Blessings for 2014

~~~ Happy New Year~~~
~~~2014~~~
~~Numbers 6:22-27~~Psalm 67~~Galatians 4:4-7~~Luke 2:16-21~~

This is how you shall bless...
Say to them:
The LORD bless you and keep you!
The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you!
The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace!

In Biblical times the words in Hebrew had very concrete meanings.
The Hebrew word for bless is 'barak' which literally means 'to kneel'...
A blessing is gift brought to another on bended knee.

The Hebrew word for 'keep' is 'shamar' which literally means 'to guard'...
A related word is 'shamiyr' which means 'thorn'.
In an effort to protect their sheep
 a shepherd would construct a corral of thorn branches.
This was a way to 'guard' their sheep.

God surrounds us guards us and protects us
letting the light of his face shine down upon us.
While we are in his protection
we will also experience his kindness and peace.

May this year bring greater blessings than you could imagine.
We begin this new year with his blessings.
May your heart be filled with peace, joy, and love.

!!!Happy New Year!!!