When I was seven, I received my first King James Bible at Christmas. It had beautiful illustrations, including Christ blessing the children on its front cover. I felt very grown up and would often read for pleasure from this Bible. It was such a joy and wonder seeing our Lord Jesus Christ’s words set in red ink.
And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. ~ St. Matthew 18: 2-6; 10
While growing up, I often wondered what ever happened to that little boy mentioned in the Gospel, whom Jesus called unto Him?
Neither my Baptist Sunday School teachers, nor my pastor, could answer this question.
However, in my early 20’s the Orthodox Church called me “home” and I did find out!
Holy Tradition describes St. Ignatius as the little boy. The saint was also called St. Ignatius the God-Bearer (Theophoros), because he was held in the arms of Christ the Incarnate Son of God, and because he in turn bore God in his heart and prayed unceasingly to Him. Many of St. Ignatius’ writings are available, to this very day!
Take heed often to come together to give thanks to God and show forth His praise. For when you assemble frequently in the same place, the powers of Satan are destroyed, and the destruction at which he aims is prevented by the unity of your faith. Nothing is more precious than peace, by which all war, in heaven and earth, is brought to an end. ~ St. Ignatius of Antioch
I’m so thankful for the Love of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit… the Holy Trinity One in Essence and Undivided.
I’m thankful for the One Holy Catholic, Apostolic, Orthodox Church.
I’m thankful for the Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, as she hears all our supplications… and with a mother’s boldness, takes them to her Son – praying to God for us.
I’m thankful for the protective intercessions of my saint, Great-Martyr Barbara and my Holy Guardian Angel.
I’m thankful for my many blessings, and for my family and friends.
For if God does not for a moment tire of giving us good things, how can we tire of thanking Him for these good things? ~ St. Nikolai Velimirovic
I’m thankful that you visit Blisswood, which in turn lets me write and share.
Happy Thanksgiving Day!