Wednesday, February 27, 2008

What Next Father?



Life gets shorter,
The head gets balder,
The stomach gets wider,
The music gets louder,

I'm left wondering,

"What next Father?"

People Watching

Some people are much more reserved, cordial, dignified and tend to study everything you say. They prefer to know everything about you before they themselves volunteer any information about themselves. They will even ignore any questions you ask about them until they get the 'scoop' on you. They don't like to show weakness, vulnerability or openness at first. They seem much more cautious in a friendship. Time breaks down the facade when you prove you are not a threat to their pride.

" A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray." (Proverbs 12:26)

Other people are much more extroverted and love to just know everything about you. They are excited and thrilled to know what you like, what are your dreams and goals, what makes you tick. They are thrilled to have a conversation and hold nothing back. They seem so vibrant, curious and get a kick out of understanding you. They to like it when you give them the same amount of consideration and want to understand them. These types don't feel threatened by people or by you. They love to jive, connect, gel and prefer to stay away from judging people too quickly and harshly. They'll give anyone a chance unlike our previous example.

"For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Matthew 7:2)

"Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?'" (Matthew 18:33)

The New Preachers.

There was a comment from a researcher the other day. He talked about the new preachers and how they start with a movie clip, joke and center there message around it but offer next to nothing in terms of Biblical content.

Than there are others who may offer 1-2 or even 4 Bible verses if you are lucky. He also talked about the growing illiteracy of the Bible with the new churches and generation. His research showed that new converts who go liturgical Churches are the only ones who have the highest rates of Biblical literacy.

God bless these churches.

The early church had a problem with literacy in general. So what they did was give there service over to public reading of Scripture.

I wish more churches would do this.

He also said that nothing worth having comes easily or quickly!

Fasting and Feast!

Fast from judging others;
Feast on Christ dwelling in them.
Fast from fear of illness;
Feast on the healing power of God.
Fast from words that pollute;
Feast on speech that purifies.
Fast from discontent;
Feast on gratitude.
Fast from anger;
Feast on patience;
Fast from pessimism.
Feast on optimism.
Fast from negatives;
Feast on alternatives.
Fast from bitterness;
Feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern;
Feast on compassion.
Fast from suspicion;
Feast on truth.
Fast from gossip.
Feast on purposeful silence.
Fast from problems that overwhelm;
Feast on prayer that sustains.
Fast from worry;
Feast on faith.
- From someone I don't know...

Monday, February 25, 2008

Pastor's Joke


I couldn't resist. Here is a true tale from a Pastor.

It was time for the Pastor to pray in front of the Church and especially for the new youth ministry called Dam. So he goes off,


"God, please bless the Dam ministry!"

Men of God and Many More...




"To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)

A man of God had some profound words. He talked about a personal trial and started to question whether he was in the God's will or not. Than he went into 2 Cor 12 about Paul's pesky thorn in the flesh and how it made him weak, but God's power whole. He mentioned the following:


"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength. Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 1:18-31)

Sometimes when we're weak and foolish in worldly standards, we're in the center of all God's action!

What stood out more was that I knew the man of God a bit more personally. He was not just a stellar exegete for the Bible or a great orator but humble, caring, warm, gentle, kind and giving! I was more awestruck at his character above everything else.

I just want to give a shout out to all those men and women of God who put character ahead of all else. Thank you to the risk takers, thrill seekers, sacrificial givers, believers, mercy dispensers, peace vendors, meek matchers, and most of all Christ lovers.
It is nice to bear witness to some authentic fruits of the Spirit and much more! I hope to imitate you as you imitate Christ!

"Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ." (1 Corinthians 11:1)


"...but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises"(Hebrews 6:12)

Alicia Keys!

Some people live for the fortune
Some people live just for the fame
Some people live for the power
Some people live just to play the game
Some people think that the physical things define what is within
I've been there before but that life is a bore
So full of the superficial
Some people want it all but I don't want it at all...
- Alicia Keys

Thursday, February 21, 2008

The Witness of the Disciples in Jerusalem

"...They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ."

(Acts 5:40-42)

Can you imagine the bold response of the disciples? They didn't spend time licking their wounds or having a pity party. They could have just threw in the towel and leave it at that. How about going back to the old way of life? They didn't even say, "Hey! This is not what I signed up for?" These men of God meant business!
“… Luke indicates here how Jesus’ followers have taken on the character of their leader. Like him they participate in ministries involving signs and wonders, like him they run afoul with Jewish leadership in Jerusalem, and like him they respond to opposition with prayer and renewed commitment to the mission, to which they have been called. One of Luke’s most persistent motifs comes again to the surface here: persecution leads to further progress in the mission.”

- Paul Achetemeier Introducing the New Testament: Its Literature and Theology

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

The Basic Christian Attitude.

The basic attitude of a Christian should not be one of worry – Have I done enough? Am I doing the right thing? Have I made a blunder? – but one of confidence and hope. “I am convinced,” Paul says boldly, “that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39) While there was evil on every hand, nothing Paul encountered in this life, he believed, could separate him from God. Remember, Paul tells Timothy God, “did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7) Not that there is nothing in the world to fear – the devil does go about roaring like a lion – Peter says, but our first thought is one of confidence that we belong to God, not fear what the devil might do. By his death, resurrection, moreover, Christ had been made Lord over all of culture, and one day every knee will bow before his lordship.

- William A. Dryness

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

A Beautiful Service!

There was a wonderful chapel today. It goes back a bit. There were hymns, liturgy and water... We sang some golden oldies from my Catholic days. It has been a long time since I have been in a liturgical experience of worship. Today was different.


The service focussed on water and it's symbolism in the Word of God. It was exciting! They poured water on our hands and reminded us to reflect on the day we were baptized. We went away and took time for reflection.


It was at DPC and S was there. The days were dark, dismal and we both could relate to each other. He just came out of a very heavy and scary time in his life. I was in the dumps as well. It was time for us to get baptized. He felt alot better after it was done. I remember that sedated, euphoric look in his eyes. He was a lot slower.

The BC (Before Christ) friends came to watch. I'm glad they were there.

B was there as well. She came up to us and said that watching us get baptized made their whole trip worthwhile. God I miss her.

Later I met another friend. She happened to have pictures of the baptism. My hair looked like hell. It was in a time when the walk was in the valley of the shadow of death. It was scary and lonely and all you can think of is when will it all be over.

Sitting back and reflecting, the same word keeps popping up. Hope!

"But the needy will not always be forgotten, nor the hope of the afflicted ever perish." (Psalm 9:18)

The trials will all be over.

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)

Atleast He will be there to carry you no matter what! Thanks, I need it badly!

"For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)


Sunday, February 17, 2008

Tripping...

"But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd." (Matthew 9:36)

We had an authentic move of the Spirit at PMC today. The program was cut and an altar call was taken in mid service and there was electricity in the air. It was real, authentic and awesome! There was a hunger.

It was moving seeing the multitudes come forward. They just wanted to touch the hem of Jesus' cloke. You can see desperation, pain, hunger, as the body re presents their needs to the Maker. I know God was there and moved with compassion when he saw the multitudes.

When the moment was over, we got back to our chairs and back to, 'church as usual.' There were the kids heading for Sunday school, so I dived over to get my brief case and baggage when all of a sudden I slipped and fell. All you can hear is a loud 'THUD!". Yes, it is me! Than there was H right in front of me and she couldn't stop laughing. She even kept laughing on the way home.

Wait, it gets better. I get downstairs to the Sunday School room and am racing to set up the power point to watch a favorite movie, The Miracle Maker. It happens again! I slip and fall on the table. The classroom erupts in laughter again.

AHHhhh, I just love the sound of children's laughter.

I'm such a clutz!

Lift those knees Bilson!

Oh, you are probaly wondering if I'm okay! Everything is fine!

Tea Ka!

Thursday, February 14, 2008

A Beautiful Couple for Christ

Here is a touching blog!


http://itsmymission4kids.blogspot.com/

Monday, February 11, 2008

Pop Culture

Pop culture is quite fascinating. Here are all the world famous people with their millions, world fame and good looks. They are looked up to, admired and even imitated and often duplicated. They can represent the ideals that people want to aspire to until they fowl up. Than the very people who make them end up breaking them down.

I remember when Brittany first came on the scene. She was a wholesome innocent by standard who shared her Christian faith and being vocal about saving it for marriage. Later she changed and started sucking down the attention and fame and letting the machine called Hollywood and fame compromise her faith. Time went by and all of a sudden she just started melting down. Some say it was self-inflicted and she got what she was asking for... I'm not one of them. I'm one of the few who really feel sorry for her. Not many share my compassion.

She isn't the only one who is experiencing the meltdown. Now Kirsten Dunst is as well. I really feel sorry for these kids. They are someone's daughter, sister and in some cases mother.

I just finished watching Kanye sweep the Grammies. He is one of the few pop personalities I get a rise out of. He's a Jesus lover with obvious imperfections and a deep love for his mother. I get a kick out of his zainy style and his impulsive, unpredictable attitude.

What a picture of Christians. Jesus didn't reject anyone of them. Sure, Christians might have. The world sure has but not the one who holds all men accountable. Not the author of life! Not the God of the living. Not the one who determines all the rules. Not from the one who created love. Thank you Lord. You are the only one who truly understands! The one who is out to create and re birth, to give life and healing. I'm glad Jesus is not as shallow as some Christians, and the world. He understands...

"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin." (Hebrews 4:15)


Today is a very special day. It would have been Pr S's birthday. I sure do miss him... What else is there to say...

"Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:54)

Friday, February 08, 2008

More in Common with Martha

"As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:38-41)

There are some days I feel like I got more in common with Martha than anyone else. The gang and I were just getting some equipment ready for some worship and I have to admit I was pretty exhausted and lacking patience. This stuff seemed heavier than usual. I need to get into better physical shape! After moving and riding and plugging it was time for plucking. Than it got really awesome! The Spirit was flowing.

I thought back to my cheerless attitude towards moving and riding and plugging. Than I tried to imagine how heavy that cross was that Jesus carried. I tried to imagine myself in His place for a sec... I tried to imagine how He took on all the sins of the world. He took on a heavy load and paid a BIG price for us. It was HUGE!

I know I have a long way to go! There are others who do as well. I'm glad I'm not the only one. Martha and I have a bit in common. I hope we both will choose what is better. Until than I'll trust the Lord with the following.

"In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Phillipians 1:4-6)

Wednesday, February 06, 2008

Mega Churches!



I get a kick out of Americans and their MEGA CHURCHES! We have very few in my part of the world. Isn't it great in that the Body of Christ have so many dynamics! There are big churches and little churches and different cultures, colors, smells, tastes and textures and ideas and ages and it is all for the glory of God!
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
Epheisans 3:20-21

Tuesday, February 05, 2008

Etched My Soul

I met a new group of believers today. They are so caring and take a genuine interest in my well-being. I've have had only three meetings with them. I love them to death. They have already had an impact on me and I know that I'll never forget them forever. They have been etched in my soul. I feel so happy that they are apart of my life but you know what? I feel sad as well.

I know that there will come a time when they to will depart. We will be on our seperate ways and going on our different narrow paths. Than we will be re united in glory. I just hate the fact that I have to wait in between. I know there'll be other people but still...

God, you have made so many beautiful people. I see you in them. I love you in them. I'll miss seeing them. But atleast I still have you!

"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5)

Monday, February 04, 2008

Another G-Man

A met another G-Man a while ago. He was very old. The lines on his face were a map to his soul. He had an awesome testimony. He had a German accent and only a grade 8 education. He was single like yours truly. He went to Bible College. He was third in his class... in a class of three. He was full of jokes and here are a few:

  • Love is blind but marriage is an eye opener!
  • There is the engagement ring, wedding ring and suffering!
  • My messages are like a mini skirt. They are short enough to get your attention but long enough to cover the subject matter
He had many more but I can't remember them all.

When he found out my roots go back to Kerala and he said, "Oh you're from Kerala!" and than did the sign of the cross on me.

He talked about his moments of brokeness like when the organization asked for his resignation. He was in tears and wept hard for nearly 15 minutes. He was very old at that time. It was quite hard.
Than he recalled how God warned that morning that something might happen. He asked God why he would even bother to warn him? Why?

God called him to India and a dream was coming alive. He showed us his ministry. God called him to India in the dead centre and I mean DEAD! It started out as lot of land with a hut. It grew to house with young kids. It became a school, offices, dorms etc. It was God building a marvellous ministry. God used this old, German man to pioneer some sensational work. I loved seeing the smile on his face, peace in his soul and joy in his heart.

What was awesome is that he was a man with nothing to prove. He had absolutely nothing to prove! This is the mark of truly humble people who do not care to be recognized, honoured, esteemed or even acknowledged. I wish we had more people like this. It gets just plain dumb when professing Christians are only about getting praise for themselves. It is so shallow....This man was not one of them!

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own,..." (1 Corinthians 13:4-5a)


May there be many more to come!