1. John the Baptist

In this new year of 2009, we continue to trace the life and times of Jesus. We have already turned our attention to Luke and reflected upon Mary’s conception at Christmas. Mary accepted the annunciation hesitatingly, by saying to the angel: “May it be to me as you have said” (Luke 1:38). Last week, we looked at Matthew and followed the episode of Herod’s plot to kill the new born Jesus, who was saved by the divine power of God. (³¤­…)

1. Visit of the Magi

As early as the fourth century, Epiphany has been the festival commemorating the visit of the wise men to the baby Jesus. The account of that visit in Matthew 2:1-12 is thus the center of attention in our church today. The visit of the Magi is regarded as the first appearance of Jesus to the gentiles. This is the season to declare the manifestation of the divine Son. The festival is usually commemorated on January 6. The text from Matthew begins: After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him’"¡ÊMatthew 2:1-2). (³¤­…)

# On the 4th Sunday of every month, Pastor Mizuguchi gives a lecture of reflections upon, “The Sermon on the Mount.” This session today, is the ninth of the series and the lecturing text is taken from Matthew chapter 6.

1. Charities, Prayers, and Fasting

Today’s passage consists in a sandwich-like structure and its core is the verses known as the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:5-15). We are only focusing today on Matthew verses 1-6 and 16-18. The portion of scripture regarding the Lord’s Prayer will be contemplated on another occasion. (³¤­…)