Faithfulness in Service

Good and Faithful 

Reading Matthew 25:14-30

 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' Matthew 25:21 

 The Kingdom of God was likened by Jesus to a land lord who goes on a long journey. Before he goes he calls three of his servants and entrusts them with money according to their ability. When the land lord returns two of the servants doubled their money. The land lord is delighted with the two good and faithful servants, praises them and rewards them with double measure of money. The one who was given the least played it safe and just buries it in the ground. In addition to this the servant rebukes the master for being so unfair and unkind to him. The master is furious. He calls him lazy and wicked and throws him out into the darkness where he weeps and wails over his stupidity. God is not disappointed if we try our best and fail. It is our effort that he will reward. The land lord punishes the man because he does not make any effort to use his talents and glorify God.

This parable is based on the principle that when we have a talent and practice it regularly we become better and can progressively do more and more with it. If we fail to exercise it we will eventually lose the talent. What are the gifts, talents, and abilities that God entrusts us with and expects us to faithfully use them for his glory? For example one can be a dish washer who washes the dishes or manager who takes care of a company or wordsmith who writes books or athlete who plays in a professional team. If we use our gifts and live lives that give the glory to God we have faithfully discharged our duty. However if we live bitter lives and bury our gifts, we do not honor God.

We must always remember whatever we have is not our own. It has been entrusted to us to use to bring glory to God's name. When we aspire and try to make a name for ourselves or amass wealth for ourselves we are doing this to glorify ourselves and not God. God knows our thoughts and our intentions; we must be careful with how we use them. God is not looking at our success or brilliance but our faithfulness and love we express toward Him.

 We see two contrasting manner of responses to the call, given by the servants. Two of them did their best to use their gifts serve God's Kingdom. They respond with growth, fruitfulness, and faithfulness. But beware of being like the servant who did not use his gifts to serve God’s kingdom, but instead is bitter, rebellious and unfaithful. He also expressed fear and bitterness toward God more than love and faithfulness. When we productively use our gifts to serve one another in love, then we are of great use for the Kingdom of God (1 Peter 4:10-12). Jesus told the parable because he wants us to understand this truth about what it means to be Good and Faithful.  Whatever we do, we should work at it with all our heart to build up God’s Kingdom with Christ as the head and the source of all our wisdom(Ephesians 4:15-16).

Prayer : - Lord Jesus, may we always speak the truth in love and grow up to be more like you. Watch over our thoughts and actions and direct us to build up the whole body of believers to love another and love you as our Lord. Amen.

Endurance

Endurance 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 

Hebrews 12:1

 Life is often compared to a game, but I think it is more like being a player; periods of strenuous practice and exercises with brief moments in which we are given the chance to play at our full potential with the world watching. Christ is present in everything that we do.

 Even the most painful and difficult times of practice when we struggle to run that extra mile or even get to the field on time. Christ knows what it means to sweat, struggle and suffer through our road blocks in life. By the power of Gods love Jesus shows us the way through every obstacle we may encounter to the confidence that far surpasses anything that we know or understand. We may have many important tasks at hand, but we should never let them overwhelm us in such a way that we forget who we are and where we are going. 

 A game tests a players endurance. What are some of the things that weigh down and slows us down? Maybe guilt, anger, hatred, or even greed. Are we ready for the challenges that life throws at us spiritual, physical, mental and social? 

Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12:2‬ ‭

Drum Major

 

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

 Growing up on a Christian Campus for the evening worshIp one of old favorites was the song " We are one in the Spirit we are one in the Lord." This song had the ability to penetrate deep within ones heart and touch the hearts of many as they sang along at the evening worship service. The song went on to say that they will know we are Christians by our love. Our daily walk with Christ is not just a time when we sense his spirit within but overflows to our daily Ives as we reach out to those in need. 

The equilateral triangle has for thousands of years been symbolic of a sacred trinity. A pastor once elucidated our spiritual walk as viewed as 3 sides of an equilateral triangle; one being spiritual and the others physical and social. Christ is not just evident in our spiritual dimension but also becomes a part of our physical and social dimension.

 Martin Luther King Jr. the civil rights activists and beloved pastor of many, delivered a very powerful sermon where he said, “If you want to say that I was a drum major, say that I was a drum major for justice, “Say that I was a drum major for peace. I was a drum major for righteousness. And all of the other shallow things will not matter.’’this sermon was so moving that the architects of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington abbreviated these lines to be inscribed on the memorial’s statue of the pastor and leader.

Thought:- What do you want people to say is your drum major?

They will know we are Christians by our Love.

1      We are One in The Spirit, 
        We are One in The Lord. 
        We are One in The Spirit, 
        We are One in The Lord. 
        And we pray that all unity may one day be restored.

---

Chorus 
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, 
By our Love, 
Yes they'll know we are Christians by our love.

---

-2-    We will work with each other, 
        We will work side by side. 
        We will work with each other, 
        We will work side by side. 
        And we'll guard each man's dignity 
        And save each man's pride.

---

Chorus

---

-3-    We will walk with each other, 
        We will walk hand in hand. 
        We will walk with each other, 
        We will walk hand in hand. 
        And together we'll spread the News 
        that God is in our land.

Grounded

Grounded 

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. I pray that you, be (being) rooted and established in love.

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3:16-17‬ ‭

Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21

Do you sense the presence of Christ within you or are you still plagued with doubts? Our acceptance to Christ's invitation throws open the doors of faith of our hearts and invites the Holy Spirit to dwell in us.  St.Paul’s prayer in Ephesians is still so powerful today, Let us pray to God to strengthen us with the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in our inner being. The first fruits of the Holy Spirit working in us is the indwelling love of Christ working through us grounding and rooting us in God's Word and for his service.

 When a seed sprout springs up from the ground in a shady area it strives hard to find the sun, in some cases it grows very fast as it tries to reach a point when it can get the required sunlight. But in the process becomes weak and soon whithers away. Growth should be slow and constant. Take time to grow at the pace you were meant to grow. Good discipline of daily Bible study, prayer and meditation enables us to be well grounded in our faith. 

 Being grounded in the God's Word empowers us to keep our faith in times of trouble. Reading God's Word everyday and finding time to speak and strengthen others in their walk of faith empowers not only them to stay strong and full of courage but in the process strengthens us from within in our inner being leading us to a profound understanding of God's ways. 

Lord Jesus, take my hand oh precious Lord and lead me to a deeper relationship with you. Open up the hard places within me where your light and love are blocked.  Where my faith is empty and trivial fill my heart and broaden my understanding by your Word. Reveal to me my anxieties and ambitions that hinder your still small voice from being heard. Empower me to break ground and sink deeper into a more solid relationship with you. Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

And finally, Jesus, show me the worries and desires that crowd out Your voice. Help me clear the gro

And fina

The Great Physician - Jesus

Healing Ministry

In the bustling towns and villages of Galilee, a remarkable figure walked among the people, bringing hope, healing, and transformation. Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God, embarked on a divine mission to proclaim the good news of the kingdom and to demonstrate the boundless love and compassion of the Father through miraculous acts of healing. In Matthew 4:23-25, we catch a glimpse of Jesus' ministry as he traversed the region, teaching, preaching, and extending healing to all who sought him. Join us as we delve into the profound significance of Jesus' healing ministry and the enduring impact it has on our lives today.

Healing the Sick:

Jesus' ministry was characterized by a profound commitment to alleviating suffering and restoring wholeness to those afflicted by illness and disease. As depicted in Matthew 4:23-25, Jesus traveled throughout Galilee, proclaiming the kingdom of God and demonstrating its reality through miraculous healings. His compassionate touch knew no bounds, as he healed every disease and sickness among the people.

The breadth and depth of Jesus' healing ministry are awe-inspiring. He encountered individuals suffering from a myriad of afflictions – from physical ailments to mental distress – and he responded with grace, power, and compassion. Those tormented by severe pain, demon-possession, seizures, paralysis, and various other maladies found solace and restoration in the presence of Jesus.

The Impact of Jesus' Healing Ministry:

The impact of Jesus' healing ministry extended far beyond the physical realm; it touched the depths of the human spirit and resonated with the longing for wholeness and restoration. News of Jesus' miraculous deeds spread like wildfire, drawing multitudes from far and wide to experience the transformative power of his touch.

The crowds that followed Jesus represented a diverse tapestry of humanity – individuals from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond – united in their quest for healing and hope. Jesus' ministry transcended geographical, cultural, and religious boundaries, offering a glimpse of the kingdom of God breaking forth in the midst of human brokenness.

Reflection:

As we reflect on Jesus' healing ministry, we are confronted with the profound truth of his identity as the Son of God and the embodiment of divine love and compassion. His miracles serve as tangible manifestations of God's redemptive power and a foretaste of the ultimate healing that awaits us in the kingdom of heaven.

In our own lives, we are invited to encounter the healing presence of Jesus and to embrace the reality of his kingdom breaking forth in our midst. Like the crowds who flocked to Jesus seeking healing and restoration, may we approach him with expectant faith, trusting in his power to heal our bodies, minds, and spirits.

Conclusion:

The story of Jesus' healing ministry is a testament to the transformative power of divine love and compassion. Through his miraculous deeds, Jesus not only alleviated physical suffering but also ushered in the kingdom of God, where wholeness, restoration, and abundant life are found. As we journey through life, may we continually turn to Jesus, the Great Physician, and experience the healing and hope that he alone can provide.

Christmas Celebrations

 The Origins and Transformation of Christmas

A Reflection on Faith and Practice

 The Early Christian Perspective

Christmas, as we know it today, was not celebrated by the Apostles or the early Christians in the first 300 years of Christianity. This absence of celebration reflects the early Christian focus on the resurrection of Christ rather than His birth. During this period, a pagan festival known as Saturnalia was celebrated in December, which over time influenced the establishment of Christmas. As Christianity spread, the church sought to Christianize popular pagan festivities, leading to the eventual celebration of Christ's birth during this time.

The term "Christmas" itself originates from "Christ Mass," a phrase coined by the Catholic Church to denote the celebration of Christ’s birth. Initially, many early Christians viewed this celebration with skepticism and even disdain, considering it a blasphemous appropriation of pagan traditions. However, as centuries passed, Christmas evolved into a day of great significance for Christians, dedicated to celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Ethical Concerns in Modern Celebrations

In today's world, the way Christmas is celebrated raises various ethical concerns among Christians. In some regions, the holiday has transformed into a time for extravagant parties and lavish gift-giving, often influenced by myths like Santa Claus. This commercialization and excess starkly contrast with the reality that over a billion people live in extreme poverty. 

As Christians, it is crucial to remember the humble circumstances of Jesus' birth. Jesus was born into a very poor Jewish family, highlighting the profound humility and simplicity of the incarnation. Dominique LaPierre, in "The City of Joy," poignantly writes, "But only a poor man can know the riches of poverty... If Christ chose to be born among the poor, it is because he wanted the poor to teach the world the good news of his message, the good news of his love for mankind."

The Orthodox Perspective

In the East, the Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas with a 40-day period of Lent. This time is dedicated to reflection, self-discipline, and meditation on the sacraments. On Christmas Eve, Orthodox Christians gather after seeing the first star for a Christmas meal. This period of fasting and reflection might have been a way to distance themselves from the revelry of pagan festivals and protect their faith from the undue influences of pagan practices.

Celebrating with Purpose

As Christians today, Christmas is a time to celebrate, worship, and remember the birth of the Messiah. It is a time of thanksgiving and a profound reminder of God's immense love for humanity. The Bible tells us, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him will not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). This divine gift of love is the essence of Christmas, and we honor it by giving gifts to our friends and family.

Christmas is also a time to remember the joy and reverence felt by Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the angels, and the Wise Men from the East. These figures, who came to worship and honor the birth of Jesus, exemplify the true spirit of Christmas.

As Isaiah 9:6 proclaims, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

This Christmas, let us reflect on the humble beginnings of Jesus, the true meaning of the holiday, and strive to embody the love, generosity, and humility that Christ taught us.

Saul, the Witch, and God’s Commandments

The Witch of Endor

Seeking Guidance from God Alone

The Old Testament has specific laws against prophecies given from other gods or powers in the spiritual realm. If the prophecy is true, we should further question ourselves on the source: “How can we know when a message has not been spoken by the LORD?” (Deuteronomy 18:21-22). We are expressly asked to see whether the prophecies draw us closer to God or away from Him. If they direct us to God, then they are true prophets; if they draw us away from God, they are false prophets (Deuteronomy 13:1-5).

The Tragic Tale of King Saul

King Saul was specifically condemned by the Prophet Samuel when, out of desperation, he tried to consult him through a witch (medium) at Endor after his death (1 Samuel 28:1-25). This act was a clear violation of God's commandments against seeking mediums and spiritists (Leviticus 19:31). But did Saul really speak to Samuel who had died? 

Saul's Desperation and Denial

Saul's concern was more about his own future plans as opposed to the future plans he had in God. Had not Samuel clearly told him that God had rejected him from being king? (1 Samuel 15:1-23). Why was Saul living in denial of what he had already been told? King Saul was so overwhelmed with jealousy and anger toward David, the anointed king of Israel, that he kept hoping against hope that one of his own sons would follow as king after his time. This desperation led him to seek guidance from forbidden sources.

The Consequences of Seeking Forbidden Guidance

The account of Saul and the Witch of Endor is a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God’s clear instructions. Saul’s actions not only demonstrated his lack of faith but also his willingness to defy God’s commands in his pursuit of reassurance and guidance. This ultimately led to his downfall and demise. 

When Saul sought out the medium, he was in a state of fear and confusion, unable to trust in the Lord's plan. This act of consulting a medium was a direct rejection of God’s authority and a turn towards darkness. It highlighted Saul’s lack of repentance and his persistent desire to control his destiny rather than submit to God’s will.

Lessons for Us Today

Saul's tragic story teaches us the importance of seeking guidance from God alone. Let us not, out of our own desperation or anguish, try and seek refuge and solace in mediums that will draw us away from our Heavenly Father. When we move away from God and shift our focus to other sources, we lose our hold on God and find ourselves in distress and despair. 

Staying Focused on God

Our focus must always be on God, who loves and cares for us. Here are a few ways to ensure we stay connected to God and seek His guidance:

1. Prayer: Communicate with God regularly. Prayer keeps us in close relationship with Him and allows us to seek His wisdom and guidance in all aspects of our lives.

2. Scripture: Regularly read and meditate on the Bible. God's Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105).

3. Community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide godly counsel and support. The community can help keep you accountable and focused on God's truth.

4. Discernment: Be discerning about the sources of advice and prophecy you listen to. Measure everything against the truth of Scripture and the character of God.

 Conclusion

The story of Saul and the Witch of Endor is a stark reminder of the dangers of turning away from God and seeking guidance from forbidden sources. It underscores the importance of maintaining our focus on God, trusting in His plans, and seeking His guidance through prayer, scripture, and godly counsel. 

In our times of desperation and anguish, let us remember that our Heavenly Father is always near, ready to guide and support us. We do not need to turn to mediums or false prophets for answers; instead, we can find all we need in our relationship with God. Let us keep our eyes fixed on Him and trust in His unfailing love and wisdom.

Prince of Peace

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

 In the chorus of the song "O Come, all ye faithful", we sing "O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!" When Christ was born, not everyone who claimed they wanted to worship the Christ child really wanted to do so. Many of us go through the motions of church worship and service but our minds are usually far away. It is possible to mouth the words of worship and adoration yet not feel them in our hearts. Does anybody know what you really think about in your heart and mind? Are you willing to expose your fears, dreams, and drives to anybody? Exposure is risky?? Are you at peace? Do you know he Prince of Peace? 

 When the wise men from the East came searching for the King of the Jews in Jerusalem where Herod lived, they caused a major commotion. Herod the reigning tyrant king of the Jews, was extremely upset. He was a man who had killed his wife, mother-in-law, and three of his sons, because of his insecurities and greed for power and wealth. The news of the birth of the King of Kings intrigued him. Herod immediately called for the religious men of law and asked them where the Messiah was prophesied to be born. The chief priests of the day said they expected the Messiah to be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Herod asked the Magi to tell him when they had found the child, so that he could worship Him as well. However, in reality he did not want to worship Him but wanted to kill the baby who was an imminent threat to his throne. 

Today the absence of war is the presence of peace. The coming of the wise men from the East showed that the Messiah was recognized as one who would bring peace to the Jews as well as the Gentiles Micah 5:4-5. Christ was born during the Pax Romana, a time when there was relative peace in the territories controlled by the Roman Empire. The Romans assured their people of peace and security. The legal system that brought law and order to the provinces is still practiced by many of the western court systems even today. The Jews detested the Roman rule and Herod as he was appointed King by the Romans.

 Does not everybody want to live in peace? What was the peace that Christ offered to the world torn apart by hatred and violence then, and even today? To all of us who walk through the dark valley of the shadow of death Christ came to guide us into a life of peace (Luke 1:79). What steps have you taken to be a visible sign of God's peace on earth? 

 

Gift of Peace 

Jesus said,

Peace I leave with you. 

My peace I give to you. 

I do not give to you as the world gives. 

Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful.

John 14:27

The peace that Christ brought was peace of heart and mind (John 14:26-27). At church we joyfully exchange the peace of Christ with one another. Do we know this Peace with Christ or is it a time of catch up?  Are we willing to surrender our fears, dreams, and drives to Christ? Christ promised the presence of the Holy Spirit to guide us and direct us through our life on earth. He showed us the way of love to live at peace with God and our neighbor. If we live in Christ we will know peace. It is the peace that passes all understanding that will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:7). It is a peace that revealed to us a God who loves us dearly (John 3:16) and sent us His Son that we may all inherit eternal peace (John17:3). It is a peace that comes from Knowing Christ that leads us to know that all will be well in the end.

 The LORD bless you and keep you; 

The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious unto you; 

The LORD lift up his countenance upon you. And give you peace. 

Numbers 6:24-26