Do All Things for the Glory of God?

Who Are Members of Evangelicals for Harris?

Who Are Members of Evangelicals for Harris?Evangelicals for Harris is a faith-based group that formed during the 2020 U.S. presidential election to support Kamala Harris. Its members include Christians who identify as evangelicals and align with Harris’ policies on social justice, equality, and economic reform.Key Supporters1. Clergy and Faith Leaders: Members often include pastors and leaders advocating for progressive evangelical values, emphasizing care for the marginalized and biblical justice.2. Faith-Driven Activists: Many members are activists who view Harris’ platform as aligned with their faith’s call to serve the vulnerable and promote societal reform.Core Beliefs and Actions1. Social Justice: Members focus on issues such as racial reconciliation, healthcare, and education, citing biblical principles like Micah 6:8: "What doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"2. Community Engagement: The group often emphasizes community service and advocacy as expressions of their faith.Why This MattersUnderstanding this group reflects the diversity within evangelicalism and how faith influences political and social engagement.

Can the Orthodox Church Declare Saints?

Can the Orthodox Church Declare Saints?The Orthodox Church has a rich tradition of recognizing and venerating saints. While it does not "make" saints, it formally acknowledges individuals whose lives exemplified holiness and devotion to God. This process is rooted in the belief that saints are already in communion with God, and their recognition serves as an affirmation of their spiritual legacy.The Process of Declaring Saints in the Orthodox ChurchGrassroots Veneration: Canonization often begins with widespread recognition of a person’s holiness by the faithful. Miracles attributed to their intercession may also contribute to this recognition.Formal Canonization: The Synod of Bishops examines the life, writings, and miracles associated with the individual to determine their worthiness for sainthood. This formal process may culminate in a liturgical declaration.Liturgical Inclusion: Once declared a saint, the individual is commemorated in the Church’s liturgical calendar and venerated through icons, hymns, and prayers.Biblical Support for SainthoodThe Bible refers to all believers as saints (Ephesians 1:1), emphasizing the call to holiness. However, the Orthodox tradition distinguishes canonized saints as exemplars of faith and intercessors for the faithful.ConclusionThe Orthodox Church declares saints to honor their lives of holiness and inspire believers. This practice reflects the Church’s commitment to celebrating God’s work through His faithful servants and encouraging others to follow their example.

What Is Hyssop in the Bible?

What Is Hyssop in the Bible?Hyssop is a plant mentioned in the Bible, often associated with purification and cleansing rituals. It symbolizes spiritual cleansing and the removal of sin, serving as an important element in Old Testament ceremonies and references in the New Testament.Hyssop in the Old TestamentIn Exodus 12:22, during the first Passover, hyssop was used to apply the blood of the lamb to the doorposts, symbolizing protection from God’s judgment. Similarly, in Leviticus 14:4-6, hyssop was used in the cleansing rituals for lepers, highlighting its symbolic role in purification.Hyssop in the New TestamentIn John 19:29, hyssop appears at the crucifixion of Jesus when it is used to offer Him a drink of vinegar. This reference ties the symbolism of hyssop to Jesus' sacrifice, emphasizing His role as the ultimate means of spiritual cleansing and redemption.Why This MattersHyssop in the Bible represents spiritual cleansing and the redemptive work of Christ. Its use in Scripture points to the importance of purification and the removal of sin through God’s grace and sacrifice.

Did Any of Jesus’ Disciples Go Blind?

Did Any of Jesus’ Disciples Go Blind?None of Jesus’ original twelve disciples are recorded in Scripture as going blind. However, there are biblical references to blindness as a physical condition and as a spiritual metaphor. Additionally, the Apostle Paul, who became a disciple after Jesus’ resurrection, temporarily lost his sight during his conversion experience.Biblical References to BlindnessPaul’s Temporary Blindness: In Acts 9:8-9, Paul (then Saul) was blinded by a vision of Jesus on the road to Damascus. His sight was restored three days later by Ananias (Acts 9:17-18).Blindness as a Spiritual Metaphor: Jesus frequently used blindness to illustrate spiritual truths. For example, in John 9:39, He said: "For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind."Healing of Blindness by JesusDuring His ministry, Jesus performed several miracles of healing the blind, demonstrating His divine power and compassion (e.g., Mark 10:46-52, John 9:1-7).ConclusionWhile none of Jesus’ original disciples went blind, Paul’s temporary loss of sight illustrates the transformative power of encountering Christ. Blindness in the Bible often carries spiritual significance, pointing to God’s ability to heal and restore both physically and spiritually.