Every child longs for it. Every friend can use it. Every couple needs it. And you have the power to give it every day of the year. We are talking about the ancient practice of expressing affirmation and commitment to others, offering them our blessing. The blessing invokes the active support of God for that person's benefit, it talks about thanksgivings, it confers prosperity and happiness, it creates relantionships and self esteem in the person that receives the good will from us. In general, the person that lives in the presence of God, loving Him and obeying Him, enjoys the divine blessing. The blessing was an essential part of the Old Testament's Hebrew family. The father prophetically invoked the divine blessing upon his sons (Gn.27:4). With time, the blessing became an important part of the ritual. It was used as a salutation (Psal. 118:26), in the Supper (Mt. 26:26), and in the farewell (Gn.49:28; Lc. 24:50). It was transmitted by the imposition of hands (Gn.48:14) and by the kiss (Gn.27:26). In the Biblical Theology, "blessing" is the word that merge both Testaments. The pact of blessing made with Abraham (Gn.12:1-3) is fulfilled in Christ (Hc.3:25; Ga.3:14; Ef.1:3; 1 Pd.3:9). For us today, it could be also of great significance, because it can become a fountain of incredible richness and joy to the one offering it. The life of the believer is an inheritance and a continous effort in blessing (Mt. 5:44; Ro.12:14; 1 Pd.3:9). The blessing starts at home, in the relations between parents and chlidren. The children that receive the gift of blessing from his parents, have a good spiritual and emotional beginning. They receive a strong foundation of love and acceptance. This principle also applies to the intimate relationship of the couple. The friendships deepen and strengthen, the love of the Church increments bringing fellowship, health and hope to brothers and sisters, many of whom they had never received a word of blessing. Death and life are in the power of the tongue (Prov 18:21). By blessing, one gives life, not only to the recipient, but also to the giver. That's why, today I bless you. Although I don't know you in person, I cast my blessing upon you, because by blessing you with all my heart, Iam blessing myself. Give blessings everywhere you go, not only by words, but also by deeds. They will return to you, when you least expect it.
Graphics by
Moon And Back
& J.C. Behlen Jr. Gallery |
