Grow Stronger Roots

The Will of God Revealed at Christmas

As I sit here this Christmas season, reflecting on the lights twinkling on the tree and the carols filling the air, my heart turns once again to the profound truth at the center of it all: the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. This holy day is not merely a time for gifts and gatherings, but a celebration of God’s perfect will unfolding in the most humble and glorious way.

In the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, to redeem us who were under the law. The angels proclaimed it clearly that holy night: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14, KJV). What is this “good will toward men”? It is nothing less than the gracious will of God to extend mercy and salvation to a fallen world.

Long before that starry night in Bethlehem, the prophet Isaiah foretold: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, KJV). This was no accident or afterthought—it was the eternal will of God, planned before the foundation of the world, to provide a Saviour.

Even our Lord Jesus Himself embodied perfect submission to this will. Though He was equal with God, He came not to do His own will, but the will of the Father who sent Him. As He later prayed in the garden, “not my will, but thine, be done” (Luke 22:42, KJV). His entire life, beginning in that manger, was dedicated to fulfilling the Father’s purpose: “My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work” (John 4:34, KJV).

And what is that glorious will? The Scriptures declare it plainly: God is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9, KJV). His will is our salvation through faith in Christ. “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4, KJV). The babe in the manger grew to be the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

This Christmas, amid the joy and festivities, I am reminded that the greatest gift is not under the tree, but the One who hung upon it for my sins. As we celebrate His coming, let us also yield our lives to His will, for “the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” (1 John 2:17, KJV).

May the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, fill your heart this Christmas as you ponder His perfect will revealed in Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Merry Christmas and may God Bless you greatly this coming year as you grow in Faith and understanding of His Word!

Holding Fast to God’s Design: My Thoughts on Gender and Sexuality in a Changing World

Beloved in Christ,

As I ponder the times in which we live, I find myself grieved by how far the world has strayed from the clear teaching of God’s Word on matters of gender and human sexuality. In this age, many declare that a person may define their own identity, that gender is fluid, and that any form of sexual expression is acceptable so long as it feels right to the individual. Yet, as a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ, I must stand upon the unchanging truth of Scripture, even when it brings reproach.

Let us begin at the beginning, as the Lord Himself did. In Genesis 1:27, the Holy Ghost declares: “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” Here is God’s perfect design—male and female, distinct yet equal, both bearing His image. This is no accident or cultural construct, but the very foundation of humanity.

When the Pharisees questioned our Savior about marriage, He pointed them back to this truth. In Matthew 19:4-5, Jesus saith: “Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?” The Lord affirms that marriage—and indeed, human sexuality—is ordained between one man and one woman, becoming one flesh in God’s sight.

The Apostle Paul, under inspiration, further warns of the consequences when mankind rejects this design. In Romans 1:26-27: “For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.” Such practices are called unnatural, unseemly, and a recompence in themselves—a judgment from God upon those who suppress His truth.

Again, in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11: “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind… And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” These sins, including homosexual acts, bar one from the kingdom unless repented of. Yet praise God—there is hope! Some in the Corinthian church had been delivered from these very things through the washing and sanctifying power of Christ.

I do not write these words with hatred in my heart, for the Lord commands us to love our neighbor. Many today wrestle with confusion, pain, or strong temptations in these areas, and my soul aches for them. But love does not affirm what God calls sin; true love points to the Savior who can redeem and transform. As Ephesians 4:15 instructs: “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.”

Dear reader, if you are struggling, know that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. Repent, believe the Gospel, and find freedom in surrendering to God’s good design. For the church, let us hold fast the faithful word, extend compassion without compromise, and pray for revival.

May the Lord grant us grace to stand firm,

In His service, A humble servant of Christ

Revelation 13 and the Rise of Artificial Intelligence

AI, The Internet, and Christ’s Return

Imagine a crowded city square in the near future. A towering statue—sleek, metallic, and lifelike—suddenly stirs. Its eyes flicker with artificial light, and a synthetic voice echoes across the plaza: “Bow before me.” The crowd gasps as the machine speaks, commanding loyalty not just with words but with the threat of exclusion, punishment, even death.

It sounds like science fiction, but this scene mirrors one of the most chilling passages in the Bible: Revelation 13:15, where the “image of the beast” is given breath, speaks, and enforces worship.

The Biblical Text

Revelation 13:15: “The second beast was permitted to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that the image could speak and cause all who refused to worship it to be killed.”
The “image” is lifeless until animated, then suddenly it speaks and wields authority.

Traditional Interpretations

Idolatry: The image as a symbol of false worship, echoing Old Testament warnings against carved idols.
Political Propaganda: A metaphor for state power or religious institutions demanding allegiance.
Spiritual Deception: The “breath” represents demonic influence animating systems of control.

Modern Technological Lens

With the rise of AI and robotics, the passage feels eerily relevant:

Artificial Life: Machines today mimic human behavior, speech, and creativity. “Breathing life” into an image parallels how AI animates lifeless hardware.
Speech & Influence: Revelation’s image speaks with authority. AI chatbots, humanoid robots, and virtual assistants already influence millions daily.
Control & Enforcement: The text warns of coercion tied to the image. In our world, AI-driven surveillance and digital systems increasingly regulate access to commerce and society.

Why This Matters

Cultural Relevance: Each generation interprets Revelation through its own lens. Medieval readers thought of idols; 20th-century interpreters saw television; today, AI feels like the natural candidate.
Ethical Questions: If technology can enforce conformity, where does human freedom fit?
Spiritual Reflection: Whether literal or symbolic, the passage challenges us to discern what powers we worship—political, technological, or spiritual.

Conclusion

Revelation 13’s “image of the beast” remains one of the most mysterious symbols in Scripture. While traditional interpretations emphasize idolatry and deception, modern readers can’t help but see echoes of robots and AI in its description of a lifeless statue suddenly speaking and demanding allegiance. Whether prophecy or metaphor, the passage invites us to reflect on how technology shapes our worship, loyalty, and freedom.

AI, The Internet, and Christ’s Return

“I Have Come”: Exploring Jesus’ Mission in the New Testament

As we find ourselves surrounded by the beauty and joy of the Christmas season, my heart is drawn back to the true reason we celebrate. Beyond the lights, the music, and the gatherings, Christmas is a reminder of God’s incredible love — a love so great that He sent His Son into the world to bring us hope, peace, and salvation.

I want to take this moment to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas. May the Lord bless you richly, not only with the desires of your heart this season, but with the deeper joy that comes from knowing Him. For while we cherish the gifts exchanged among family and friends, we must never forget that God has already given us the greatest gift of all: eternal salvation through His grace.

So as you celebrate, may your homes be filled with laughter, your hearts with gratitude, and your lives with the light of Christ. Let us rejoice together, for unto us a Savior is born — the gift that never fades, the promise that never fails.

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus repeatedly declares “I have come” (or “I came”) to reveal His mission. Each statement is a window into His purpose, and together they form a powerful portrait of why He entered the world. Let’s explore these verses directly from the King James Version (KJV).

Fulfillment of the Law

“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” — Matthew 5:17 (KJV)

Jesus affirms that His coming is not to abolish God’s Word, but to bring it to completion.

Division and Decision

“Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” — Matthew 10:34 (KJV)

“Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division.” — Luke 12:51 (KJV)

His presence forces a choice. Following Him is not neutral—it divides truth from falsehood.

Service and Sacrifice

“Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” — Matthew 20:28 (KJV)

“I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” — Mark 2:17 (KJV)

Jesus defines His mission in humility: serving others and offering His life for salvation.

Sent from Heaven

“For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” — John 6:38 (KJV)

“I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.” — John 12:46 (KJV)

His origin is divine. He comes from heaven to reveal God’s will and bring light into darkness.

Abundant Life

“I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” — John 10:10 (KJV)

This is the heartbeat of His mission: not mere existence, but fullness of life in Him.

Conclusion

The repeated phrase “I have come” in the KJV is more than a statement—it is a declaration of purpose. Jesus came to fulfil prophecy, call sinners, serve humbly, bring division where truth demands it, shine light in darkness, and give abundant life. Each verse is a glimpse into His mission, and together they invite us to embrace the fullness of His work.

What God Wants for Christmas – A Personal Reflection

I just heard this song for the first time on the radio this morning and it really got me to think……..What God Wants for Christmas by Darius Rucker.

As I listened to Darius Rucker’s song “What God Wants for Christmas,” I found myself pausing in the middle of the holiday rush. The lyrics remind me that Christmas isn’t about the gifts under the tree or the lights strung across the house—it’s about something far deeper. Rucker sings of wondering what God Himself might want for Christmas, and that question struck me right in the heart.

When I think about it, the answer is already written in Scripture. God doesn’t desire the material things we so often chase. Instead, He longs for our hearts, our faith, and our love.

“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:21, KJV)

This verse reminds me that the true treasure of Christmas isn’t wrapped in shiny paper—it’s found in giving God our devotion. Rucker’s song imagines peace on Earth and full churches as part of God’s “wishlist.” That aligns perfectly with the angels’ proclamation at Christ’s birth:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:14, KJV)

Peace and goodwill—those are gifts we can actually give. They don’t cost a dime, but they require humility, forgiveness, and love. And isn’t that what Christ came to teach us?

The song also asks, “What do you give someone who gave His only Son?” That line echoes one of the most famous verses in the Bible:

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16, KJV)

What God wants for Christmas is simple yet profound: our belief in Him, our trust in His Son, and our willingness to live out that faith in love toward others. No store can sell it, no credit card can buy it. It’s a gift only we can give.

So this Christmas, as I hum along to Darius Rucker’s heartfelt song, I’m reminded to step back from the chaos of shopping lists and holiday parties. I want to give God what He truly desires—my heart, my faith, and my love lived out in action. That’s the kind of gift that lasts far beyond December 25th.

What God Wants for Christmas by Darius Rucker

old man playin’ santa clause
blew into town with old jack frost
now he’s handing out candy canes and smiles for free
people scurry with their list
rushing around to buy those gifts that will
end up wrapped up underneath that tree
i’m sitting at this red light looking at a manger scene
watching snowflakes kiss that baby
and it makes me think
i wonder what God wants for christmas
something that you can’t find in a store
maybe peace on earth
no more empy seats in church
might be what’s on his wish list
i wonder what God wants for christmas

what do you give someone
who gave his only son
what if we believed in him like he believes in us
i wonder what God wants for christmas
what might put a smile on his face
every bible with no dust
the devil giving up
would be what’s on his wish list
yeahhh…
i wonder what God wants for christmas
what kind of gift from you and me
more sister
more brother
more love in one another
yeah, i wonder
i wonder what God wants
by know we oughta know
what God wants
for christmas

Merry Christmas and God Bless!

The Light of Hope: Reflecting on Advent in a Weary World

As we approach Christmas on this December day in 2025, the season of Advent invites us to pause amid the hustle and embrace a deeper hope. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, Advent reminds us that God entered our story not with fanfare, but with quiet promise—the promise of light breaking into darkness.

Advent Wreath and Candles Meaning and Symbolism Explained ...

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The Weeks of Waiting

Advent spans four weeks, each traditionally marked by lighting a candle on the wreath: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. These aren’t just decorations—they’re declarations. The first candle, for hope, echoes the prophets who foretold a Messiah. In Isaiah 9:2, we read: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.”

This hope isn’t fleeting; it’s anchored in God’s faithfulness. Even when life feels like prolonged waiting—through personal trials, global unrest, or quiet seasons of doubt—Advent teaches us to anticipate God’s intervention.

The Star That Guided

Remember the wise men following the star? That celestial sign led them to the humble birthplace of the King.

Will You See The New Christmas Star? The Truth Behind 2022's ...

forbes.com

In Matthew 2:2, they asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” Today, we might not see a literal star, but God still guides us through His Word, prayer, and the Holy Spirit. What “stars” is He placing in your life this season to draw you closer to Him?

The Humble Arrival

At the heart of Christmas is the Nativity: God becoming flesh in a manger.

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Nativity Scenes Here, There, Everywhere – A Sermon for ...

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Luke 2:7 tells us, “And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” The King of Kings entered not in power, but in vulnerability. This challenges us: In our pursuit of comfort and success, are we making room for Jesus?

A Call to Reflection and Action

This Advent, let’s linger in hope. Read the prophecies in Isaiah, reflect on the angels’ announcement to the shepherds, and prepare your heart for renewed joy. Share this light with others—through acts of kindness, forgiveness, or simply listening.

As John 1:5 declares: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

May this Christmas fill you with the unshakable hope of Emmanuel—God with us.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, in this Advent season, renew our hope in Your promises. Help us see Your light in the darkness and share it boldly. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Merry Christmas and May God Bless You Greatly!

Lessons from the Book of Nahum: Justice, Pride, and Hope

Continuation of the Lessons from the Minor Prophets.

When most people think of biblical prophets, names like Isaiah or Jeremiah come to mind. Yet tucked away in the Old Testament is a short but powerful book—Nahum. Only three chapters long, it delivers a thunderous message: God’s justice may be delayed, but it is never denied.

Nahum’s prophecy centers on Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. This city had once repented under Jonah’s preaching, but generations later it returned to arrogance, violence, and oppression. Nahum announces that Nineveh’s downfall is certain. What can we learn from this ancient text today?

God’s Justice Is Certain

Nahum reminds us that no empire, no matter how powerful, can escape God’s judgment. Assyria was feared across the ancient world, yet its cruelty sealed its fate. The lesson? Injustice may seem to thrive for a time, but God’s justice always prevails.

“The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked.” (Nahum 1:3, KJV)

God Is a Refuge

Amidst the warnings, Nahum offers comfort:

“The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” (Nahum 1:7, KJV)

This verse is a reminder that while God judges evil, He also protects those who seek Him. For people facing hardship, Nahum’s words are a promise of divine refuge.

The Danger of Pride

Nineveh’s downfall was not just about violence—it was about pride. Assyria believed it was untouchable, but arrogance blinded it to its own fragility. Nahum teaches us that pride leads to destruction, whether in nations, organizations, or individuals.

“Thy shepherds slumber, O king of Assyria: thy nobles shall dwell in the dust: thy people is scattered upon the mountains, and no man gathereth them.” (Nahum 3:18, KJV)

Hope for the Faithful

For Judah, Nahum’s prophecy was not just about Nineveh’s destruction—it was reassurance. God would deliver His people from oppression. The book balances judgment with hope, showing that God’s justice is not only about punishment but also about restoration.

“Behold upon the mountains the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace!” (Nahum 1:15, KJV)

Modern Application

Nahum’s message is timeless:

Injustice will not last forever. Systems built on cruelty eventually collapse.
God is both just and merciful. He punishes evil but shelters the faithful.
Pride is dangerous. Humility is the path to security and peace.

In a world where corruption and arrogance still exist, Nahum’s words remind us that God’s justice is sure, and His refuge is available to all who trust Him.

Final Thoughts

The Book of Nahum may be short, but its lessons are profound. It teaches us that history bends toward divine justice, that pride leads to downfall, and that God remains a stronghold for those who seek Him.

Nahum’s prophecy is more than ancient history—it’s a living reminder that while evil may roar for a season, God’s justice and mercy endure forever.

Discovering the Path of Salvation series

Obadiah: A One-Chapter Prophecy

Continuation in the Lessons from the Minor Prophets.

Obadiah’s book contains only 21 verses, making it the briefest prophetic text in the Hebrew Bible. Despite its size, it packs a punch. Obadiah’s name means “servant of the Lord”, and his vision focuses on the nation of Edom, descendants of Esau, who lived in the rugged mountains southeast of Israel.

Historical Context

The Edomites were relatives of Israel, tracing their lineage back to Esau, Jacob’s brother. Yet their relationship was marked by hostility. When Jerusalem fell to Babylon in 587 BCE, Edom not only failed to help Judah but also rejoiced in their downfall, looted their city, and betrayed fleeing refugees.

This betrayal is the backdrop for Obadiah’s prophecy: God’s judgment against Edom for arrogance and cruelty.

Key Themes in Obadiah

Judgment on Edom: Edom’s pride and violence against Judah bring divine punishment. Obadiah declares that their lofty mountain strongholds will not save them.
The Danger of Pride: “The pride of your heart has deceived you…” (Obadiah 1:3). Pride blinds nations and individuals to their vulnerability.
The Day of the Lord: Obadiah expands the vision beyond Edom, declaring that all nations will face God’s justice.
Hope for Israel: The book closes with restoration—Israel will reclaim its land, and “the kingdom shall be the Lord’s” (Obadiah 1:21).

Sources:

Lessons for Today

Though ancient, Obadiah’s message resonates today:

God’s justice is certain: No nation or person can escape accountability for cruelty or betrayal.
Pride leads to downfall: Arrogance blinds us to reality and often precedes collapse.
God restores the faithful: Even after devastation, God promises renewal and hope.

The Book of Obadiah reminds us that betrayal and pride have consequences, but God’s justice and restoration prevail. Its brevity is its strength—one chapter, one clear message: God reigns, and His kingdom will endure.

Discovering the Path of Salvation series

Amos the Shepherd-Prophet

Continuation in the Lessons from the Minor Prophets.

Amos wasn’t a professional prophet or priest. He was a shepherd and fig farmer from Tekoa in Judah, called by God to deliver a hard message to the northern kingdom of Israel during the reign of Jeroboam II. His humble background makes his voice even more striking—God chose an ordinary man to confront kings, priests, and the wealthy elite.

Historical Context

Israel was experiencing economic prosperity and political stability under Jeroboam II. Cities expanded, trade flourished, and wealth accumulated. Yet beneath this prosperity lay deep social injustice:

The rich exploited the poor.
Courts were corrupt.
Religious rituals masked hypocrisy and idolatry.

Amos steps into this context with uncompromising words: prosperity without justice is meaningless.

Key Themes in Amos

Judgment Against Nations: Amos begins by condemning surrounding nations (Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, Moab) for violence and cruelty. His famous phrase “For three sins… even for four…” underscores God’s accountability for all nations.
Judgment Against Israel: Israel is not exempt. Despite wealth and worship, their injustice and oppression bring divine wrath.
True Worship vs. Hypocrisy: Rituals mean nothing without righteousness. Amos 5:24 captures the heart of his message: “But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream.”
The Day of the Lord: Amos warns that this day will not be a celebration for Israel but a reckoning.
Hope and Restoration: Despite harsh judgment, Amos closes with a vision of renewal—God will restore David’s fallen tent and bless His people again.

Lessons for Today

The Book of Amos is timeless because it speaks to societies where wealth and power overshadow justice and compassion. Its lessons include:

God cares about justice: Faith is not just ritual but how we treat others.
Prosperity without righteousness is empty: Economic success cannot excuse exploitation.
Ordinary voices matter: Amos shows that God can use anyone, regardless of status, to speak truth to power.

Amos is a book that refuses to let us separate worship from justice. It reminds us that God’s heart beats for the oppressed, and that true faith is lived out in fairness, compassion, and integrity. His words echo across centuries, challenging us to examine our own societies and lives.

Discovering the Path of Salvation series

The Prophet Joel: A Call to Repentance and Renewal

This is a continuation from the previous post on the study of the minor prophets.

The Book of Joel may be short—just three chapters—but its message is timeless and deeply significant. Joel, the son of Pethuel, emerges as a prophet during a time of national crisis, when Judah faced devastation from a locust plague. What could have been seen as a mere natural disaster becomes, in Joel’s vision, a spiritual wake-up call for the people of God.

The Crisis: Locusts and Judgment

Joel begins with vivid imagery of locusts swarming the land, stripping away crops and leaving famine in their wake. This catastrophe is not just agricultural—it symbolizes divine judgment. Joel interprets the plague as a warning: the people’s spiritual neglect has consequences, and God is calling them to return to Him.

The Call to Repentance

One of Joel’s most famous lines captures the heart of his message: “Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate.” (Joel 2:13)

This verse reminds us that true repentance is not about outward rituals or appearances, but about inward transformation. Joel urges priests, leaders, and ordinary people alike to fast, pray, and seek God sincerely.

The Day of the Lord

Joel introduces the powerful concept of the Day of the Lord—a future time when God will decisively intervene in history. For those who ignore His call, it will be a day of judgment. But for those who repent, it will be a day of hope, restoration, and blessing. This duality makes Joel’s message both sobering and encouraging.

The Promise of the Spirit

Perhaps Joel’s most enduring contribution is his prophecy that God will pour out His Spirit on all people (Joel 2:28–29). Sons and daughters will prophesy, old men will dream dreams, and young men will see visions. This promise transcends generations and cultures, pointing to a future where God’s presence is not limited to a select few but shared universally.

Centuries later, this prophecy was quoted by Peter during Pentecost (Acts 2), marking the birth of the Christian church. Joel’s words thus echo across both Jewish and Christian traditions, emphasizing God’s desire to empower His people.

Why Joel Matters Today

Crisis as Opportunity: Joel shows that disasters can be moments of spiritual awakening.
Repentance as Renewal: His call to “rend your heart” reminds us that transformation begins within.
Hope Beyond Judgment: Even in times of trial, Joel assures us of God’s mercy and restoration.
Universal Spirit: His vision of God’s Spirit poured out on all people speaks to inclusivity and hope for humanity.

The Book of Joel is more than a record of ancient prophecy—it is a timeless call to repentance, renewal, and hope. In its pages, we see that God’s judgment is never the final word. Instead, His ultimate desire is to restore His people and empower them with His Spirit. Joel’s voice, though ancient, still speaks with urgency and relevance today.

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