Who was this ghastly king, and what were his infamous deeds? Herod the Great was a convert to Judaism. He was a prefect of the Roman Empire, a tyrant, a brilliant politician, and a murderous villain. He accomplished some spectacular building projects, including an expansion of the second temple in Jerusalem. Among the victims of his murderous carnage, he killed his wife, his brother, and two of his sisters’ husbands, but what is his enduring legacy in the Holy Scriptures?
The story of the stoning of Stephen may be found in Acts 6 & 7. He was among the first deacons ordained by the 12 Apostles. He was a man after God’s own heart, an evangelist, an erudite theological historian (an influential speaker), a man of great courage, and he was martyred for speaking the truth. In the Catholic, Lutheran, and Anglican traditions, he is celebrated in the Feast of St. Stephen on the second day of Christmastide.
I am impressed by Stephen’s knowledge of biblical history, his final great sermon, and the courage he displayed before the false accusers who stoned him to death. See the link above for the whole story.
I have penned a haiku which commemorates Stephen’s life. May all glory go to God.
Thanksgiving is upon us and I am saturated in gratitude. My path to this place is paved with the fine rapport and altruism of people whose love for their fellows is absolute. I was led to this diminutive Michigan city 13 years ago, where I discovered a community of people who love one-another. My Blessings abound. I enjoy the warmth and cheer of a loving wife, affable friends, and the unsurpassed love of the Living Savior.
My Thanksgiving message is from Ephesians 4:32): “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” I traveled far to arrive at this place, and I believe there are many fine cities just like it. May your terrestrial destination be likewise. Home is where you find your dog, and the love of Christ Jesus. If you are a winsome traveler, you might enjoy this haiku, “Shiawassee Ice,” which I posted 4 years ago at Thanksgiving.
Windy baseball fall
Sunlight sets tree leaves ablaze
While blue sky screams "foul"
My Wyoming and Colorado buddies would argue the point, but Michigan actually is the center of the universe. If you don’t believe me, read Timeless Fly Fishing on the Au Sable River, an article posted by Up North. But this is only one place in Michigan where you will find legendary, monumental beauty in nature, and blue ribbon trout water. Michigan is a great place for people who enjoy the outdoors–winter, spring, summer and fall.
I hope you enjoy “Holy Waters,” a haiku honoring one heckuva beautiful spot on God’s green earth. Continue reading
