March 2024 Daily Readings

March 1: Luke 15; 1 Corinthians 16
March 2: Luke 16; 2 Corinthians 1
March 3: Luke 17; 2 Corinthians 2
March 4: Luke 18; 2 Corinthians 3
March 5: Luke 19; 2 Corinthians 4
March 6: Luke 20; 2 Corinthians 5
March 7: Luke 21; 2 Corinthians 6
March 8: Luke 22; 2 Corinthians 7
March 9: Luke 23; 2 Corinthians 8
March 10: Luke 24; 2 Corinthians 9
March 11: John 1; 2 Corinthians 10
March 12: John 2; 2 Corinthians 11
March 13: John 3; 2 Corinthians 12
March 14: John 4; 2 Corinthians 13
March 15: John 5; Galatians 1
March 16: John 6; Galatians 2
March 17: John 7; Galatians 3
March 18: John 8; Galatians 4
March 19: John 9; Galatians 5
March 20: John 10; Galatians 6
March 21: John 11; Ephesians 1
March 22: John 12; Ephesians 2
March 23: John 13; Ephesians 3
March 24: John 14; Ephesians 4
March 25: John 15; Ephesians 5
March 26: John 16; Ephesians 6
March 27: John 17; Philippians 1
March 28: John 18; Philippians 2
March 29: John 19; Philippians 3
March 30: John 20; Philippians 4
March 31: John 21; Colossians 1

The Whisper in the Wind

Dear brothers and sisters, blessings to everyone.

The Oahspe Bible offers us a unique perspective on spirituality and the fact that all living beings are connected in some way. In Native American cultures, the understanding of time is often intermingled with the seasons, celestial events, and the cycles of nature.

In some Native American communities, Saturday is a day of rest and prayer; may we use this day to draw inspiration from the Oahspe’s teachings on the harmony and balance that underlie our existence. One of the Oahspe’s messages emphasizes the connection of all life forms and the deep relationship between humanity and the Great Spirit Jehovih.

Imagine a circle, a symbol revered by many First Nation tribes as a representation of the eternal cycles of life. In the Oahspe, we find echoes of this cyclical understanding, demonstrating the eternal progression of souls and the cosmic order that governs the universe. The seventh-day Sabbath becomes an important reminder of the harmony embedded in the cosmic arena, where each step contributes to the greater rhythm of existence.
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All the Sacred Teachings

“All the Sacred Teachings come from the breath of the Great Spirit and help us to teach others about Creator’s ways. They help us correct wrong thinking and bring lives into balance. They show the good and right way to walk the road of life. In this way, those who walk with the Great Spirit will have everything that is needed to do good things for others.” (Second Letter from Small Man to He Gives Honor 3:16,17/2 Tim., First Nations Version)

The Spiritual and Physical Worlds

In many Native American spiritual traditions, there is a belief in the connection of all things, including the spiritual and physical realms. You will see the word “connection” quite often in this blog. Rather than viewing these realms as separate, they are seen as different aspects of the same whole.

As an example, many Native American cultures view the natural world as a reflection of the spiritual world, with plants, animals, and natural elements such as rocks and mountains all possessing spiritual energy and significance. Spiritual practices such as prayer, ritual, and ceremony are often used to honor and connect with these spiritual forces and to seek guidance and healing.
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Good Friday

Good Friday is a sacred day that holds immense importance among some First Nations/Native American individuals. It is a day that is remembered with great reverence and solemnity, as it marks the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the sins of humanity. While Good Friday is often celebrated within the Christian faith, it holds special significance for Native American communities as well.

For many Native Americans, Good Friday represents a time of reflection and spiritual renewal. It is a day to remember the teachings of Jesus Christ, and to reflect on His message of love, forgiveness, and compassion. The story of His Crucifixion and resurrection is a powerful reminder of the importance of sacrifice, and the ultimate victory of light over darkness.
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Beyond Anxiety and Depression

The ancient wisdom of our culture has always recognized the importance of mental health and wellbeing. Today, many among our people struggle with depression and anxiety, which can be deeply debilitating and challenging to overcome. But there are many teachings from our ancestors that can help us find a path to healing.

For Native Americans, the natural world is a source of great wisdom and healing. Spending time in nature, whether it’s hiking in the mountains or walking along a riverbank, can help us connect with the earth and find a sense of peace and calm. The land is alive and full of healing energy, and we can tap into this power to help us heal our minds and bodies.

Another important aspect of Native American culture is community. We are a people who value connection and belonging, and we know that the support of friends and family can be crucial in times of need. If you’re struggling with depression or anxiety, it’s important to reach out to those around you and ask for help. Whether it’s talking to a friend, joining a support group, or seeking professional counseling, there are many resources available to help you on your journey.
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Dealing with Rejection

As a Native American, rejection is not a foreign concept. From the earliest days of our people, we have faced rejection and discrimination from those who sought to push us aside and take our land. But rejection is not something that should define us, nor should we allow it to break us.

When we experience rejection, it is natural to feel hurt and disappointed. But we must remember that rejection is not a reflection of our worth or our abilities. Just as the sun rises each morning and sets each night, rejection is simply a part of life. It is how we respond to it that matters.
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Native American priests?

First Nations religious practices are diverse and varied, and different tribes and communities may have their own unique religious leaders and practices. Therefore, the term “priest” may not necessarily be applicable to all Native American traditions.

However, some Native American traditions do have religious leaders who may be considered analogous to priests in other religious traditions. For example, among the Hopi people of the Southwest, there are kachina priests who are responsible for maintaining the rituals and practices associated with kachina ceremonies. Among the Navajo, there are medicine men or women who are considered to be spiritual leaders and healers.
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The Lumbee Tribe

The Lumbee Tribe is a Native American tribe that is primarily located in southeastern North Carolina in the United States. The tribe is recognized by the state of North Carolina, but not by the federal government. The Lumbee people are descendants of various indigenous groups from the region, including the Cheraw, the Tuscarora, and the Waccamaw, as well as European and African American ancestry.

The Lumbee people have a rich cultural history and are known for our unique traditions, such as the Lumbee Homecoming, a yearly event that celebrates our heritage and culture. The Lumbee Tribe is also active in promoting education and economic development in the region, as well as preserving our language and culture for future generations. Despite our lack of federal recognition, the Lumbee Tribe is an important and influential community in southeastern North Carolina.
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