Thursday, December 26, 2019

Social Services And The Social Work Field - 1365 Words

In this paper, I will be discussing of an organization that caters social services and contributes to the social work field. In addition, I will go in details where the organization is financed from and what is the mission of the organization. Moreover, I will discuss of the structure that the organizations conduct to accomplished their missions and explain the organization s different services provided under their organizations umbrella. Furthermore, I will discuss of the organization accountability to their services, overall impact, and the power in organization. Lastly, I will explanatory the workers role in the organizations and discuss of my overall experience referring to my future social work profession. To begin with, the organization I have chosen to discuss is Keystone Community Services located at 2000 Saint Anthony Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55104 along with multiple other locations. Keystone Community Services is a public organization that was established in 1939. When Keysto ne Community Services was first found it initial ambition was to be a neighborhood-based community in Saint Paul, Minnesota. As the growing organization expanded their services variety, funding sources was an important factor of the organization to ensure stability to keep providing great services. Keystone Community Services is financed by business partnership, private funding, grants, and donations. Business partnership funding sources are a great contribution to the organizations,Show MoreRelatedCareer As A Career Choice942 Words   |  4 PagesSocial Work is a profession concerned with helping individuals, families, groups and communities to enhance their individual and collective well-being. I chose to seek a degree in this field because I find this to be a very rewarding career choice. To obtain a degree in a career that essentially makes a difference in people’s lives is extremely important to me. I have worked as a medical assistant for over 10 years, and although I love my job I would like to work closer with the people that I serveRead MoreSocial Work Reflection1338 Words   |  6 Pages What is self-reflection? According to Yip (2006), â€Å"social work students are encouraged to undergo self-reflection. It is a process of self-analysis, self-evaluation, self-dialogue, and self-observation. Under appropriate conditions, social workers’ self-reflection can be very constructive, resulting in self-enhancement. However, under inappropriate conditions, social workers’ self-reflection in reflective practice can be destructive and create problems forRead MoreSocial Work For The Medical Field1580 Words   |  7 PagesFor many years I have developed an interest in the medical field, in helping people who are at very crucial times in their lives. I have known that I do not want to pursue to be a doctor or a nurse, but rather a professional with in that field who can aid others and follow up on the responsibilities and make them priorities, just as much as doctors make the patients’ health their point of focus. I have also expressed interest in Child Welfare, which aligns very w ell with my personal experiences.Read MorePros and Cons of Different Fields in Social Work871 Words   |  4 PagesEarning my bachelor’s in human services will lead into my career in the field of social work. The field of social work is nothing new: Simon Patten coined the term social workers in 1900 (Robert 1995). Literature on aspects of the field, how to get involved in social work, and what type of work a social worker performs will be included in my research. For the purpose of this review, I will focus my research on current information, 2008 to current. The major theme of my research includes lookingRead MoreA Social Worker Coordinator On The United States920 Words   |  4 Pagesbehind the decision to become a certified Military Service Members, Veterans and Their Families – Advanced Social Worker (MVF-ASW). Even though this career does not involve being on the front lines, I can still provide direct services to the children of active duty service members as they navigate the extended deployments, frequent moves and strained familial relationships. Even though this particular credential is not mandatory to work as a youth services coordinator on a military base, it is recommendedRead MoreA Study On Child And Family Development Essay1530 Words   |  7 Pagesto the social work field with various different career opportunities (Child and Family Development | Academics | Western Michigan University, n.d.). The ultimate goal of obtaining this degree and working in the social work field is to help improve the quality of life of individuals and their families within a dynamic community. The profession of a Social Worker originated in the 19th century. With the demise of the feudalism, the rising level of poverty was seen as a menace to the social orderRead MoreThe Social Work Field Work Performance1198 Words   |  5 PagesIntroduction According to CNN Money the social work field is the one of Americas most overworked and underpaid professions. Essentially, they work hard and do more with very little resources. When the Great Recession occurred in 2007 the tax revenue declined. States have made spending cuts, drained reserves, and reduce necessary services. Majority of the programs targeted was that of much need social workers and nurses. Usually in lower income areas where families are affected the most. How can weRead MoreSocial Workers : A Social Worker995 Words   |  4 Pages270,000 child, family, and school social workers; 142,000 healthcare social workers and 110,000 mental health and substance abuse social workers† (Social Services). When added together the total number of social workers in 2013 comes to 529,000. Because of this, many people have been positively affected by social workers. A social workers job is to help people solve and cope with their problems in everyday life (Bureau of Labor). A nyone considering becoming a social worker should consider the preparationRead MoreTruman W. Smith s Vision1256 Words   |  6 Pagesprovides medical care for children and adolescents with severe physical and intellectual impairment conditions. The TWSCCC provides 24-hour skilled nursing care, 24-hour Respiratory Therapy services, Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy, Licensed On-site teachers, and a large variety of specialty care services (Truman W. Smith). The facility offers a viable and solicitous option for parents who are unable to take of their chronically ill children in their home, and for children who have been placedRead MoreThe Medical Social Worker Professional Essay1163 Words   |  5 Pages I interview Ms. Diameteria S. Damon. She is a medical social worker professional. I choose Diameteria because she works in the healthcare industry and she has great experience and knowledge. She has work experience in mental health services, hospice, and children and fami ly services. Diameteria has received a Certificate in North Carolina Child Welfare Collaborative from formal training in multi-systemic family therapy, as well as brief support therapy. Diameteria has an education and professional

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

The Great Depression Roosevelt s New Deal, Federal Loan...

The Great Depression was the longest and deepest depression in American history. It started in 1929 and ended in 1939 (Szostak). The reasoning for this would be: Stock market crash, bank failures, reduction in purchasing across the board, American economic policy with Europe, and lastly drought conditions. All were Jurassic conditions that led America into this horrid depression (Kelly). The government however came up with certain acts and programs to help get us out of this depression. The government programs that helped Americans during the Great Depression were Roosevelt’s New Deal, Federal Loan Act, and the Agricultural Marketing Act. Roosevelt’s New Deal was a major part in helping end this depression. It was a multitude of acts that were passed, such as: Securities and Exchange Commission, Civil Conversation Crops, Works Progress Administration, National Recovery Administration, Federal Emergency Relief Agency, Agricultural Adjustment Act, Homeowners Loan Corporat ion, Tennessee Valley Authority, National Labor Relations Act, Social Security Administration, Soil Conversation Act, Fair Labor Standard Act (Great D., New Deal). Although there is a lot of acts that were passed, there are some that were more important than others. One being the Civil Conservation Crops Vass 8 (CCC) which gave those who did have a job, work. By building bridges, cleaning up campsites, making fire trails, and to construct dams. Putting over 2 million men to work (WPA). The Federal EmergencyShow MoreRelatedGreat Depression and Its Causes1256 Words   |  6 PagesThe causes of the Great Depression of the 1920s and 1930s has been argued about for generations. Most people agree on several key topics and that it was the severity and length of time the Depression lasted that was actually the most remarkable. Hoover made many noteworthy attempts to try and solve this crisis, yet in the end it was President Roosevelt and his New Deal, that brought many Americans hope for the future. The first factor in the start of the Depression was the lack of diversityRead MoreHoover And Roosevelt s Actions During The Aftermath Of The Crash Of 1929792 Words   |  4 Pagesadministrations attempt to deal with the economic stagnation, social hardship and psychological impact of the depression? What needed to be fixed and which approach proved more successful? In your essay you should address not only the underlying economic and social problems that both administrations had to deal with and the various corrective measures they adopted, but also the underlying philosophical approaches of Hoover and Roosevelt and their supporters. The Great Crash also known as Stock marketRead MoreEssay about Roosevelt Vs. Hoover and the Great Depression1658 Words   |  7 PagesRoosevelt and Hoover The Great Depression drastically changed Americas definition of Liberalism. Prior to the onset of the depression, in the roaring twenties, policies of laissez-faire were considered liberal, radical, revolutionary, and even democratic. This was due to the fact that revolution was a horrifying notion and not until after the laissez-faire and the system of free market fails in the 1920s do people begin to look about for alternatives. The time when people starting to seek alternativesRead More Causes of The Great Depression Essay1592 Words   |  7 PagesThe Great Depression It is said that the cause of the catastrophic stock market crash known as the great depression was due mostly to uncontrolled political and industrial systems otherwise known as capitalism. However, the timeline leading up to the Great Depression proves that many other factors played a role in the stock market crash that occurred in the decade of the 1930s. So lets take a look at rather four, factors contributing to the great depression that we will further discuss inRead MoreEssay about The Great Depression in America1866 Words   |  8 PagesThe 1920’s in America The 1920’s was a very prosperous period for many Americans. Food production increased 64 percent, worker productivity increased by 40 percent, electricity sales doubled, fuel consumption more than doubled, and pay was increased for many industrial workers (Davidson, 2008). With the soaring economy and new items hitting the shelves all the time, American consumers were living the high life. Even if you wanted something and did not have the money you could simply get it on creditRead More Agricultural Subsidies: Their Original Purpose and Impact Today1921 Words   |  8 PagesAgricultural Subsidies: Their Original Purpose and Impact Today Contents Introduction: What are Farm Subsidies? 3 Government Intervention in Agribusiness 7 The Reality 9 Works Cited 12 â€Æ' Introduction: What are Farm Subsidies? The Agriculture sector has changed monumentally over the past century in response to vast economic change and technological advancements. Farm subsidies are various forms of payments from the federal government put in place in an effort to stabilize pricesRead MoreEssay about Main Features of The New Deal4123 Words   |  17 PagesMain Features of The New Deal In 1929, the stock market collapsed causing a worldwide economic depression, destroying America’s economy with many people losing their life savings therefore thrusting them into unemployment and poverty. Unemployment reached highs of over 13 million whilst the GNP for the country reached as low as $58 billion, compared to the $100 billion+ pre depression figures, because demand and production fell so dramatically. People were forced outRead MoreThe Depression, Recession, and Business Cycle Essay example2039 Words   |  9 Pagesthe millions is a great example of history repeating itself. How did it happen, did we know it was going to happen, and was there anything that could have been done to prevent it? There are a multitude of questions that could be asked, with the most important of them all, will it happen again? In just the past two hundred years, the United States has seen â€Å"Black Friday† in 1869, â€Å"The Great Depression† in 1929, and the most current recession of 2009. Recessions, depressions, inflation, economicRead MoreMidterm Review Essay9272 Words   |  38 Pagescontributed to explosive economic growth during the Gilded Age EXCEPT: Question options: | a) | availability of capital for investment. | | b) | a growing supply of labor. | | c) | abundant natural resources. | | d) | low tariffs. | | e) | federal land grants to railroads. | | | 1 / 1 point | 2.) By 1890, the majority of Americans: Question options: | a) | worked as farmers. | | b) | worked as independent craftsmen. | | c) | worked in the mining industry. | | d) | wereRead MoreMixed Economy7299 Words   |  30 Pagesof violence force. The results have been exactly what one would predict: starvation, poverty, and the slaughter of millions. | A mixed-economy is always in flux. The regulations never produce positive results, because they always force people to act against their own interests. When a particular policy fails, it is propped up by other regulations in the hopes that more control will produce better results. Sometimes the results are so destructive they must either be removed, or the people must be

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Human Emotion in Equilibrium Essay Example For Students

Human Emotion in Equilibrium Essay For the purpose of creating a peaceful society, the antagonist, Father, who is ruler of Libria in Kurt Wimmers film Equilibrium (2002), eradicates the true source of mans inhumanity to man ones ability to feel. In this way, he believes as humankind is one, war is gone and hate is a memory. However, without feeling, it has no point for humans to exist, and Libria becomes simply a seemingly placid society, where citizens are not content with their lives at all. Mary OBrien, who is arrested for violating the law of Libria says, To feel is as vital as breath. And without it, without love, without anger, without sorrow, breath is just a clock ticking (Equilibrium 29:39). Having feeling, emotion, and expression is indispensable for human beings since the origin of mankind, but sometimes, having them ignites rage, wars, and conflicts. After all, it is basically the natural process they have to go through. Equilibrium is set in 2072 in Libria after the World War III. Father believes as long as people become emotionless, there will be no more war, thus enacting the law that people are required to take the daily injection of Prozium, which temporarily takes away peoples feelings. Whats worse, Grammaton clerics are obliged to execute sense offenders, people who refuse to take the injection. All emotionally stimulating items are also prohibited, such as art, literature and music. One of the rebel clerics Errol Partridge says, Everything that makes us what we are traded away (Equilibrium 16:55). As he is caught by another elite cleric John Preston reading a book The Poetry of William Butler Yeats. Partridge states that life is meaningless without feelings and the exact meaning of humans existence is merely of nothing. Somehow, Preston is not able to understand Partridge under the circumstances that he is emotionless, and therefore he kills him. Afterwards, Preston is assigned to destroy the underground society, where sense offenders gather. The turning point appears as Preston accidentally drops his Prozium and decides not to take it again. Actually, what makes his decision is because Father arranges that Prestons Prozium to be changed to a Placebo, which enables Preston to feel and seduces him to stop taking Prozium. In this way, Preston may seek to join the underground society and then Father is able to decimate all of the sense offenders. Instead, Preston plots with the Resistance to assassinate Father in order to return the society to what it should be, the emotional world. As we look at David Abrams Animism and the Alphabet, he makes quite a few points on how much human sense is significant in his essay Animism and the Alphabet. Without sensory experiences, pictographic, ideographic writing and even the phonetic alphabet can never be generated. Also, Abram believes that with the advent of technology, people rely on it day after day, and therefore, the interaction between people may decrease. To explain this situation, first of all, they begin to substitute machines for workers, so there are fewer and fewer interactions between humans. Furthermore, with the rapid development of the Internet, the way people communicate with each other alter as well. They tend to utilize the convenience of the Internet to reach each other instead of face-to-face contact. Our own perceptions and thoughts are being shifted by our sensory involvement with electronic technologies, since any thinking that seeks to discern such a shift is itself subject to the very effect that it strives to thematize (Abram 44). With regard to Equilibrium, in which people without feelings live for themselves, not caring for others, we can draw to a common conclusion that the interactions between human beings are necessary; otherwise, it will become a self-oriented world. The first thing to learn about emotion is that it has its price- a complete paradox. But without restraint, without control, emotion is chaos (Equilibrium 1:10:54). For fear of any clash or estrangement caused by emotion, it is suppressed by Prozium. Nonetheless, as people in Libria comfort to the authority, all of them do not have any identical personality or characteristic. .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa , .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa .postImageUrl , .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa , .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa:hover , .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa:visited , .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa:active { border:0!important; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa:active , .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u58c3ec1429684f5af92122bc72dd87fa:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Themes of Fear in Batman Begins EssayEvery day, people live with no excitement, no freshness, and no love in a routine. As a consequence, contact zone, including ideas, interests, histories, and attitudes of others (497) defined by Mary Louise Pratt in her essay Arts of the Contact Zone, will not generate as well, for people are all in conformity without any uniqueness. Pratt believes as people with different cultures, beliefs, and ideas intersect, trans-culturation thus engenders. Unfortunately, there is no transculturation in Libria, for people do not even have their own identities. To make matters worse, as the contact zone disappears, theres no connection among humans. Then what is the purpose of living in the world if we cannot feel toward anything or anyone? I live to safeguard the continuity of this great society. To serve Libria (Equilibrium 29:15), Preston answers Mary when she asks her why he is alive, and then she disparages him by saying Its circular. You exist to continue your existence. Whats the point? ( Equilibrium 29:24). From this perspective, provided that we do not feel, we are literally alive for ourselves, for we no longer concern anything around us. It is ironic that Preston is even emotionless when his sense offender wife, Viviana, is sentenced to death. At the point when Mary is about to being processed, he asks to see the record of his wife being incinerated. The fact that he has no reaction when seeing his wife leaving him shocks him, and thus he decides not to lose his lover again, rushing to rescue Mary. Yet, it is too late. In the plot where Clerics discover there is a pack of dogs raised by the Resistance, they brutally shot each of them in case anyones emotion is evoked. Surprisingly, one of the dogs sneaks out to Preston, who is full of emotion at that time. The moment the dog licks Prestons face arouses his pity, which makes him not let go of it. Even though we are not able to communicate with dogs, we can somehow understand each other through our emotions. It is ridiculous that even dogs have feelings, while people in Libria lack them. I particularly understand how Preston feels when witnessing innocent dogs killed by those cold-blooded clerics. I have a dog named Kuri, which is a kind of Japanese breed Shiba Inu. I left him in my hometown Taiwan this August because I come to Boston for further education at Northeastern University. He has accompanied me for two years so far, and we have deep feeling for each other. When I speak with different tones, I think he can understand me based on my emotions. Kuri has many expressions or actions. To elaborate, when he is curious or confused, he would keep moving his head to one side and another repeatedly. And when he is angry, he would begin to wrinkle his face. I regard this as his warning in case he bites me. Most importantly, although we dont communicate by a specific way, the contact zone between us can still lead to mutual understanding to some extent. The most touching thing to me is that whenever I am not in a good mood and burst into tears, he always comes to my side and leans on me, staying with me until I feel better. Despite the fact that we are unable to communicate directly, I believe at some points, we still understand each other through the emotion. I believe that Equilibrium is entitled to demonstrate the balanced, equal, and stable society which Father intends to create and conceives of it as a utopian community. However, the truth is that even though Father blindly thinks it is utopian, Librians are actually suffering in the dystopian world without any freedom to feel. We humans should be grateful to experience emotion, to feel the world, and to enjoy its wonderfulness. Despite the fact that the fluctuation of emotion can sometimes lead to unpredicted consequences, we stil l need to appreciate its existence. Without feeling, we cannot sense anything from the natural world nor from the people surrounding us. As a result, our lives will be banal. .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d , .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d .postImageUrl , .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d , .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d:hover , .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d:visited , .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d:active { border:0!important; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d:active , .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ua0ff197ba7ba9d2c67b4d956207f4f2d:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Film Overview - Remember the Titans EssayBibliography: Abram, David. Animism and the Alphabet. Ways of Reading: An Anthology for Writers. Ninth Edition. Ed. David Barthlomae and Anthony Petrosky. Boston: Bedford/St. Martins 2011. 28-62.Print Pratt, Mary Louise. Arts of the Contact Zone. Ways of Reading: An Anthology for Writers. Ninth Edition. Ed. David Barthlomae and Anthony Petrosky. Boston: Bedford/St. Martins 2011. 485-498.Print Equilibrium. Dir. Wimmer Kurt. Perf. Christian Bale, Emily Watson, Taye Diggs. Dimension Films, Miramax Films, 2002. Film.

Monday, December 2, 2019

Weighing the Cost of Choosing Between Family or Faith free essay sample

The outcome of this paper is to explore the extent of their applied faithfulness. What Did Jesus Mean? Jesus said in Matthew 10:37 â€Å"Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. † This Scripture baffles many, what is Jesus saying? We must love Jesus not only more than our families but more than our own lives. The moment we become Christs followers, our own lives and wills become forfeit; we die with Christ to sin Rom 6:3-4 and choose a path that could lead any day to our execution for Christs name (Mt 16:24). Although we today in the United States of America may speak convincingly of our cross as the need to put up with Aunt Anna or a roof that is leaking, undeniably taking up the cross in Jesus day, meant being forced to bear the instrument of ones execution past a taunting mob to the site of ones impending death as a condemned criminal, literally taking up one’s cross to death. We will write a custom essay sample on Weighing the Cost of Choosing Between Family or Faith or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Shouldn’t the promise of eternal life be adequate inspiration for any who genuinely believe Jesus claims- doesnt it make sense that the greatest earthly longevity pales in comparison with eternity-but we sometimes prove less dedicated than we suppose? (26:41) Yes, even the first disciples were not at the outset prepared for such a demand (26:56) But, this does not alleviate the level of commitment our Lord seeks from us: if we want to be followers of Jesus, we must be ready to  die. If I rate my life in this world more than I value Jesus and the life of the eternal world, I cannot be his disciple. What Did Jesus Mean in Luke 14:26? Luke 14:26 states â€Å"If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. † These are powerful words and  very perplexing. Surely He did not mean hate. The word in the Greek Miseo  is used with several lenses of meaning. Conferring with  Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words,  I found that it is factually used for â€Å"malicious feelings toward others.    But it is also meant to be used to tell â€Å"of relative preference for one thing over another, by way of expressing either aversion, from or, disregard for the assertions of one person†¦to those of another. †Ã‚   The key in understanding this kind of â€Å"hate† for earthly family members that Christ speaks about dwells within an understanding of an â€Å"aversion from† and â€Å"disregard for. † We ca n notice Jesus attention turns almost totally to his disciples. The leadership warned and rebuked. But what does following Jesus really require? This makes it clear that disciples should count the cost of following Jesus, because triumph will not come easily. This passage is unique to Luke, though verses 26-27 are like Matthew 10:37-38. It is significant that this passage is addressed to large crowds. Jesus offered himself to all, but he also was honest from the very beginning of his teaching about what the journey would entail. What Jesus asks for is first place in ones heart. That is what successful discipleship requires. Jesus calls for a follower who literally be willing to  hate in comparison to Jesus -his mother and father, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters, even his own life. The point of the specific list is that no other relationship is first for a disciple. Hate is used symbolical and suggests a priority of relationship. Jesus must be first. Yet, does this mean we must literally hate our own parents, wife, children, etc.? Notice that Jesus says we must even hate our own lives. Clearly this is not absolute or literal. Are we not told to love others as we love ourselves, and no one hates his own flesh? see again Matt. 22:36-40; Eph. 5:29). Hate here does not mean to have no love at all nor to keenly seek the harm of others. All Bible passages must be explicitly compared to other passages within the Bible in its’ entirety. Many other Scriptures command us to love everyone (Matt. 22:36-40). Unquestionably that includes our family. Ephesians 5:22-25 commands men to love their wives, and Titus 2:4 commands wives to love their husbands and children. Clearly, then, Luke 14:26 does not literally mean to hate our family members. At times the Bible uses the term hate in a relative sense. Genesis 29:31 says that Jacob hated his Leah his wife, but verse 30 shows that this really means he loved Rachel, his other wife, more than he did Leah. So hate is used in a comparative sense to explain loving one thing or person less that we love another spoken in Genesis 25:34. This is the point in Luke 14:26. Jesus is not telling us that we are to have malice or ill will toward our family. That would oppose clear Scripture passages. Instead, Christ is saying that we must always put Him ahead of our families. Our love for Christ must be superior than our love for anyone or anything else. Matthew 10:37 helps to enlighten Luke 14:26. Jesus said, He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. We may never truly be faced with completely giving up our relationship with our loved ones to please the Lord, and we may never be required to actually die for His cause, but we ought to be willing to do so. Many have had to do these things. Including Perpetua and Felicity, martyrs in 202 A. D. in Carthage Rome. Even if we dont actually end up having to give up our family, their desires must always come second to the will of Jesus. And even if we dont physically die for His cause, we must devote our lives to seeking His cause above all else. This is what it means to bear our cross and follow Him as is written in Luke 9:23-27. Jesus straightforwardly says that people who are not willing to pay this price clearly cannot be His disciples. They may think they are disciples, they may look just like disciples to others, and no one may be able to know the truth until judgment day. But Jesus does not approve of luke warm hearted followers to be true disciples, despite their appearances. No reason to even try to start serving the Lord, without a genuine , whole-hearted commitment, for seeking His will above all else. More Bible verses that connect what has been discussed include also verse 33 below. Cf. Matthew 6:19-33; 10:34-39; 16:24-27;Luke 12:15-21; John 6:27,63; Romans 8:5-8; 12:1,2;; 1 Timothy 4:8; 6:6-19; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18; 8:5; 10:3,4; Colossians 3:1,2; Galatians 2:20. The next step is to be aware that such demands of Jesus are to a world already convinced of its rightness that they aggravate that worlds hostility. [1] The world will say how an we possibly choose anything over our family? But, remember, the only words that a Christian must listen to are the very words spoken by Jesus. Jesus commands us to choose faith in Him. Although Jesus values families (5:27-32; 15:4-6; 19:4-9), the division his mission brings is predominantly evident in families (compare 10:21; 1 Cor. 7:16; of course more people prefer to quote Acts 16:31). Jesus example demonstrates how this division is accomplished: although we are harmless (Mt 10:16; 12:19-20), Gods agents proclaim the kingdom uncompromisingly and thus face hostility from others (13:57). Jesus mission separates us from the values of our society, and society responds with persecution. Jesus selects these specific examples of in-laws because young couples generally lived with the mans family. Jesus matters more than the approval or even the civility of our family (10:37). Many viewed honoring ones parents as the highest social obligation for many, God alone was worthy of greater honor (Deut 13:6; 33:9) The bottom line is that according to Scripture, to follow Jesus means to follow Jesus, not anyone or anything else. A disciple is a learner, and the primary teacher is Jesus. It is total loyalty that Jesus is looking for, given the rejection and persecution that are found ahead. If his followers care more about family than about Jesus, when families are divided under pressure during persecution, they will likely choose against Jesus. This is what lies behind Jesus remarks. Discipleship is not possible if Jesus is not the teacher. This is exactly what is meant by bearing the cross and following after Jesus. This is  the  issue of discipleship. If learning from Jesus means following him, then it also means experiencing the rejection he experienced and therefore bearing the cross he bore. We cannot learn from Jesus without being willing to walk this narrow path. Discipleship is basically uncompromising allegiance. To follow Jesus is to rely on him alone. Christ continues to tell us that when we willingly accept the call to be a son or daughter of God that is when our earthly family members will  stand in the way as we begin our walk with God. Consciously or unconsciously, they will obstruct us. Remember it was Jesus Christ that referred to them as the blind and the dead walking. Perhaps some family members seem to have our best interest at heart, Christ says they are enemies endeavoring to frustrate His plan for our new lives in Him alone. Look closely, you will see their plans for–exactly how we should act towards them, it is always about them. God has made His plans for how we are to occupy our minds with His thoughts. As a result we have to choose God’s thoughts for us and â€Å"disregard† their self-centered world, around which they are wanting us to spin. We must do an about face or turn away  our minds and hearts from focusing them instead of Christ. Simply put, they are in contrast to the high calling; they are interference and must be put on the back burner when we are forced to choose between Christ and them. We must set Christ and His plan as the top priority and not antagonistic family members. In a word, we must separate ourselves from them. In the next verses Christ continues teaching, and illustrating the actual cost, the actual price we are required to be ready to pay for discipleship. For He immediately asks, â€Å"For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? †Ã‚   For  you may come up short and not be able to finish the project. He wants us to be able to face the question and ask â€Å"Exactly what will it cost me to be serious about following after Christ? â€Å" Are you fully aware that it just may cost a major blow up with a family member? Make sure you understand that it could cost you a husband or your wife. It very well may cost you your relationship with a daughter or a son. Truly following Jesus Christ exactly the way He wants us to follow Him may cost us someone we love. â€Å"For how can two walk together, except they be agreed? And â€Å"Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion has light with darkness? Wherefore, come out from among them and be ye separate, saith the Lord† (II Cor 6: 14-17). When weighing the cost it takes to be His servant , He says, â€Å"So likewise, whosoever he be of you that  forsakes  not all that he has,  he cannot be my disciple† (Luke 14: 33). The â€Å"all that he has† here is the life on this earth mentioned previously, his earthly father, mother, wife, children, brothers, and sisters. Christ is teaching us that we should ignore, completely turn away from, and in so doing forsake earthly family members if they are constantly being used by Satan to turn us from fulfilling our calling. We must still love them, pray for them so they may know the truth, repent, be set free and turn toward God. This is not optional, it is a must to be willing to listen to Christ’s words over and above their advice. We must take heed, He did warn us about all this. He said, â€Å"For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother†¦and a man’s foes shall be they of his own household† (Mt. 10: 34-36). The Martyrdom How can it be that Vibia Perpetua would willingly enter the Carthage arena on March 7, 202 A. D.? Where did this fearlessness to face a wild maddened cow come from? The diary she left writes that Perpetua had just been baptized to confirm her Christianity weeks prior to her martyrdom. 1] Perpetua recorded how she was arrested, put on trial, sent to prison and killed along with Felicitas her servant and four others. This diary shares how they were all placed in detention, found guilty as charged for admitting Christianity. Perpetua prison diary is remarkable because it reveal on paper this fir-person experience of death by martyrdom. [2] This is not just any diary; Perpetua is known to be the earliest Christian female author. Because of this brave woman’s’ writing the reader can actually get a picture of third century Christianity and details of martyrdom within the North African Christian church. This prison diary of Perpetua known as the Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicitas, has three There are three main sections of interest. The first component includes her personal viewpoint handwritten [3] an introduction and conclusion authored by perhaps Tertullian in Carthage, and finally an anonymous bystander who actually describes the martyrdom as witnessed. [4] It is hard to deny the impact of reading a Martyr’s experience. Such accounts of knowing God and his grace undoubtedly are purposeful. Like so many of the Bible characters have revealed, each story can edify and encourage every true believer of Christ. Many Christians share their stories of faith and gestures in love, but dying for Christ in martyrdom magnifies the clash that occurs in the spirit realm between the kingdom of Jesus Christ and principalities of darkness. Each narrative of martyrdom is explicitly set for its time and place. The end result is the ultimate wager between obedience to human authority or God Almighty. The story includes five catechumens: meaning of this word is that these five individuals had only just professed Christ and were getting ready to be baptized. Among the five arrested is Felicitas the handmaiden of Perpetua a twenty-two year old noblewoman of Rome. Perpetua is richly born into an important family, properly married and still breast-feeding her infant son is convicted as well as three men named Secundulus, Saturninus and Revocatus. [5] Then the very leader of this baptismal class, Saturus willingly joins this group. Why they all are convicted at the community trial within the Forum? The conviction was based on their decision to refuse to burn incense of sacrifice to the Roman gods. As a result they all became sacrifices to wild beasts themselves in celebration of the Emperor’s sons’ birthday. [6] Perpetua said to Vibius, her father, said I, Do you see this vessel lying, a pitcher or whatsoever it may be? And he said, I see it. And I said to him, Can it be called by any other name than that which it is? And he answered, No. So can I call myself naught other than that which I am, a Christian? [7] Clearly this noblewoman’s problem begins at home with her family, before there is ever a conflict with the culture of Rome. Perpetua’s father has obviously made sure that his daughter was educated, and taken care of in a socially accepted marriage. Indeed Perpetua could read and write and think and debate, perhaps this was much more than her father counted on when he deemed to satisfy his absolute authority of the Roman household. Perpetua loved her father and mentioned that it pained her to see him suffer but she also wrote that her father hurt her faith because of his love. [8]. In Perpetua’s house and every Roman household each child at birth was placed at the feet of the father to find out if it would be accepted or rejected. Still the father-daughter bond was considered special and close. [8] Still there is tension in this relationship as the father begs Perpetua to remember her various responsibilities, Perpetua’s education is evident as she clearly wins in reasoning and debating with her prominent father. It is at this point that Perpetua completely disregard the very order of society within family or state. Her ability to reason and reveal spiritual reality by speaking with everyday theory places her in a superior role of teacher as her father becomes her student. We have know way of knowing whether father or daughter could have recognized they were living out the writing of Socrates as before their eyes â€Å"the quintessential principled prisoner of conscience and a martyr to truth†[9] was played out. Sadly Perpetua’s father’s only response is that of tears of rage. Perpetua write about the four different times that her father comes to her trying to speak that he might be able to â€Å" move all creation† to change her mind , but Perpetua responds by writing her father spoke as if speaking â€Å" arguments of the devil† himself. 10] Writing all the way up to her trial she records that her father and governor get together to beg, as the very symbol of family and state. Exclaiming, think of â€Å"your father’s grey hairs†¦ the infancy of the boy †¦ sacrifice for the prosperity of the Emperor’. †[11] The reader learns that in order for Perpetua to obey Christ, she has to disregar d her responsibilities to family, state and religion. A Roman woman is to have allegiance to all loyalties just mentioned. Here Perpetua proves to be a citizen of the kingdom of Christ, a child of God, a member of His eternal family. Yet, this is not an easy price for Perpetua to pay, as she recognizes her father loves her and this increases her sadness , as she understands there is no â€Å"rejoice at my passion† [12] Perhaps this is too much to expect of a pagan father? To rejoice at the martyrdom of your Christian daughter is an unlikely tradition in Rome. Yet Perpetua was able to do exactly that. Of course, not everyone is born to be a martyr. This could even look to be coincidental as onlookers suddenly recognize the â€Å"blessed deacons,† and give even to care for the martyrs and their needs as prisoners, in the very arena, without facing imprisonment themselves. 13] Many perceived Martyrdom to be an individual calling. [14] To basically never seek after martyrdom but if it is God’s will, receive a personal invitation to share in the sufferings of Christ and enjoy the guarantee that Christ would never leave and supplies all necessary strength to endure to the end. [15] A true martyrâ⠂¬â„¢s thinking can be seen in the courageous maid Felicitas. She is literally about to give birth with one month to go when she is arrested with the baptismal class. When she does indeed end up giving birth in prison she is taunted by one of the prison keepers who has the nerve to ask such a remarkable women that if she find childbirth painful then just what â€Å"wilt you do when you are thrown to the beasts [16] Felicitas responds like a true martyr unconcerned full of faith, telling the guard that she knows â€Å"I myself now suffer that which I suffer, but there another shall be in me who shall suffer for me, because I am to suffer for him. † [17]. Wisely spoken by a woman that knew it was indeed God’s fight. Felicitas unquestionably spoke with the faith of a martyr. Knowing God would be actually fighting this battle inside each martyr. Thus exclaiming Martyrdom is no less than a battle against Satan himself. Just like when Stephen, witnessed the heavens open and a vision of Jesus beside the Father happen before his very eyes in Acts 7:56. Likewise was it understood that the Holy Spirit was part of the learning experienced by the martyr that got them ready for their persecution. All the more likely that the brother of Perpetua would want her to request to have a vision from God. Hoping this vision would reveal if they would live or die. Perpetua wrote in great confidence that she made it a habit to â€Å"converse (d) with the Lord†. [17] As a result indeed she receives a vision. This makes me think of â€Å"You have not because you ask not †in James 4:3 or â€Å"Ask and you will receive, seek and you will find†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Matthew 7:7. So, why is it any surprise that such a faithful woman would receive exactly what she asked for? The vision Perpetua gets tells of the nature and the expected result of the battle she must fight. In this first vision it is a reminder of Jacob’s ladder. She writes of a ladder of bronze that has sharp objects on either side. At the base is the devil in the image of a serpent. Satrurus is in the dream and waiting at the top, waving for Perpetua to follow, but cautioning her about the serpent. Of course Perpetua is of great faith, so in her dream she basically looks straight at the serpent and says an- I don’t think so. Actually, Perpetua says, In the name of Jesus Christ, that serpent can not harm her. Guess what happens? Even in her dream Perpetua’s wisdom to call out the name of Christ fearlessly cause the serpent to tremble. Then this serpent obediently raises its head to the level of the very first step on this ladder. This is written in Genesis 3:15 and Perpetua remembers that she treads on the very head of Satan and easily climbs up the ladder. At the very top she is greeted by a man with white hair wearing clothing like a shepherd actually milking one of the sheep. [18] This is told to her brother who realizes what it means. There is no longer any reason to hope to remain alive in this world. As if to stop wasting their time expecting to be rescued from martyrdom. [19]. There is one last vision, the night before the martyrdom is to take place. Perpetua sees herself ripped of all clothing, actually fighting within the body of a man. She is going up against clearly an â€Å"Egyptian† that is â€Å"ill-favored† The gladiator master of ceremonies proclaims if the Egyptian triumphs Perpetua is killed, If she is the winner, Perpetua will receive a branch of green with gold apples. During her dream she talks about how the Egyptian tries to trip her, but she basically walks on his head like the vision where she steps on the serpents head. She wins and is given the branch of apples as the victor. Awakening from the dream she reveals the interpretation of understanding she will fight not the wild animals but against the devil himself and defeat him. 20] As these are the very last words she has written in the diary, Perpetua is motivated through the Holy Spirit revelation to face the arena. Now Perpetua write to hand over the pen, by saying let him write who will about the games from this moment on. [21] After all of the visions, why should there be any surprise that Perpetua is not concerned about the dawn of the day of her martyrdom? From that day on the narrator says they proceed from the prison to the arena in a public march, being obviously cheerful and bright of countenance; if trembling at all, it was for joy, not fear. Perpetua is the last to follow in this literal walk of faith; the writer described her as â€Å"glorious† in presence, appearing as a genuine spouse of Christ. As a â€Å"darling of God; at whose piercing look all cast down their eyes. †[22] Perpetua saw herself as a man in her dream, but the writer expresses that what is visible is as a courageous noblewoman never looking down as was expected. Instead, Perpetua is seen looking straight ahead with a â€Å"piercing† stare. Then comes Felicitas, the maiden who just had a baby the day before overjoyed that her baby was survived. Now Felicitas is relieved that she may be given the opportunity to â€Å"fight with the wild animals, †¦from blood to blood, †¦ midwife to the gladiator, †¦ after her travail in a second baptism. †[23]   Ã‚   The first battle waged in the arena is a verbal one, started by Perpetua herself. As they enter through the gates, they find they are supposed to be dressed in costumes, as mockery of their Christian faith. It is Perpetua who speaks for them. The writer says, â€Å"The noble Perpetua remained resilient to the end, and would not. For she said: For this cause came we willingly unto this, that our liberty might not be obscured. For this cause have we devoted our lives, that we might do no such thing as this; this we agreed with you. † As usual, Perpetua’s argument here, is so logical and persuasive, the writer states, â€Å"Injustice acknowledged justice; the tribune suffered that they should be brought forth as they were. † And â€Å"Perpetua began to sing†, as is she was indeed already walking on the Egyptian’s head. [24] The first battle is won with words. Now the martyrs will win with the same joyful countenance they displayed in the parade of faith. There was no sign of entering submissively as if they were guilty hoping for a last resort, they enter by their own choice, clothed in rebellion as they face the governor Hilarian who condemned them. â€Å"You judge us, and God you. † The crowd is enraged and demands them to be scourged. The Christians then actually â€Å"gave thanks because they †¦were to receive some of the sufferings of the Lord. †[25] The writer says, â€Å"The devil had made ready a most savage cow, prepared for this purpose against all custom; for even in this beast he would mock their sex. The reference to the devil is evocative of her dream when she realizes that she is battling not the animals but Satan. Other references to the dream emerge, as the women are brought out into the arena naked, except for a net. The body displayed is not that of a man but of â€Å"a tender girl,† and Felicitas is beside her, a nursing mother having given birth only a day earlier. The crowd could not h andle the sight of the women, actually ‘shuddered† and Perpetua and Felicitas were sent back to be dresses in robes. [26] Next the women are left to face the â€Å"savage cow. The crowd is watching keenly the behavior of Christians in the arena, and most especially this Christian noblewoman and her maid. The writer describes what they saw. Perpetua is thrown first and â€Å"when she had sat upright, her robe being rent at the side, she drew it over to cover her thigh, appearing to be concerned with modesty not of pain. Next, looking for a pin, she likewise pinned up her disheveled hair; for it was not meet that a martyr should suffer with hair disheveled, â€Å"lest she should seem to grieve in her glory. †[27]. How does a Christian woman die? She could not allow her self to die with rent robes and disheveled hair, as if she were in sorrow, but with hair pinned up and dressed for this moment of victory and glory. When Perpetua stands up, she sees her maid, fallen, and â€Å"she went up and gave her hand and raised her up. And both of them stood together. † Social order is no longer relevant here. The noblewoman raises up her servant as her very sister in Christ and they stand side by side. In Christ there is no slave nor free. The watching crowd now sees a picture of a new world order. 28] Perpetua goes back to the Gate for amnesty. There fellow Christians wait for her and stand by her side. She seems to be coming awake from her sleep, perhaps from shock, or as the writer explains, â€Å"in the Spirit and in ecstasy,† not recalling anything that has happened. She asks when they are to be thrown to the mad cow and is certain that this has already been done, only when she sees some of the markings of the maulin g does she believe. She shouts out to her brother and says three words before she is taken to the latform to be killed by the sword. She says, to stand fast in the faith, love one another; and â€Å"be not offended because of our passion†[ 29] Christians were given invites for a close encounter of the suffering of the martyrs in intent to detract them from their faith. â€Å"Be not offended because of our passion,† [29] says Perpetua. The result of the encounter was not quite what the Romans were counting on. There was no frightening them away. Yet, it was the very courage and gentle peace of the martyrs that actually confirmed their astounding faith. The ones to change were often the pagan witnesses, soldiers and prison officials, who saw the example of the martyrs and were drawn to their faith. [30] Is this not similar to what we have many times read about in our Holy Bible , where the chosen most faithful ones lead the unbelievers straight to Christ? Still these martyrs have one more chance to prove the very nature of their faith, as they head straight to the platform in expectation of receiving the final stroke of the sword. With the entire crowd witnessing, the martyrs actually kiss each other, to symbolize the act of rites of peace they desire to accomplish in martyrdom. 31] Perpetua is executed by an inexperienced swordsman who stabs her on the collarbone causing her to cry out and then Perpetua guides his hand to place the sword in the correct position on her throat. The writer says that so great a woman could not have been slain had she not herself have willed it. [31] Conclusion After exploration, I can conclude that Per petua and Felicity were indeed faithful to Christ unto death. One of the many proofs includes the various onlookers that came to believe as a result of such great faith visible within these martyrs. Therefore they were even indeed victorious in their death. It may seem strange to say victory in death, but that is the way of the kingdom of God. The devil is defeated. The power of the old order is doomed. The audience saw the beginnings of something new, the kingdom of heaven signified by love, joy, courage, and the kiss of peace. They saw people who could not be intimidated or separated from the Lord they loved. This they saw, the work of the Holy Spirit within these brave martyrs. Anyone reading about these extraordinary deaths is bound to be amazed at the physical and mental strength of the martyrs. Sickly and undernourished as they endured weeks in prison, they not only survive their first attacks in the arena, they also manage to find the energy to stand up again and again before the crowd, even walking to their place of execution. Perpetua’s having to help the inexperienced swordsmen in her own death proves not only that she believes in her heavenly reward, but also highlights that fellow faithful Christians should not be upset by her suffering. [32] These amazing young Christian women illuminated an unshakeable conviction and singleness-of-purpose. This shined forth from the time of their arrest to the time of their death. They knew that the power of God, or the Holy Spirit, was indeed present within them, and that their martyrdom had purpose from start to finish. Yes it would honor them in paradise, but most of all it would bring non-believers to faith in the Lord. [33] Perpetua’s leadership abilities are indeed striking. A young educated patrician mother, who forsakes family loyalty, challenges the authorities to treat her comrades more humanely, reassures the faithful, and dies courageously. Not to discount the likewise striking bravery of Felicitas who faithfully followed both as a servant to Perpetua and a servant of Christ. After reading such accounts it is undeniable that these women where great. St. Augustine recognizes that the woman, in spite of her debility and physical limitations, can have the integrity and unusual strength to face adversities and death with the strength of the spirit, as in the case of Perpetua and Felicity, popular martyrs of Carthage in Africa, whom the Bishop of Hippo admired and talked about in his sermons. 34] For the modern women of the 21st Century having difficulty finding female role models within the early church, â€Å"The Martyrdom of Perpetua and Felicitas† will provide what no other literature can: The oldest personal testimony by a Christian woman writing her encounter with the Holy Spirit. Perpetua and Felicitias by living with the purpose to stay focused on Christ, inspire many to seek what their names, Vivia Perpetua a nd Felicitas, represent so beautifully: Happy, eternal life in the Spirit. [35] No wonder Tertullian said, â€Å"The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church. † [36] It is powerful to remember this story. It tells of God’s powerful acts in the early days of the Christian church. It tells of God’s powerful victory through our sister Perpetua. Thus we are all to remember it is not about our individual lives it is our lives being used to powerfully glorify our God. As a result of Perpetua and Felicitas’s life we can say as is written in Philippians 4:20 â€Å"To our God and Father be the glory for ever and ever.