Sometimes, human arrogance is so breathtaking in scope that it is all around us and we do not even notice it.
A great example is the name of the month of August.
English month names mainly derive from ancient Greece and Rome. February is named for “Februa,” or Lupercalia, a purification rite held in the city of Rome during that month. May is named for the Greek goddess Maia. September through December derive from the Latin words for seven through ten, since originally the Roman calendar began in March instead of January.
The founder of the Roman Empire was a man named Octavian, who was known in rule as Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus. “Caesar Augustus” means “Exalted Emperor.” People called him “Augustus,” or “Exalted One.” In 8 BC, Augustus tweaked the calendar reform put in place by his adoptive father Julius Caesar. Augustus renamed the month Sextilus, “Sixth Month,” after himself – “August.” He controlled the magnificent Roman Empire; why couldn’t he control time as well? Imagine the inflated self-image it takes to name one-twelfth of the year in your own honor. And the arrogant overreach of Augustus did not even end with his death. After his passing, the Roman Senate declared that, like Julius Caesar, Augustus had a place in the pantheon of the Roman gods.
For the record, being voted into godhood by some human government does not make you divine.
As we walk in the heat of a San Diego August, we can remember the story of Augustus and do the exact opposite. Let us shun arrogance. Let us be humble, following Christ’s example of washing feet and giving of self. As Paul says in Romans 12:16-17, “Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.”
In Christ’s love,
Pastor Van
August 25, 11 a.m.: Church Birthday Worship and Celebration!
This year we celebrate Bostonia Baptist’s 69th year of ministry, worship and service. We thank God for the opportunity to be a part of His gospel mission for El Cajon, San Diego, and the world.
We will have worship at 11 a.m. with wonderful music and guests, followed by picnic-style food and cake. Please invite friends and family to join us for this joyful event!
ABCOFLASH Padres Night: Saturday, August 3, at 5:40 p.m.
More than forty people from churches across San Diego will gather at Petco Park on
August 3! We are excited about celebrating our community of faith, and our community of
America's Finest City, on August 3 at 5:40 p.m. as the Padres take on the Rockies.
Craft Group Spiritual Field Trip
The Craft Group went on a spiritual reflection field trip to see what God could teach
through wonderful Christian art at the Timken Museum in Balboa Park. It was a wonderful time
of learning and fun.
Wonderful Sanctuary Upgrades!
Thanks to our hardworking Trustees for the work they have done to transform the interior
of our Sanctuary this summer! May we ever lift up the name of the Lord in praise and joy as we
worship together in this beautiful space.
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