Podcasts about sorrowing

Story Prescription: A story for Hallowe'en, All Hallow's Eve, when the souls of those past are remembered. An ethereally spooky story from Scotland, about two sisters who love the same man. It doesn't end well, but it does end with a song of a harp that sings of sorrow. If you are listening from the Scottish Highlands, or know someone who might enjoy Stories and Harp, join us on Saturday 16th November for Love in the Underworld. If you are not local to Scotland, but would like to join me online, then Wild Women, a six months journey into the wild feminine through stories starts on the 8th November.

Meghan is joined by clinical professional counselor Joel Nielson to discuss his views on the process of sanctification from a psychological perspective. Topics include: - The Why, What, and How of Sanctification- How to Approach "Shattering Triangles"- The Sorrowing of the Damned vs. the Fellowship of the Suffering of Christ- Living above / below the line- Overcoming the Grief Cyclehttps://heartquiz.genthriver.comJoel Nielson has been a lifelong member, active most of his life. Growing up in a split family, he spent most of his life in Washington and some in Idaho. He is married and has 4 kids 7 to 16 yr old. Loves the outdoors and being in water.  Joel studied advertising BYUI and professional counseling at NNC in Nampa Idaho. As a licensed clinical professional counselor, Joel specializes in trauma resilience and addiction recovery work.Joel works in a community clinic in Caldwell, Idaho and has a small practice. Have you heard about the first-of-its-kind online temple class, "House of Learning: Understanding the Doctrine of the Temple"?! Registered students receive access to 19 lessons, over 6 hours of video/audio content, and list of over 50 additional resources, all geared towards helping you know and live what the temple aims to teach us. Click HERE to register now!

Today on the podcast I will be talking aboutPaul Speaks to the Ephesian EldersActs 20:17-38 (KJV) And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. 18 And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, 19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: 20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, 21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. 22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: 23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. 24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. 25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. 26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. 28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. 31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. 32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. 33 I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. 34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. 35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. 36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. 37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, 38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

Psalm 119:25-32 Do you agree we've experience a “triumph of the therapeutic”? Causes of Sorrow What causes sorrow in a believer's life? Pathways in Sorrow How can a believer make progress in times of sorrow? Lifting of Sorrow What is it like when God relieves a believer's sorrow?

With the Solemnity of St. Joseph occurring during the month of March, we ponder the life of this holy man and what he teaches us about being a holy spouse. He has much to show us during a season of infertility, given the unique ways men and women were created and their unique ways of grieving and problem solving. We also discuss some of the history of St. Joseph and ways to celebrate and venerate him. St. Joseph, Comfort of the Sorrowing, pray for us! A Man's Take: St. Joseph w/Fr. Paul West Matthew, Chapter 1 & Chapter 2 Luke, Chapter 2 Book recommendation: Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father by: Fr. Donald H. Calloway, MIC Litany of St. Joseph Visit our website to learn more about Springs in the Desert, and make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram so that you don't miss a thing! We are walking with you on the path of infertility through our retreats and events, blog, podcast, resources, and more. Also, feel free to check out our sister ministry, Springs of Love, which encourages, educates, and equips Catholics to discern and live out the call to foster and adopt. God bless you! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/springsinthedesert/support

In this episode of the Hope + Help Podcast, host Christine Chappell interviews Katie Faris about her book, God is Still Good: Gospel Hope and Comfort for the Unexpected Sorrows of Motherhood. Some of the questions addressed in this interview are: • Why is it helpful for a mother to take the time to grieve her unexpected sorrows? • How does lament help moms to process their pain while they wait on God for help? • How can a mom honestly address her grief-laden questions in a way that builds—not breaks—her faith? • Which truths about God's character can help moms to process their difficult questions or discouraging doubts? • How might a mom engage her anxiety in the midst of unexpected sorrow? • How can a mom identify and address the discontentment she feels in response to her unexpected sorrows? • What are some practical steps a mom can take today if she's feeling overwhelmed or discouraged? View the full show notes & links for this episode: https://ibcd.org/god-is-still-good-katie-faris The Hope + Help Podcast offers biblical conversations about life's challenging problems. The podcast accomplishes this by offering a mix of interviews with seasoned biblical counseling professionals and ministry leaders on a variety of topics. Hosted by Christine Chappell. To learn more about the show and to access helpful resources, visit https://ibcd.org/hopeandhelp. Connect with host Christine Chappell at https://christinemchappell.com. IBCD's Hope + Help Podcast is available on most podcast streaming platforms, so please don't keep the show a secret! If you know someone walking through a challenging season of life, please share the Hope + Help Podcast with them.

PreludeWelcome & News of the ChurchCall to WorshipMusic of Christmas - (#206) "We Three Kings of Orient Are"Confession and AssuranceGloria PatriAffirmation of FaithSermon - "Arise, Sine, A New Year Has Come" (Ephesians 1:15–22) - by Rev. Jason GrifficeOffertoryDoxologyHymn of Approach - (#564) "Let Us Break Bread Together" (verses 1 & 2)Serving the Sacrament of CommunionBenedictionSinging The Lord's PrayerPostludeWe Three Kings of Orient AreWe three kings of Orient are, Bearing gifts we traverse afarFirld and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star. Chorus:O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to The perfect light. Born a King on Bethlehem's plain, Gold I bring to crown Him again, King forever, ceasing neverOver us all to reign. [Chorus]Frankincense to offer have I, Incense owns a Deity nigh; Prayer and praising all men raising, Worship Him, God on high. [Chorus]Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfumeBreathes a life of gathering gloom: Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. [Chorus]Glorious now behold Him arise, King and God and Sacrifice; Alleluia, Alleluia! Sounds thru the earth and skies. [Chorus]Let Us Break Bread TogetherLet us break bread together on our knees; Let us break bread together on our knees; When I fall on my knees, With my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Let us drink wine together on our knees; Let us drink wine together on our knees; When I fall on my knees, With my face to the rising sun, O Lord, have mercy on me. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Series: God Among UsTruly Wise MenMatthew 2:1-2 Christians celebrate Christmas because at Jesus' birth heaven intersects with earth and God inhabits human form.      The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We observed his glory, the glory as the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.John 1:14Matthew 2:1-12 “Wise Men” is from the Greek word, “magoi,” which is derived from a Persian word for priests. This group is probably those King Darius placed under Daniel's authority.                                                   Daniel 2:48 What was “his star in the East?”1.  Halley's comet2.  a supernova3.  a conjunction of planets4.  a supernatural light It is probable Daniel and other faithful exiles had shared the Jewish expectation of the Messiah while in Persia. Gifts for a King ·      Gold acknowledges His rule.·      Frankincense represents His deity.·      Myrrh pictures His suffering and death. We Three KingsBorn a king on Bethlehem's plain, Gold I bring to crown Him againKing forever, ceasing never, Over us all to reign. Frankincense to offer have I, Incense owns a Deity nigh.Prayer & praising, all men raising. Worship Him, God on high. Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom,Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. Glorious now behold him arise, King and God and Sacrifice,Alleluia, Alleluia Sound thru the earth and skies. Today's Takeaways  God is always at work around us; and like the people of Jesus' day, we often fail to notice.  If the wise men can find Jesus, then so can you.  If God can reach pagan astrologers through a star, He can reach people through our telling the story.  If the wise men offered Jesus gifts fit for a king, then so should we.

Allow me 2 Soothe you 2 Sleep as I relax you by singing this Christmas Carol, We Three Kings of Orient Are, sung acapella, by yours truly. Thanks for watching! Please LIKE and SHARE this video, Soothies, and don't forget to SUPPORT my channel :) Blessings

A new MP3 sermon from Faith Bible Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Sorrowing Saint Reassured Subtitle: Misc. Topical Sermons Speaker: Keith Comparetto Broadcaster: Faith Bible Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 11/13/2022 Bible: Psalm 73:1-28 Length: 47 min.

This podcast is taken from Experiencing God Day by Day by Henry and Richard Blackaby. Published by B&H Publishing Group. Find out more about Blackaby Ministries International here. Explore more resources related to Experiencing God at the link below. https://www.lifeway.com/en/product-family/experiencing-god Music by Mark Brown

A new MP3 sermon from Maidenbower Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: A Mystery! Saints Sorrowing and Jesus Glad! (sermon 585) Subtitle: From the heart of Spurgeon Speaker: Jeremy Walker Broadcaster: Maidenbower Baptist Church Event: Podcast Date: 8/12/2022 Bible: John 11:14-15 Length: 27 min.

The death of Lazarus affords Spurgeon the opportunity to consider Christ's purposes in allowing his beloved people to undergo fearful trials. He thinks of the impact on the apostles as they travel with him, and the way in which this experience would strengthen their faith. He ponders the effect on the family itself, enhancing their confidence in him, assuring them of his real love and power. He assesses the impact that trials can have on those who are looking on, for when others see what Christ has done, they are drawn to him. It is, on some levels, quite a simple sermon. However, it is full of particular encouragements both for God's people and for others, as we not only see the heart and arm of Christ revealed, but are also given a glimpse into his mind, into his wise and gracious purposes in all the things that come upon us. Connect with the Reading Spurgeon Community on Twitter! https://twitter.com/ReadingSpurgeon Sign up to get the weekly readings emailed to you: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts-1/from-the-heart-of-spurgeon. Check out other Media Gratiae podcasts at www.mediagratiae.org Download the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app

This show is sad, but I think it is among some of the best Netflix has to offer with a whole found family thing, but if you don't like sad, I can't recommend this show to you as good as it is. Anyway this is the finale of the Netflix Trio so have fun knowing that.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/anderson-anime-podcast/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/anderson-anime-podcast/support

20:24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. 20:25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. 20:26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 20:27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 20:30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. 20:31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. 20:32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. 20:33 I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. 20:34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. 20:35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. 20:36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. 20:37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, 20:38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

Kate di Camillo is an American children's author with over 25 novels on her backlist. Her first novel Because of Winn Dixie won her immediate critical attention. Further novels include The Tiger Rising, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, The Magician's Elephant, Flora and Ulysees and the Three Rancheros series. She has twice been awarded The Newbery Medal.Kate's most recent novel The Beatryce Prophecy is a fairy tale set in a period reminiscent of the European Middle Ages. It's an extraordinarily original story about finding home, power, truth and above all love. About The Beatryce ProphecyA magical medieval tale from two masters, Newbery Medal-winning Kate DiCamillo and Caldecott Medal-winning Sophie Blackall - a fantastical meditation on fate, love and the power of words to spell the world. We shall all, in the end, be led to where we belong. We shall all, in the end, find our way home.In a time of war, a mysterious child appears at the monastery of the Order of the Chronicles of Sorrowing. Gentle Brother Edik finds the girl, Beatryce, curled in a stall, wracked with fever, coated in dirt and blood and holding fast to the ear of Answelica the recalcitrant goat. As the monk nurses Beatryce to health, he uncovers her dangerous secret - one that imperils them all.And so it is that a girl with a head full of stories must venture into a dark wood in search of the castle of a king who wishes her dead. But should she lose her way, Beatryce knows that those who love her - a wild-eyed monk, a man who had once been king, a boy with a terrible sword and a goat with a head as hard as stone - will never give up searching for her. And to know this is to know everything.

Do you believe this? – John 11:26 Volume 3 A deep, inspiring, and often challenging study of the Lord Jesus Christ's miracles and parables. Men who were led by the hand or groped their way along the wall to reach Jesus were touched by his finger and went home without a guide, rejoicing that Jesus Christ had opened their eyes. Jesus is still able to perform such miracles. And, with the power of the Holy Spirit, his Word will be expounded and we'll watch for the signs to follow, expecting to see them at once. Why shouldn't those who read this be blessed with the light of heaven? This is my heart's inmost desire. I can't put fine words together. I've never studied speech. In fact, my heart loathes the very thought of intentionally speaking with fine words when souls are in danger of eternal separation from God. No, I work to speak straight to your hearts and consciences, and if there is anyone with faith to receive, God will bless them with fresh revelation. - Charles H. Spurgeon Original title: Miracles and Parables of Our Lord. In this third volume, Charles H. Spurgeon expounds in inspiring and convicting detail on the death and resurrection of Lazarus, whom He loved. About the Author Charles Haddon (C. H.) Spurgeon (1834-1892) was a British Baptist preacher. He started preaching at age 16, and quickly became famous. He is still known as the “Prince of Preachers,” and frequently had more than 10,000 people present to hear him preach at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London. His sermons were printed in newspapers, translated into many languages, and published in many books.

A new MP3 sermon from Emmanuel Reformed Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Sorrowing With Hope Subtitle: Funeral Sermons Speaker: Carl Gobelman Broadcaster: Emmanuel Reformed Church Event: Funeral Service Date: 12/23/2021 Bible: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Length: 19 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Emmanuel Reformed Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Sorrowing With Hope Subtitle: Funeral Sermons Speaker: Carl Gobelman Broadcaster: Emmanuel Reformed Church Event: Funeral Service Date: 12/23/2021 Bible: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Length: 19 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Emmanuel Reformed Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Sorrowing With Hope Subtitle: Funeral Sermons Speaker: Carl Gobelman Broadcaster: Emmanuel Reformed Church Event: Funeral Service Date: 12/23/2021 Bible: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Length: 19 min.

Saints Trophimus and Sabbatius came to Antioch during a great festival of Apollo and Daphne. Sorrowing for the blindness of the people they presented themselves to Atticus, the governor, and announced that they were Christians. Sabbatius was tortured so cruelly that he died in his sufferings; Trophimus was sent to Synnada, where he in turn was tortured, then imprisoned barely alive. An official of that city, Dorymedon, was moved to pity and came to the prison to care for Trophimus. (The Great Horologion says that he was still a pagan at the time, the Prologue that he was a secret Christian). When a pagan festival came, Dorymedon refused to worship the idols and proclaimed himself a Christian. He and Trophimus together were tortured, thrown to wild beasts (who would not touch them), and finally beheaded.

Saints Trophimus and Sabbatius came to Antioch during a great festival of Apollo and Daphne. Sorrowing for the blindness of the people they presented themselves to Atticus, the governor, and announced that they were Christians. Sabbatius was tortured so cruelly that he died in his sufferings; Trophimus was sent to Synnada, where he in turn was tortured, then imprisoned barely alive. An official of that city, Dorymedon, was moved to pity and came to the prison to care for Trophimus. (The Great Horologion says that he was still a pagan at the time, the Prologue that he was a secret Christian). When a pagan festival came, Dorymedon refused to worship the idols and proclaimed himself a Christian. He and Trophimus together were tortured, thrown to wild beasts (who would not touch them), and finally beheaded.

Some people will grieve over dead hogs- -What mattered here was the miracle that Jesus performed- but yet, some of the people sorrowed over the dead swine. In this message, we see three distortions, and their perspectives.

Some people will grieve over dead hogs- -What mattered here was the miracle that Jesus performed- but yet, some of the people sorrowed over the dead swine. In this message, we see three distortions, and their perspectives.

Originally aired on March 7, 2021 We look into the first sorrowful mystery showing the sorrow unto death Jesus experienced, reflecting his humanity and the love he has for his friends

Originally aired on March 14, 2021 The second and third Sorrowful Mysteries take place in one event, representing both the humiliation Jesus suffered and the injustice that the world continues to suffer from. We look at the story from the accounts of all four Gospels

Isaiah 52:13-53:6 “The Sorrowing Servant” Introduction: I. The Victory Effected by His Humiliation (52:13-15) II. The Violence Exhibited in His Humiliation (52:14) III. The Vilification Endured in His Humiliation (53:1-3)

Do you ever struggle to know how to pray for someone who is going through a difficult time? It can be difficult and challenging. However, in this episode, Tom gives five very specific prayer requests that you can use when you are talking to God about someone who is suffering or sorrowing.

The Risk to Us The darkness is deep, but Light still pierces it. Evil is rampant, but God's radiant glory covers the earth as the waters cover the sea. Injustice, racism, and prejudice form a heinous, unholy trinity, but the Judge of the whole earth sees all and is coming back to restore order. Sorrowing and sighing and suffering threaten to overwhelm, but there is a Morning Sun who comes with healing in His wings. Death visits all, but its sting has been overcome by Him who is life everlasting. Life is full of snares and pitfalls and disappointments and tragedies and lots of sin-production but mercy triumphs over judgment. Chaos and fear and doom-speak seduce undiscerning hearts, but the Prince of Peace is inviting the lonely, the weak, the believing, into his warm embrace. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to unleash its global disruption, but Jesus says, “I am the Alpha and the Tav, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the Completion.” (Rev. 22:13, TPT) So, now let's talk about the risk to us. 2 Corinthians 4:6-18 1. v. 6 – Risk reduced in ______________________________________ 2. vv. 7-9 – Risk reduced with ___________________________________ pressured but not ______________________, confused but not ______________________, persecuted but not ____________________, knocked down but not ________________. 3. vv. 10-12 – Risk reduced as __________________________________ 4. vv. 13-15 – Risk reduced as __________________________________ 5. vv. 16-18 – Risk reduced with ________________________________ “For to us a child is born . . . of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.” from Isaiah 9

Saints Trophimus and Sabbatius came to Antioch during a great festival of Apollo and Daphne. Sorrowing for the blindness of the people they presented themselves to Atticus, the governor, and announced that they were Christians. Sabbatius was tortured so cruelly that he died in his sufferings; Trophimus was sent to Synnada, where he in turn was tortured, then imprisoned barely alive. An official of that city, Dorymedon, was moved to pity and came to the prison to care for Trophimus. (The Great Horologion says that he was still a pagan at the time, the Prologue that he was a secret Christian). When a pagan festival came, Dorymedon refused to worship the idols and proclaimed himself a Christian. He and Trophimus together were tortured, thrown to wild beasts (who would not touch them), and finally beheaded.

Saints Trophimus and Sabbatius came to Antioch during a great festival of Apollo and Daphne. Sorrowing for the blindness of the people they presented themselves to Atticus, the governor, and announced that they were Christians. Sabbatius was tortured so cruelly that he died in his sufferings; Trophimus was sent to Synnada, where he in turn was tortured, then imprisoned barely alive. An official of that city, Dorymedon, was moved to pity and came to the prison to care for Trophimus. (The Great Horologion says that he was still a pagan at the time, the Prologue that he was a secret Christian). When a pagan festival came, Dorymedon refused to worship the idols and proclaimed himself a Christian. He and Trophimus together were tortured, thrown to wild beasts (who would not touch them), and finally beheaded.

“Sweet Mary…Mother of Jesus.” God searched the world over for the perfect mother for His son and found a young lady in Nazareth named Mary. In this Mother’s Day message Pastor Alexander identifies Ten Qualities God saw in Mary’s life that are examples for all Mothers (and fathers) alike.

“Sweet Mary…Mother of Jesus.” God searched the world over for the perfect mother for His son and found a young lady in Nazareth named Mary. In this Mother’s Day message Pastor Alexander identifies Ten Qualities God saw in Mary’s life that are examples for all Mothers (and fathers) alike.

Saints Trophimus and Sabbatius came to Antioch during a great festival of Apollo and Daphne. Sorrowing for the blindness of the people they presented themselves to Atticus, the governor, and announced that they were Christians. Sabbatius was tortured so cruelly that he died in his sufferings; Trophimus was sent to Synnada, where he in turn was tortured, then imprisoned barely alive. An official of that city, Dorymedon, was moved to pity and came to the prison to care for Trophimus. (The Great Horologion says that he was still a pagan at the time, the Prologue that he was a secret Christian). When a pagan festival came, Dorymedon refused to worship the idols and proclaimed himself a Christian. He and Trophimus together were tortured, thrown to wild beasts (who would not touch them), and finally beheaded.

2 Corinthians 1:7 - And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.

2 Corinthians 1:6 - Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.

2 Corinthians 1:5 - For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

Saints Trophimus and Sabbatius came to Antioch during a great festival of Apollo and Daphne. Sorrowing for the blindness of the people they presented themselves to Atticus, the governor, and announced that they were Christians. Sabbatius was tortured so cruelly that he died in his sufferings; Trophimus was sent to Synnada, where he in turn was tortured, then imprisoned barely alive. An official of that city, Dorymedon, was moved to pity and came to the prison to care for Trophimus. (The Great Horologion says that he was still a pagan at the time, the Prologue that he was a secret Christian). When a pagan festival came, Dorymedon refused to worship the idols and proclaimed himself a Christian. He and Trophimus together were tortured, thrown to wild beasts (who would not touch them), and finally beheaded.

Christmas Medley We Three Kings Of Orient Are 1. We three kings of Orient are; Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star. Refrain: O star of wonder, star of light, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light. 2. Born a King on Bethlehem's plain, Gold I bring to crown him again, King forever, ceasing never, Over us all to reign. 3. Frankincense to offer have I; Incense owns a Deity nigh; Prayer and praising, voices raising, Worshiping God on high. 4. Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom; Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. 5. Glorious now behold him arise; King and God and sacrifice: Alleluia, Alleluia, Sounds through the earth and skies. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen 1. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen Let nothing you dismay, Remember Christ our Saviour, Was born on Christmas Day, To save us all from Satan's power When we were gone astray. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and Joy; O tidings of comfort and joy! 2. From God, our Heavenly Father, A blessed angel came, And unto certain shepherds Brought tidings of the same; How that in Bethlehem Was born the Son of God by name, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 3. The shepherds at those tidings, Rejoiced much in mind, And left their flocks a-feeding, In tempest, storm and wind, And went to Bethlehem straightaway, This blessed babe to find. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 4. And when to Bethlehem they came, Where our dear Saviour lay, They found Him in a manger Where oxen feed on hay; His mother Mary kneeling down, Unto to the Lord did pray, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 5. Now to the Lord sing praises, All you within this place, And with true love and brotherhood, Each other now embrace, This holy tide of Christmas, All others doth deface. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. O Come, O come, Emmanuel 1. O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel. 2. O come, thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny; From depths of hell thy people save, And give them victory over the grave. 3. O come, thou Dayspring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, And death's dark shadows put to flight. 4. O come, thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery.

Christmas Medley We Three Kings Of Orient Are 1. We three kings of Orient are; Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star. Refrain: O star of wonder, star of light, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light. 2. Born a King on Bethlehem's plain, Gold I bring to crown him again, King forever, ceasing never, Over us all to reign. 3. Frankincense to offer have I; Incense owns a Deity nigh; Prayer and praising, voices raising, Worshiping God on high. 4. Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom; Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. 5. Glorious now behold him arise; King and God and sacrifice: Alleluia, Alleluia, Sounds through the earth and skies. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen 1. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen Let nothing you dismay, Remember Christ our Saviour, Was born on Christmas Day, To save us all from Satan's power When we were gone astray. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and Joy; O tidings of comfort and joy! 2. From God, our Heavenly Father, A blessed angel came, And unto certain shepherds Brought tidings of the same; How that in Bethlehem Was born the Son of God by name, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 3. The shepherds at those tidings, Rejoiced much in mind, And left their flocks a-feeding, In tempest, storm and wind, And went to Bethlehem straightaway, This blessed babe to find. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 4. And when to Bethlehem they came, Where our dear Saviour lay, They found Him in a manger Where oxen feed on hay; His mother Mary kneeling down, Unto to the Lord did pray, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 5. Now to the Lord sing praises, All you within this place, And with true love and brotherhood, Each other now embrace, This holy tide of Christmas, All others doth deface. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. O Come, O come, Emmanuel 1. O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel. 2. O come, thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny; From depths of hell thy people save, And give them victory over the grave. 3. O come, thou Dayspring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, And death's dark shadows put to flight. 4. O come, thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery.

Christmas Medley We Three Kings Of Orient Are 1. We three kings of Orient are; Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star. Refrain: O star of wonder, star of light, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light. 2. Born a King on Bethlehem's plain, Gold I bring to crown him again, King forever, ceasing never, Over us all to reign. 3. Frankincense to offer have I; Incense owns a Deity nigh; Prayer and praising, voices raising, Worshiping God on high. 4. Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom; Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. 5. Glorious now behold him arise; King and God and sacrifice: Alleluia, Alleluia, Sounds through the earth and skies. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen 1. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen Let nothing you dismay, Remember Christ our Saviour, Was born on Christmas Day, To save us all from Satan's power When we were gone astray. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and Joy; O tidings of comfort and joy! 2. From God, our Heavenly Father, A blessed angel came, And unto certain shepherds Brought tidings of the same; How that in Bethlehem Was born the Son of God by name, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 3. The shepherds at those tidings, Rejoiced much in mind, And left their flocks a-feeding, In tempest, storm and wind, And went to Bethlehem straightaway, This blessed babe to find. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 4. And when to Bethlehem they came, Where our dear Saviour lay, They found Him in a manger Where oxen feed on hay; His mother Mary kneeling down, Unto to the Lord did pray, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 5. Now to the Lord sing praises, All you within this place, And with true love and brotherhood, Each other now embrace, This holy tide of Christmas, All others doth deface. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. O Come, O come, Emmanuel 1. O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel. 2. O come, thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny; From depths of hell thy people save, And give them victory over the grave. 3. O come, thou Dayspring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, And death's dark shadows put to flight. 4. O come, thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery.

Christmas Medley We Three Kings Of Orient Are 1. We three kings of Orient are; Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star. Refrain: O star of wonder, star of light, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light. 2. Born a King on Bethlehem's plain, Gold I bring to crown him again, King forever, ceasing never, Over us all to reign. 3. Frankincense to offer have I; Incense owns a Deity nigh; Prayer and praising, voices raising, Worshiping God on high. 4. Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom; Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. 5. Glorious now behold him arise; King and God and sacrifice: Alleluia, Alleluia, Sounds through the earth and skies. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen 1. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen Let nothing you dismay, Remember Christ our Saviour, Was born on Christmas Day, To save us all from Satan’s power When we were gone astray. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and Joy; O tidings of comfort and joy! 2. From God, our Heavenly Father, A blessed angel came, And unto certain shepherds Brought tidings of the same; How that in Bethlehem Was born the Son of God by name, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 3. The shepherds at those tidings, Rejoiced much in mind, And left their flocks a-feeding, In tempest, storm and wind, And went to Bethlehem straightaway, This blessed babe to find. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 4. And when to Bethlehem they came, Where our dear Saviour lay, They found Him in a manger Where oxen feed on hay; His mother Mary kneeling down, Unto to the Lord did pray, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 5. Now to the Lord sing praises, All you within this place, And with true love and brotherhood, Each other now embrace, This holy tide of Christmas, All others doth deface. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. O Come, O come, Emmanuel 1. O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel. 2. O come, thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny; From depths of hell thy people save, And give them victory over the grave. 3. O come, thou Dayspring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, And death's dark shadows put to flight. 4. O come, thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery.

Christmas Medley We Three Kings Of Orient Are 1. We three kings of Orient are; Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star. Refrain: O star of wonder, star of light, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light. 2. Born a King on Bethlehem's plain, Gold I bring to crown him again, King forever, ceasing never, Over us all to reign. 3. Frankincense to offer have I; Incense owns a Deity nigh; Prayer and praising, voices raising, Worshiping God on high. 4. Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom; Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. 5. Glorious now behold him arise; King and God and sacrifice: Alleluia, Alleluia, Sounds through the earth and skies. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen 1. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen Let nothing you dismay, Remember Christ our Saviour, Was born on Christmas Day, To save us all from Satan’s power When we were gone astray. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and Joy; O tidings of comfort and joy! 2. From God, our Heavenly Father, A blessed angel came, And unto certain shepherds Brought tidings of the same; How that in Bethlehem Was born the Son of God by name, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 3. The shepherds at those tidings, Rejoiced much in mind, And left their flocks a-feeding, In tempest, storm and wind, And went to Bethlehem straightaway, This blessed babe to find. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 4. And when to Bethlehem they came, Where our dear Saviour lay, They found Him in a manger Where oxen feed on hay; His mother Mary kneeling down, Unto to the Lord did pray, O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. 5. Now to the Lord sing praises, All you within this place, And with true love and brotherhood, Each other now embrace, This holy tide of Christmas, All others doth deface. O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. O Come, O come, Emmanuel 1. O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel. 2. O come, thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny; From depths of hell thy people save, And give them victory over the grave. 3. O come, thou Dayspring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, And death's dark shadows put to flight. 4. O come, thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery.

#brickbooks #TheSorrowingHouse #GenevieveLehr

#brickbooks #TheSorrowingHouse #GenevieveLehr

#brickbooks #TheSorrowingHouse #GenevieveLehr

#brickbooks #TheSorrowingHouse #GenevieveLehr

#brickbooks #TheSorrowingHouse #GenevieveLehr

#brickbooks #TheSorrowingHouse #GenevieveLehr

#brickbooks #TheSorrowingHouse #GenevieveLehr

"We Three Kings", also known as "We Three Kings of Orient Are" or "The Quest of the Magi", is a Christmas carol written by the Reverend John Henry Hopkins, Jr., who wrote both the lyrics and the music. It is suggested to have been written in 1857 but did not appear in print until his Carols, Hymns and Song in 1863. John Henry Hopkins, Jr., then an ordained deacon in the Episcopal Church,[1] was instrumental in organizing an elaborate holiday pageant (which featured this hymn) for the students of the General Theological Seminary in New York City in 1857 while serving as the seminary's music director. In 1872 Hopkins was ordained an Episcopal priest and later served as rector at Christ Episcopal Church (Williamsport, PA).[2] We three kings of Orient areAuthor: John H. HopkinWe three kings of Orient are;
Bearing gifts we traverse afar,
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.RefrainO star of wonder, star of light,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy perfect light.Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain
Gold I bring to crown Him again,
King forever, ceasing never,
Over us all to reign.RefrainFrankincense to offer have I;
Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, voices raising,
Worshipping God on high.RefrainMyrrh is mine, its bitter perfume
Breathes a life of gathering gloom;
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,
Sealed in the stone cold tomb.RefrainGlorious now behold Him arise;
King and God and sacrifice;
Alleluia, Alleluia,
Sounds through the earth and skies.RefrainCOPY FREELY ©2012 Shiloh Worship Music-This Music is copyrighted to prevent misuse, however,permission is granted for non-commercial copying only. www.shilohworshipmusic.com

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Shoshinge "The Hymn of True Faith" A crucial component of the Buddhist faith is chanting. The practice of chanting is much akin to the Christian hymns. Much like the past practice of the Catholic churches tradition of chanting in Latin, one does not need to know Japanese in order to be absorbed by the melodic rhythm of foreign sounds. This podcast is a recording of Shoshinge, one of the many Jodo Shinshu chants. Here's some background on this important chant. About Shoshige The following introduction is from Shinshū Seiten, Jōdo Shin Buddhist Teaching, published by the Buddhist Churches of America. The English translation of the gāthā is from The True Teaching, Practice and Realization of the Pure Land Way, Vol. I., Shin Buddhist Translation Series, Hongwanji International Center, Kyoto, Japan. The full title of this gāthā, Shoshin Nembutsu Ge, means ‘Gāthā on the Right (or True) Faith in the Nembutsu.’ The title consists of three terms: Shōshin, lit. ‘Right Faith’ refers to Shinjin, or Faith. Nembutsu, lit. ‘thinking of the Buddha,’ refers to the practice of uttering Amida’s Name. Ge, or ‘gāthā’ in Skt. Means ‘verse,’ or ‘hymn.’ Faith and Nembutsu are very important ideas constituting the central concepts of Shin Buddhism. In the passage which introduces the Shoshin Ge, Shinran notes; Relying upon the true words of the Great Sage and reading the commentaries of the great masters, I have realized the profound grace of the Buddha. Hence I here compose the Gāthā of True Faith in the Nembutsu. This shows that he composed this gatha out of his gratitude to Amida Buddha on the basis of the Teachings of Śākyamuni and the commentaries of the Seven Patriarchs. ‘The words of the Great Sage’ directly refers to the Dai Muryōju Kyō (The Larger Sutra), in which Shinran Shonin found the true religion by which a sinful and helpless man can be saved. He trusted in the Teachings of this Sutra singleheartedly, and conceived of all the other Teachings of the Buddha as being expedients to Pure Land Buddhism. It is also important to note that Shinran approached the Teachings of Amida’s Salvation through seven predecessors, namely, Nāgārjuna and Vasubandhu from India; Doran, Dōshaku and Zendō in China; Genshin and Genkū in Japan. In the Kyō Gyō Shin Shō he abundantly quotes from their discourse, and in the Shōshin Ge he gives their essentials. The whole gāthā is an exposition of the Pure Land Teaching which may be divided into two parts: 1) based on the Sutra and 2) based on the commentaries. The contents of the gāthā with minor divisions are as follows: I. Exposition based on the Sutra 1. Homage to Amida 2. Adoration, in particular, to a. Amida Buddha b. Śākyamuni Buddha 3. Exhortation II. Exposition based on the commentaries 1. General statement 2. Exposition, in particular, to a. Nāgārjuna [2nd or 3rd cen. A.D.] b. Vasubandhu [4th cen. A.D.] c. Donran [T’an Luan, 476-542 A.D.] d. Dōshaku [Tao-ch’o, 562-645 A.D.] e. Zendō [Shan Tao, 613-681 A.D.] f. Genshin [942-1017 A.D.] g. Genkū [Honen, 1133-1212 A.D.] 3. Exhortation Ki myo mu ryo ju nyo rai Na mu fu ka shi gi ko Ho zo bo satsu in ni ji Zai se ji sai o bus-sho To ken sho butsu jo do in Koku do nin den shi zen maku Kon ryu mu jo shu sho gan Cho hotsu ke u dai gu zei Go ko shi yui shi sho ju Ju sei myo sho mon jip-po Fu ho mu ryo mu hen ko Mu ge mu tai ko en no Sho jo kan gi chi e ko Fu dan nan ji mu sho ko Cho nichi gak-ko sho jin setsu Is-sai gun jo mu ko sho Hon gan myo go sho jo go Shin shin shin gyo gan ni in Jo to gaku sho dai ne han His-shi metsu do gan jo ju Nyo rai sho i ko shus-se Yui setsu mi da hon gan kai Go joku aku ji gun jo kai O shin nyo rai nyo jitsu gon No hotsu ichi nen ki ai shin Fu dan bon no toku ne han Bon jo gyaku ho sai e nyu Nyo shu shi nyu kai ichi mi Ses-shu shin ko jo sho go I no sui ha mu myo an Ton nai shin zo shi un mu Jo fu shin jitsu shin jin ten Hi nyo nik-ko fu un mu Un mu shi ge myo mu an Gyaku shin ken kyo dai kyo ki Soku o cho zetsu go aku shu Is-sai zen maku bon bu nin Mon shin nyo rai gu zei gan Butsu gon ko dai sho ge sha Ze nin myo fun da ri ke- fi Mi da butsu hon gan nen butsu Ja ken kyo man naku shu jo Shin gyo ju ji jin ni nan Nan chu shi nan mu ka shi In do sai ten shi ron ge Chu ka jichi iki shi ko so Ken dai sho ko se sho i Myo nyo rai hon ze o ki Sha ka nyo rai ryo ga sen I shu go myo nan ten jiku Ryu ju dai ji shut-to se Shitsu no zai ha u mu ken Sen zetsu dai jo mu jo ho Sho kan gi ji sho an raku Ken ji nan gyo roku ro ku Shin gyo i gyo shi do raku Oku nen mi da butsu hon gan Ji nen soku ji nyu hitsu jo Yui no jo sho nyo rai go O ho dai hi gu zei on Ten jin bo Satsu zo ron setsu Ki myo mu ge ko nyo rai E Shu ta ra ken shin jitsu Ko sen o cho dai sei gan Ko-yu hon gan riki e ko I do gun jo sho is-shin Ki nyu ku doku dai ho kai Hitsu gyaku nyu dai e shu shu Toku shi ren ge zo se kai Soku sho shin nyo hos-sho jin Yu bon no rin gen jin zu Nyu sho ji on ji o ge Hon shi don ran ryo ten shi Jo ko ran sho bo satsu rai San zo ru shi ju jo kyo Bon jo sen gyo ki raku ho Ten jin bo satsu ron chu ge Ho do in ga ken sei gan O gen ne ko yu ta riki Sho jo shi in yui shin jin Waku zen bon bu shin jin potsu Sho-chi sho-ji soku ne hon His-shi mu ryo ko myo do Sho-u shu jo kai fu ke Do shaku kes-sho do nan sho Yui myo jo do ka tsu nyu Man zen ji riki hen gon shu En man toku go kan sen sho San-pu san shin ke on gon Zo matsu ho metsu do-hi in Is-sho zo aku chi gu zei Shi an nyo gai sho myo ka Zen do doku myo bus-sho I Ko ai jo san yo gyaku aku Ko myo myo go ken in nen Kai-nyu hon gan dai-chi kai Gyo-ja sho-ju kon go shin Kyo-ki ichi nen so o go Yo-I dai to gyaku san nin Soku sho hos-sho shi jo raku Gen shin ko kai ichi dai kyo Hen ki an nyo kan is-sai Sen zo shu shin han sen jin Ho ke ni do sho ben ryu Goku ju aku nin yui sho butsu Ga yaku zai-hi ses-shu chu Bon no sho gen sui fu ken Dai-hi mu ken jo sho ga Hon shi gen ku myo buk-kyo Ren min zen maku bon bu nin Shin shu kyo sho ko hen shu Sen jaku hon gan gu aku se Gen rai sho-ji rin den ge Ket-chi gi jo I sho shi Soku nyu jaku jo mu I raku Hit-chi shin jin I no nyu Gu kyo dai ji shu shi tou Jo sai mu hen goku joku aku Do zoku ji shu gu do shin Yu-I ka shin shi ko so se-tsu Shoshinge Translation I take refuge in the Tathāgata of Immeasurable Life! I entrust myself to the Buddha of Inconceivable Light! Bodhisattva Dharmākara, in his causal stage, Under the guidance of Lokeśvararāja Buddha. Searched into the origins of the Buddhas’ pure land, And the qualities of those lands and their men and devas; He then established the supreme, incomparable Vow; He made the great Vow rare and all-encompassing. In five kalpas of profound thought, he embraced this Vow, Then resolved again that his Name be heard throughout the ten quarters. Everywhere he casts light immeasurable, boundless, Unhindered, unequaled, light-lord of all brilliance, Pure light, joyful light, the light of wisdom, Light constant, inconceivable, light beyond speaking, Light excelling sun and moon he sends forth, illumining countless worlds; The multitudes of beings all receive the radiance. The Name embodying the Primal Vow is the act of true settlement, The Vow of entrusting with sincere mind is the cause of birth; We realize the equal of enlightenment and supreme nirvāņa Through the fulfillment of the Vow of attaining nirvāņa without fail. Śākyamuni Tathāgata appeared in this world Solely to teach the ocean-like Primal Vow of Amida; We, an ocean of beings in an evil age of five defilements, Should entrust ourselves to the Tathagata’s words of truth. When the one thought-moment of joy arises, Nirvāņa is attained without severing blind passions; When ignorant and wise, even grave offenders and slanders of the dharma, all alike turn and enter shinjin, They are like waters that, on entering the ocean, become one in taste with it. The light of compassion that grasps us illumines and protects us always; The darkness of our ignorance is already broken through; Still the clouds and mists of greed and desire, anger and hatred, Cover as always the sky of true and real shinjin. But though light of the sun is veiled by clouds and mists, Beneath the clouds and mists there is brightness, not dark. When one realizes shinjin, seeing and revering and attaining great joy, One immediately leaps crosswise, closing off the five evil courses. All foolish beings, whether good or evil, When they hear and entrust to Amida’s universal Vow, Are praised by the Buddha as people of vast and excellent understanding; Such a person is called a pure white lotus. For evil sentient beings of wrong views and arrogance, The nembutsu that embodies Amida’s Primal Vow Is hard to accept in shinjin; This most difficult of difficulties, nothing surpasses. The masters of India in the west, who explained the teachings in treaties, And the eminent monks of China and Japan, Clarified the Great Sage’s true intent in appearing in the world, And revealed that Amida’s Primal Vow accords with the nature of beings. Śākyamuni Tathāgata, on Mount Lankā, Prophesied to the multitudes that in south India The mahasattva Nāgārjuna would appear in this world To crush the views of being and non-being; Proclaiming the unexcelled Mahāyāna teaching, He would attain the stage of joy and be born in the land of happiness. Nāgārjuna clarifies the hardship on the overland path of difficult practice, And leads us to entrust to the pleasure on the waterway of easy practice. He teaches that the moment one thinks on Amida’s Primal Vow, One is naturally brought to enter the sage of the definitely settled; Solely saying the Tathāgata’s Name constantly, One should respond with gratitude to the universal Vow of great compassion. Bodhisattva Vasubandhu, composing a treatise, declares That he takes refuge in the Tathagata of unhindered light, And that relying on the sutras, he will reveal the true and real virtues, And make widely known the great Vow by which we leap crosswise beyond birth-and-death. He discloses the mind that is single so that all beings be saved By Amida’s directing of virtue through the power of the Primal Vow. When a person turns and enters the great treasure-ocean of virtue, Necessarily he joins Amida’s assembly; And when he reaches hat lotus-held world, He immediately realizes the body of suchness or dharma-nature. Then sporting in the forests of blind passions, he manifests transcendent powers; Entering the garden of birth-and-death, he assumes various forms to guide others. Turning toward the dwelling of Master T’an-laun, the Emperor of Liang Always paid homage to him as a bodhisattva. Bodhiruci, master of the Tripitaka, gave T’an-laun the Pure Land teachings, And T’an-laun, burning his Taoist scriptures, took refuge in the land of bliss. In his commentary on the treatise of Bodhisattva Vasubandhu, He shows that the cause and attainment of birth in the fulfilled land lie in the Vow. Our going and returning, directed to us by Amida, come about through Other Power; The truly decisive cause is shinjin. When a foolish being of delusion and defilement awakens to shinjin, He realizes that birth-and-death is itself nirvāna; Without fail he reaches the land of immeasurable light And universally guides sentient beings to enlightenment. Tao-ch’o determined how difficult it is to fulfill the Path of Sages, And reveals that only passage through the Pure Land gate is possible for us. He criticizes self-power endeavor in the myriad good practices, And encourages us solely to say the fulfilled Name embodying true virtue. With kind concern he teaches the three characteristics of entrusting and non entrusting, Compassionately guiding all identically, whether they live when the dharma survives as but form, when in its last stage, or when it has become extinct. Though a person has committed evil all his life, when he encounters the Primal Vow, He will reach the world of peace and realize the perfect fruit of enlightenment. Shan-tao alone in his time clarified the Buddha’s true intent; Sorrowing at the plight of meditative and non-meditative practicers and people of grave evil, He reveals that Amida’s Light and Name are the causes of birth. When the practicer enters the great ocean of wisdom, the Primal Vow, He receives the diamond-like mind And accords with the one thought-moment of joy; whereupon, Equally with Vaidehī, he acquires the threefold wisdom And is immediately brought to attain the eternal bliss of dharma-nature. Genshin, having broadly elucidated the teaching of Śākyamuni’s lifetime, Wholeheartedly took refuge in the land of peace and urges all to do so; Ascertaining that minds devoted to single practice are profound, to sundry practice, shallow, He sets forth truly the difference between the fulfilled land and the transformed land. The person burdened with extreme evil should simply say the Name: Although I too am within Amida’s grasp, Passions obstruct my eyes and I cannot see him; Nevertheless, great compassion is untiring and illumines me always. Master Genkū, well-versed in the Buddha’s teaching, Turned compassionately to foolish people, both good and evil; Establishing in this remote land the teaching and realization that are the true essence of the Pure Land way, He transmits the selected Primal Vow to us of the defiled world: Return to this house of transmigration, of birth-and-death, Is decidedly caused by doubt. Swift entrance into the city of tranquility, the uncreated, Is necessarily brought about by shinjin. The mahasattvas and masters who spread the sutras Save the countless beings of utter defilement and evil. With the same mind, all people of the present, whether monk or lay, Should rely wholly on the teachings of these venerable masters. Sutras: Juseige | Junirai | Sanbutsuge | Shoshinge Copyright © 2006 by Nishi Hongwanji L.A.

This is the Radio broadcast for October 15, 2006-- Visit our Web site at http://holyliving.us/wordsoflife