl, "What did God say about my sin?" The little girl smiled and said, "God asked, 'What sin?'"

As believers, we are invited into a relationship with God marked by confidence and assurance. The curtain that once separated us from the Holy of Holies has been torn, granting us direct access to the Father. This new covenant offers us hope and the promise that our sins are remembered no more. How liberating it is to know that we can approach God with a true heart and full assurance!

However, this passage also emphasizes the importance of community in our faith journey. We are called not only to embrace our relationship with God but also to actively engage with one another. The writer encourages us to “provoke one another to love and good deeds” and to not neglect meeting together. In a world where isolation can easily creep in, we must intentionally connect with fellow believers, encouraging each other in our walk of faith.

PRAYER: Loving God, Thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice has made a way for us to enter into Your presence. Help us to grasp the depth of this grace and to live in light of Your forgiveness. Strengthen our hearts and our faith as we strive to hold fast to the hope we profess. Lord, guide us in our relationships with others. May we be instruments of encouragement, spurring one another on towards love and good deeds. Help us to foster a sense of community, never taking for granted the fellowship we have in Christ. In Christ Jesus' strong name we pray, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: How can you deepen your relationship with God, embracing the confidence that comes from knowing your sins are forgiven? Let us be a community that builds each other up, reminding one another of the faithfulness of God and the hope we have in Christ.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

The Beginning of Birth Pains

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1 As Jesus was leaving the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!” 2 “Do you see all these great buildings?” replied Jesus. “Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” 3 As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John and Andrew asked him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?” 5 Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you. 6 Many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many. 7 When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 8 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains. (Mark 13:1-8 NIV Bible)

Every birth story is different, but they are all special. The first one is always the most memorable because one does not know what to expect. We were living in Rio Grande City, at my first fulltime appointment as a pastor at First United Methodist Church, a church that was in the Rio Grande Annual Conference. It was a dual lingual church, having a Spanish and an English service. Our doctor for our first blessed event was in McAllen, a trip of about 32 miles. The doctor had given us a mas o menos time when our baby would arrive. A seminary classmate had promised us a hundred dollars if the baby was born on his birthday of January 31st; so there was that. And it was on that evening that the first of the symptoms arrived. And it would be at 2 a.m. that they would intesntify and merit our drive to Nellie's sister's home in Peñitas, TX. We were now within stirking distance to the old McAllen Hospital in downtown McAllen, where our baby would arrive. I should mention it was not an easy night for my bride. Me? I wish I could say I was a calm, cool, and collected father-to-be; but I'd be lying. I just thank God that I do not bite my fingernails.

This passage is about the coming destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. Needless, to say, not what the tourist-acting disciples wanted, or needed, to hear. The temple was a living symbol of who they were and Whose they were. When they marvel and gush at what it made them feel, Jesus says, 'Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." Gulp. Wait. What? This was the national monument, Statue of Liberty, Lincoln Monument, all rolled into one. This was the focal point of Jewish life and identify.

Yet, Jesus doesn’t just speak about the Temple’s destruction, but about what will come afterward — the chaos, the false prophets, the wars, and the natural disasters that will mark the approach of the end. He cautions them to be vigilant: "Watch out that no one deceives you" (Mark 13:5). The message is clear: in the midst of tumult, believers must stay rooted in truth and prepared for what’s to come.

Jesus describes the signs of the end times in vivid language — wars, rumors of wars, earthquakes, and famines. These things are not the end itself but “the beginning of birth pains” (Mark 13:8). The imagery of birth pains is particularly striking: like a woman in labor, the world will experience increasing intensity and frequency of trials leading up to the final day. These events are not to be feared but seen as part of God's sovereign plan.

We are reminded here that life in this fallen world will be marked by struggle. Whether it's global unrest, personal suffering, or even spiritual doubts, Jesus doesn’t promise an easy path. Instead, He prepares His followers with the reality of hardship and the certainty of God's ultimate triumph. The “birth pains” are a reminder that the pains of this world will give way to something far greater — the arrival of God's Kingdom.

What does this mean for us today? We are not only looking back at these prophetic words, but we are also looking forward, awaiting the fulfillment of God's promises. Just as the disciples were to prepare for the days ahead, so are we. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the world’s crises — political unrest, natural disasters, economic instability. But Jesus tells us not to be alarmed. He encourages us to see these signs as reminders that He is coming again, and that history is moving toward a glorious conclusion, not spiraling into chaos without hope.

As we live in these times, it’s crucial to remain anchored in faith. Jesus calls us to stand firm in the face of uncertainty and to trust that our suffering has a purpose. He also calls us to avoid the traps of deception that would distract us from our hope in Him. The world may try to pull us away, but we are to keep our eyes fixed on the One who is our ultimate source of hope, strength, and peace.

PRAYER: Loving God, hank You for the words of warning and encouragement that You gave to Your disciples, and that You continue to speak to us today. Help us to remain steadfast in the midst of trials and uncertainties. Give us eyes to see the signs of the times and hearts that are anchored in Your promises. Protect us from deception and help us to be faithful witnesses of Your truth in a world that so desperately needs hope. We trust that You are coming again, and until that day, we will stand firm in Your love. In Christ Jesus' strong hame we pray, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Let us not be deceived by the noise around us, but stay rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Live each day with eternity in view, knowing that the struggles we face now are not the end but the beginning of something even more glorious. Be a witness of hope to those around you, and encourage one another to stand firm in the faith.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

God's Blueprint

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1 If God doesn't build the house, the builders only build shacks. If God doesn't guard the city, the night watchman might as well nap. 2 It's useless to rise early and go to bed late, and work your worried fingers to the bone. Don't you know he enjoys giving rest to those he loves? 3 Don't you see that children are God's best gift? the fruit of the womb his generous legacy? 4 Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. 5 Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children! Your enemies don't stand a chance against you; you'll sweep them right off your doorstep. (Psalm 127 The Message Bible)

Yesterday we read the story of Jesus' great, great, great....grandmother, Ruth; not a Hebrew, but a Moabitess, whose faith and trust in God led her to a special place in history and in the familly of Jesus. Did Ruth know it was coming? No, her own concern was to find a home and she knew God would provide one and so she trusted God. Her search for a home led her to the man with whom she had a baby, and as the passage affirms, "Children are God's best gift."

This psalm reminds us of the importance of reliance on God in all aspects of life. The Message Bible captures the essence of this psalm with its contemporary language, emphasizing that without God’s involvement, our efforts are in vain. The psalm begins with the powerful declaration that unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. This truth resonates deeply in a world that often prioritizes self-sufficiency and human effort over divine guidance.

The psalm continues to stress the futility of striving for success without God's blessing, illustrating that our work, however diligent, lacks true significance without His presence. It is a poignant reminder that our endeavors—whether in our careers, families, or personal lives—are best accomplished when we recognize our dependence on God. He is the architect of our lives, and His plans far exceed our understanding.

The latter part of the psalm presents children as a gift from God, a heritage and blessing to be cherished. This is a beautiful reminder of the legacy we build not just through our work but through our relationships and the values we impart to the next generation. Parenting, mentoring, and investing in others become significant acts of faith and obedience, shaping futures for both ourselves and our children.

As we reflect on Psalm 127, let us evaluate our lives and consider where we may be relying too much on our strength and abilities. Are there areas where we need to invite God in, allowing Him to build and establish our efforts? This week, let’s take a moment to pause and ask ourselves: How can we align our work and our relationships with God's purpose and guidance?

PRAYER: Awesome God, thank You for the reminder that without You, our efforts are in vain. Help us to acknowledge our dependence on You in all aspects of our lives. Teach us to build our homes, our relationships, and our endeavors with Your guidance and strength. May we cherish the gifts You have given us, especially our families and loved ones. Help us to cultivate a spirit of reliance on You, trusting that You will establish our work and bless our efforts. In Jesus' powerful name, we pray. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Seek God's guidance in areas where you may be striving without Him. Consider writing down a prayer or a reflection on how you can invite God into these spaces, trusting Him to establish the work of your hands.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Your Role in God's Plan

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The wonderful thunder storms in our area knocked out power and the video for yesterday's devotional was lost, but is found: https://youtu.be/4EQG3zJ_FLo. Today's Video:: https://bit.ly/4fdE1A9. •The audio podcast link is not working and thus no audio only broadcast today. Sorry!

Also, prayers for Mrs. Elisa Gaytan as she has been placed in Hospice care Tuesday night and is declining rapidly. Pray for her comfort and for the strength and peace for her loved ones.

1 One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, I must find a home for you, where you will be well provided for. 2 Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. 3 Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. 4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.” 5 “I will do whatever you say,” Ruth answered. 13 So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When he made love to her, the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. 14 The women said to Naomi: “Praise be to the LORD, who this day has not left you without a guardian-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel! 15 He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.” 16 Then Naomi took the child in her arms and cared for him. 17 The women living there said, “Naomi has a son!” And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David. (Ruth 3:1-5; 14:3-17 NIV)

When God calls us to service, we might have to move. Yes, like in leaving mother and father behind and brothers and sisters. And you might even meet someone you did not expect to meet. And you might fall in love and marry that person. Okay, that was my story, and I'm sticking to it. But, my story may be your story and your story might be like the one in this passage. We visit Ruth again this week. Last week as we met her, she and her mother-in-law suffered loss of sons and for Ruth and her sister-in-law, husbands, The brave one in this story was Ruth, who although being a Moabitess, decided she wanted Israel to be her country and promised that her mother-in-law's God would be her God. Fast forward to today, where Naomi is concerned about Ruth's future and seeks to find her a secure home and future. Ruth had been working for a man named Boaz, and it turns out is a relative of Naomi, who has a strategy for a way for Ruth to meet him in a personal way. Her advice is for Ruth to bathe, to put on perfume and to dress in her best clothing. Naomi tells Ruth to go to where Boaz will be working and to wait until he has eaten and drinking and then to go to where he lies down to go and uncover Boaz' feet and to lie down next to him. It worked! Boaz took Ruth as his wife. Ruth conceives and bears a son, who was named Obed and his son was named Jesse, and Jesse's son was named David. Yes, as in King David.

Ruth’s obedience to Naomi’s guidance reveals her trust in both her mother-in-law and the unfolding of God’s plan. She follows Naomi's instructions, demonstrating her willingness to step into a new and vulnerable situation in hopes of finding redemption.

This passage reminds us of the importance of mentorship and guidance in our lives. Just as Naomi provides wisdom and support to Ruth, we, too, can seek out mentors and become mentors for others. It also challenges us to be open to new opportunities, trusting that God is at work even when the path ahead feels uncertain.

In Ruth 4:13-17, we witness the culmination of Ruth's journey. Boaz marries her, and she bears a son, Obed, who becomes part of the lineage of David and ultimately, Jesus. This beautiful conclusion highlights the theme of redemption—not just for Ruth, but for the entire community. Through Ruth's faithfulness and willingness to follow God's plan, a new beginning emerges, showcasing how God can bring good out of difficult circumstances.

PRAYER: Loving God, thank You for the story of Ruth and the lessons it imparts about trust, obedience, and redemption. Help us to be open to Your guidance and to seek wisdom from those around us. Give us courage to embrace new opportunities and the strength to mentor others as we journey through life together. May we always remember that You are at work in our lives, bringing hope and restoration. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: As we reflect on these passages, we can consider our own lives and the ways in which God might be calling us to act. Are there areas where we need to seek guidance? Do we trust that God can bring redemption and new beginnings, even from our struggles?

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.