Dear Calvary Temple Family and Friends,
Genesis 4:4
and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering,
Exodus 13:12
you shall set apart to the Lord all that first opens the womb. All the firstborn of your animals that are males shall be the Lord’s.
Numbers 18:17
But the firstborn of a cow, or the firstborn of a sheep, or the firstborn of a goat, you shall not redeem; they are holy. You shall sprinkle their blood on the altar and shall burn their fat as a food offering, with a pleasing aroma to the Lord.
Proverbs 3:9
Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce;
Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Why do we begin our Daniel Fast on January 1st. each year? As noted in the above scriptures, God requires us, His people, to place Him first. Second, third, or fourth place is not acceptable to the LORD. It is first or nothing.
When we place God first, we let Him know that we value Him, more than our culture, and even ourselves. When we do this, our actions demonstrate that He truly is our number one priority.
I know that Jan. 1st. is a holiday and like everyone else I would like to just enjoy that day with more than the meals suited for the Daniel Fast. Just look at me, do I look like fruits and vegetables are my food of choice? My desire to obey God and please Him, is the only reason we begin on January 1st. each year.
This year will be a year of preparation for us as a church. This year we will be preparing for God’s Manifest Presence in our individual and church life. I am fully convinced that our LORD is waiting for a remnant of His people to live a sacrificial life for Him. So that we would become living sacrifices for Him and He will manifest His presence in unparalleled ways.
As I look at the how the kingdom of darkness has unleashed such devastation within our nation and across the globe in the last few years: I discern that the devil and his demons have seen in the spiritual realm the Glory of our God coming to rule and to reign, on earth as He reigns in heaven. Could it be that we are the last generation? I do not know, but I do know that for such a time as this, God has chosen us, a remnant to do great exploits with Him, for this reason we must prepare ourselves.
On Sunday we will begin a new series entitled, “The Manifest Presence of God.” Our LORD is inviting us to get ready for the outpouring of His Glory. Let us begin this year, becoming living sacrifices Holy and Acceptable to God. When and how He manifests His Presence is in our hands because He is ready and waiting for vessels prepared to dwell in His Glory.
Please join us as we live out what He has destined us to live!
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Ray
Senior Pastor
