February 29, 2024
CCI Sermon Outlines -July 2024
July 28
Honor Marriage
Old Testament : Mal. 2: 13-16
Psalm : 45
Epistle : 1 Cor. 13:1- 14:1
Gospel : Mark 10:2-9
Verse for meditation:
“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate” (Mark 10:7-9)
God has instituted marriage for mutual friendship. This act has started in the book of Genesis with the marriage of the first Adam and ends in the book of Revelation with the marriage of the last Adam. Marriage is the image of the relationship of God – man and Christ – Church. The Apostle teaches that marriage should be honorable to all. One should enter into this status with respect and holiness. Along with mutual respect, fear of God is also very important in married life. According to the Indian religious thought a man is passing through four stages (Ashramams) in his life time. This is called as
purushashramadharmam – brahmacharyashramam, grahsthrashramam, vanaprasthashramam and sanyasashramam. Brahmacharyashramam is the first 25 years of a man’s life in which he is under a guru in the gurukulam in divine meditation, study of the scriptures and search for the truth. In the next stage of 25 years he has to enter into family life and live doing good to the society with social thinking. This stage is called grahasthashramam. Mariage is the initiation ceremony at the entry into grahasthashramam. This stage is known as a time of knowing and recognizing each other. Through the ceremony of marriage one enters into the home.
Grah is known as family and home. The Hebrew word
baith (house) is very close to the concept of family. It has been interchangeably used for family (Ps 68:6, 1 Chro. 13:14) and house (2 Chro. 35:5-12). People who are living in one house or a community or the whole of the people of Israel (Is. 5:7) are sometimes called by the word
baith. Family is the basic unit of the society. The Bible says that the family has been established by God. God who found that it is not good for man to be alone instituted the family by making him part of that and giving a marriage treaty. The Holy Bible gives certain guidelines for the permanency of the marriage relationship.
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Honor marriage through faithfulness (Mal. 2:13-16)
When we say marriage should be seen respectfully an important aspect of it is mutual faithfulness. “…do not break faith with the wife of your youth” (Mal. 2:15b), “So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith” (Mal. 2:16b). Faithfulness is one of the fruits of the spirit (Gal. 5:22). Bible teaches to be faithful in mutual relationships. Faithfulness is highly required for the head of the family (1 Cor. 4:2; 2 Cor. 1:17,18).It is said that Jesus was faithful to the father during his time of public ministry and Moses was faithful in all his stewardship (Heb. 3:1-5). In the modern times the value of faithfulness between the husband and the wife is very much watered down. This leads to many breakdowns.
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Honor marriage through love (1 Cor. 13:1-14:1)
Usually 1 Cor. Chapter 13 is read in all marriage services. What St. Paul says to the husband is very important at this occasion. Love your wife as Christ has loved the church (Eph. 5:25). Christ has loved us not by seeing the goodness in man. But Christ has loved us when we were yet sinners. Therefore, grace or love has increased in the place of the multiplicity of sin (Rom. 5:8, 20). This verse reminds us to love, forgiving weaknesses and mistakes just as God has loved man. Love is the most important commandment of the Bible. The truth is that love contains everything (Jn. 13:14,15; Gal. 5:14; Matt. 22:39,40; 1 Jn. 3:11).
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Honor marriage without separating (Mk. 10:2-9)
Jesus takes the stand that what God has joined together no man should separate (Matt. 5:31,32, 19:3-10; Mk. 10:2-12; Lk. 16:18). The rule of divorce of the wife has been given to man in the commandments because of the hard heartedness of the Jewish people. Anyone leaves the wife other than adultery and marry another one commits adultery (Matt. 19:9). In the same way he encourages her also to do the same sin (Mk. 10:12).The freedom of a woman to leave her husband was only among the Greeks and the Romans, but not among the Jews. In both places (Matt. 15:32, 19:9) where Jesus quotes it is said that one may divorce his wife on the ground of adultery. But there are differences of opinion among New Testament scholars regarding the validity of this text. Paul quotes the words of Jesus earlier than the gospels (the letter to Corinthians was written much earlier than the gospel of Matthew). Paul says “… A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife” (1 Cor. 7:11). The words of Jesus echoes the idea that though the husband and wife are living separately, the marriage relationship is not cancelled (Lk. 16:18). The Pharisees tested Jesus and asked the question is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason? Jesus quoted the Biblical references from the Old Testament regarding family life and gave the answer, “what God has joined together, let man not separate” (Matt. 19:6). Then they asked another question, “Can a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and sent her away?” The answer of Jesus to this question is very interesting, “But it was not this way from the beginning”. Jesus is asking them to look back into the time beyond Moses. Because of the hard heartedness of men the rules to divorce the wife were formulated. But Jesus is inviting everyone to come back to God’s rule. Paul advices to submit one another (Eph. 5:21) – especially to the wife, he says obey to your husbands as if to the Lord (Eph. 5:22). Submission originates from mutual dependence. The attitude of dependence both husband to wife and wife to husband should be cultivated. The reason is that man is a mutual dependant being. Here the thought both will become one gets stronger (Gen. 2:24, Mk. 10:8, Eph. 5:31). The couple leaves their own parents and family backgrounds to become a new family in which the mutual dependence becomes very strong. Here importance is given not for individual freedom but for inter dependence. Thus, the nature of mutual submission will increase.
Collect:
O God our heavenly Father, you have instituted marriage and blessed the earth with families to fulfill your purpose. May all husband and wife glorify your name as they reflect the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ, and honor you as they live in joyful humility. Teach them the fear of the Lord that they may always drink from their own cisterns and so preserve the sanctity of marriage; fill their cup of life with agape love that they may always rejoice in the blessedness of marriage, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever.
Amen
July 21
Ordained Ministry:
Marked by the wounds of Christ
Old Testament : 1 Sam. 22:12-23
Psalm : 56
Epistle : Gal. 6:11-18
Gospel : Jn. 21:15-19
Verse for meditation:
“Finally, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus” (Gal. 6:17)
The ordained ministry is highly esteemed one. But it is the ministry of the cross. It has persecutions and tolerance. The resurrected Jesus has given this ministry to Peter and commanded, “Feed my Lambs… Take care of my sheep… Feed my Sheep” (Jn. 21:15-17). The promise that ‘the unfading crown will be presented to those honest ministers who shepherd the people at the appearance of the great shepherd is given. The shepherd is the watchman of the people. He is entrusted with the responsibility of blowing the horn and warns the people of the sword that is coming against them (Ez. 33:1-3). The shepherds are called by God to help people toward truth and justice and to become partners of the Kingdom of God when the society is exploited and people become prey to untruth, injustice, corruption and many other expressions of evil. The word of God gives the call to do model ministry happily on the basis of the word of God with truthfulness for the growth of the church. In the Old Testament the priest interceded for the people and offered offerings for their sake. The priest was praying for the people and stood on behalf of the people before God. Thus, they performed their ministry as a reconciling ministry. This should be related to the pastoral ministry of the church.
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The Ordained Ministry of David: Symbol of cross (1 Sam. 22:12-23)
The threat and sufferings that David, the anointed one experienced were very hard. For the fear of death he escapes from Saul. Though the prophet Samuel had anointed him as the king on the one hand, he had to face very strong opposition from Saul. Thus, even in the Old Testament the ordained ministry is experienced as a symbol of cross.
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In the ministry of St. Paul: Symbol of cross (Gal. 6:11-18)
Paul has suffered much for the sake of the gospel (1 Cor. 6:1-10). He has decided not to boast anything other than the cross (Gal. 6:14).
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The call to the Ordained Ministry: In the New Testament (Jn. 21:15-19)
When Jesus saw the people confused and helpless like sheep without a shepherd, he uttered the words of compassion that the harvest is plenty but the laborers are less (Matt. 9:36-38). Usually in all services related to the ministry of God the above said verse is quoted. But the context that Jesus says these words is different. The main challenge here is that there is no shepherd to lead the people. Therefore, the ordained ministry belongs to the shepherds (Pastors). In the same way, the ministry that the resurrected Christ entrusted Peter is also a kind of Pastoral ministry (Jn. 21:15-19). “And when the chief shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away” (1 Pet. 5:4). John explains Jesus Christ as the good shepherd (Jn. 10). Among the letters of Paul, 1 and 2 Timothy and the letter to Titus are called by Theologians as ‘Pastoral Epistles’. Pastoral ministry is a kind of priestly ministry.
Collect: God our rock and refuge, we thank you for the gift of the Church. We praise you for the diverse ministries carried out through the Body of Christ, by the empowerment of God the Holy Spirit. We pray that the Ordained servants of yours be faithful and truthful to their commitment in their service, to the congregation. Let these your servant be watchful to live as Christ lived so that they can be a Good Shepherd to their flock in guiding and guarding in all their endeavours. Let their ministry bring Glory to your holy name, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen
July 14
Theological Education Sunday
Theological Education:
Knowing and Doing Faith
Old Testament : Exodus 3:1-12
Psalm : 111
Epistle : 2 Timo. 2:1-13
Gospel : John 12:20-26
Verse for meditation:
“I tell you the truth, Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it reminds only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds” (Jn. 12:24)
Christian education aims at acquiring a deep knowledge of the almighty and all knowing God to work with responsibility and identify heresy for perfection. Studying of the word of God is under God’s commandment (Duet. 6:6-8, Jos. 1:8). “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples” (Jn. 8:31). The word ‘abiding’ means to obey, to practice, to make use of etc. It is not enough to study God’s word but also the word should be obeyed. James teaches that ‘do not cheat yourself only by hearing the word’ (Jam. 1:22). “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord’ and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice” (Lk.6:46, 47). Some people propagate that it is not possible to obey the words of Jesus. But people like Sadhu Sunder Singh say that it is like climbing a ladder. One has to climb the first step to climb the second step. No one can set his one leg on the first step and the other leg on the last step at a time. Obedience should go step by step. It helps one to grow unto the head of Christ. The commandment of the resurrected Jesus to the Apostles is very clear. “Teach them all what I have commanded you” (Matt. 28:18-20). One who has studied the commandments of Jesus is a disciple. Let us listen to some of the Biblical references regarding standing firm on the word of God. Hold to my teachings (Jn. 8:31,32). The earth and sky shall go away but my word shall stand for ever (Matt. 24:30). “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord’ and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice” (Lk. 6:46, 47). “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him” (Jn. 14:23). “I know him, but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him” (1 Jn. 2:4).
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The preparation of Moses (Ex.3:1-12)
God has given a very clear understanding of Himself as ‘I am who I am’ to Moses before God has sent him to set free the people of Israel, God’s people (Ex.3:14). As we take the responsibility of preaching the good news, prior to this achieving a better Theological understanding is essential. God wanted Moses to keep his words in his heart. It should be taught to the children and the forthcoming generations. It should be written on the walls of the house. Everybody should see and read them. Thus, the people of Israel were led in a ‘God’s word centric way’. They all believed the words taught by Moses and observed them. Even today, it should be the word of God that builds our homes. The right teaching of the word of God is the prime reason for the growth of the churches, both spiritual and physical.
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The preparation of Timothy (2 Tim. 2:1-13)
Divine message is given to Timothy the spiritual son of Paul. Timothy has been taken into the company of Paul because of his good testimony and interest in missionary work (Acts. 16:3; 1 Tim. 4:14; 2 Tim. 2:6).Just like a son who is cooperative with the father, Timothy was obedient to Paul in ministry (Phil. 2:22). It is considered that Timothy and his family came into Christian faith in the ministry of Paul at Lysra (Acts. 16:1, 2). Timothy’s mother was a Jewish lady and his father was a Greek (Acts. 16:1, 2). He was nurtured in Christian faith by his mother Unice and grandmother Lois (2 Timo. 1:5; 3:15). Since Paul had the opposition of the Jews he arranged for the circumcision of Timothy (Acts. 16:3). Out of the three shepherd letters two of them are addressed to Timothy (I &II Timothy). The Apostles handles the task of the shepherd and the characteristics of pastoral ministry in these letters (1Timothy 1:1; 2 Tim. 1:1; Titus 1:3). The linguistic style of these letters differs from other letters since they are advices for leading the church. What Paul tells Timothy is very important. “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Timo. 2:2). Thus, Paul is entrusting a message to Timothy.
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Preparation of the Apostles (Jn.12:20-26)
The Apostles were people who ‘turned the world upside down’. The advice given by Jesus to them for about three and a half years is incomparable. They were not superficial prosperity gospel rather a call to ‘take up the cross’ and ‘to die falling on the ground’. When the wheat falls down on the ground it will die and produce ears of grain. That is why, Paul is teaching that the church of Christ should grow unto His head. “God’s people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Eph. 4:12,13). God has given different kinds of ministries to his workers to help the Church to grow in the Word of God. He has appointed some as Apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, some as shepherds and some as instructors (teachers). From Sunday school level in all the ministries of the church for the believers, the Christian Church aims at only one important message – ‘let all grow in the teaching of the word of God’.
Collect: Almighty God, in Jesus you have called common people to be your servants to love life eternal and overcome zeal for worldly life; as a wheat grain falls into the earth and dies and bears much fruit. Grant us wisdom and knowledge to read, mediate and interpret your holy Word. Continue to grant your guidance and inspiration that many young people may be trained theologically; fill with your Spirit that both students and theological teachers may exercise their faith to establish justice, righteousness and peace through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in unity with the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen.
July 7
Stewardship Sunday
Stewardship: Transparency and Accountability
Old Testament : Ex.36:2-7
Psalm : 116:12-19
Epistle : Phil. 4:10-20
Gospel : Luke19:11-27
Verse for meditation:
“And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19).
Stewardship is an important teaching of Jesus. The responsibility, transparency and stewardship regarding the resources given by God is very important. The parable of the talents calls us to trade the talents that God has given us and not to dig and cover them under the earth. The one who does the trade and increases, is being called ‘the good and faithful servant’ (Matt. 25:23). He is given more responsibility. In Christian stewardship, there are many things that the stewards or the servants should know. Stewardship should be expressed in the daily life and in relationships with people. Especially, this should be conspicuous in the daily life of the family relationships and in accomplishing the responsibilities in the church and society.
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The transparency of Moses (Ex.36:2-7)
On the guidance of God, the tent of meeting was constructed with the resources of the people (Ex. 25:1-9). They brought more than enough resources out of their enthusiasm. Then it was announced ‘don’t bring any more’. So the people stopped contributing further (Ex. 36:4-7). The work of the tent of meeting was complicated and difficult. To Moses, the leader, completing this work was costly and difficult. But God who gave the plan also gave the sources for the resources. God commanded him to ask for the sources to the people of Israel. The talented workers were also among them. Bezalel and Oholiab were selected for this purpose. God gave them wisdom to build for God (Ex. 31:1-6). Thus, the work was completed as God has commanded. Here, we find the transparency of spending for the construction of the tent of meeting. The Apostle also says that ‘Moses was faithful in the house of God’ (Heb. 3:2).
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The transparency of the Church at Philippi (Phil. 4:10-20)
Paul praises the trustworthiness of the church at Philippi in the matters of income and expenditure (Phil. 4:15). The church at Philippi collected for the ministry and handed them over to Paul very honestly. The partners in the ministry of Paul were of different characters. Some of them left him and gone, but some stayed with him till the last. Paul appreciates the church at Philippi for being with him in his times of trouble (Phil. 4:15). Therefore, Paul closes this letter with a word of blessing – “
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19).
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Realization of responsibility through the parable of talents (Lk. 19:11-27)
The parable of the talents which Jesus told reminds us to use the resources which God has given in a responsible way. The truth is that account will be asked for all the talents that are given to us. One should not depend on one’s own wisdom and bury the talents. Talents are not only our abilities and resources but also all the relationships and the abilities of the members of the Church which are also should be considered as the God-given talents. They should be used with responsibility.
Collect:
God the source of all resources, we realize that you have bestowed upon us every visible and invisible resource expecting it to be made use for the extension of your kingdom. Help us to be grateful to you for the confidence and the trust you have conferred on us in doing so. Grant us the strength to fulfill the duty of stewardship in utilizing the resource of that you have entrusted upon us to care for others that this trust may bear fruits. We pray that we will be blessed with multiples of resources. This we ask in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever.
Amen
June 30
People of God: Salt and Light
Old Testament : Isaiah 49:1-7
Psalm : 27
Epistle : Eph. 5:1-5
Gospel : Matt. 5:13-16
Verse for meditation:
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house” (Matt. 5:13-15)
The parables about salt and light are important parables of Jesus from his teachings on the Mount. Jesus was teaching this parables to point to the spirituality of action. God has made us a people when we were not a people and called us from darkness to light to proclaim the goodness of God. Just like Jesus sent his disciples for ministry even today he is sending his people to lead everyone into truth and salvation. Thus, those who are selected by God should become salt that will dissolve on the earth and the light that will die through burning. This is the greatness of Christian spirituality.
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Salt and Light (Matt. 5:13-16)
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Salt gives taste to food (Job.6:6, Is. 30:24).
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It preserves food materials from decaying (Mk. 9:49,50, Colo. 4:6).
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It is used in sacrifice (Lev. 2:13, Ezra. 6:10, Ez. 43:24).
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Eating salt in a common meal is a symbol of friendship and trust of faithfulness. Therefore, the covenant that God made with Israel is known as salt law (Bereeth Mela) (Num. 18:19, 2 Deut. 13:5).
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It is used as insecticide (Ez. 16:4).
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Salt is the symbol of peace of mind (Mk. 9:50).
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It is the symbol of Christian mission work (Matt. 5:13).
For all these above said ideas Theological interpretations can also be given.
God is being pictured as light (1 Jn.1:5, James 1:17, I Timo. 6:16, Ps. 104:2, 27:1). Christ is also light (Jn. 1:4, 8:12, 1:9, 12:35, 36). Light symbolizes holiness and purity (Eccl. 6:23, Is. 5:20, Rom. 13:12). Spiritual enlightenment is also called light (2 Cor. 4:6, Eph. 5:14, 1 Pet. 2:9). God’s word is also light (Ps. 109:105). Day – night and light – darkness shows the dualistic status of nature. They are just opposites. People of God are the children of light (Lk. 16:8, Jn. 12:36, 1 Thess. 5:5). Therefore, they are called the light of the world (Phil. 2:15). We should put on the armor of light (Rom. 13:12, Eph. 6:12, 1 Thess. 5:8). Christian should walk as they belong to light. Their light should enlighten before others (Matt. 5:16, 10:27; Lk. 8:16, 11:33, 12:3; Acts 13:47).
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Fragrant Offering (Eph. 5:1-5)
As Christ has been sacrificed before God we should also walk in love (Eph. 5:2). People of God are not supposed to walk in evil deeds and unholiness. They should become light in Christ (Eph. 5:8). That is to say they should test and know what is pleasing to God and live in light. The definition of light is also given here. “For the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth” (Eph. 5:9). The people of God should be prepared to become light in darkness.
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The promise to the people of God (Is. 49:1-7, Ps. 27)
God’s promise is that as the people of God are the light of the world Christ is with them as the enlightening true light. This is why Psalmist says, “The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear?” (Ps. 27:1). We are not able to shine on our own. But he who makes us shine is with us. He is our redeemer. God who knows his people, even from the womb of the mother (Is. 49:1,2). As we submit ourselves as the salt of the earth and the light of the world, this is the promise we receive: “… Yet what is due to me is in the Lord’s hand, and my reward is with my God” (Is. 49:4).
Collect:
God of Light, source of creative power who commanded the powers of darkness to be shattered and to fill the earth with light the source of life and sustenance. It is through Jesus Christ your Son and our Saviour you enlightened the darken world with his life and ministry, more so through his resurrection, the ultimate and hopeful sign of victory over forces of darkness. So we pray that transform us as your people to be like salt and light of the world, continuing your ministry of transforming the world into meaningful and purposeful one in order that your name be glorified through Jesus Christ our Lord who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit One God, now and forever more.
Amen
June 23
Cost of Discipleship
Old Testament : Dan. 6:11-23
Psalm : 34
Epistle : 2 Cor. 6:1-10
Gospel : Mark 10:35-45
Verse for meditation:
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mk. 10:45)
Discipleship is an important topic in the teachings of Jesus. In discipleship, the experience of traveling with Jesus daily even despising one’s own life is seen. Jesus taught that one who cannot take up the cross and follow him cannot be his disciple (Lk. 14:27). The challenge for Christian discipleship is found in the New Testament. The great command of Jesus also tells us ‘to make disciples of all nations’ (Matt. 28:19). The Christians of the first century were not simply known as believers but as ‘disciples’ (Acts 6:1, 20:30). During the public ministry of Jesus there was a crowd to follow him and to learn from him. But Jesus has very strongly admonished them regarding discipleship. When we discuss the subject of ‘cost of discipleship’, the German Theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer should not be forgotten (1906 – 1945). His book titled
Nachfolge has been translated and published as
‘the cost of discipleship’. He has written this book in 1937 centralizing the teachings of Jesus on the Mount. He has to give his life as the cost of discipleship for this book. This book was misunderstood as a move against the Nazi dictatorship. So he was arrested in 1943 April by the Nazi soldiers and executed on the 9th of April 1945. He has defined both the costly and cheap grace in this book. “Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline and communion without confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross and grace without Jesus Christ”. But the costly grace is on the contrary.
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Discipleship of giving one’s own life (Dan. 6:11-23)
Daniel has to give up his life almost for worshipping the living God instead of the king Darius. But submitting and praying to God he was ready to accept that punishment. This kind of discipleship shows the attitude of giving life for the sake of truth. As referred earlier the important instruction of Jesus regarding discipleship is found in Luke 14:25-34. The same admonition of self sacrifice has been recorded by the other evangelists also. The reference of ‘the wheat falling on the ground and dying’ referred in Matt. 10:37-39 and Mk. 8:34-39 has been reported by John also in Jn. 12:24. This is one of the important qualifications to become Christ’s disciple.
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Discipleship of Joy in distress (2 Cor. 6:1-10)
St. Paul has become a minister of God in everything through the sufferings that he has experienced (2 Cor. 6:1-10). In this above text, he explains different kinds of adverse experiences. Discipline is experienced through the experience of tolerance. ‘The word disciple’ has come from the word ‘discipline’. A disciple is one who is being disciplined. One should receive discipline from the Guru Jesus and become a disciple. The commandment of Jesus to the Apostles after his resurrection is very clear. “Teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matt. 28:18-20). A disciple is one who has studied the teachings of Jesus Christ. A desire to obey the words of Jesus without fail even in the midst of troubles and sufferings is found in a true disciple.
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Discipleship of becoming a servant (Mk. 10:35-45)
The disciple of the master ministers the master. But Jesus said not to minister him but to minister others. The reason is, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mk.10:45). “A New command I give you; Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciple … (Jn. 13:34,35). This quality is the greatest and powerful than all other qualities, because the fullness of all the scripture is put together in this (Gal. 5:14). We have a model in Jesus to love one another – he is our Guru himself, who says, ‘As I have loved you’. John in his first letter discusses on this subject at large (1Jn. 4:20). Jesus who said two commandments are important now goes on to say that I give you a new commandment and then adds, ‘love one another as I have loved you’. We therefore, become the disciples of Jesus, as we love one another as Jesus has loved us. Here comes the attitude of serving in discipleship.
Collect:
God the Great Guru, who exemplified the cost of being a true disciple in Jesus; teach us to be true disciples of Christ in our everyday life; mould us to be obedient to your words; build within us a servant heart and challenge us every day to take up our cross to follow your footsteps. So that we may be delivered from all pride and fears, humbled enough to drink the cup of suffering with you and be servants of your people around us, even in the midst of trials and tribulations. This we ask in the name of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, One God, world without end.
Amen
June 2
Student’s Sunday
Wisdom from Above
Old Testament : 1 Kings 3:16-28
Psalm : 119:33-40
Epistle : James 1:1-8
Gospel : Luke 10:21-24
Verse for meditation:
“At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure” (Lk. 10:21).
Knowing God is known as wisdom from above. Wisdom in the Bible is an important topic. The word
Hakhmah in Hebrew language has been translated as wisdom. The Old Testament uses this term 141 times. The Greek word for wisdom is
Sophia. The Bible separates three books to talk about wisdom – Book of Job, Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. These books are collectively known as wisdom literature. Moreover Psalms 19, 37, 104, 107, 147 and 148 also are included in the wisdom literature.
God gave wisdom to some people to make priestly garments for Aaron (Ex. 28:3). Wisdom was given to Bezalel and Oholiab to construct the Tent of meeting (Ex. 31:3,6). Wisdom indicates the ability given by God to do certain things beyond known human ability. This may be explained as efficiency or ability. But the Greek word used here gives more importance to divine wisdom or spiritual wisdom (Rom. 11:33; 1Cor. 1:21,24; 2:7; 3:10; Rev. 7:12). This word is used to explain the wisdom of Jesus (Matt. 13:54, Mk. 6:2, Lk. 2:40, 52, 1 Cor. 1:30; Colo. 2:3, Rev. 5:12), Manly wisdom (Matt. 11:19, Lk. 7:35, 11:49) and human – spiritual wisdom (Lk. 25:13, Acts 6:3,10, Rom. 7:10, 1 Cor. 2:6).
In the Indian religions also wisdom is an important subject matter. The 5th chapter of
Bhagavat Geetha speaks of wisdom. So this chapter is called
Gnanayoga. The
vedanthis of
Upanishath has divided the
vedakala into three –
Karamakanda, Upasanakanda and
Gnanakanda. They believed that to enter into
moksha, Gnana is also another
marga. But this wisdom is not physical but divine. The
Bhagavat Geetha says as follows:
Api chethasi papebhia
Sarvebhia papakrithama
Sarvam gnanaplaivenyava
Vrijinam samtharishrisi
“Even if you are the sinner of sinners, you can board the ship called
Gnanam and cross the sea of sin”. Sankaracharya (AD 788 – 820) gave importance to attaining gnanam through divine vision. He propagated the theory of
Advaida vedanta and said through wisdom one will get the knowledge of
Aham Brahmasmi. The teaching of Jesus, ‘You will know the truth and the truth shall set you free’ (Jn. 8:31 – 33) is not different from this. This knowledge gives
Moksha to man. As the Bible indicates that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, the Malayalam
Bhakthi poet Poonthanam also believed it. His
bhakthi poem Ganapana is an example for this. The beginning of wisdom is intense devotion to God (Job 28:12-28, Ps. 11:10, Pro. 1:7).
Bhakthi is intense love. In a sense it can be called worship. The
Bhakthi of Daniel gave him wisdom. The
Bhakthi of John gave him revelation.
Bhakthi is one of the pillars of wisdom.
Wisdom: Three truths
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The character of wisdom or the status of one having wisdom.
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The wisdom called Jesus (1 Cor. 1:24). This is also called divine wisdom.
The wisdom called the church.
When one is asked to be wise, it indicates the Church of God.
The wisdom literature, especially in the Proverbs, wisdom is explained as a person and as a character. The woman called wisdom builds a house which has seven pillars (Pro. 9:1). Number seven shows completeness. The house called wisdom shows the perfectness of the character of a person. The wisdom called Jesus has seven qualities – Omnipotent, Omniscient, Omnipresent, Self generated, Everlasting, Holy and Love. We find all these seven qualities in Jesus in its perfectness. The church called wisdom is built with seven qualities. John has witnessed the Church as seven golden lamp stands and their angels as seven stars (Rev. 1:19, 2:1). Some consider that the seven pillars may be the basic seven teachings of the Church or the seven Sacraments (Pro. 9:1). Let us examine on what the Christian life called wisdom would be built upon.
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Ask for the wisdom from above (1 King 3:16-28)
The Wisdom of Solomon in the Bible is very famous. When he assumed kingship after his father David, he prayed God only one thing, “Give me wisdom and knowledge” (1Chro. 1:10, 1 Kings 3:9). God also gave him wisdom. Following this we find that he gave importance to wisdom. It is considered that a lion’s share of the wisdom literature has been written by Solomon. In 1 Kings 3:16-28 we read of an incident that Solomon has done during his life time as a wise king. He taught the beginning of wisdom is devotion (fear) of God (Pro. 1:7, Eccl. 12:13, Ps. 111-1:10, Job. 28:28).
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The wisdom of knowing Jesus (Lk. 10:21-24)
The realization of God is the greatest knowledge. The terms like iswara sakshatkaram (God realization), atma gnanam (spiritual knowledge) and atma sakshatkaram (spiritual realization) are used in India to explain this experience. It is otherwise known as the knowledge of God. This statement is spoken by Jesus when the 70 disciples came back happily as Jesus has sent them. They have received wisdom than the worldly wise men. This wisdom is from above (Lk. 10:22). This has revealed by the father. In the same way, the uneducated apostles also received wisdom, the wisdom from above (Acts 4:13).
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The qualities of the wisdom from above (James 1:1-8)
The Epistle of James teaches that the faith without work is dead. James asks, “” (James 3:13). James argues that the qualities of divine wisdom should be seen through the humble and good works. He gives seven qualities to this divine knowledge – pure, peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere (James 3:17). James says that those who have less knowledge should ask God to attain more wisdom (James 1:5). God gives wisdom. To those who ask for will be given free. In the Psalms also same type of prayer is found (Ps. 119:34). God makes the simple wise (Ps. 19:7).
Collect:
O God, you are the source, the guide and the goal of all-human knowing and search for wisdom. We praise you for the mind you have given to us and the whole enterprise of discovering and reflection, which every generation inherits from the past. Enable us to seek the wisdom that is from above so that we may lead a victorious life in this world by overcoming the evils and trials of this world. We believe that you are the true wisdom and knowing you and the faith in you, is the ultimate goal of wisdom. We beseech you to help us to ask and desire for the wisdom that is from above so that we may discern what is truth, lead a victorious life so that we might be transformed to know you in a better way. We ask this, through your Son, our Lord and savior Jesus Christ who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God now and ever.
Amen.
June 9
Environment Sunday
Creation Proclaims the Glory of God
Old Testament : Pro. 8:22-31
Psalm : 19
Epistle : Rev. 21:1-8
Gospel : Luke 8:22-25
Verse for meditation:
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (Ps. 19:1)
David believes that the whole creation is depicting the glory of God (Ps.19:1-6). The greatness of the creation of God is indescribable. He proclaims that God has created awfully and wonderfully (Ps. 139:4). Creation is defined as God’s act of bringing into existence the visible and invisible universe out of nothing in the beginning. Creation is the free and self willed act of God. The first two chapters of the book of Genesis record the divine revelation regarding creation. The aim of the Scriptures is not to explain the scientific assumptions regarding creation. The Old and the New Testaments give abundant teachings regarding creation (Neh. 9:6; Job. 38:4, Ps. 33:6,9, 90:2, 102:25; Is. 40:26,28, 42:5, 42:18; Jer. 10:12-14; Amos 4:113; Acts 17:24; Rom. 1:20,25, 11:36; Colo. 1:16; Heb. 1:2; 11:3; Rev. 4:11; 10:6). All the three persons of the Trinity were the reason for creation – God the father (Gen. 1:1, Is. 44:24, 45:12, Ps. 33:6), the Son (Jn. 1:3-10, Colo. 1:16) and the Holy Spirit (Gen. 1:2).
The basic teaching regarding creation is given in the letter to the Hebrews. “By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible” (Heb. 11:3). God has created the universe
ex nihilo. The biblical faith is that the whole creation is glorifying God.
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Creation proclaims the glory of God (Ps.19)
Through each and every creation, God’s name is being glorified. Not only men but also the whole creation is glorifying God. This knowledge of discretion inspires us to glorify God. In every worship we praise and glorify God. Along with that we praise God with gratitude for all the benefits that God has done for us.
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The creation obeys the creator (Lk. 8:22)
As Jesus was crossing the Lake of Tiberius, there was a great storm. The boat was filled with water and about to sink. The disciples woke up Jesus, who was sleeping in the boat. Jesus the Lord rebuked the wind and the sea. Both the wind and the sea became calm. The disciples were astonished to say “Even the wind and water obeys him” (Lk. 8:25). The creation should obey the creator. Our creator God is able to calm down all the storms and waves that may come against us.
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New creation: The Christian hope (Rev. 21:1-8)
Though God has created everything good (Gen. 1:31), in due course evil, injustice, unrighteousness and corruption crept in into the universe. But the just and Holy God always purifies and renews the world. The Holy Bible ends with a great optimistic hope. “Then I saw a new heaven and new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away…There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of thing has passed away” (Rev. 21:1-8). The Book of Revelation chapters 21 and 22 focus a heavenly vision that the whole creation worship God in unison.
Collect:
God, our Creator, we thank you for the awesome and innumerable gifts of creation. We thank you and magnify your holy name along with the creation that glorifies you. You have called us to be faithful stewards of your creation. But we have failed in our responsibility towards you and the creation. Purge us from all evils and enable us to be good and faithful creation. Make us sensible to live in tune with the nature; enable us to experience the grandeur of your creation. We pray this prayer in Jesus name who lives and reigns with you and the holy spirit, one God now and forever.
Amen
June 16
Worship the Lord in Truth and Spirit
Old Testament : Isaiah 6:1-8
Psalm : 139
Epistle : 2 Thess. 2:13-17
Gospel : John 4:15-26
Verse for meditation:
“God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth” (Jn.4:24).
God is a spirit and should be worshiped in truth and spirit. Worship is offered to God alone. Worship is the expression towards God with love, faith, respect and devotion. All divine glory and honor must be given to God. Both in Hebrew and Greek languages more than one word is used to mean worship. In Hebrew language the word
Shahah is used commonly to mean worship (Gen. 18:2). This word is used 170 times in the Old Testament. The words
sagad and
lahatsivah are also found used to mean worship. In the Greek language the word proskuneo (pros + kuneo) is used mostly. The verbal root meaning of this word kuneo is to ‘kiss’. This word is also used in verbal form to mean worship God (Matt. 4:10, Jn. 4:21-24, 1 Cor. 14:25, Rev. 4:10, 5:14, 7:11), Christ (Matt. 2:2,8,11, 8:2, 9:18, 14:33, 15:25, 20:20, 28:9,17, Jn. 9:38, Heb. 1:6), Man (Matt. 18:26), great serpant (Rev. 13:4), animal (Rev. 13:4,8,12, 14:9,11), statue of the animal (Rev. 13:15, 14:11, 16:2), devil (Rev. 9:20) and statues (Acts 7:43).
Sebomai is another term used in the sense of ‘respecting’ (Matt. 15:9, Mk. 7:7, Acts 18:13, 19:27). The Greek word
Latruo is used rarely to mean religious ministry and devotion (Phil. 3:3, Acts 7:42, 24:14, Heb. 10:2). The word
Ethalothriskeo is used to mean the worship spontaneously offered (Col. 2:23). Worship is as old as humanity. Worship is found from the beginning of the history of Cain and Abel. From the time of Enosh, the grandson of Adam there started worship in the name of Jehovah (Gen. 4:26). Noah offered burnt offerings (Gen. 6:9, 8:20). Following this, Abraham and his progeny who were nomadic shepherds worshipped the Lord constructing altars whereever they pitched their tents (Gen. 12:7, 13:4,18). The construction of the altars was very simple with mud and stone as building materials. All offerings were offered as burnt. Through the incident of sacrificing of Isaac, it is understood that the devotion in the heart of the man is important and the offered animal is only a symbolic one (Gen. 22:12,13). Jacob also worshipped God (Gen. 28:18, 35:14). When Israel became a nation, arrangements for religious matters became a need. So in the Mosaic law, new rules and regulations regarding offerings have been given. But the prophets reminded the people every now and then that worship should emerge out of heartfelt love and deep devotion towards God. Let our worship also have these characteristics.
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The vision that comes through worship (Is.6:1-8)
The prophet Isaiah witnessed the heavenly worship. He saw the seraphs with six wings – with two wings they covered their face, with two they covered their feet and with two they were flying – and praised God saying, ‘Holy, Holy, Holy is Lord God of hosts, the whole earth is covered by the glory of the Lord’. By the shout of the angels the threshold of the temple was shook and it was filled with smoke (Is. 6:2-6). By the vision of this worship, Isaiah himself had a metamorphosis. He realized that he is not clean. Gradually he realized that even his people are not clean. Those who view divine worship or those who see God will realize their own weaknesses, also the weaknesses and pains of their own people. Then the Theo – phony is heard, ‘Whom shall I send, who shall go for us?’ (Is.6:8). As we partake in the worship it must enable us to realize ourselves, recognize others and accept divine call through the hearing of God’s word. Let our worships become such occasions.
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Spiritual Worship through deeds (Jn. 4:15-26, 2 Thess. 2:11-17)
As the regulations for the worship became only formalities, the prophets gave new definitions and warnings against worships. Hosea proclaimed that un doubtfully God is pleased not in sacrifice but in mercy (Hos. 6:6). The pleasing worship before God is walking humbly before God and doing justice as a merciful person (Mic. 6:6-8). Isaiah also taught that God is not pleased in the worships of the unjust and criminals (Is. 1:11-20). The true worship is doing good, seeking justice, setting right the intimidated, bringing justice to the orphans and doing just to the widow (Is. 1:17). The new definition of worship that Jesus gave as he was talking to the woman at Samaria is noteworthy. The true worshipers must worship God in spirit and truth (Jn. 4:24). Real worship is respecting God truthfully in their own spirit, and expressing devotion and love. It is the celebration of the faith of the people. Submitting our deeds with holiness before God is the wise worship (Rom. 12:1,2). May God grand us grace to worship God in our soul with all truthfulness.
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A wise worship and dedication (Ps. 139)
Psalm 139 which starts with the words ‘The Lord has search me and known me’ is a spiritual song of David which examines the self. During worship such a self examination should happen. Paul says in the context of the Lord’s supper that a man should search himself and eat this bread and drink this cup (1Cor. 11:28). He again says, ‘Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test your selves’ (2 Cor. 13:5). We should examine whether we are offering a worship in which our members of the body are submitted with life and holiness before God (Rom. 12:1,2). Thus, our worship will be filled with the spirit in truth.
Collect:
Almighty and ever-living God, you have given us grace, by our confession of faith, to acknowledge and worship the eternal Trinity in the majesty of unity. Keep us steadfast in this faith and worship and bring us at last to see you in your eternal glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever.
Amen.
May 26
1st Sunday after Pentecost
Trinity Sunday
We Worship the Triune God
Old Testament : Gen. 1:1-28
Psalm : 2
Epistle : 2 Cor. 13:11-14
Gospel : John 1:1-18
Verse for meditation:
“No one has ever seen God, But God the One and only who is at the Fathers side, has made him known” (Jn. 1:18).
Faith in Trinity is the paramount experience of Christian faith. Here a challenge is given to praise God who is always living as a Triune God, a challenge to praise and worship God who is triune as omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient. The English word Trinity has been formed out of two Latin words
Tres and
Unitas. The word meaning is oneness of three. The word trinity can also be explained as the state of being three. Trinity is understood as a mystery. It may not be easy to explain or interpret by reason. Theophilos of Antioch has used a Greek word
Trias to explain Trinity. Following this, the church fathers like Tertullian, Athanasius and Augustine have tried to explain Trinity clearly. They have brought out three basic theories regarding the teaching of Trinity.
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There is only one God.
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The father, the Son and the Holy Spirit – is God.
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Though the father, the son and the Holy Spirit are different personalities the uniting spirit within them is only one – that spirit is God. Therefore, in spirit they are one (Jn. 4:24, 2Cor. 3:17).
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Trinity is God’s nature of indivisible unity. Therefore, it is said, ‘Three in one God’.
Trinity in the Old Testament
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In the creation story of the book of Genesis the word for God in Hebrew language is used in the plural form – Elohim. In Gen. 1:2,3 and Gen. 1:26 the plural form is used – Let us, in our own image.
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In the old testament itself there are references to the Holy Spirit and to the Son (Ez.11:2, 42:1, 61:1, 53:1-5; Joel 2:28, Is. 32:15, Ez. 36:26,27).
Trinity in the New Testament
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John the Baptist preaches to believe in the Messiah. He emphasized in the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Matt. 3:11).
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The angel Gabriel talks of the Holy Spirit to Mary in his message (Lk. 1:35).
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It is believed that the divine trinity is explicitly revealed at the time of the baptism of Jesus (Matt. 3:16, 17). The Son was taking baptism, the Father was speaking from heaven and the Holy Spirit came down from above.
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It is revealed in the teachings of Jesus (Jn. 14:7-9,16) – God the father sent the Son. God the Son sent the Holy Spirit.
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It is found in the great commandment of Jesus (Matt.28:18-20).
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In the teachings of the Apostles (Acts 2:33, 1Cor.12:4-6, 1Pet.1:2).
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In the Trinitarian benediction of the church (2 Cor. 13:14).
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It is expressed in the Nicene Creed. In AD 375 this creed has been accepted as the faith confession of the church under the leadership of Athanasius. Later on preachers like John Calvin have reinterpreted the Trinitarian concept.
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Triune God in the Cosmic Creation (Gen. 1:1-28 )
The presence of the Triune God can be read from the beginning of the creation story. The plural form of the word for God is found in Genesis 1: 26 “… Let us make man in our image in our likeness…” In the story of the tower of Babel also (Gen. 11:7) it is recorded, “Come, let us go down…” Isaiah also says (6:7) “… Who will go for us”. Though we are worshiping God who is the only God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – the concept of Trinity envisages the divine character of omniscience and its complexities.
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Invisible God in Human Nature (Jn. 1:1-18)
God whom no one has ever seen incarnated as Jesus, the Son (Jn. 1:18). This is how John is introducing Jesus to a Hellenistic community. When he is comparing the Hellenistic thought of ‘logos’ to Jesus, he is also supporting the thought of Trinity. Continuing this in the same chapter he gives the idea of Spirit, Son and Father (he who has sent) (Jn. 1:33). Here, Jesus, the second person of the Trinity is being explained. “He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him” (Jn. 1:10). Therefore, those who received him (Jesus) were given the authority to become children of God (Jn. 1:12). Such a strong call has been extended here.
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The Fellowship of the Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 13:11-14)
Paul has blessed the church with a Trinitarian formula. “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all” (2 Cor. 13:14). The
Koinonia mentioned here indicates a permanent relation with God. It is summarized as fellowship, partnership etc. In this fellowship God makes the Church alive and leads.
Collect:
O blessed Trinity, in whom we know the Maker of all things, seen and unseen, the Saviour of all both near and far: by your Spirit enable us so to worship and sing to your divine Majesty, that with all the company of heaven, we may magnify your glorious name singing: Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of hosts, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Glory be to you, O Lord most high; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God now and ever.
Amen.
May 19
Pentecost
Come Holy Spirit Renew Us
Old Testament : Ezekiel 37:1-14
Psalm : 104:24-35
Epistle : Acts 2:1-13
Gospel : John 16:1-11
Verse for meditation:
“When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment” (Jn. 16:8)
The seventh conference of the World Council of Churches (WCC) was held at Canberra, Australia during February 7 to 20, 1991. The main theme of the conference discussed under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Emilo Castro, the General Secretary was ‘Come Holy Spirit, Renew the whole creation’. Rev. Dr. Emilo Castro was a world renowned Theologian and Methodist Pastor who was in the front row leadership of the WCC for almost 20 years. In the history of WCC this was for the first time the study of Holy Spirit (
Pneumatological study) was taken into the agenda. This conference was an attempt to eradicate the misunderstandings regarding the Holy Spirit and to give the right enlightenment to the members of the church. “Come Holy Spirit Renew Us”, this should be our daily prayer. We need new strength to face the challenges and adverse situations. Paul instructs us not to conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our mind (Rom. 12:2). Let us pray to God to renew us daily. God renews the face of the earth (Ps. 104:30), renews human lives (Ps. 103:5), he shares the spirit and renews everything (Is. 32:15). Let us examine in whatever areas of life we need renewal.
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Daily Guidance (Jn. 16:1-11)
The word
paracletos is found used in the Greek text. The famous Greek scholar Rev. Dr. William Barclay gives five specialties to this word.
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The Holy Spirit also stands along with us exactly like Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit is being called to stand as a helper (Jn. 14:16, 16:7, 15:26). Helper. ‘Allos’ – another of the same kind not ‘heteros’ – another of a different kind.
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Paracletos is one who helps a fainting person to stand strong on his own legs. He gives hope to one not to breakdown due to depression (Is. 40:1,2; Ps. 71:21) – comforter
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The Greek background of the New Testament paracletos is the Advocate who comes to help an accused person (1Jn. 2:1; Jn. 14:16,26, 15:26, 16:7) – Advocate – counselor
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A person who instructs and prepares an army for war is called paracletos – Exhorter
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Paracletos is also known as the guide (Jn. 16:12,13,14)
The teaching of Jesus regarding the guidance of the Holy Spirit is found in Jn. 16:1-11 – the experience of leading into all truth, reminding people about sin, justice and judgment (Jn. 16:8-13). Paul says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Cor. 5:17). Paul’s experience was also the same. The Holy Spirit renews and transforms individuals
Works of Renewal (Acts 2:1-13)
The Holy Spirit manifested openly on the day of Pentecost on the upper room. Following this we could witness the work of the Holy Spirit in the book of the Acts of the Apostles. One of the main themes of the New Testament is Holy Spirit. Some of the works of renewal is being listed as follows:
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Gives new birth (Jn. 3:3-5)
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Empowers (Jn. 16:7, 14:2; Acts 1:4-8)
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Helps to dwell (Jn. 14:16,17; Rom. 8:9; Col. 1:27;1 Jn. 2:27)
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Leads into all truth (Jn. 16:13)
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Informs the future (Jn. 16:13)
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Glorifies Christ because we are informed of things taken from Christ (Jn. 16:14)
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Reminds what Christ has told us (Jn. 14:26)
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Helps the believer in his weakness (Rom. 8:26,27)
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Teaches the model prayer (Rom. 8:26)
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Delivers from the rules of sin (Rom 8:2)
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Cultivates spiritual characters (Rom. 8:5)
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Raises the mortal bodies through the indwelling spirit (Rom. 8:9,11)
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Bodily actions are killed through the spirit (Rom. 8:13; Col. 3:5)
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Enlightens (Jn. 16:7-11)
Paul taught that he who has not the Spirit of the Lord does not belong to the Lord (Rom. 8:9-11). Paul has enlightened his believers regarding the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the fruit of the spirit (1 Cor. 12,14; Gal 5:22). He also propagated not to grieve or make sad the Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:30; 1 Thess. 5:19). Renewing the church is the work of the Holy Spirit.
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Renewing the Whole Creation (Ez. 37:1-14)
The vision that Ezekiel receives (Ez. 37:1-14) is regarding Israel (Ez. 37:11). Here renewal is given to a society which is broken in all respects. Ezekiel is prophesying to Israel through this vision, “I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the LORD have spoken, and I have done it, declares the LORD” (Ez.37:14). Many societies which were suppressed through exploitation and martyrdom have been resurrected. As said earlier to God who renews the whole world nothing is impossible.
Let this be our daily prayer, “Come Holy Spirit Renew Us”.
Collect:
Gracious God, the giver of Holy Spirit and the source of our renewal, we thank you for revealing to our faith ancestors in the visible sign of the tongues of fire, audible sound of strong wind and the vision of the advent of the life giving spirit on the day of Pentecost. We pray that you may continue to re-create us with the power of the holy Spirit to engage with you in prayer of Pentecost, to respond to your call to constantly proclaim your liberating Word and to fearlessly witness to Jesus Christ in love and compassion, through Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with you and Holy Spirit, One God, world without end.
Amen.
May 12
6th Sunday after Easter
Waiting upon the Holy Spirit
Old Testament : Isaiah 40:25-31
Psalm : 51
Epistle : Acts 1:1-11
Gospel : Luke 24:44-49
Verse for meditation:
“On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: ‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised which you have heard me speak about” (Acts. 1:4).
Holy Spirit is God himself, one among the Trinity (Jn. 4:24; 2 Cor. 3:7). Holy Spirit is not simply a power but a person with power (Acts 1:8). The activity of the Holy Spirit could be witnessed from the first book of the Bible to the last. But variety can be seen in the activities of the Holy Spirit. In the olden days the explicit manifestation of the Holy Spirit was given only to the selected kings or Lords or prophets. But in the last days that is today after the day of Pentecost God shares his spirit with everybody (Acts 2:17; Joel 2:28; Is. 28:2). All the qualities of God is also found in the Holy Spirit – everlasting (Heb. 9:14), omnipotent (Lk. 1:35; Job. 33:4; Ps. 104: 30), omniscient (Is. 40:13; 1 Cor. 2:10, 11, 16), Omnipresent (Ps. 139:7-10), one in the Trinity (Is. 6:8; Acts 28:25; Jer. 31: 34; Heb. 10:15-17; Acts 16:7; 2 Cor. 13:14; Matt. 28:18-20), Holy (Matt. 12:32), love (Gal. 5:22) and truth (Jn. 14:17). Theologically the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are one and the same (All three are
homoousios = of the same essence of substance, Not
homoiousios = of like or similar essence or substance. Here “i” in the second term makes a world of difference). Those who reject the Holy Spirit reject God. Those who receive the Holy Spirit receives God. Jesus before the ascension told his disciples: “stay in the city till you receive the power from above”. Obeying this commandment, the disciples went back to Jerusalem and praised God at the temple (Lk. 24:52, 53). The work of the Holy Spirit is visible in the Bible from the very beginning of creation. The Spirit of God was hovering upon the waters (Gen. 1:2). From time to time the spirit of God was with the leaders, priests, judges, kings and prophets and inspiring them to do God’s will. But at the New Testament times a change has come in the
modes operandi of the Spirit of God. We understand that God has sent his spirit upon all people and use them according to his promise “I will send my Spirit upon all flesh in the last days” (Is. 28:2, Acts 2:17, Jn. 2:28). This is how the Apostle Peter who was waiting for the Holy Spirit interpreted and preached on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:17). Finally the Apostles also understood that it is not only the Jewish people but also all non Jewish people can also experience the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:44-48, 8:14-17, 19:1-6).
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The Spirit that cleanse (Ps. 51)
Psalm 51 is a prayer of David, who has fallen into sin. This prayer is a request to sanctify him. “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me” (Ps. 51:12), “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast Spirit within me” (Ps. 51:10). Such prayers are found in this Psalm. A person is sanctified by the work of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:11), because it is the Holy Spirit, who is leading a person into all truth (Jn. 16:8-13). The Holy Spirit reminds a person about sin, justice and judgment. The Holy Spirit reminds us ‘all that has been taught by Jesus’ (Jn. 14:16,26). Therefore, the church should be enabled to nurture the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.
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The Spirit that strengthens (Is. 40:25-31)
The Holy Spirit has strengthened the prophets and empowered the Apostles. “Do not rejoice, all you Philistines, that the rod that struck you is broken; from that root of that snake will spring up a viper, its fruit will be a darting, venomous serpent” (Is. 14:29). The reason is that the Holy Spirit is a Spirit of strength (Is. 11:2). The Holy Spirit strengthens us when we are tired of crisis and pain. Therefore, it is said that when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will receive power (Acts 1:8). This is not an emotional power but the power that gives the awareness of God’s constant presence. Holy Spirit is not simply a power but a person. We should understand Holy Spirit as a person. When this power has come the bones have received life (Ez. 37:1-4). The Red Sea was divided at the power of this Spirit (Ex. 14:29). At these two places ‘the wind’ is referred to in Hebrew language as
ruha .That is to say it is the Spirit.
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The Spirit that makes us Witnesses (Acts 1:1-11)
As the Lord has commanded the disciples to wait for the power of the Holy Spirit (Lk. 24:52,53, Acts 1:1-11). Luke records that they have received the power of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost as the Lord has promised (Acts 2). Thus they began to testify the Lord. The Lord said as follows: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witness in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). This is the message of the church. We bear witness to Christ through our words and deeds. Though there is opposition to this ministry, because the Holy Spirit is giving leadership, the message of Christ and the witness is reaching throughout the world even today.
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Wait upon the Lord and become his witness (Is. 40:25-31)
It is good for me to wait for the Lord (Lam. 3:26). The call to wait for the Lord’s work is found in many places in the Bible (Ps. 37:7, 40:1, Is. 30:15). This is what the Lord also has told his Apostles (Acts 1:4). Thus, they were waiting and experiencing the power of God. Waiting for God will accelerate dependence upon God and humility. It should be made possible to be at the presence of God and experience his power every day.
Collect:
Sovereign God, you showered bountiful blessings upon disciples who waited for Holy Spirit. Now we humbly wait upon and ask the blessings of the Holy Spirit which sustains, enriches and strengthens our life in the midst of all our dread and fragile life. May your ever cleansing power redeem us from the clutches of the evil and unjust world so that we may be enabled through your Spirit to proclaim the gospel to the end of the world; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end
Amen.
May 5
5th Sunday after Easter
Christ’s Invitation to be an Expression of Mission
Old Testament : Ez. 34:25-31
Psalm : 47
Epistle : 1 Peter 2:1-10
Gospel : Jn. 20:19-23
Verse for meditation:
“And with that he breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit’” (Jn. 20:22).
The invitation for Godly mission is repeated in the Old and New Testaments. God has called Abraham the father of Israel from among the gentiles (Gen. 12; Is. 51:2). Moses, the founder of the Jewish religion was called by God as a liberator of the people of Israel (Ex. 3). God has called the people of Israel to be his own people (Is. 43:1). In the same way in the New Testament God calls people from time to time through Jesus Christ (Phi. 3:14). The invitation of Christ for mission is expressed in the word of God. St. Peter records that we are called from darkness to light to proclaim the praises of God who has called us. The German theologian Karl Barth said, “The mission belongs to God” (Missio Dei). “God, the greatest missionary has sent his own Son to us, as a missionary to this world to become a sacrifice”. We find a God who is sending. God sent his word
(Sabdh, Vachan) to this world and created, still sending his Spirit and renewing his creation and sending his people to preach. He prepares the church for people. The idea that the name of the Lord should be proclaimed even among the non – Jewish people is found in the Old Testament also. “Clap your hands, all you nations shout to God with cries of joy” (Ps. 47:1). Asaph says “The Mighty one, God, the Lord, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets” (Ps. 50:1). This call for the mission is a continuous one. The Theological implication of the call through Jesus Christ has been explained in the Epistles. “And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified” (Rom. 8:30). The responsibility is given to them those who are being called (Rom. 8:29). This call is for the expression of mission.
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The call to proclaim the Good Qualities (1 Pet. 2:1-10)
“… that you may declare the praises of him who called you …” (1 Pet. 2:9,10; 1 Cor. 1:9; 1Thess. 2:10; 2 Pet. 1:3). The society which was under superstitions and bad customs was called into the wonderful light. Jesus, who is the light of the world (Jn.8:12) has changed those being called as light (Matt. 5:14). He made them a people those who were not a people. Those who have been denied mercy have received mercy. He made them a people who were elected. They became a Holy tribe belonging to God as a priestly people. The reason for this election is very clear – to preach the goodness of one who has called them.
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The call of the Risen Christ (Jn. 20:19-23)
The call of God is ultimate (Phil. 3:14), Heavenly (Heb. 3:1) and Holy (2 Thi. 1:9). The resurrected Christ appeared to his disciples. He said, “As the father has sent me I am also sending you” (Jn.20:22). Jesus breathed upon them and said to them “Receive the Holy Spirit”. Jesus again said in another occasion that when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will receive power and become my witnesses (Acts 1:8). One thing is important here. As John said the mission that is given to them is for the forgiveness of sins of all the people. “If you forgive anyone his sin, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven” (Jn. 20:23). Today the world needs forgiveness. Forgive every one or give forgiveness to all. This is another form of the expression of love. Christ appeared and showed his hands, sides and his wounds (Lk. 24:40, Jn. 20:27). When God sent his son, to this world he has received these wounds. We should remember that in the same way as the father has sent the son, the son is also sending us. Mathew gives another form of this as great commandment (Matt. 28:19, 20). Teach everything that Jesus has taught, make them to obey and then make them disciples. Mark says this in another way, preach the gospel to all creation (Mk. 16:15). Thus, the call of Christ for the mission continues.
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The call to Bless (Ez. 34:25-31)
God has called us for peace (1 Cor. 7:15; Col. 3:15) and freedom (Gal. 5:13). Those who are called for the purpose of mission are a blessing for others. Christ’s message should not be limited to words alone but it should be expressed in our actions. Not only ‘preach the Kingdom of God’ but also heal the sick, release the captives and expel the evil powers of injustice (Lk. 4:19; Matt. 10:7,8). St. Paul says, “the Kingdom of God is not in words but in its power”. It should be expressed in actions. The Old Testament promises that those who are being called would be a sign of blessing. “I will bless them and the places surrounding my hill. I will send down showers in season; there will be showers in season; there will be showers of blessing” (Ez. 34:26). Many those who have gone to different parts of the world reacted against the evils of the society. In places where education was lacking they introduced literacy. They involved in other humanitarian concerns. The missionary contribution for modern societies whereever the gospel of Jesus has gone is known to everyone. They have become a blessing to the society. Let the society that is being exploited be liberated! (Ez. 34:28, 31). The word church (
Ecclesia) has come from the Greek root
Kaleo which means to call. The church is a called out community with a special purpose. We are called out to proclaim the goodness of God, to be sent as the Father has send and be a blessing to many.
Collect:
God of care and compassion, we thank and praise you for the energy of Holy Spirit breathed on the Church to obey your commission to be in the mission of forgiveness and love. We thank you for extending such an invitation through your Son and our savior Jesus Christ to be an expression of mission in ourselves and work with the Holy Spirit to establish justice and peace in and through the mission of God. Build us as living stones of your spiritual houses to be a holy priesthood in offering ourselves as spiritual sacrifices acceptable to you in Jesus Christ who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.
Amen.
April 28
4th Sunday after Easter
Believing in Christ: The Resurrection
Old Testament : 2 Kings 4: 27-37
Psalm : 90
Epistle : Acts 26:12-23
Gospel : Jn. 11: 17-28
Verse for meditation:
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies’” (Jn. 11:25).
The resurrection of the dead was not a clear subject during the Old Testament times. Even the disciples of Jesus expressed their doubt in this matter (Mk. 9:9, 10). Resurrection is known in different phraseology – the resurrection of the just (Lk. 14:13, 14), the resurrection from the dead (Ph. 3:10,11), the resurrection for life (Jn. 5:28,29) and the first resurrection (Rev. 20:6). The resurrection ‘from among the dead’ has been found in 49 places in the New Testament, out of these 34 references point to the resurrection of Jesus. Three references talk about the doubtful talks of John the Baptist and another three tells about the resurrection of Lazarus. St. Paul uses these words to indicate lifting from the status of the death of sin to a spiritual life (Rom. 6:13, 11:5; Eph. 5:14). Again this reference is given in four places to indicate the future resurrection of the believers (Mk. 12:25; Lk. 20:35.36; Acts 4:12; Phi. 3:11). The important basic teaching of the church is to believe in Jesus who is the resurrection and the life. Jesus says “I am the resurrection and the life” (Jn. 11:25). No one can please God without faith (Heb. 11:6). Whenever Jesus healed the sick, he used to repeat “your faith has saved you”. Faith inspires us to stand firm even in the midst of troubles. The faith is that when storms are against us and the boat is sinking due to wild waves ‘He will come to us’. As we are sinking he will hold us with his hands (Matt. 14:22-33). “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God” (Ps. 90:2). Nothing will happen to us without the knowledge of this God. We come together in worship to confirm such a faith. The reason is faith comes by hearing and hearing comes by the word of Christ (Rom.10:17). The growth and increasing of faith is based on our trust in the resurrection of Jesus.
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The faith that gives resurrection (2 Kings 4:27-37)
The prophet Elisha was informed of the death of the only son of the wealthy Shunammite. This lady was barren and was blessed with a child through the blessings of Elisha. The text in 2 Kings 4:27-37 deals with the episode of this child being dead and brought back to life. The Bible records many such supernatural acts done by this prophet. In the same way the message of the church is a message of faith that brings life to lifeless people and society. ‘A God who gives life to bones’ enables a broken society to stand as a multitude of army (Ez. 37:1-6). This is the work of resurrection.
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The faith that brings witness (Acts 26:12-23)
Acts 26:1-23 explains the testimony of Paul that he gives during his trial before King Agrippa. Paul had an aim, “All those who hear my preaching should become like me”. He received such courage even to die for Christ through his deep faith in Him. The promise of the Lord Jesus is that ‘You would become my witnesses when the Holy Spirit comes upon you’ (Acts 1:8, Jn. 14:16,26, 16:8-13). This should be the main aim of the Christian church also. This vision gives direction and aim to preach the message to the church. Paul was very clear of his aim. He believed that the divine vision for him is this. “So then king Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven. First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles also, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds” (Acts 26:19,20).
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Faith towards eternal life (Jn. 11:17-28)
The final hope of Christian life is eternal life. The hope that ‘he who believes in me will never die’ (Jn. 11:26) is the ultimate blessing that could be received in this spiritual life. This is the greatest philosophy that Jesus declares at the resurrection of Lazarus. One may attain many things but if he doesn’t accept eternal life there is no use (Matt. 16:26). The greatness of Christian life lies on the fact that beyond this life there is a life and reaching that life is only through resurrection.
Collect:
Almighty God, you have exalted Jesus Christ and made him Lord of all. Give us faith and courage to believe and follow the Christ who is the resurrection and the source of our eternal life. Open our eyes and help us to overcome our unbelief and unfaithfulness so that we may also witness and proclaim His life affirming and redemptive acts through our words and deeds; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end
Amen.
April 21
3rd Sunday after Easter
Community formation around resurrection experience
Old Testament : Is. 25:1-9
Psalm : 126
Epistle : Acts 4:32-37
Gospel : Lk.24:13-35
Verse for meditation:
“And saying, ‘it is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon’. Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread” (LK. 24:34,35).
‘Community’ is a New Testament usage with a wider meaning. This is a status in which people are united in fellowship. The Bible uses this word 22 times. The New Testament uses the word ‘
Koinonia’ 19 times. This word has been translated with the following meanings – become intimate, observe fellowship, become friendly, become partner, become share holder etc. Community fellowship indicates the social relationship of the believers within themselves, their co – operation in the divine services and their oneness with the Trinity. The basic aspects of community are a natural unity and equality which negates all external differences of time. Christian spirituality is the spirituality of community. God has maintained not only personal relationships but also community relationships. The Lord was adding to the church those who are saved (Acts 2:47). The beginning of the church is the origin of the fellowship with the resurrection experience. As the Lord appeared to the disciples and strengthened them with the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost and from that day onwards a small community called church began to grow. This was the resurrection of a people. Like this the resurrection of the people of God can be seen in the Old Testament also. Psalm 126:2 talks of a people who returned from slavery: “Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy”. After the days of slavery the following statement talks of resurrection experience: “Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy” (Ps. 126:5). This joy of resurrection was also experienced by the Church of the first century. This community had many notable characteristics.
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A Rejoicing Community (Is. 25:1-9)
The fellowship (Communion) of resurrection is rejoicing in God. In other words the church of the first centaury was a communion in the experience of resurrection. The Lord has wiped out the tears from their eyes (Is. 25:1). All their shame has gone away from them. They will say: ‘He is the Lord: we are waiting for him let us rejoice and be happy in his salvation’ (Is. 25:9). This community was always intimidated and despised. But now they have received a resurrection. This resurrection experience is reaping with songs of joy and carrying sheaves by those who are going out weeping and carrying seeds to sow.
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A Mutually Caring Community (Acts 4:32-37)
The Church of the first century was a community of caring and sharing. But this status did not last long. But at the beginning stages of this community, “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had” (Acts 4:32). As we say that there were no one with a need it should be understood that there were no rich people also. As the Christian community claims the experience of resurrection let us at least think how far we can practically form a social structure that will share and care for one another. This is the challenge of the modern spirituality.
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A Community Witnessing Christ (Lk. 24:13-35)
The resurrected Jesus appeared to different people in various ways (Mk. 16:12). Once, when Cleopas and another person travelled from Jerusalem to Emmaus, the Lord was also walking along with them. Though they were walking without knowing that Jesus was walking with them finally they recognized him. As they were reaching the village to which they were to go, Jesus was pretending as if he was going forward. The request they prayed to Jesus is very interesting. They compelled Jesus saying, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over” (Lk.24:29). Jesus who went to stay with them took the bread, blessed it, broke it and gave to them during the meal. At the very moment their eyes were opened and they recognized Jesus. They returned to Jerusalem and proclaimed that Jesus has indeed resurrected (Lk. 24:32-35). Thus those who recognized Jesus became his witnesses.
Collect:
Resurrected God, who communicates to form communities in communion; give us the attitude of oneness and sharing, implant within us a heart of brotherhood and a sense of sharing. Transform our selfish attitude and enable us to share our tables with the deprived and those without the basic needs. Help us to be a refuge to the poor and the needy and to be in solidarity to share the good news. Inspire us that, we may be enlightened to recognize you in our midst. This we ask in the name of our Lord Jesus, who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
April 14
2nd Sunday after Easter
Identifying Risen Lord in the Work Place
Old Testament : Ruth 2:1-18
Psalm : 15
Epistle : Acts 9:36-43
Gospel : Jn. 21:1-14
Verse for meditation:
“Afterward Jesus appeared to his disciples, by the Sea of Tiberias… ” (Jn.21:1).
We need the presence of Christ in our work places also. Many challenges confront us in our work place. In John 21:1-14 we find ‘experiencing the risen Christ at the work place’. Jesus appeared to Simon Peter and his team who went for fishing. The Lord has visited him in this fashion at an earlier time also. This has brought him to a new decision (Lk. 5:1-11). The Lord’s vision is given to men at different areas in different circumstances. This is what the experiences say. The greatest blessing is the ability to identify divine visitations in different ways.
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The Redemption Received at the Field of Boaz (Ruth 2:1- 4)
The book of Ruth tells the story of the redemption received by the widow Ruth. Ruth was a woman who lived during the time of the judges. Ruth was married by Mahlon, the eldest son of Elimelech and Naomi. This family which was transplanted due to the famine at Bethlehem met with many tragedies. All men of this family have died. Thus, Ruth and Naomi returned to Bethlehem. Lost all her hopes, Naomi lamented: “Don’t call me Naomi”, She told them, “Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter” “I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty” (Ruth 1:20-21). During the harvest of wheat, Ruth went to glean in the field of Boaz, who was a wealthy person from the clan of Elimelech. Boaz was attracted by the industrious nature and the reformed character of Ruth. Thus, Boaz redeemed Ruth. Ruth is visualized here as one being received mercy from God at the work place. A broken tribe has been rebuilt. Jesus the Messiah was born in this tribe (Matt. 1:5).
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Resurrection of Tabitha (Acts 9:36 – 43)
Tabitha was a lady who engaged herself in the cloth production industry (Acts. 9:39). She did many good and charitable works. She was raised to life through Peter from her unexpected demise. She being brought to life was happy news to the Christians at Joppa. Many those who have heard this news believed in the Lord (Acts. 9:42). Following this Peter stayed in the house of Simon the tanner for many days and engaged him in the missionary work. Peter has been called for the vision to the non Jewish people at this place (Acts. 10).
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The Transformation of Peter (Jn. 21:1-14)
Peter who went back to the old job was confronted by Jesus. Jesus came in search of Peter and his friends. Christ who appeared at the shore of the Tiberius sea prepared breakfast and was waiting for them (Jn. 21:1-14). Now this place is known as
Menza Christi, which means ‘the table of Christ’. The word
Menza is also used for cafeteria in German language. Presently, there is a small church built at this place. The love of the host here is the love seeking the backslider. These guests are not those who do the will of the host, yet the host is waiting for them. The vision that Peter received at his work place transformed him. He was led to a deeper repentance and apostolic ministry. May God help us to receive the vision of Christ in our work place just like the redemption received by Ruth, the resurrection of Tabitha and the transformation of Peter.
Collect:
Empowering God, who meets us in our work places; help us to identify you in our work places. As disciples could recognize our Lord in the sea when they were fishing, enable us to find your enlightening presence among those who toil hard in their places of employment. Enable us to accommodate the deprived ones and to be kind towards people around us. So that they may find shelter, comfort and hope in our spaces. This we ask in the name of our Lord Jesus, who continues to meet us in our work places and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever.
Amen
April 7
1st Sunday after Easter
Encounter with the Risen Lord
Old Testament : Gen.32:22-32
Psalm : 40
Epistle : Acts 9:1-18
Gospel : Jn. 20:24-29
Verse for meditation:
“He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, ‘Saul, Saul why do you persecute me?’” (Acts. 9:4).
The resurrection of Jesus is not a mythology. The resurrected Jesus appeared to many people for 40 days and explained matters concerning the kingdom of God and showed through illustration that he is alive (Acts 1:3). Paul also records the appearances of Jesus to many in his writings (1 Cor. 15:4-8). In the same way, Sadhu Sunder Singh who is called the Indian Apostle also had many visions and appearances from Jesus. There happened divine appearances even in the Old Testament times before the public ministry of Jesus – to Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Joshua and many other prophets. Those who received such a divine revelations lived a separate life. This can happen in many ways. It need not be as super natural experiences but can be divine interventions in the day today life.
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Divine Encounter and the Formation of God’s People (Gen. 32:22-32)
The divine encounter of Jacob paved the way for the inauguration of a people group. Jacob is going to meet his brother Esau after a long gap of 22 years. He was sitting at the banks of the river Jabbok, that night all alone with a heavy heart. Suddenly a man appeared to him. Jacob asked for boon with penitential prayers (Hos.12:4). Jacob would have realized that it was a divine visitation. His name was changed his name from Jacob to Israel. That night was the birth of a great nation. Divine encounter brings not only changes to individuals but also creates great people. When we say that God has blessed Jacob, there is another side for this thought. In the person to person encounter, the angel of the Lord touched his thigh, so he could not walk properly. So till today the Jewish people do not eat the tendon attached to the socket of the hip (Gen. 32:25,32). On one side Jacob was blessed but on the other side Jacob became lame. This limping starts at the dawn of another day. That morning was the blessing of a total people of God. In life, when there are sufferings and sacrifices on one side, on the other side new day break and blessings will happen.
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The Encounter with Christ and the Beginning of a New Message (Acts 9:1-18)
The divine encounter of Paul marked the beginning of a great message. The conversion of Paul is another ideal example quoted for the change that the vision of the risen Christ gives. Saul, who was against Jesus Christ, became a preacher. He himself says about it (1 Cor. 15:4-8). Through the variety of divine visions what is important for life would undergo a total metamorphosis. The principal thought is that ‘if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old is gone’. Paul’s confrontation with Christ gave a sea of change to the life of Paul. It also became the reason for the preaching of the gospel among the non Jewish people.
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Encounter with the risen Christ the Beginning of a New Faith (Jn. 20:24-29)
‘The faith declaration’ of Thomas – “My Lord and my God!” (Jn. 20:28), has marked the beginning of a new faith. This confession has become the confession of the whole Christian church. His faith has increased. Here also we find a progressive change in faith. Thomas was even ready to die along with Jesus (Jn. 11:16). It can also be found that at one instance Thomas inquisitively inquired Jesus about the way and the place to which He is going (Jn. 14:5).
All the Apostles confess and confirm that Jesus Christ is Lord (Rom. 1:1,4, 10:9,10, 15:5,32, Colo. 1:5, 2 Thess. 1:11, 2:1,14, 3:12,18, Phili. 25, Jud. 25). The Jewish people addressed God
Adonai rather than Jehovah.
Adonai means ‘the Lord’. In the Septuagint and in the Greek New Testament the Greek word
ho – kurios is used to mean Lord. The phrase ‘Jesus the Lord’ is the essence of the Christian creed. St. Paul also affirmed that God has made this Jesus whom you crucified as Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36). Peter introduced Jesus as Lord at the house of Cornelius (Acts 10:36). Luke calls Jesus a number of times as Lord. Paul strongly recommends confessing Jesus as Lord (Rom. 10:9). Lord is the word which means ‘one who has authority’ or ‘ownership’. Paul admonished to believe Jesus as Lord in the heart and confess with the mouth to attain salvation (Rom. 10:9). The phrase ‘My Lord and My God’ is a respectful way of addressing Roman emperors. When one buys a house from another, the total ownership is being handed over to the new buyer. All the keys of the house are handed over to the buyer. The old owner has got no right to withhold either a room or a shelf in a room. All the keys must be handed over to the new owner. This is called handing over the ownership. What intended here is that all the areas of our life need to be given into the hands of the Lord, our owner. This is a total surrender of life.
If we are not our own, our owner is someone else, we need not be disappointed by the problems and accidents in our lives. A person who lives in a rented house need not be worried about the house. The tenant need not be worried about a crack on the wall or a leakage on the roof. He only needs to inform its owner. Repairing the house is the responsibility of the owner of the house. When our owner is someone else why should we be worried? We need to tell the problems to the owner alone. God is our owner. The creator God! He is Lord and God. We don’t belong to ourselves but to God (1 Cor. 6:19). Therefore, the Lord also has said, ‘do not be worried’ (Matt. 6:25-32, Lk. 12:5-7, Phil. 4:6). The divine vision of Jacob inaugurated a new people group. The encounter of Paul with the risen Christ marked the beginning of a new message. The Christ vision of Thomas brought in a new faith declaration to the church.
Collect:
Omnipresent God, who encounters people in their journey of life; as you have met Jacob and Paul on their way, meet us when we move against your will; touch us when we wrestle with you; rename us to proclaim your transforming presence in our lives; awaken our spirit to affirm and witness unto you and transform us to move across the man made boundaries that divide people, that we may be harbingers of peace and reconciliation. We pray this prayer in the name of Jesus who lives with the Father and the Holy Spirit, world without end.
Amen.
March 31
Easter
Resurrection: Celebrating the Joy of Salvation
Old Testament : Ex.14:5-31
Psalm : 118: 14-29
Epistle : Col. 3:1-11
Gospel : Matt. 28:1-10
Verse for meditation:
“The angel women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay’” (Matt. 28:5, 6).
Paul argues, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith” (1 Cor. 15:14). The important basis of Christian faith is the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of the joy of resurrection of Jesus Christ is to be celebrated because resurrection of Christ is the hope of the breaking down humanity. If there is a sleep there is an up. If there is a Friday there is a Sunday also. No one can bury the truth for a long time. Truth will resurrect for sure – more powerfully. All the Apostles record the resurrection of Jesus (Matt. 28, Mk. 16, Lk.24, Jn. 20, 21, 1 Cor. 15). The resurrection of the dead is proved at many occasions since the Old Testament. There are incidents of resurrection in the Old Testament at the time of Elijah and Elisha (1 Kings 17:17-23, 2 Kings 4:26-37). It is noted that David says with hope in the Psalm, “I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done” (Ps. 118:17). Luke records, “…Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!” (Lk. 24:5, 6).
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The resurrection of the people of Israel (Ex. 14:5-31)
God saw the slavery and heard the cry of the people of Israel for a long 430 years in Egypt. God never allows anyone to suppress the man who has been created in the image and likeness of God. Therefore, he delivered the people of Israel from slavery with great miracles and mighty acts. This is the first ever story of liberation in the History of the world. Whenever such situations occurred God had taken initiative to declare resurrection (Amos 9:7, Is. 19:20-25). People of Israel who crossed the Red Sea shouted and celebrated their resurrection. Miriam, the sister of Moses sang and danced with a tumbrel (Ex. 15:20). All the people of Israel including Moses sang and praised God (Ex. 15:1, 21). The resurrection of Christ is also to be celebrated and preached to them those who had never heard.
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The risen Christ (Matt. 28:1-10)
The resurrection of Jesus Christ should be celebrated by proclaiming the message of that salvation to others The angels declared to the ladies who went to the tomb ‘to come and see the place where he has been laid’ and to go fast and inform this message to the disciple (Matt. 28:6,7, Mk. 16:7, Jn. 20:17). Those who have come and seen should go and tell. Here a call is given to declare the message of the resurrection of Jesus Christ to others. Through this message it is informed that those who have known and experienced Jesus should inform others. That is why Paul says, “Owe to me if I do not preach the gospel” (1 Cor. 9:16). He also asks “How, then, can they call on the one they not believed in? And how can they believed in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent?” (Rom. 10:9-17).
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The resurrected Church (Col. 3:1-11)
St. Paul says, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things about, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God” (Col. 3:1). Those who believe in the resurrection of Christ should search for the things above. They should travel through the steps beyond mundane levels. They should throw away the old man along with his works and put on the renewed man. It means the experience of resurrection should be revealed in the day today life. The resurrection of Jesus is challenging us to live in this renewed experience day by day. Paul teaches that through faith in Jesus Christ a believer lives in the experience of resurrection (Rom. 6:1-5).
Collect:
God of our very being from everlasting to everlasting, we thank and praise you for your unending love towards the whole world in sending your son Jesus Christ into this world to save the world through his death and resurrection. We are grateful for your life giving power which broke the evils of sin on the cross and raised Jesus our Lord from death as a gift for our salvation. Empower us to continue to celebrate life with your creation. We pray this in the name of our savior Jesus Christ who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.
Easter
Long before Jesus there was a celebration in the name of Easter. There is a story behind this festival. A miraculous big egg fell on the river Euphrates from the sky. Fishes pushed it to the shore. The doves hatched the egg and the goddess named Astarte or Ishtar (the goddess of Easter) came out. Easter is another word for Astarte. There was a Babylonian goddess also by the name Easter. It means queen of heaven (Ishtar = queen of heaven, a Babylonian goddess). The celebration in the name of this goddess is called Easter. The Hebrews hate goddess Astarte and the worship towards her (1 Sam. 7:13, 1 kings 11:5, 33, 2 kings 23:13, Jer. 7:18,44:18).
March 29
Good Friday
Cross: Death of Death
Old Testament : Num. 21:1-9
Psalm : 22
Epistle : 1 Cor. 15:50-58
Gospel : Matt. 27:1- 56
Verse for meditation:
“Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified” (Matt. 27:26).
The main focus of the
kerygma of the apostles was ‘Christ crucified’. Though the cross was considered as disrespect in those days in the site of the Christian believers it was Holy and invaluable. The early Christians have accepted the cross as a Christian symbol long before the time of Emperor Constantine. We have proof to show the sign of the cross at their tombs. “We preach Christ crucified” – this was the prestigious declaration of Paul. The cross has acquired the Christological importance since Christ has suffered the humiliation upon a cross though at one time it was a sign of disrespect and lowliness.
Stowros is the Greek noun form used for cross. This word is used 28 times and its verbal form
stowro (crucify) is used 46 times in the New Testament. The root meaning of the word
stowros is ‘a strait log or wood’. In due course the instrument on which the death penalty executed was also called
stowros. There is no proof in the Old Testament to point that any one has been crucified alive. But those executed were hanged on the tree as a warning to others (Duet. 21:22, 23; Jos. 10:26; Num. 25:4). Those who are hanged on the tree are considered as cursed (Gal. 3:13). Thus the cross of Christ also has been considered as shame (Acts 5:30, 10:39, 13:29) by his enemies. The practice of hanging on the tree was prevalent in Egypt (Gen. 40:19), Carthage, Persia (Est. 7:10), Assur, Greece and Rome. Slaves and mean criminals were usually crucified. Roman citizens were never crucified. Therefore, it is considered that Paul was beheaded and Peter was crucified. Emperor Constantine stopped the punishment of crucifixion.
There were mainly four types of crosses. The ordinary cross (I) is a single log. The criminal is tied on this log, his hands lifted up and either tied on the log or nailed. The second type is called Latin cross (
+). In this cross a horizontal log is tied almost at the top of the vertical log. The criminal is hanged on the vertical log and his hands stretched left and right to the horizontal log and nailed or tied. The third one is called Saint Antony’s cross (
T). The fourth type is called Saint Andrew’s cross (
X). Apart from these there were other crosses called Greek cross with all arms of the same length, double cross and triple cross. There were religions before Christ which used the symbol of cross. In the costumes of the priest of Egyptian god of light, Hores, the sign of cross was marked. In the monuments at Phoenicia the symbol of cross was found inscribed. But through the death of Jesus on the cross it has become the symbol of salvation and redemption of mankind. Following this in different countries various types of crosses have emerged. Different church groups accepted crosses of different shapes. For example, the ecumenical cross, Jerusalem cross, Latin cross, Anchor cross, Lotus cross, Presbyterian cross, Celtic cross, Malter’s cross, Cecia cross, Barbie cross, Cantenbery cross, Alpha Omega cross etc.
The day that God submitted his son Jesus for death on the cross for the deliverance of humanity is observed by Christians as Good Friday. The revelation of love, forgiveness and self denial is witnessed at the cross. Cross was a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Greeks who were wise. But it was the symbol of Divine Wisdom (1 Cor.1:18, 23, 24). Cross was a symbol of disrespect, lowliness and curse (Deut. 21:23, Gal. 3:13). Jesus has accepted the cross, neglecting the disrespect of the cross (Heb. 12:2). He suffered unto the death on a cross (Phil. 2:8). Christians believe that the death of Christ was not a murder. Moreover it was not martyrdom, suicide, an accident or an ordinary death. Rather it was the sacrifice of His Son prepared by God. Through the death of Jesus, ‘death’ happened to death. The wages of sin was death (Rom. 6:23). Christ has carried this death on the cross. It proved that death is not the end for man. He gave us a life beyond death by defeating death (Rom. 5:12-21).
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Death of Death (Matt. 27:1-56)
As Jesus experienced the horrible death on the cross, he has destroyed the power of death forever that was a threat to humanity. Jesus died on the cross submitting his life with all hopes into the hands of the father, without fearing death. As in the Psalms, Jesus is also found shouting, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mk. 15:34, Ps. 22:1). This can be considered as the totality of the father granting his son for humanity (Jn. 3:16). Paul asks the question as God has given his son will he not give everything to us (Rom. 8:32). The father has forsaken the son on the cross for the sake of humanity. Therefore he, will never forsake those who come to him (Heb. 13:5,6).
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Victory over death (1 Cor. 15:50-58)
We have victory through Jesus Christ because Jesus has challenged death, “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death is your sting?” (1 Cor. 15:55-57). The Christian faith propagates that death is not the end of life. Paul is emphasizing this point very strongly. Isaiah is making a prophecy regarding the servant of the Lord (Is. 52:13-53:12). This prophecy has been interpreted as a prophecy regarding Jesus. “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed” (Is.53:3–5). The victory over death is that God rejecting his own son for our sake attained victory over death for ever.
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Those looked unto him were saved (Num. 21:1-9)
When the people of Israel murmured against Moses and God, God has sent venomous snakes. They have bitten the people and many Israelites died. Then Moses prayed to God. A God gave a command to Moses. “The Lord said to Moses, make a snake and put it upon a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live” (Num. 21:8). Thus, the people were saved from mass destruction. Jesus also said, “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert so the son of the man must be lifted up…” (Jn. 3:13). Paul also says, “… Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified” (Gal. 3:1). Christ is the only way of salvation whom God has lifted up even today for humanity to look up and be saved.
Collect:
Merciful God, who in your love for the whole creation conquered death by the death and resurrection of your Son on the cross; thus redeemed the potters’ field by the ransom of your Son Jesus Christ to find a solace for the dead. Redeem the oppressed. We realize our weakness, awaken and enlighten us that that we may find joy in practicing doing your will in our lives. In the name of God who sent his Son to this world, the Christ who trampled death on the cross and the Holy Spirit who continues to be a companion in our weakness, now and ever.
Amen
Seven words of the cross
The seven words of the cross are generally discussed during the meditation of the crucifixion of Jesus. These seven words are compiled together from the four written gospels. All seven verses are not seen in all gospels. Seven indicates completeness – seven churches, seven stars, seven lamps, seven seals, seven trumpets, seven festivals and Seven days. Thus the number seven is given importance in the Bible. Because of this the thought of seven words also would have started.
- “Jesus said, Father forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing. And they divided up his clothes by casting lots” (Lk. 23:34).
- “Jesus answered him, I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise” (Lk. 23:43).
- “When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother”. From that time on, this disciple took her into home” (Jn. 19:26,27)
- “About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which means, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matt. 27:46, Mk. 15:34).
- “Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said I am thirsty” (Jn. 19:28).
- “When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished”. With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit” (Jn. 19:30).
- “Jesus called out with a loud voice, Father, into your hands I commit my spirit. When he had said this, he breathed his last” (Lk. 23:46).
These seven words may be condensed as follows. First three words are for men – for those who crucified him, for those crucified with him and for the mother. Next two words are for himself – why you have forsaken me, I thirst. Out of the next two words one points to the past (it is finished) and next one points to the feature (into your hands I submit my soul).
Three words are prayers to God. Next three words are dialogue with men, one with the world. In the same way it is also interpreted that Jesus is speaking to the father above and the men below through this seven words. The first and the last are prayers towards the father, the second an answer to the thief on the cross and the fourth one is a prayer towards God. In the same way out of the eight prayers of Jesus in the Gospels the last one is the prayer on the cross. Mathew and Mark record only one word out of the seven. Luke and John record three words each.
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“Jesus said, Father forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing. And they divided up his clothes by casting lots” (Lk. 23:34)
In the Lord’s Prayer also the request for forgiveness is very powerful (Matt. 6:12,14,15). The famous writer Robert Louis Stephenson of South Sea Island went out on the occasion of the family prayer when Lord’s Prayer was recited. He responded that he has no moral courage to say the words ‘forgive us our trespasses as we forgive others’. The reason was that he had not forgiven to many others. The poet Alexander Pope has said, “To err is human but to forgive is divine”. The parable of the forgiving of the 10,000 talents is to be remembered here (Matt. 18:21-35). Jesus instructs to forgive before prayer and before sacrificing (Mk. 11:25, Matt. 5:23, 24). The Apostles also taught to forgive one another (2 Cor. 2:7, Eph: 4:32). Remember that you will be forgiven only when you forgive.
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“Jesus answered him, I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise” (Lk. 23:43)
Even at the point of great agony Jesus is sharing the gospel with another person. ‘Today’ is the voice of faith. Today, I will stay in your house; today salvation has come to this house. Today is the day of salvation; such words are of great importance (2 Cor. 6:2, Lk. 19:5, 19:9). Jesus is reaffirming the thought that prostitutes and tax collectors will enter into the Kingdom of God before you (Matt. 21:31), through his promise of paradise to an accused crucified along with him. We cannot separate anyone from entering into the kingdom of God. Jesus has said, ‘many who are first will be last and many who are last will be first’ (Matt. 19:30, 20:16, 22:14). The same concept is depicted through the character of Andrew Saviour in the writing of
Perumpadavam called
“Aroopiyude Moonaam Prave (The third dove of the Holy Spirit)”. This is the hope of any sinner.
When we analyze the repentance of the thief on the cross, there are certain visible progressive steps (Lk. 23:39-43).
- He feared God.
- He agreed that he is a sinner.
- He declared the innocence of Jesus, praised Jesus.
- He witnessed a king in Jesus.
- Requested for eternal life.
This word gives the message that the Lord will forgive all men those who repent and request for forgiveness at all times.
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“When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother”. From that time on, this disciple took her into home” (Jn. 19:26,27)
This is the statement of Jesus who gives everything belongs to him for others. Here Jesus is handing over his mother to John. The thought that the mother is to be worshiped is not here. She is the blessed lady among women (Lk. 1:42). When the people say that the womb that bore you is blessed the words which Jesus says that those who obey the word rather than hearing it is blessed (Lk. 11:27,28, 8:19-21, Matt. 12:46-50, Mk. 3:31-35). The thought to take care of the mother is very strong here. The only commandment with a blessing is ‘respect your father and mother’ (Eph. 6:1-4). Today, the concern for the elderly is a growing need. The word of Jesus from the cross also underlines the need of showing consideration towards the elderly in our society.
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“About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which means, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matt. 27:46, Mk. 15:34).
This verse is reported by both Mathew and Mark. This verse may be a completion of Psalm 22:1. It is a prayer in a mixed language pattern of, Aramaic and Greek, ‘Eli Eli…’ Some of the critics of this prayer say that it is an unclear prayer. A.T. Robertson explains it as “My power my power why have you forsaken me”. But Racco A. Errico & George M. Lamsa explains this verse as follows: “My God my God, for this purpose I was spared” or “For such a purpose have you kept me”. Another explanation says that God the father completely abandoned his son at the cross. That is to say God has trusted the total iniquity of humanity upon his son. He gave healing and peace for humanity by the stripes of Jesus (Is. 53:6, 1 Pet. 2:24).
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“Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said I am thirsty” (Jn. 19:28)
Jesus was 100% God as well as 100% man. Here the thirst of Jesus may be a physical one. Some of the Old Testament words point to this incident as a prophecy (Ps. 22:15, 69:3). They gave wine to Jesus, mixed with gall. Jesus tasted it but did not drink it (Matt. 27:34, Mk. 15:23). If he would have drunk it, he would faint. But deciding to take up the pains of the cross upon himself, he has avoided the wine mixed with gall. Luke says that ‘they offered’ him wine vinegar (Lk. 23:36). John only says that Jesus ‘received the drink’ (Jn. 19:29,30). This thirst is also explained as a spiritual thirst, a thirst for the salvation of the perishing human kind.
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It is finished (Jn. 19:30)
The statement of Jesus at the cross, ‘it is finished’ points to many truths. Jesus has fulfilled the law (Matt. 5:17). He has fulfilled the Prophets and the Scriptures. He has ‘bought with a price’ the humankind from the curse of the law (Gal. 3:14). He has shattered the works of satan and evil for ever (1 Jn. 3:8). A theologian has said about the death of Jesus as follows: “The debt of humanity to God is canceled and written off”.
Cross is Christological. Its importance lies in the salvation that has been earned through the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the son of God. Therefore, it is said that the word of the cross is the power of God for those who are saved (1 Cor. 1:18). Those who oppose the gospel would become the enemies of the cross (Phil.3:18). But, gradually the cross of Christ became a matter of praise. Thus, the word of the cross became the gospel of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:19). The wall of separation has been broken down (Eph. 2:14-16). Peace has been sought through the bloodshed of Jesus on the cross (Col. 1:20). The writing against us through the law has been untied (Col. 2: 14). What was a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Greeks was transcended into the divine wisdom for the believers (1 Cor. 1:18, 23:24). Therefore, it is said that he has finished everything.
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“Jesus called out with a loud voice, Father; into your hands I commit my spirit. When he had said this, he breathed his last” (Lk. 23:46)
Some people appreciate the death of Jesus as the most peaceful the world has ever seen, a death with self-confidence and satisfaction as he submitted his soul into the hands of the father. It is a prayer that the Jewish parents every night pray along with their children – “Father into thy hands I commit my spirit”. They all sleep well and get up in the morning. With such a refreshed nature Jesus has submitted his soul into the hands of the father. Jesus knew that ‘there is a morning of resurrection’. At the time of the death of Jesus there happened many supernatural incidents. The curtain in the temple was torn from top to bottom into two. The earth shook, rocks split apart and tombs opened. The bodies of many godly men and women were raised from the dead after Jesus’ resurrection (Matt. 27:51-53).
The curtain that has torn into two was dividing the common worshipper and the high priest. Now they all can come to the Holiest of Holies and to the throne of Grace (Heb.4:16, 10:19-21). The Apostle says that Jesus has torn down the curtain which is his body. In Christology, resurrection is an important matter. Jesus has already prophesied that he would rise from the dead on the third day (Mk. 8:31, 9:31, 10:34). Death was not able to comprehend Jesus under its power (Jn.5:26, Acts 2:24, Rom. 1:5).The message of the resurrection of Christ accelerates the importance of Christian message (1 Cor. 15:14-17). We find a hope of life beyond death in this verse.
March 28
Maundy Thursday
Eucharist: Remembering Jesus
Old Testament : Ex.12:1-17
Psalm : 116
Epistle : 1 Cor. 11:23-34
Gospel : Matt. 26:17-30
Verse for meditation:
“and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me. In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, ‘this cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me’” (1 Cor. 11:24,25).
The Lord’s Supper is also called
Eucharist. The word Eucharist has come from the Greek word Eucharisteo. It is explained in the following way also
, Eu means well/good,
charis means gift/grace. Eucharist is declaring the grace that God has given. On the night, when Jesus was betrayed, he has decided to observe the Pessaha. Jesus sent Peter and John to prepare for Pessaha feast during the feast of the unleavened bread when the Pessaha lamb is being slaughtered. The feast was arranged in a decorated upper room. The meal that Jesus had on that day has been later on observed as a sacrament by the church. Pessaha is the most important festival of the three, observed by the Jews. This is called Pessah in Hebrew and Passkha in Greek. This word means ‘passing over’. Though this feast is called, Pessaha and the feast of the unleavened bread, they both are not one. To differentiate both, the sacrifice of the Pessaha and the festival of the unleavened bread the latter is called the feast of the unleavened bread (Lev. 23:5, Ex. 12:21,48, 2 Chro.30:15). Pessaha has got the meaning of Pessaha meal also (Matt. 26:18, 19; Mk. 14:16, Lk. 22:8,13). The Pessaha meal is observed on the evening of the 14th of the month of Nisan (April). Following this a feast of unleavened bread is observed for seven days (Lev. 23:5, 6). Pessaha indicates the death of Jesus Christ on the cross and the redemption that is received through his death. St. Paul explains that Jesus is our paschal lamb (1 Cor. 5:7). Therefore, Jesus asked the Jewish disciples to remember Him as they observe Pessaha hereafter. “Do this in remembrance of me (Lk. 22:19). The reason is the long observed Pessaha is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, “… the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (Jn. 1:29).
No one other than the Jewish people should observe this (Ex. 12:42-49). But Jesus told them to observe this ‘in remembrance of him’ because he himself was the ultimate sacrifice prepared by God. Among the evangelists Luke only has recorded this verse. Some Biblical Scholars are of the opinion that the reason for not mentioning this verse by others is because the non Jewish people were not allowed to observe it or it is unimportant to them. They are of the opinion that this has become a sacrament in the non-Jewish Church only after AD 300. The reference to the ‘breaking of the bread’ in the Acts of Apostles is a reference to the breaking of the bread in Luke chapter 24 and that is only a common meal eaten together in the society (Lk. 24:30, Acts 2:12,16). The reference in 1Cor. 11:17-34 is also understood as a common meal. The following references also clear the same point “… therefore brethren when you come together for meal, wait for one another…” (1 Cor. 11: 33,34), “… while eating, each one …” (1 Cor.11:21). It is undoubtedly proved that the sacraments in the ancient church have paved the way for the strength and the growth of the church. Therefore, with devotion, repentance and self examination, we partake the bread and the wine. Today, as the Christian Church is observing the Lord’s Supper some important things happen.
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Pessaha as the shadow (Ex. 12:1-17)
Pessaha is observed as a remembrance of the saving of the Israelites from the 10th plague (the death of the first born) and the deliverance from the slavery in Egypt (Ex. 12:1-28). Following the deliverance of the people from Egypt, Jehovah accepted the people of Israel as his own people. Thus, Pessaha has laid the foundation and inaugurated the entry into a new fellowship (Hos. 2:15, Ex. 6: 6,7).
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Remember Jesus the Pascal lamb (1 Cor. 11:23 – 34)
Pessaha indicates the death of Jesus Christ on the cross and the redemption received by humanity through this. Paul explains the meaning of Pessaha as follows: “Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast – as you really are. For Christ, our Passover Lamb has been sacrificed” (1 Cor. 5:7). “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Cor. 11:26). In the Eucharist we remember the death of Jesus on the cross and his sufferings and thank God for the plan of salvation that God has given for humanity.
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Jesus the bread of life (Matt. 26:17-30)
Jesus Christ is the bread that is broken. This is the body broken for you, Jesus said on the day of Pessaha, ‘this is the blood that is shed for the remission of the sins of many’ (Matt. 26:26, 27). “… For Christ, our Passover lamb has been sacrificed” (1 Cor. 5:7). None of the bones of the Paschal lamb should be broken (Ex. 12:46, Num. 9:12). John records that this Scripture has been fulfilled at the death of Christ. The soldiers broke the legs of the two thieves who were crucified along with Jesus. But seeing that Jesus has already died his legs were not broken (Jn.19:32-37). On a Pessaha day Jesus has inaugurated the Lord’s Table (1Cor.11:23). That night was the last night of the observance of Passaha and the first instance of the observance of the Lord’s Table. Pessaha points backward to the night of the massacre of the first born and forward to the death of Christ on the cross. Therefore, there is no need to observe Pessaha after the death of Christ. The Lord’s Table views backward to the death of Christ on the cross and forward to the second coming of Christ. Therefore, after the second coming of Christ there will be no need for the observance of the Lord’s Table. That is why it is said that the observance of the Lord’s Table is ‘till he comes’. In the Pessaha the unleaveness starts. That means as one becomes ‘in Christ’ a Holy life starts (Ex. 12:15, 13:7, 1 Cor. 5:6-8, 2 Cor. 7:1).
Collect:
God our redeemer in Jesus Christ, inspire us to remember your call to participate in your redemptive mission. Teach us to break and pour out ourselves for our fellow beings, as Christ poured out Himself for us in order to give us abundant life. Help us to remember the cross of your Son, and grant us strength and courage to relive the cross, your symbol of selfgiving; through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever more.
Amen.
March 24
Palm Sunday
Hosanna: The New King in the Temple
Old Testament : Is.56:1-8
Psalm : 24
Epistle : 1 Cor. 3:16-23
Gospel : Matt. 21:1-17
Verse for meditation:
“Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in You?” (1 Cor. 3:16).
Hosanna means ‘save now’. When Jesus was entering into the Holy city Jerusalem during the triumphal entry, people were shouting ‘save now’. They have spread out cloths and branches of trees on the path way. The Messiah is their savior. In other words they were proclaiming Jesus as Messiah and king. In the Hebrew language the extended form for Hosanna is used as “Hoshi Ahna”. It means ‘save now’. This word is used in the context of women seeking help and protection from King David and Jehoram (2 Sam. 14:4, 2 Kings 6:26). Hosanna is not a cry of praise of lamentation. Rather it is a crying to God to lead the people from bondage to liberation – the reason is their expected Messiah has come. This is a quote from Ps. 118:25, 26. This Psalm is recited by the Jewish people during the festival of Booths. On all the seven days of the feast people will hold the tender palm leaves at their hands and shout Hosanna as the trumpet is blown. We understand many things from this incident where the crowd around Jesus was shouting Hosanna (Matt. 21:9, 15, Mk. 11:9, Jn.12:13).
i). This was the method of greeting the pilgrims during the festival days as they come to the temple “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. From the house of the Lord we bless you” (Ps. 118:26).
ii). “Coming in the name of the Lord”, this is a reference to the Messiah. Here it is certain that they were confessing Jesus as the Messiah. The Jews were not in need of a loving king. But they were expecting a victorious king, who will save them from the hands of their enemies.
iii). The prophet Zechariah has pronounced of a Messiah who comes riding on a donkey, ‘On a colt, the foal of a donkey’ (Zech. 9:9-12). In the oriental countries the donkey was considered as a humble animal. Jair of Gilead (the judge for Israel for about 22 years) had 30 sons who could ride on the donkey. Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth was traveling on a donkey (2 Sam. 16:1), Ahithophel, the able minister (2 Sam. 15:12, 16:23) who advised David and Absalom has travelled on the ass (2 Sam. 17:23). Prince Mephibosheth, the son of Saul came to King David on a donkey (2 Sam. 19:26). A king travels on a horse for war and on an ass for a peace treaty. Here Jesus Christ is coming to Jerusalem as the Prince of peace.
iv). This incident has been recorded as a fourfold attestation by the evangelists because this incident was so important in the life of Christ (Matt. 1:17, Mk. 11:1-10, Lk. 19:29- 46, Jn.12:12-19). Let us ponder upon some important aspects that the Palm Sunday reminds us.
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The prayer house for all people (Is. 56:1-8)
The temple of the Jewish people at Jerusalem was a symbol of pride. But Isaiah has prophesied, “… my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations” (Is. 56:7). This prophecy was fulfilled in Jesus. This prophecy is a joyful expectation given to all non Jewish people. Jesus is also quoting the same verse in his triumphal entry (Matt. 21:13). Here we find an optimistic message to reach God and to reach to the Holy presence of God.
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Jesus in the Temple (Ps. 24, Matt. 21:1-17)
Psalm 24 is a song the Jewish people sing as they enter into the temple. The heads of the ancient doors should be lifted up for the King of Glory to enter. Jehovah is the King of glory. This triumphal entry depicts that Jesus is the Messiah. The cross of Christ has brought men closer to God who have been gone astray from him. Thus, Christ has become our peace (Eph. 2:13,14). He has broken the wall of separation. Today, Christ has given freedom for men to enter in to the presence of God. Thus, Christ has become the peace with God (Rom. 5:1). As said earlier, the call ‘Hosanna’ or ‘save now’ is being heard from men even today. This is a prayer to God who saves us from sin, evil powers and disease – curse and finally from the eternal death. Those who have realized the way of salvation which God has prepared must be examples of living truth to which the palm leaves and the tree branches are symbolic. Let us thank God, who hears this cry for salvation and grants salvation for us (Acts 4:12). Every day we should experience the power of salvation that is received by faith in Christ. Because every day we pray – ‘Hosanna’, ‘save now’. Oh king of peace, come!
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Dedicate us ‘as the temple of God’ (Ps. 24, 1Cor. 3:16-23)
In the New Testament both the people and the church is explained as the temple of God. Man is the temple in which God dwells. Therefore, Jesus should enter into our lives as king of peace (Is. 9:6, Heb. 7:2). Just as Jesus has cleansed the temple, our bodies which is his temple, that is our lives need to be cleansed (1 Cor. 3:16, Rom. 12:1, 2). Today, should be a day in which we pray save us from all bondages of evil, powers of darkness, all selfishness and dedicate us, praying ‘save now – Hosanna’. Let him enter into our families to become ‘our king of the family’. May the king of glory enter, let the ancient doors be opened (Ps. 24:7-10).
Collect:
O God our liberator, the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ, your Son as a servant King was an emphatic sign that He had won over all powers and principalities of this world. By His coming He had cleansed the temple. Lord we plead let Jesus Christ reign and rule over the Church so that we the people may be cleansed from all ungodliness and turning to God with repentance to rejoice in hope. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God world without end.
Amen.
March 17
2nd Sunday before Easter
5th Sunday in Lent
Passion Sunday
Cross: A New Vision of the Messianic Age
Old Testament : Deut. 18:15-22
Psalm : 73
Epistle : 2 Cor. 1:3-11
Gospel : Luke 18:35-43
Verse for meditation:
“For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort over flows” (2 Cor. 1:5).
The message of the cross gives a new vision to humanity. This vision gives hope even in distress. The cross has become a stumbling block to the Jews, foolishness to the Greeks and a symbol of the wisdom and power of God to the faithful (1 Cor. 1:18, 23). The accused carrying his cross and walking to be crucified was a common sight during the Roman rule. This may be the reason for Jesus to compare the path of discipleship with carrying the cross (Matt. 10:38; Mk. 8:34; Lk. 14:27). St. Paul gives the call to the believers to be crucified along with Jesus (Rom. 6:1-10). The old man in us should be crucified that we should be able to walk in the newness of life (Rom. 6:4-6). Thus we have a call to carry the cross and be crucified day by day. This call inspires us to carry his shame and go outside the camp near Jesus (Heb. 13:13). Here we get the challenge for mission. Christian discipleship is a daily carrying of the cross and crucifixion. As said earlier cross is not the end of joy but it is only the beginning of hope and victory.
Many books of the Old Testament have pointed their finger to the Messianic Age. This was an awaited hope of the people of Israel. One can say that the hope for Messiah in Israel has started with the prophetic words of Moses, “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers…” (Deut. 18:15). Different prophets have viewed the Messiah in different ways – as prophet, as king, servant, one who carries our sufferings, savior, sacrifice etc. But the incomparable faith of the Christian Church is the vision of the cross – a Messiah who has been revealed through the cross. The Church should accept this new vision.
The Hebrew word
Messiah means ‘the anointed one’. In Hebrew language
Mashah and
Mashiah, in Aramaic
Meshiha and in Greek Messias (Jn. 1:41, 4:25) are used to mention the same concept. The Greek word
Christos also means ‘the anointed one’. In the Greek translation of the Hebrew Old Testament called Septuagint (LXX) the word
Christos is used 40 times to translate the Hebrew word
Meshiah. People and objects dedicated for Holy use are anointed with oil and separated. Therefore, an anointed one is a separated person. Messiah has many names – the progeny of Abraham, son of David, son of man, my son, my servant, My devoted one, sprout, prince of peace, wonderful minister, mighty God, Everlasting Father etc. The Jewish people have thoughts related to Messiah than the Christians. The Old Testament refers more than 456 times regarding the idea of Messiah. Of these 75 times in the Pentateuch (Torah), 243 times in the prophets (Nevium) and 138 times in the writings (Ketubim).
But as stated earlier, the Messiah, who has revealed in Jesus Christ is a Messiah of the cross. Though the cross was the most despicable object, in the site of the Christians it has become the most precious and Holy. Those who experience the strength of salvation praise the cross. It is not possible to pinpoint from which time the cross has become a Christian symbol. There are proofs to say that the cross has been accepted as a Christian symbol even before the time of Emperor Constantine. There were the symbols of the cross at the tombs of the early Christians. The everlasting salvation that has been completed through the death of Jesus Christ, the son of God at the cross is the reason for the importance of the cross.
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The promise of the Messianic Age (Deut. 18:14-22)
The messianic age starts with the promise of the Messiah. Moses introduced the Messiah as follows, “A prophet like me”. His special qualities are many – Raise up a prophet from among their brothers (Deut. 18:15). He will speak His words (Deut. 18:18). He will speak to the people whatever God commands him (Deut. 18:180). Jesus Christ was found as a prophet powerful in words and actions (Lk. 24:19) by the people during the New Testament times. The Samaritan woman also found Jesus as a prophet (Jn. 4:19). He came to deliver the people like Moses (Is. 61:1-3, Lk. 4:18,19). He proclaimed deliverance not only to the people of Israel but also to the whole world (Jn. 3:16, Lk. 2:10). Jesus spoke God’s words to the people. The purpose of the advent of Jesus is this.
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Comfort in sufferings (2 Cor. 1:3-11)
When sufferings increase comfort from God also increases (2 Cor. 1:5, 6). This courage is the hope of the cross He leads us towards comfort through sufferings or cross. He himself has gone through sufferings and prepared people to face life’s realities (Heb. 2:18, 4:15; Is. 53: 3-5). Therefore, the disciples of Jesus also decided to follow such a life style. St. Paul says, “For just as the suffering of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows” (2 Cor. 1:5). The method of becoming partners for comfort is found here just a experiencing death on the cross and becoming partners in suffering. This is the liberation methodology of the Messiah of the New Testament.
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The Messianic deliverance given by the cross (Lk. 18:35-43)
During the earthly ministry of Jesus those who found him as Messiah requested for liberation in his own method. This is found in the call of Bartimaeus ‘Jesus, son of David’ (Lk. 18:38, Matt. 9:24, Mk. 10:47). John has given testimony that seeing the signs that happened through Jesus Christ huge crowds followed Jesus (Jn. 6:2). This liberation promises the message of the cross. “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed” (1Pet. 2:24, Matt. 8:17). The Messiah who bears the cross declared liberation to humanity. Therefore, even today we are praying courageously to Jesus Christ.
Collect:
Our parent God, your Son Jesus Christ accepted vicarious suffering for the sake of us. He was bruised, wounded and afflicted for our trespasses and sinfulness. He became a wretched and sinner to cleanse us from all wretchedness and sinfulness. The sign of the cross constantly reminds us that He died in order that we may live. Empower us with this challenge so that we suffer for the sake of righteousness, which would enhance ourselves for the coming of the Messiah, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God world without end.
Amen.
March 10
3rd Sunday before Easter
4th Sunday in Lent
True worship that Liberates
Old Testament : Ex. 3:11-18
Psalm : 137
Epistle : Acts 16:25-34
Gospel : Lk. 13:10-17
Verse for meditation:
“And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt you will worship God on this mountain” (Ex. 3:12).
God said to Moses to inform Pharaoh to set the people of Israel free to worship God. “… ‘let my people go, so that they may worship me’” (Ex. 8:1). ‘True worshipers will worship God in truth and spirit’ is the philosophy taught by Jesus himself (Jn.4:24). In a true worship there is the power of liberation. God liberates – frees his people and he himself is the leader. God is the trust and hope of those who are under bondage. God given liberation is abundant. It includes spiritual, social and physical liberations. The liberation movement that was being led by Moses in the book of Exodus was ‘Theo centric’. God had taken initiative for the liberation. God was preparing the people for liberation. Worship is the external expression of the love, faith, respect and
bhakthi (devotion) towards God. It is ascribing divine glory and respect to God. In Hebrew and Greek languages more than one word is being used to mean worship. The most used word in Hebrew is
Shahah. The meaning is to worship (Gen. 18:2). Old Testament uses this word almost 170 times. The words like
sagath and
lahatsivah are also found being used. The Greek language uses the word
proscuneyo (pros + cuneyo) mostly. The root meaning of the verb cuneyo is to ‘kiss’. The verbal form of this word is used to mean to worship God (Matt. 4:10, Jn.4:21-24, 1 Cor. 14:25, Rev. 4:10, 5:14, 7:11), and Christ (Matt. 2:2,8,11, 8:2, 9:18, 14:33, 15:25, 20:20, 28:9,17, Jn. 9:38, Heb. 1:6), and worship man (Matt. 18:26), the great serpent (Rev. 13:4), the beast (Rev. 3:4,8,12; 14:9,11), the image of the animal (Rev.13:15, 14:11, 16:2), demons (Rev. 9:20) and images (Acts 7:43).
Sebomai (Matt15:9, Mk. 7:7, Acts 18:13, 19:27) is another word used in the sense of respecting.
Latruvo (Phi. 3:3, Acts 7:42, 24:14; Heb. 10:2) is a Greek word very rarely used to mean religious service and homage. A worship which is offered extempore without any external inducement from others is meant by the word
ethelothriskeya (Col. 2:23). Worship is as old as humanity. It is found from the time of Cain and Aabel. From the time of Anosh, the grandson of Adam, worship has been started in the name of Jehovah (Gen. 4:26). Noah offered burnt offerings (Gen. 6:9, 8:20). Following this Abraham and his progeny who were shepherds built altars wherever they pitched their tents and worshiped God (Gen. 12:7, 13:4,18). Alters were very simple. They were built with stones and soil. People offered clean domesticated animals at the alters. All offerings were burnt offerings. The incident of the attempted sacrifice of Isaac shows that the sacrificed animal is only symbolic and the devotion of the human heart is the core of sacrifice (Gen. 22:12, 13). Jacob also worshiped God (Gen. 28:18, 35:14). Later on when the people of Israel came into existence as a kingdom, better arrangements were needed to take care of the religious institution. Thus, in the Mosaic laws, rules and regulations related to sacrifices were given. But the prophets frequently warned the people that worship should start from deep love and devotion towards God. Through such worship comes a total liberation.
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Liberation and Worship (Ex. 3:11-18)
The reasons for the exodus of the people of Israel is given in different ways – to worship (Ex. 3:12; 8:1, 20; 9:1, 13; 10:7-9), to sacrifice (3:18; 5:3; 8:8), to serve the Lord (4:23) and to celebrate (5:1). Mainly, God said to Moses, “… when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain” (Ex. 3:12). The slogan that the Israelites shouting was ‘send us to worship’. The vision for liberation was to worship God or offer sacrifice to God (Ex. 4:31, 5:1, 3). The prime reason for their demand for liberation was the thought of ‘worshiping the true God’. The Pharaoh allowed the Israelites to do whatever they wanted except this one demand. But their aim was to fulfill the command of God. When this objective was given to them for their liberation the people of Israel were united to go out of Egypt. This factor inspired them as a united people group ignoring the threads of Pharaoh. This was the aim given to the people of Israel for their liberation after long years of slavery – to worship the true God going up to Horeb.
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Liberation from Prison (Acts 16:25-34)
Here we could witness a worship in the midst of adversities. Paul and Silas were thrown into the prison at Philippi. They praised God at midnight. Suddenly there was a violent earthquake and the foundations of the prison were shaken. All the doors were opened. Every body’s chains came loose (Acts 16:25, 26). At this adverse situation the Apostles were worshipping God. They were also liberated. Following this incident the jailer was also liberated and he believed in Jesus and became a Christian. He and all his family members were baptized (Acts 16:33). Those who worship God truly will worship him even in the midst of adversities. And that will lead them to liberation. This liberation is not only given to Paul, but also to the Christian church at Philipi to transform itself and the gospel spread through them.
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Liberation from Sickness (Lk. 13:10-15)
We could find a liberation that happened during worship at the synagogue in Lk. 13: 10 -17. On a Sabbath day Jesus was teaching in a synagogue (Church). Sabbath is the day of worship for the Jews. Preaching is part of the worship. Jesus was the preacher for that day. During the preaching Jesus liberated a lady who was crippled by an evil spirit for 18 years. The message of Christ is lifting up the people those who are hunch – backed due to various reasons. This is what happens in Christian missions. The power of the gospel is to straighten those who are suppressed, oppressed and exploited. This is what happens even today in our worships. In the worship with truth and spirit there is total liberation.
Collect:
God of liberation, we thank you for sending your own Son and our savior Jesus Christ into this world for our redemption from all kinds of slavery and oppression. Empower us to participate in your mission to challenge the dominant forces that enslave and exploit your people; commission and strengthen us to continue your liberative mission to redeem the victims of greed and injustice. Enable us to experience the power of the Holy Spirit in and through our everyday worship as a sign of divine freedom and liberation, through Jesus Christ, who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever.
Amen
March 3
4th Sunday before Easter
3rd Sunday in Lent
Persistence in Prayer
Old Testament : 2 Kings 20:1-11
Psalm : 116
Epistle : 1 Thess. 5:12-22
Gospel : Mark 7:24-30
Verse for meditation: “Pray continually” (1Thess. 5:17).
The examples for prayer can be found in many places in the Old and the New Testaments. Man who has been created in the image of God relates himself through prayer with the creator. Prayer is very important in Christian life. The New Testament defines prayer as a supplication towards God through Jesus Christ. During the Old Testament times prayer was understood as a powerful dialogue with God. In the Old Testament we could see people like Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Joshua, David and Daniel praying to God. Prayer can be considered as a means of revelation of dependence on God. The People of Israel had an optimistic hope in ‘a God who hears prayer’ (Ps.65:2). In the Christian worship also prayer has an important place. In the first century as the Church was established, believers have depended on prayer (Acts 2:42, 4:31; 12:5). The New Testament gives a clear guidance regarding prayer. The prayers and teachings of Jesus give the basis for our prayer. The persistent nature of prayer is clear from the parables of the ‘friend at midnight’ (Lk. 11:5-8) and the ‘unjust judge’ (Lk. 18:1-8). Paul also advised his believers to devote themselves in prayer (Col. 4:2), and to “pray continually” (1 Thess. 5:17). Samuel considered ‘not praying to God’ as sin (1 Sam. 12:23).
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The prayer that changed the decision of God (2 Kings 20:1-11)
Constraint prayer brings wonders. The prayer of king Hezekiah of Judah has been recorded at three places (2 Kings 20:1-11, 2 Chro. 31:24, Is. 38:1-6). God heard the prayer of Hezekiah and answered. He added 15 years to the life span of Hezekiah. The Psalmist says, ‘God who hears the prayer (Ps. 65:2) and ‘I love the Lord for he heard my voice’ (Ps. 116:1). The specialty of the prayer of Hezekiah is to be noted. He ‘wept bitterly’. This shows his persistence on prayer.
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The prayer that changed the decision of Jesus (Mk. 7:24-30)
A Greek woman from the Syrio – Phoenician region prayed for her daughter. Her persistent prayer is very conspicuous. The Lord answered her, ‘For such a reply, you may go…’ Her faith is very clear here. James says that a faithful prayer will heal the sick (James 5:15). A faithful prayer is a powerful prayer (Mk. 22:24). No one can please God without faith. We believe that God hears our prayers when we pray (1 Jn. 5:14, 15). Jesus taught, ‘Ask, you will be given’ (Matt.7:7, Lk. 11:9, Phil. 4:6, 7).
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The advise for consistent prayer (1 Thess. 5:12-22)
Jesus, during his life on this earth was a model of continuing prayer (Heb. 5:7). He gave more importance to prayer than food, sleep or rest (Mk. 1:35; Lk. 6:12). The early church also gave much importance for prayer. ‘Pray continually’ was the instruction given by both Jesus and the apostles (Lk. 18:1, 1Thess. 5:17). This talks of an unceasing prayer. This shows of a permanent bond with Jesus. “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you” (Jn.15:7). God has shared his Holy Spirit within us for this continued relationship. It means an individual who continues in this relationship can always be with God in a spiritual, prayerful relationship. The church prayed earnestly for Peter who was in the prison (Acts 12:5). Paul always prayed for the believers (Rom. 1:9; Col. 1:9). Thus an important place is given to the consistent nature of prayer in the Old Testament, in the New Testament and in the life and teachings of Jesus and the Apostles.
Collect:
Creator God, your knowledge and wisdom surpasses every human imagination and understanding. Though you have set your ways before us, we have followed our own ways resulting in damaged relationship in creation, among fellow human beings and in acknowledging your guidance for us. Enable us to faithfully commit ourselves in prayer through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives, and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen.
February 25
5th Sunday before Easter
2nd Sunday in Lent
Life Saving Faith
Old Testament : 2 Kings 4:1-7
Psalm : 72
Epistle : Acts 5:12-16
Gospel : Lk. 5:17-26
Verse for meditation:
“Never her less, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by” (Acts. 5:14,15).
Martin Luther has seen the declaration of the Bible, ‘the just shall live by faith’ (Hab. 2:4) as the Cardinal principle. From this he has developed the reformation principle of
Sola Fide (Faith alone) and preached it. In the Old Testament the idea is faithfulness rather than faith. There are many synonyms akin to faith in the Old Testament including Proverb 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding”. In the New Testament faith is a prime thought. Faith is trusting without the dependence of intellectual proofs. Faith is an important aspect in Christian life. No one can please God without faith (Heb.11:6). Jesus frequently stated, “Your faith has saved you”. ‘All is possible for those who believe’ (Mk.9:23), ‘those who believe will do miracles (Mk.16:17), ‘If you believe you will see the glory of God (Jn. 11:40), ‘He who believes will die yet will live’ (Jn. 11:25), ‘If you believe you can move mountains (Matt. 21:21) – this is how Jesus taught about faith. All the prominent characters in the Bible have lived a life of faith. Hebrews chapter 11 deals with this subject. Faith is very important to our Christian life, because Christian life is faith-oriented (2 Cor. 5:7). Faith (faithfulness) is the basic foundation of a victorious Christian living (1 Jn. 5:4, 5). Through faith we receive holiness (Acts 26:18), comfort and peace (Is. 26:3; Phil. 4:6,7; 1 Pet. 1:4), happiness (1 Pet. 1:8) and answer to our prayers( Matt. 21:21).
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The faith that saved the whole family (2 Kings 4:1-12)
The faith of Elisha has saved the life of the whole family. Husband has died. Sons are going to be enslaved. A widow is screaming and coming to the prophet Elisha. Through the prophet, God is caring the family. She came to the man of God because of her faith. The prophet told her as follows, “Go and sell the oil and pay the debt and live with what is being left with”. The words of Paul to the Jail warden also can be remembered at this point: “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ that you and your family will be saved (Acts 16:31). The faith of one person of a family will lead the whole family towards salvation.
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The faith that saved the whole society (Acts 5:12-16)
The faith in God will lead not only a person but also a society to earn its salvation. “More and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number” (Acts 5:14). Through the preaching of the Apostle Peter, a great people group came into the faith in Christ. Many miracles and wonders happened among of people. This faith has helped a society to come into salvation through faith. The word of God declares, “The just shall live by faith (Hab. 2:4, Rom. 1:17, Gal 3:11, Heb. 10:38, 39). Lord Jesus often appreciated the faith of the people (Matt. 8:10, 15:28, Lk. 7:9). The Lord has encouraged them saying that their faith has resulted in miracles (Matt.8:13, Mk. 5:34, Lk. 8:24, 17:19).
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The Faith that saves the life of a Person (Lk. 5:17-26)
Some persons in faith showed preparedness to bring a paralytic man before Jesus opening the roof of the building where Jesus was ministering. Jesus has healed the paralytic ‘on seeing their faith’ (Mk. 2:5, Lk. 5:20). The faith that encouraged the friends of the paralytic to place him before Jesus by opening the roof at the house in Capernaum is an ethical situation. Their faith was not just a matter of simple feeling. But it was a purposive action to help another person, a faith that even prompted them to the extent of dismantling the roof of a house. Apostle James also teaches of a faith with action (James 2:14-26). A work without faith is dead (2:26). The faith that saves the life is expressed through action for its perfection. Even today, when we submit our faith through actions, life and salvation are brought to individuals, families and to the society.
Collect:
O God, the author of our life, you have called us to be dynamic and active to connect together to create life-saving networks. Give us lifesaving faith to become friends to the needy, support the weak, comfort the sick and be channels of your healing. Empower us to be committed to the needs of the little-ones around us and bring our fellow humans to your space so that we may be transformed as useful instruments in your healing hands. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and ever.
Amen.
February 18
6th Sunday before Easter
1st Sunday in Lent
Touching the ‘Untouchable’
Old Testament : 2 Kings 5:1-10
Psalm : 10:1-2
Epistle : Heb. 13:8-17
Gospel : Matt. 8:1-4
Verse for meditation:
“Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore” (Heb. 13:13).
Bringing those who are considered as untouchables to a complete human right through the touch of reconciliation is called the gospel. Untouchables were always there. Jesus touched the leper and healed him to bring him to the main stream of the society. He should have to get a certificate from the priest showing that he has been healed, then only he could live in the society as an accepted man (Lev. 13:49; 14:2- 4, 10, 32). This is the instruction for man in the law. Therefore, Jesus has instructed him to show himself to the priest and do whatever is needed for his purification according to the Law of Moses (Mk. 1:44). God who helps and lifts the poor is the hope of the poor people. Though the Psalmist feels that the Lord is standing afar, the same Psalm ends with a hopeful message: “You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed …” (Ps. 10:17, 18). Untouchability has been abolished by law in India (Untouchability Act No. 22 of 1955). Practicing untouchability in India is punishable by law. But even today it is practiced in many states in the name of caste and religion. Here comes the importance of the change that the gospel brings.
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The healing given by God to the Untouchables: In the O. T (2 King 5:1-10)
There is no untouchability or partiality before God. He is the God and father of all. The example of the healing received by Naaman is a proof to this in the Old Testament. He was a valiant captain of the army of the king of Aram, but he was a leper. He had heard from the servant that there is a prophet in Israel girl. He reached Israel. Prophet Elisha heals him. But he did not touch him to heal. But Naaman thought he would touch him and heal. But God touched him. He dips himself seven times in the river Jordan as the prophet has instructed (2 kings 5:14). Here the enmity between the countries is also at the background of this incident. Jordan is a holy river for Israelites. It has a political, religious and social relationship. But to the Aramite the river Jordan is of no special significance. To him the rivers of Damascus, Abana and Pharpar are more holier than that of the river Jordan. They are bigger rivers than that of Israel. The differences of these two nations have also basically changed here. Finally Naaman obeyed the words of Elisha and was healed completely. The untouchability of Naaman is healed here.
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The Healing given to the Untouchable: In the ministry of Jesus (Matt. 8:1-4)
In the ministry of Jesus also lepers were healed (Matt. 8:1-4; Mk. 1:40-45). But it is not like the healing of Elisha, here Jesus touched him and healed. Anyone who touches a leper is branded as a sinner (Lev. 13). The leper is being sent out of the camp. He should not live along with the common men, this was the rule. But it is clearly stated that ‘Jesus stretched his hand and touched him’. The revelation here is the divine justice shown towards the marginalized man. They should also come to the main stream of the society. The revolution that has been done by Jesus through such ministry in this world is great! Such a model ministry of accepting man as human being and standing with the weak has inspired many to follow. Here starts our mission.
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Touch the ‘Untouchable’ (Heb. 13:8-17)
The message of our mission gives positive energy to hold closer those who are considered as ‘untouchables’. The letter to the Hebrews deals with the incomparable nature of Jesus Christ. The chapter 13 concludes that ‘Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever’ (13:8). So the author writes what next the reader should do: “Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore” (Heb. 13:13). People live in the camp. The tent of meeting is there. Worship, Sacrifice, priests, Pillar of fire and Pillar of cloud – all are there. But no one would like to go outside the camp. The reason, it is the place for all dirty things and dirty people (Ex. 29:14; Lev. 16:27). But the writer says not only those unholy people are there, but Christ is also standing there with them: “Let us, then, go to him outside…” (Heb.13:13). All the untouchables are there. The call for the New Testament church and her message is to go to them. Paul who has been called to preach the gospel to the non Jewish people also received this vision (Acts 10:24-28), “… But God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean” (Acts. 10:28)
Collect:
God of equality, we thank you for creating us in your image. We have distorted your image by creating caste, class, colour and divide in our own living situations. We praise you for your Son Jesus Christ who broke the barriers by touching the so called untouchables, recognizing the un-recognized and speaking with the unspoken, thus giving the experience of liberation. Bestow your strength in us so that we could affirm life in all its fullness to the people who are deprived of their life. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God world without end.
Amen
February 14
Ash Wednesday
Cross: A Call to Self Denial
Old Testament : Joel 2:12-20
Psalm : 32
Epistle : Gal. 2:15-21
Gospel : Lk. 9:23-27
Verse for meditation:
“Then he said to them all: ‘If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Lk.9:23).
Ash Wednesday
Ash is seen as a symbol of repentance, restitution and sadness (Job. 42:3-6, Dan. 9:3, Jer. 6:26, Num. 19:9,17, Jona 3:6, Matt. 11:21, Lk. 10:13, Heb. 9:13, Ez. 9). In the apocryphal books also this concept is found (1 Macc. 3:47, 4:39). Ash Wednesday is the first day of the season of Lent. Taking the fasting of Jesus for forty days as model, the forty days before Easter has been set apart for fasting and prayer. Since the six Sundays during this season is considered as Sabbath, those days are not counted along with the forty days of fasting. On this day the palm leaves used during the previous year’s Palm Sunday has been burnt and the ash has been taken to mark the symbol of the cross on the forehead. As the priest is drawing this symbol he will recite the verses of Gen. 3:19 and Mk. 1:15. These verses remind people about death and repentance. In Ireland this day is observed as ‘a day against tobacco’. The main message of the Lenten season is to avoid expensive life styles. In the UK the day against tobacco was started on an Ash Wednesday. Today, this is observed on the second Wednesday of the month of March. In the lent that starts from today non-vegetarian food and wine are avoided and much time is set apart for prayer and repentance.
Christian spirituality is a spirituality of self denial and self sacrifice. Jesus most frequently calls for ‘self denial’. Jesus called his disciples also to carry the cross along with him (Lk. 14:26-33). Christian spirituality requires of one to examine the self becoming a true disciple of Christ before engaging in leadership. “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters – yes, even his own life – he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. ‘Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not be able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish’. ‘Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Will he not first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? If he is not able, he will ask for terms of peace. In the same way, any of you, who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple’” (Lk. 14:26-33).
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Self Denial which brings repentance (Joel 2:12-20)
Joel calls the people for repentance with the following words, “Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God…” (Joel 2:13). Repentance become complete when we are ready to undergo self denial. Jesus taught the disciples to fall on the ground and be broken as wheat and to sprout out to yield much fruit “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it reminds only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds” (Jn. 12:24). To the disciples who came to Jesus with the request to increase their faith he answered as follows, “The apostles said to the Lord, Increase our faith!. He replied, ‘If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea, and it will obey you’. Suppose one of you had a servant plowing or looking after the sheep. Would he say to the servant when he comes in from the field, ‘Come along now and sit down to eat? Would he not rather say, ‘Prepare my supper, get yourself ready and wait on me while I eat and drink; after that you may eat and drink? Would he thank the servant, because he did what he was told to do? So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty” (Lk. 17:5-10). Jesus asked them to become anything and submit like a servant. After accomplishing what they are supposed to do they are asked to say “unworthy servants, we have done what we are ought to do”. The apostle who decided to obey this commandment submitted themselves to live according to their decision. St. Paul says, “We are always submitted to death” (2 Cor. 4:8-12).
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Self denial – Living in Christ (Gal. 2:15-21)
“I have been crucified with Christ and I know longer live, but Christ lives in me…” (Gal 2:20). The above said reference gives the idea that through self denial Christ is beginning to live within us. In the Indian religions asceticism (
sanyasam) is an important advice. The highest form of sanyasam is found in the teachings of Jesus in the spirituality of self denial. In the Indian religions the
Upanishads have an important place. One among which is called
Sanyaso Upanishad. It has 123 stanzas. The 17
th stanza talks about four types of
Sanyasin –
Vairagya sanyasi, Njana Sanyasi, Njana Vairagya Sanyasi and
Karma Sanyasi. Among these the
karma sanyasi takes up the position of
sanyasi after observing the three stages of
Brahmacharyam, Grahasthyam and
Vanaprastham. All others enter into the position of
sanyasi without going through this procedure. Self denial is taught as the highest farm of spirituality. The fourth chapter of
Bhagavathgeetha also teaches also about
njana karma sanyasa yoga. No one will become a
sanyasi if he is not doing his duty (
karma). Including the Christian Church there are thousands of
sanyasis in all religions. But the teaching of Geetha is very appropriate at this age. The spirituality of
sanyasam is not living carelessly, dispassionate away from the society in solitude. They should give the touch of ‘goodness’ for others, for the society and for God. In the words of Jesus they are those ‘who bear much fruit’. When broken down the self it will result in producing much fruit. The spirituality of
sanyasam is not entangled with any disappointment and then call it as vidhi to take up
sanyasam. They realize that the world is maya. There should emerge people who will deny their self, leaving love for world, name, fame, wealth, desires and competition to be filled with the love of Christ to wipe out the tears and support the poor, cry along with those who cry. Today, those who help others and love others are venerated to the level of ‘god men’. Gradually people are compelled to worship them. These ‘god men’ accept this type of worships. This is not the work of the spirit. These people have the satanic spirit which says ‘worship me I will give all these to you’. But God alone is worthy of worship. Even in India there are many Hindu great men and
gurus who never accepted any worship. Mahathma Gandhi is one of the examples. Therefore, to say that all the
gurus of India demand and are being worshiped is not spirituality.
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Self Denial to become a disciple (Lk. 9:23-27)
“For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it” (Lk. 9:24). This is the teaching of Jesus regarding self denial. When we are broken and accept self denial we should search that weather it is useful to anyone. Jesus said, “Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl” (Matt. 5:15). Let us read this parable very carefully. “… A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:14b – 16). Your light should shine before men. It should be useful for others. It should burn, burn and finish off like Jesus Christ. Centuries have passed as the Christian Church has started to observe
sanyasam. The Catholic Church initiated this movement. The Syrian Church and the Protestant Churches of the 14
th century also followed suit, though initially they were not in favor. In the year 1601 the foreign missionary Robert De Nobli continued his ministry in Tamil Nadu, adopting the life style of a Hindu
Sanyasi. Though he was not accepted at that time, people like Sadhu Sunder Singh adopted such methodology for ministry.
Sanyasam is not a new concept in Christian spirituality. But the specialty of
sanyasam is as defined earlier – ‘the experience of giving much fruit’. When one submits himself to be broken with self denial only he can glow for the Lord and inspire others to glow. Only such people will offer powerful prayers. The kingdom of God will be established through such people – those who take up the cross and follow Jesus through dedication.
Collect:
God of life, you have called us to be your beloved children even when we are unworthy. We have forgotten that it is not we but you are living in us. Jesus has taken the form of servant hood to save us without thinking of sitting equal with God. But our human illusions and aspirations have made us self centered rather than Christ centered. Lord grant us the wisdom to take up the cross and follow your son Jesus through self denial. We pray this prayer in and through Jesus Christ who lives with you and the Holy Spirit for ever more, world with out end.
Amen!
February 11
7th Sunday before Easter
Lent: A time of Reconciliation
Old Testament : Gen.45:1-15
Psalm : 85
Epistle : Eph. 2:11-22
Gospel : Jn. 2:1-11
Verse for meditation:
“Nearby stood six stone jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, ‘fill the jars with water’; so they filled them to the brim” (Jn.2:6,7).
The season of lent is considered as a time of dedication to God and reconciliation with men. The personal reconciliation between man and man (1 Sam. 29:4, Matt. 5:24, 1 Cor. 7:11) and between God and man (Rom. 5:1-11, 2 Cor. 5:18, Col. 1:20, Eph. 2:5) is called reconciliation according to the Bible. Through this relationship, in the place of enmity and otherness, peace and fellowship are created. In Greek the verbs
Kattallazo (2 Cor.5:18-19, 1 Cor. 7:11),
apokattallazo (Eph. 2:16, Col. 1:21) and
diallazo (Matt. 5:24) and the noun
kattallagi (Rom. 5:11, 11:15) are used to mean reconciliation. The true meaning of the word is ‘leveling’, to change completely from one state of affairs to another one. Through the death of Christ, God has made a total change in the world in relation to him. Jesus has re-established and reconciled with God the relationship which has been lost between God and a revolting man (2 Cor. 5:18, Eph. 2:4, Jn. 3:16). God is the sole author of this reconciliation. The reconciliation that God sought through Jesus is announced here (Rom. 5:10, Col. 1:20,22; Eph. 2:16). We visualize the character of Jesus on the cross as granting forgiveness to all and reconciling all to God. We get this message of reconciliation that it should happen in every one “Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other” (Ps. 85:10). This is the perfect definition of reconciliation. God’s love covers up the multitude of disobediences (1 Pet. 4:8, Prov. 10:12). As the Lenten Season starts, let reconciliation begin in our personal, ecclesiastical and social realms.
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The Blessings of Reconciliation (Gen. 45:1-15)
The life of Joseph is an apt example showing his attitude of reconciliation towards his brothers. He was blessed by God for his long suffering forgiveness towards his brothers. Joseph lived a life with bitter experiences. His brothers tried at his life and sold him to the Midianite merchants. Again he was incarcerated there for mistakes not of his own. In the book of Genesis the highest count of words are used to picture out the character of Joseph. From the age of 17 (Gen. 37:2) to the age of 30, his life graph was in the descending order. But at last, when he sees his brothers, he never showed any enmity, but forgave them sincerely (Gen. 45:1-15). He gave the final verdict in the following words “But Joseph said to them, don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God?” (Gen. 50:19, 20). Theologians who sketch Christology say that Joseph who forgave his brothers, though he could have punished them for their earlier mis- doings against him is the Old Testament shadow for Jesus Christ of the New Testament. Joseph’s character of reconciliation turned to be a blessing to a multitude of people.
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Cross: The model of Reconciliation (Eph. 2:11-22)
The greatest model of reconciliation followed in the world is what Jesus has given to men through the cross as reconciliation. Jesus Christ has brought together, who were far and near to establish a horizontal relationship. Thus, He made all are being one and created a new humanity. This new humanity has been related to God in a vertical relationship. This is the vision of the cross. He has broken the wall of separation so that we could say “he is our peace” (Eph. 2:14). Paul says that no one is a stranger hereafter. Through Jesus Christ all have been made one. Thus, we find the greatest vision of reconciliation in Jesus Christ. Every Christian should follow this model.
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The Reconciliation begun at the ‘First Sign’ (Jn. 2:1-11)
According to the rules of cleansing in the law the stone jars were kept out the house. But at Cana they were used to serve wine. Reconciliation starts here. The evangelist John records the miracles and mighty acts of Jesus using the word ‘sign’. As far as John is concerned, these are not simply miracles. They signify many other things. What happens abruptly and supernaturally is a miracle. But signs are miracles with a meaning. This is seen in the sign of changing the water into wine. The stone jars used for purification rites are being used to share wine. Water which is colorless, tasteless and odorless has been changed into colorful, tasty and aromatic wine. The empty vessels were filled up to the brim. The sign of bringing a person to the fellowship of God, who was once outside the kingdom of God is the sign here. Changing a characterless man into a man of character is the sign. The sign is filling the empty. All these explain the reconciliation that Jesus has revealed on the cross. Through this reconciliation which Christ gives a mystic spiritual unity of joining with God is affected.
Collect:
Gracious God, who loved us in Jesus Christ, Lord give readiness and courage to reconcile with you, all people and whole creation, transcending our barriers and boundaries. Let the time of Lent refresh us with a new perspective of looking at the Cross of Christ, through, in which you have reconciled with us and the whole creation. Strengthen us with your Spirit so that we may become your channels of reconciliation in your faith journey; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever.
Amen.
February 4
8th Sunday before Easter
The Fallen- ness of Creation
Old Testament : Gen.3:1-10
Psalm : 53
Epistle : Rom. 3:21-26
Gospel : Matt. 18: 23-35
Verse for meditation:
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through redemption that came by Jesus Christ” (Rom. 3:23, 24).
The universe that God created was perfect. When God finished his creation He was happy. At every stage of creating the universe God found his creation as ‘good’. But Genesis chapter three talks about how sin has originated in a universe which God found ‘good’. The fall of man and the consequence of God’s curse are found here. The fall of creation was so great that the Bible records ‘all have sinned’ and ‘there is no one who does good not even one’ (Rom. 3:10-17). St. Augustine says, “Man becomes a sinner not because he sins rather he sins because he is a sinner”. What he intends to say is that the inclination to commit sin is inherent in man. But the Bible teaches us that the long suffering nature of God has been revealed through his Son Jesus Christ and saved man. Salvation is received through this redemption. “Justified freely by his grace through redemption that came by Jesus Christ” (Rom. 3:24). Jesus bought men by paying his blood as a price (1 Cor. 6:19, 7:22). “Christ redeemed as from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us…” (Gal. 3:13). All those who are redeemed belong to God. As we have been bought with a price, we should not be entangled under the yoke of slavery of sin, but live with freedom in Christ.
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Fall and Sin (Gen. 3:1-10)
The disobedience with God ended up in sin. “… the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and desirable for gaining wisdom…” (Gen.3:6). This is the nature of evil (sin). The man who disobeyed God went after evil. The fall of creation started here. A man who had authority and glory lost everything. He has been sent out of the happiness Eden. Leaving out God is the main reason for man’s fall. Jesus taught, “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil” (Jn. 3:19). Thus, through one man’s disobedience sin and through sin death came into the world upon everybody (Rom. 5:12).
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Fall and its Consequence (Ps. 53)
The consequence of man’s fall has come to the level of the following quotation, “…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Ps. 53:3; Rom. 3:12, 23). Through one man’s disobedience sin and through sin death has come into the world (Rom. 5:12). Thus, as all have sinned, death came to all (Rom. 5:12). Paul proves this truth in his letter to Romans ‘by the one disobedience, judgment has come to all men’ (Rom. 5:18).
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Deliverance from Sin (Rom. 3:21-26)
God gifted deliverance to the whole creation freely through faith in Jesus Christ. Divine justice is confirmed upon everyone who believes in Jesus Christ (Rom. 3:21). As sin came into this world through one man, justice also came into the world through one man. In the same way as death came into the world through one man life also came into the world through one man (Rom. 5:12-21). As punishment came to all men through the disobedience of one, through one act of justice by Jesus all men have received life giving justification (Rom. 5:18). This is the hope received by humanity.
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Long suffering in mutual Relationships (Matt. 18:23-35)
We always remember with gratitude the forgiveness that God has given us by grace through his son. This great forgiveness is the major reason for man’s redemption. As we have received this long suffering, we should also forgive each other. We are forgiven when we forgive. A silver coin is a day’s wage. In those days a talent is considered to be the wage for a year. That is to say 10,000 talents count for the salary of 1,50,000 years! In other words it says of a debt an ordinary person can never pay back! Such a great debt has been forgiven to us, but we are to forgive very simple and negligible matters only – just as 100 silver coins. We are forgiven, when we forgive (Matt. 6:15, Mk. 11:25,26, Eph. 4:32, Col. 3:13). Thus, others will realize the love of Jesus through our long suffering and get up from their fall. The reason, we are justified freely through the redemption of Jesus by God’s grace.
Collect:
God of justice, who continues to seek for the lost ones; transform our lives to live a life of justice and righteousness; hold us close to you so that we would not fall when we are tempted even with familiar things in life; challenge us to forgive the debts of those who owes to us as you have forgiven our debts; sustain us in your wisdom to seek after you, so that we may be renewed constantly to be the embodiment of your love in our lives every day. This we ask in the name of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ, who laid down his life as a ransom for our redemption and reigns with you along with the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
January 28
9th Sunday Before Easter
The Goodness of Creation
Old Testament: Gen. 1:24-31
Psalm: 104:1-13
Epistle: Eph. 1:3-14
Gospel: Matt. 6:9-13
Verse for meditation:
“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will – to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves”(Eph. 1:4-6).
Creation is defined as the act of God in the beginning, bringing into existence the seen and the unseen universe out of nothing. This is the free and independent act of God. The scriptures aim not to give the scientific conclusions of creation but rather they record divine revelation regarding the creation (Neh. 9:6; Job. 38:4; Ps. 33:6,9; 90:2; 102:25; Is. 40:26,28; 42:5; 45:18; Jer. 10:12-16; Am. 4:13; Acts. 17:24; Rom. 1:20,25; 11:36; Colo. 1:16; Heb. 1:2; 11:3; Rev. 4:11, 10:-6). All the three personalities of the Trinity was the reason for the creation – God the Father (Gen 1:1; Is. 44:24; Ps. 33:6), God the Son (Jn. 1:3-10; Colo. 1:16) and God the Holy Spirit (Gen. 1:2). The root cause of creation of this world is not what is seen (materials) but is created by the word of God (Heb. 11:3). God has created this universe not out of the existing materials but out of nothing (ex nihilo). At every stage of creation God found ‘It is good’ (Gen. 1:4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31; 1 Tim. 4:5). The preacher also remembers God who does everything beautifully (Ecc. 3:11). God even now continues to create. Creating, sustaining and renewing is the act of God. The divine act of God is included in renewing and making man as new creation. (2 Cor. 5:17). Faith in God remains unquestioned when we consider the reason for creation as science says ‘evolution’ or the ‘big bang’ is also the act of God.
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The creation of the beginning (Gen. 1:24-31; Ps. 104:1-13)
David in Psalm 104:13 says that God is the superior ruler of the universe with all greatness and glory. Through creation God has shared everything needed for man and for the world. After creating man in his own image God blessed them (Gen. 1:27). He gave them the authority to rule over everything (Gen. 1:28). But misusing this power and exploiting God’s creation is sin. When it is said to man ‘rule over’ it means to take up the responsibility of protecting the creation (Gen. 2:15), the responsibility of ‘protecting the earth’. According to the Indian thought, God is engaged in
sristi, sthiti and,
samharam. Out of these God takes the duties of
sristi and
samharam. But the duty of sthiti (protection) is handed over to the responsibility of man. This is the meaning of the story of creation. Therefore, God has created man a little lower than God (Ps. 8:5-8). As we praise God remembering the goodness of creation let us also realize the responsibility that God has entrusted us towards creation.
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The concern for creation (Matt. 6:9-13)
God who created the universe is also very careful in sustaining it. This is the greatness of creation. The prayer that Jesus taught his disciples is very prominent. This prayer is the supplication of every creation praying towards the heavenly father. The word “our father” indicates this meaning. The whole creation and all living beings include in the above quoted word. When a person is praying he is praying for many others also. Give us our daily bread (food), forgive us and do not lead us into temptation. All should receive divine protection. God who has created everything is the one who leads everything – a God who protects everything. God demands us the same response towards his creation.
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The Glory of creation before the foundations of the world (Eph. 1:3-14)
Through the divine word light has emerged out of darkness, orderliness came out of confusion and life came out of death. God ordered and it happened. The Hebrew root word to mean ‘ordered’ is
aamar which can also mean ‘said’. This word is used eight times in relation to the creation of the six days (Gen. 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 15, 20, 24, 26). God ‘said’ and it was created. In the same way the Hebrew word
barais used in the contexts of the creation of sky, earth (Gen. 1:1), whale, living creatures (1:21) and man (1:27). This word
bara is used in three other places in the Old Testament to mean the work of God. But man is never said as the subject in relation to this word. The word
bara is used in the creation of the Holy heart (Ps. 51:10), new sky and earth (Is. 65:17) and the creation of wind (Am. 4:13). Therefore, it indicates that the way God creates is not like man making. Knowing the creation – election and greatness of God’s creation – is not simple. St. Paul argues that God has elected us to become Holy and blameless before him even before the laying of the foundations of the world. The leaders of reformation Martin Luther and John Calvin gave more prominence to this thought. We may have many questions regarding the story of the creation of God. Yet the answer that God has predestined it all is the unique answer to our total quires. Paul who discusses this thought in detail in his letter to the Romans chapter 11 concludes as follows: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him? For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen” (Rom. 11:33-36).
Prayer:
God our creator, who created us in your image according to your likeness and redeemed us through the blood of Jesus Christ; mark us with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit, forgive our trespasses according to the riches of your grace and reconcile us to the whole creation, so that we, the stewards of creation may cherish the goodness of creation and proclaim your glory along with your handiwork. In the name of the God who created everything as good, Christ who redeemed all creation and the Holy Spirit who sustains us in divine love, now and evermore.
Amen
January 21
Third Sunday after Epiphany
Ecumenical Sunday
Unity for Justice and Peace
Old Testament: Ez. 37:15-28
Psalm: 4
Epistle: Phi. 4:8-20
Gospel: Matt. 5:21-26
Verse for meditation:
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is poor, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things”(Phil. 4:8)
Unity is an important advice given to the people of God. Paul teaches that the church should be “one in spirit and purpose” (Phil. 2:2). He has given admonition to the New Testament church to be strong in unity in one spirit at different environments (1 Cor. 6:17; Eph. 2:18; Phil. 1:27; Rom. 15:5; 2 Cor. 13:11). He instructed the church to have the ‘same opinion’ (1 Cor. 1:10) and to be united in ‘one body’ (1 Cor. 6:16, 12:13; Eph. 2:16, 3:6; Col. 3:15). The Old Testament also asks the people of Israel to live in unity (Jos. 9:2; Jud. 20:1,11; 1 Sam. 11:7; Jer. 32:39; Seph. 3:9). This unity was very vivid among the first century Christians (Acts 4:32, 5:12, 8:6, 12:20). The reason is that we have only one Lord. Jesus also taught “” (Mk. 12:29). Apostle Paul also taught that Jesus Christ is the only Lord (1 Cor. 8:6). This unity is for the cause of justice and peace. Justice and peace form the basic characteristics of the kingdom of God.David calls God as, “righteous God” (Ps. 4:1). This divine character should be reflected in our lives also. God declares, “… will not flatter or be discouraged till he established justice on earth …” (Is. 42:4). St. Paul says that the kingdom of God is ‘justice, peace and the fullness of joy in the spirit’ (Rom. 14:25). Justice has other equivalent words like righteousness, correct, straitforward etc. The Greek root
dikaio and the Hebrew root
sdq elaborate the meaning of justice or righteousness. The Hebrew root sdq is used more than 500 times in the Old Testament and the Greek root
dikaio more than 200 times in the New Testament. The noun
sdq (Hebrew) is translated in the Septuagint (LXX – the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible) as
dikaiosunimor
dikaios. In the Old Testament justice is the moral, legal and spiritual behavioral pattern of a person. Justice or righteousness comes out of right relationships. It is doing the right things towards God and men. Each person has a number of relative actions. The king to his citizens, the judge to the petitioner, the priest to the worshippers, common people to their families, head of the tribes to the society, the society to destitute and foreigners, for all to God. In such a relationship what is required as justice or righteousness need to be done. What is right in one situation may become wrong in another situation. Justice is inappropriate outside a particular relationship. A person is said ‘just’ when he does what is expected of him in doing in a particular situation in a particular relationship. He who protects peace, justice and welfare in a society is called a ‘just man’. The duty of the emperor and the judge is to establish peace, in the society. The word ‘justice’ is used in the New Testament to echo the meaning of doing things akin to God’s will. The word righteousness comes from an Anglo – Saxon root and the word justice comes from the Latin root
justitia. Both these words are used in many places with the same meaning interchangeably (Rom. 3:21-24). Thus, through good relationships come justice, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit which leads us to the experience of the king of God.
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The Unity with God (Ez. 37:15-28; Ps. 4)
Through Christ, man has been given ‘peace with God’ (Rom. 5:1). The condition God gave was ‘I will make a covenant of peace with them’ (Ez. 37:26-28; Is. 55:3). This peace treaty we find in the New Testament through Jesus Christ. When justice is established peace is instituted. This is the relationship between justice and peace. The Psalmist David says, “I will lie down and sleep in peace…” (Ps. 4:8). God is our justice (Ps. 4:1). First, man should achieve peace with God. This is the result of the unity with God. This unity has happened in Jesus Christ on the cross (Eph. 2:13-19). Therefore, it is said, ‘He is our peace’ (Eph. 2:14).
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The unity within the human relationship (Matt. 5:21-26)
The view of the unity of humanity gives a complete meaning and depth to history. Sin and death came to this world through one man (Rom. 5:12). In the same way justice and eternal life came through one man (Jesus) (Rom. 5:17). Moreover, he who joins with Christ becomes one spirit with him (1 Cor. 6:17). Christian spirituality is the spirituality of relationships. In Mathew Chapter 5 verses 23 and 24 Jesus teaches about the reconciliation that should happen within human relationships before coming to the altar with sacrifice.St. Paul teaches, ‘If possible be at peace with all men’ (Rom. 12:18). As God has loved the sinful man so much and forgave him to make a peaceful treaty with him, how much more it is essential that we as human beings and children of God should love and forgive to live in peace.
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The unity of the church (Phil. 4:8-20)
Paul teaches as follows, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is poor, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things” (Phil. 4:8). Paul again teaches to have unity in matters of physical nature, spiritual things and income and expenditure (Phil. 4:14-16). Justice and peace are the basic qualifications of the kingdom of God (Rom. 14:17). To reveal this the church should get united. Therefore, in the high priestly prayer of Jesus he has prayed thrice for the unity of his people (Jn. 17:11, 21, 23).
Prayer :
God of peace and justice, who sent your Son Jesus Christ the prince of Peace for our redemption, empower us with the spirit of justice to have right judgments in all things and in establishing a peaceful kingdom and await the coming judge. We pray this prayer in and through Jesus Christ our Lord who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever.
Amen.
January 14
Second Sunday after Epiphany
One Lord, One Baptism
Old Testament: Num. 11: 23-30
Psalm: 23
Epistle: 1 Cor. 10:1-4
Gospel: Jn. 10:7-18
Verse for meditation:
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (Jn. 10:11)
The Christian church believes in the one Lord and it has the obligation to live in unity with Christ. The word ‘Lord’ is the translation of the divine nouns Jehovah and Adonai. The Septuagint and the Greek New Testaments use the word in Greek as
ho kurios. When Jesus is called Lord, it shows the perfectness of Christian faith. Apostle Thomas addressing Jesus as ‘My Lord and My God’ is an example for this (Jn. 20:28). Jehovah is the Lord (Adonai) of the whole universe (Ps.97:5; 114:7). LXX uses the respective pronoun
adonai to mean God (Ex. 4:10, 13; 1King 22:6). ‘Do not pronounce the name of Jehovah in vain’ is the Old Testament commandment. Due to the fear of the Jewish people towards God, in places where it is written Jehovah they used to supplement the word with
adonai and read it. Therefore, the LXX translation uses the word
adon (adonai) to mean
kurios (Lord). ‘The son of God is the Lord
(kurios) of the Sabbath’ (Matt. 12:2; Mk. 2:28; Lk. 6:5). The New Testament uses the word
kurios to mean God and Jesus. The disciples addressed Jesus as
kurios (Lord) many times (Matt. 8:25; 16:22; Lk.9:54; Jn. 11:12). God, the ruler of the earth is called the Lord (Matt. 1:23, 5:33; Mk. 5:19; Lk. 1:6; Acts 7:32; 2 Tim. 1:16, 18). Luke uses the word Lord
(kurios) to the maximum time in the New Testament (Lk. 17:5, 6; Acts 9:10, 11, 15, 17).The usage of ‘Lord Jesus Christ’ is found in the Acts many times (Acts 4:33, 15:11,16: 31). The idea ‘accept Jesus Christ as the Lord’ and the usage ‘Lord Jesus’ are the basics of Christian creeds. Peter in his first sermon says, “… both Lord and Messiah” (Acts 2:36). At the house of Cornelius Peter introduced Jesus as the Lord of all (Acts 10:36). Believe in Christ in your hearts as Lord (1 Peter 3:14). This was the New Testament teaching. Thus Jesus is the only Lord. “There is one body and one spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Eph. 4:4-6). God is working in everyone as one Lord sharing his spirit to everyone.The truth of Trinity also expounds also this idea. A person enters into the Christian church through baptism to become one body with Jesus Christ (Rom. 6:1-3; Gal. 3:27).
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Lord who fills with the same Spirit (Num. 11:23-30)
God shared his spirit during the time of Moses to the 70 people selected from the Israelites (Num. 11:25). A young man complained to Moses as Eldad and Medad prophesying in the camp. Joshua also told Moses to stop them. But the reply of Moses is very important “… ‘Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!’” (Num. 11:29). Let us praise God for his Spirit given for various ministries through the church as it has been promised ‘I will share my Spirit to all people’ (Acts 2:17; Jos. 2:28; Is. 28:2). Jesus also responded to such a situation likewise (Mk. 9:38-50). God gives various ministries. The church of God grows in unity when we are able to imbibe such ministries and find the goodness in such ministries.
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Lord who leads as a single people group (1 Cor. 10:1-4)
God led his people giving the same spiritual food and drink to them as a single people group (1cor. 10:3,4). They have taken baptism under the cloud and on the sea and marched forward along with Moses. They have followed the rock that was Christ. They were led by the pillar of cloud and fire (Ex. 40:38, 13:21; Num. 9:16). St. Paul in 1 Cor. 10:1-4 gives this experience as an admonition. Today the Lord is leading the church. The call is given here to stand in unity as a church which is called, following Jesus through one baptism.
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One shepherd and One Sheep (Jn. 10:7-18; Ps. 23)
Jesus declared that he is the good shepherd and the door (Jn. 10:9,11). Jesus had a vision ‘one sheep fold and one shepherd’ (Jn. 10:16). The Lord leads us. David has personally acknowledged this ‘the Lord is my shepherd’ (Ps. 23:1). The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep (Jn. 10:11). He knows his sheep (Jn. 10:14). He also knows and leads sheep those do not belong to this sheep fold (Jn. 10:16). As the Book of Revelation says: “… from every nation, tribe, people and language …” (Rev. 7:9). We should receive this vision and revelation. For this purpose God has brought us to the only Lord through one baptism. “Yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ …” (1Cor. 8: 6).
Collect:
God of new life, you seek to recreate people with holiness, justice, peace and equality. We thank you for the institution of Baptism through which we could be touched by you and be transformed by you. Grant us grace that we who are baptized in Christ may realize that we are clothed with newness through the merits of Jesus Christ the new Adam who lives and reigns with you and Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen.
Unity, to be real, must stand the severest strain without breaking. A congregational prayer is means for establishing essential human unity though common worship.
Mahatma Gandhi
Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.
Martin Luther King Jr.
No religion has mandated killing others as a requirement for its sustenance or promotion.
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
January 7
1st Sunday after Epiphany
Live Worthy of Your Calling
Old Testament: Proverbs 20:1-11
Psalm 14
Epistle: Romans 6:12-21
Gospel: Matthews 7:16-23
Verse for meditation:
“… Just as you used to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever increasing wickedness, so now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness” (Rom. 6:19).
The church is a called out community. The root word
kalew is used in the Greek language which means
to call. From this root the word
ecclecia also has formed. This verbal form is used to invite, collect (Gen. 3:9, Lam. 1:15), address (Is. 43:1) etc. Israel is the called out community in the Old Testament. It starts from the call received by Abraham (Is. 51:2). God has called Israel as his on people (Is. 43:1) from their slavery in Egypt (Hos. 11:1). God calls people through Jesus Christ in the New Testament (Phil. 3:14). “For those God foreknew he also predestined…” (Rom. 8:29, 30) and collected to himself. The call of God is to the fellowship in Jesus Christ from darkness to the glorious light (1 Cor. 1:9). God expects a life which is worthy of our calling. Christian Spirituality is action oriented. The main message of the Bible for any person is that he should be aware of the spiritual values. ‘
The will of God concerning you is your sanctification’ (1 Thess. 4:3, Heb. 12:14). These are the strong words of Saint Paul.
‘No one can see God without holiness’ (Heb. 12:14, Matt. 5:8). God’s will of everyone is that they should imbibe the divine qualities and walk in the righteousness of God.
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The call to do good (Pro. 20:1-11, Ps. 14)
The Bible calls for a community which is doing good through the lament of David in the Psalm that there is no one doing good (Ps. 14:3, 4). The Proverbs teaches us, “The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them (Prov. 20:7,11).The wisdom literature repeatedly speaks of
“living a blameless life” (Pro. 20:7). When Psalms 14:1 says,
“There is no one who does good” as David says that God looks down upon men to find out any man with understanding. God demands man to walk before Him with humbleness showing merry and doing justice and honest and blameless before God (Mic. 6:6-8).
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The call to bear good fruit (Matt. 7:16-23)
The New Testament gives much importance to a spiritual life which bears fruit .Bearing good fruit indicates doing good deeds. John the Baptist says of bearing fruit worthy of repentance (Lk. 3:8, Matt. 3:7,9). Jesus has repeatedly given these thoughts (Jn. 15:16, 15:5, Lk. 13:6-9; Mk. 11:12-14). A good tree bears good fruit and a bad tree bears bad fruit (Matt. 7:16-18). We are challenged to bear good fruit, calling Jesus Lord, Lord or performing miracles in the name of Jesus or prophesying and casting out demons may not be the canon of spirituality rather bearing good fruit is.
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The call for sanctification (Rom. 6:12-21)
What is meant by “I am using an example from everyday life because of your human limitations. Just as you used to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness?” (Rom. 6:19). It is same as saying glorify God with the members of your body (1 Cor. 6:19,20) that is, do deeds that will please God. This is called
‘a living sacrifice.’ The Old Testament practice of scarifying animals like ox, goat and pigeon has been done away with. Now we should become the sacrifice for God. Not by killing but alive. That is to say through our deeds. Paul calls it a
‘wise worship.’
Collect: Holy God, Creator of our being, enable us to live a life worthy of your calling. Help us to follow your righteous paths and avoid all evil in our day to day life. Strengthen us to be firm to evade the rule of sin and submit ourselves to the reign of your grace in our lives. Challenge us to be a good tree that bears good fruit so that we may find favour in your eyes; through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever.
Amen
November 19
Assuring future for the girl child
2 Kings 5:1-5
Psalm. 8
Acts 12:11-17
Mark 5:21-24, 35-43
Verse for meditation: “He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha Koum!” (Which
means, “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”)”. (Mk.5:41).
The word of God explains that God through His son Jesus has empowered the weak
and the rejected persons. God has revealed His indiscriminate love through Jesus. There is no
discrimination as male or female (Gal 3:28). Through today’s meditation, an attitude to accept
and respect the girl child need to be usefully developed in the society. Their talents would be
useful to families and the society at large. But the girl children face many challenges and they
continue even today. They are challenged from womb to tomb from the stage of a foetus in the
womb of their mother till their death at the tomb. They are at the risks of foeticide, infanticide,
women trafficking, rape, dowry, domestic violence and the like. The social scientist named Ram
Ahuja has segregated them under three major headings.
1. Criminal violence
2. Domestic Violence
3. Social violence
Every year these crimes are increasing at an alarming rate. During the study on this subject in
the past five years 1,64,765 cases of 2006 have gone up to 2,13,585 in 2010. Out of this 6870
cases were on rape. We have reached a stage where the girl child has lost her safety and
security at their work places and at homes, where they work. The rapid growth of the mass
media, the mobile phones, internet and the social media has become a challenge to the ethical
and safe movement of girls and women. In this scenario, we have a spiritual and ethical
responsibility to reflect and act on the basis of the Scripture.
1. The concern of God (2 King 5:1-5)
The Holy Bible speaks of a God who is concerned about and strengthen the weak and
feeble ones. God does not show favoritism. He is the God of All, both man and woman (Gal.
3:28; Acts 10:34). God has named ‘Adam’ not for man alone, but include woman (Gen. 5:2).
The body is different, but the soul comes from God. In the Old Testament, we find that God has
empowered women like Deborah and Hannah and used them as prophetesses (Lk. 2:36;
Jud.4). The Old Testament includes biblical books in the names of Ruth and Esther. During the
earthly life of Jesus many women were with him to minister (Lk.8:1-3). St.Paul reminds the
church at Rome about the incredible contributions given by women to the body of Christ (Rom.
16). Here, we find a list of women, who gave leadership in the church. Women are created in
the image of God. And He cares for them. 2King.5.1-5 gives a reading on how God used a
maidservant, a small girl for the supernatural healing of Naaman, the commander of the army of
the king of Aaram.
2. The concern for the girl children should begin from families (Mk.5:21-24; 35-43)
Both the Gospels and the Acts record how the parents came to Jesus with the concern
of their weak or sick as dying girls (Mk. 5:21-24; 35-43; Acts 9:36-43). At first we should confirm
the safety of our girl children at our homes itself. Parents have a major role towards care of their
girl children. Parents should scrutinize and have an eye on their education, friendships and the
needs of girls. St. Paul tells us “… do not exasperate your children instead bring them up in the
training and instruction of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4). In our Indian culture, after marriage the girl is
sent to another family. But at their own homes they are always haunted even from childhood
with the thought that they are strangers in their own homes and at some stage they will be sent
to another house in which they are strangers there too. When they reach the new house of the
in-laws, they are considered as outsiders and as “one who has come from outside”. Here girls
need a ‘space’ for them. Such ‘space’ should start at their homes itself. She is also a legal heir
for the love of God that has been expressed through Jesus Christ. Just as Jesus has held the
hand of the hapless girl and asked others to give her food. He is holding the hands of girls with
his love who are weak due to many reasons and give them new life even today (Num.27:1-11).
Moreover, the Lord reminds us to make sure the safety of the girls giving us that responsibility.
3. Girls in the Ministry of the Kingdom of God (2 Kings 5:1-5, Acts 12:11-17)
As we have seen in the Old Testament and the New Testament, God uses girls in the
ministry. As mentioned above, when the young servant girl at the house of Naaman, the
commander of the Army of the king of Aram introduced the ‘Living’ God to them, not only
Naaman was healed, but also the difference between Aram and Israel have been healed. Peter
was released from the jail by the angel of the Lord and he went to the house of Mary, the aunt of
John Mark. They were all praying together. As Peter was knocking, a girl named Rhoda
identified his voice and informed those praying about the arrival of Peter. Here the first step of
faith had been set by a girl. But those who were praying did not believe her (Acts 12:12-15). But
Rhoda could believe it and see the mighty act of God. The girl children have a great message in
building up the church, society and the country through sharing the love of God. Let us
encourage them to utilize their talents to the optimum level for building the Kingdom of God.
Prayer
Gracious God, who through Your Son made the weak and the rejected strong
and whole, we praise you. Look mercifully on all the girl children who are rejected and
marjinalized, and give them courage and new hope. Help us to receive the girl child as a full
member of the community and restore all the honour and respect they deserve. May the talents
and potentials you have endowed them with, flower fourth to become essential resources in the
community. Help us Lord that we may together be liberated and equipped to use our mutual
strengths and weaknesses, gifts and talents, opportunities and limitations, to contribute to the
welfare of the whole world; through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy
Spirit, One God, now and forever more. Amen.
November 26
Preparing for the Coming of Lord
Old Testament : Hos. 10:12-15
Psalm : 37:1-24
Epistle : Col. 4:1-6
Gospel : Lk. 12:35-40
Verse for meditation: “You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an our when you do not expect him” (Lk.12:40).
The season of preparing to celebrate the coming of Jesus Christ is called Advent Season. The
days from today up to Christmas are included in the advent season. The word of God warns us to
prepare for the coming of the Lord. It gives hope and peace to the world. The prophets were
talking about the coming of the Lord (Acts 3:18, 10:43; Lk. 24:44, 46, 47; Jn. 5:33). The Old
Testament prophets have already prophesied regarding the birth of Jesus, the ministry of Jesus,
the death and resurrection of Jesus and the second coming of Jesus. Therefore, the people of
Israel were waiting with hope for the advent of Jesus. As we are preparing to celebrate advent, it is
good to know that the expectation of the coming of Christ was a joyful expectation to the people of
the Old Testament. The New Testament church had the knowledge of the second coming of Christ
also. The victorious performance of every successful Christian life is to live as prepared to meet
the Lord with happiness at his coming. Through the Apostle’s creed and the Nicene Creed as the
church we acknowledge that the Lord Jesus will come again. The references regarding the second
coming of Christ are found both in the Old and New Testaments. In the New Testament for every
25 verse one verse refers to the second coming of Christ. There are at least 320 references
regarding the second coming of Christ in the New Testament. Though the church believes in the
second coming literally the Bible does not give any precise time of the coming (Matt. 24:36; 1
Thess. 5:2). Therefore, the church is asked to be ready at any time.
1. The prophetic message: Be ready for the coming of Jesus (Hos. 10:12-15)
It is more important to be prepared for the second coming of Jesus than the preparations for
the celebration of the birth of Christ. “… until he comes and showers righteousness on you” (Hos.
10:12). Some view the second coming of Jesus as the most important incident that is to happen on
this earth. This hope enables us to live in justice, holiness and truthfulness. Just as we meditate
upon the birth of Christ, let us also meditate and prepare for the second coming of Christ.
2. The Apostolic message: Be ready for the coming of Jesus (Col. 4:1-6)
Saint Paul reminds the church to use the time profitably and get ready for the coming of
Jesus. One should continue in prayer with thanks giving. Life should be lived in sanctity. This was
the main teaching of the Apostle.
3. The message of Jesus: Be ready for the coming (Lk. 12:35-40)
Jesus Christ also has indicated many times about his second coming. He taught that the
servant who is awake when the master comes is blessed (Lk. 12:37). Again he taught “Gird your
loins and let your lamp burning (Lk. 12:35). Be ready always hoping the coming of Christ (Matt.
24,25; Mk. 13; Lk. 21; Jn. 14:1-3, 16:1-5).
Advent Sundays
The days including the four Sundays before Christmas are called advent season. The first Advent
Sunday is calculated as the last Sunday in the month of November. The English word advent has
come from the Latin word adventus which means ‘coming’. In Greek language the word Parousia
is used to mean the coming of Christ. During this advent season the coming of Christ is being
meditated upon. In some of the western churches four different types of candles are being lit. The
candle lighted on the first Sunday is called the candle of hope. Christmas gives a message of
hope – the people walked in darkness and have seen a great light (Is. 9:2). The candle lighted on
the second Sunday is called the candle of Bethlehem. The prophet Micah prophesied that though
Bethlehem was the smallest province of Judah, the one who would become the ruler of Israel will
come out of this place (Mic. 5:2). Bethlehem is the symbol of humility. The entrance of the nativity
church at Bethlehem is very short. One has to bow down his head and enter into it. Only through
humility one can meet the meek Jesus. Christmas is the symbol of humility and simplicity. The
candle lighted on the third Sunday is called the candle of joy. Some churches call this the candle
of shepherds also. Christmas gives the message of joy to all the people (Lk. 2:10). The fourth
candle is called the candle of the angel lighted on the fourth Sunday. The announcement of the
angel to Mary is the message for that day. Angel replied to Mary, “Nothing is impossible to God”
(Lk. 1:26-38). Christmas gives such an auspicious and optimistic message.
Prayer
Almighty God, who restores all things in your beloved Son, Jesus our Lord, Sanctify our
hearts and minds so that we may be prepared for the coming of the Lord. Help us to be like the
wise virgins, ever vigilant and ready to meet your Son, the head of the Church. Let the whole
creation be renewed and rejuvenated through Jesus Christ our Lord who lives and reigns with You
and the Holy Spirit, one God world without end. Amen.
December 3
1st Sunday in Advent
Joyful Expectation of Christ’s Coming
Old Testament : Jer. 33:10-16
Psalm : 68:11-20
Epistle : 1 Thess. 3: 6-13
Gospel : Lk. 1:39-45
Verse for meditation: “As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby
in my womb leaped for joy” (Lk. 1:44).
The advent of Jesus Christ has given hope and peace to the world. The coming of Jesus
Christ had been foretold by the prophets (Acts 3:18, 10:13; Lk: 24: 44, 46, 47; Jn. 5:33). The
birth of Christ, His ministry, His resurrection, his Second Coming – all these have been already
prophesied by the Old Testament prophets. Therefore, the people of Israel were awaiting for the
coming of the Messiah (Christ). As we are preparing to celebrate the birth of Christ, it is good to
know that the coming of Christ is a joyful expectation of his people. Primarily, we meditate about
the decision we ought to take at the coming of Christ. Secondly, we think of the joy of the
fullness of the Holy Spirit that we receive the coming of people through the right relationships
with other fellow beings. Finally, we meditate on the second coming of Christ also.
1. The coming of Christ: A Joyful experience (Jer. 33:10-16; 1 Thess. 3:6-11)
The coming of Christ has given joy to the whole world. ‘A righteous branch sprout from
David’s line’ is a matter of great joy to the people of Israel. Jeremiah says that very soon an
optimistic day will break out to fulfill the prophecy (Jer. 33:10-16). This verse is seen on a
prophetic utterance regarding the coming of Jesus Christ. The coming of Jesus Christ gives
peace. To those who are without hope, it gives hope. Timothy who arrived from the church at
Thessalonica shared good words about them to Paul and those words were comforting Paul.
The testimony that they are strong in their faith in Jesus has made Paul rejoice. It gave a new
life to Paul (1Thess. 3:6-13). As the coming of Timothy was a consolation both for Paul and the
Church, all our relations and visits should become a cause for the sharing of the love and
comfort that Jesus gives.
2. The coming of Christ: Joy in the Holy Spirit
Lk.1:39-45 reports the meeting of Mary and Elizabeth. Mary journeyed from Nazareth
and reached the house of Zechariah in Judah and met Elizabeth. She was filled with the Holy
Spirit (Lk. 1:41). The baby in the womb of Elizabeth leaped with joy (Lk. 1:44). As we are
preparing to celebrate the advent of Jesus Christ, we should also meditate upon the joy of such
blessed friendly relationships and visits could bring to our lives. The joy we experience when
two families meet together, the joy of the fullness of Spirit when two friends meet together. May
God give us such experience!
3. The Second coming of Christ: The eternal Joy (1Thess. 3:13-18)
Another matter to be considered as we prepare ourselves to celebrate the birth of Christ
is the return of the Lord. The greatest hope of the Christian believers is that Christ will come
again to collect unto him the Church. St. Paul expounds the second coming of Christ in 1 Thess.
3:13; 4:16-18 and 5:1-3. The Church believes that the Lord Jesus will come to the middle sky
and reward his people on that day (Acts 1:11; Rev. 1:7; 2 Cor. 5:10). The Church affirms this
faith through the words of both Apostles and Nicene Creeds. The meditation about the coming
of Christ should not be forgotten after the Christmas celebrations. Rather we should be
encouraged to wait upon daily for the coming of the Lord.
Prayer
God of all places and all times, In whose Son we find joy, hope, peace and salvation,
Help us to pray and long for the fullness of salvation and grant us the grace to live the gladness
of Your salvation all through our lives In order that You would find us blameless and holy in Your
presence when our Lord Jesus comes with all His holy ones, Through Jesus Christ, who lives
and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever more. Amen
December 10
2nd Sunday in Advent
Bible Sunday
Word of God: Light to our path
Old Testament : Is. 55: 5-13
Psalm : 119:105-112
Epistle : Gal.1:11-17
Gospel : Lk.1:57, 66-80
Verse for meditation: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path” (Ps. 119:105).
Lord Jesus Christ has uttered seven “I am” sayings as recorded in the gospel of the John
of them the second one is “I am the light of the world” (Jn. 8:12). Christ is the incarnate word.
Therefore, the word of God is the light of the world – is light to our path. God calls us to come
back to him leaving our evil ways and walk in the light of his word. God’s word will not return
to God fruitlessly but it will accomplish its purpose and help men to obey God’s word.
1. A call: back to the word of God (Is. 55:6-13)
A call to enjoy the everlasting meal of God or the call to accept God and his ways is
found in Is. 55:1-13. Those who are thirsty let them come and drink wine and milk, those who
are hungry let them eat sumptuous meal and be happy. This is God’s call “The prophet continues
to say that this word that comes out of the mouth of God is food (Ts. 55:11). The Psalmist says,
“How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth” (Ps. 119:103). In
other words this call is to trust in God’s word and surrender to the word of God.
2. Word of God: A light for the path (Ps. 119:105 – 112)
Psalm 119 talks about the various qualities of the word of God. This is also the longest
chapter in the Bible. This Psalm has been divided into sections of eight verses with 22 alphabets
of the Hebrew language with a total of 176 verses. They sing the different qualities of the word
of God. The most famous one is “the word of God, the light of our path” (Ps. 119:105). The
word of God stands as the light house for us when we are stumbled at problems. The basement
for Christian life should be laid upon the word of God. The sky and the earth may change but the
word of God will never change (Matt. 24:35). God’s word gives us faith in God (Rom.10:17). It
gives total healing (Ps. 107:20). It instructs us and leads to do good works (2Timo. 3:16, 17). It
cleanses (Prov. 30:5). God’s word invites us to read it, meditate upon it and believe it forever
(Deut.6:6-8). Therefore, it is said that the word of God is a lamp unto the feet and light unto the
path.
3. God’s word: Divine revelation (Gal. 1:11-17)
Paul says that he has been called for God’s ministry according to the revelation of God
(Gal. 1:11-17, 2:1). The written word of God is the divine revelation for today. God speaks from
time to time. We should understand them in revelation to the written word of God. The prophets
of the Old Testament and in the New Testament, Elizabeth, Mary and Zechariah (Lk. 1:57-66;
67-80), John, Christ and the Apostles – all were filled by the Spirit to utter words. But any
revelation should be differentiated and understood in the light of the written word of God which
is the right canon for discretion. That is the light unto the way, the lamp unto the feet.
Prayer
O God, eternal word, you speak to us and your church. We pray that you may help us
to hear your word that we may turn to you, away from our evil doing through the word that is a
lamp unto our feet and light unto our paths. Your word will not come to you without
accomplishing the purpose for which it has been sent that we may walk in the path of peace. We
pray this prayer in and through Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit
world without end, Amen.
December 17
3rd Sunday in Advent
Hope of Salvation
Old Testament Zeph. 3:14-20
Psalm 43
Epistle 2 Pet. 3:8-13
Gospel Matt. 1:18-25
Verse for meditation:
“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,
because he will save his people from their sins” (Matt 1:21).
Thank God for the hope of salvation which man has received through Jesus Christ. The
Greek word ‘soteria’ has been translated as salvation. In the New Testament salvation means
the deliverance from the strength and powers of sin. The word soteria (salvation) is used in two
places to point Jesus (Lk 2:31, 3:6) Simeon carrying Jesus in his hands declares, “Mine eyes
have seen your salvation”. Christ is called the author of salvation (Heb. 2:10). The word
salvation is used for the national liberation also (Lk 1:69-71, Acts 7:25). The Septuagint (LXX)
uses soteria and its related words 483 times. The greatest blessing to a Christian is the hope of
salvation. The idea of salvation is spread over at many places in the New Testament.
Jesus as salvation (Lk 2:31; Heb 2:10).
Spiritual Salvation. The deliverance a person receives from the punishment of sin
through the faith in Jesus (Rom 8:10; Eph 2:4-8).
The salvation of life or spirit (2 Pet 1:9).
The salvation of the body or glorification (Rom 13:11).
Total salvation (Heb 11:40; 1 Thess. 5:23).
As we meditate on the hope of salvation, first we meditate on God who saves. Secondly, the
salvation received through the grace of Christ is also meditated upon. Finally, the total salvation
of man and the cosmic salvation received at the end are also meditated upon.
1. God who saves (Zeph. 3:14-25)
Zephaniah speaks of a God who saves (Zeph. 3:14-20). Salvation comes from God. We
inherit it by the grace of God. So the Psalmist says “hope of salvation” (Ps. 43:5). At many
places in the Bible, we find the concept of a saving God. The Psalmist who is depressed in his
heart finds peace after uttering these words. ‘Put your trust in the Lord, he is my savior’ (Ps.
43:5).
2. The hope of salvation assured in Jesus Christ (Matt. 1:18-23)
‘Jesus’ is called by this name because he saves men from their sins (Matt. 1:21). We
attain this salvation through faith (1 Peter 3:9). Paul interprets that salvation is the gift of the
grace of God (Eph. 2:8). Salvation is the free inheritance that Jesus gives men to reconcile with
God who is separated by sin. So we are saved by grace (Eph. 2:8; Rom. 5:8; 5:2). A person
receives it simply by faith. Thus, as Peter says salvation of the soul is received through faith
without seeing.
3. The perfection of Salvation ( 2 Pet. 3:8-13)
One of the basics of Christian faith is the belief in the second coming of Jesus Christ.
Jesus said that at his coming the faithful those who died in him will be collected from the one
end of the sky to the other from all the four directions (Mk. 13:37). The apostle says that he will
appear for a second time not to bear sin but for the salvation of those who are waiting for him
(Heb. 9:28). As said earlier, Saint Peter also explains the salvation that men will receive at the
second coming of Christ (1 Pet. 1:11, 12; 2 Pet. 3: 8- 13). On that day all the tears will be wiped
out permanently from our eyes. Death, sadness, mourning and pain will pass away. The old
order of things will pass away and everything will be made new (Rev. 21:4, 5).
Prayer:
Almighty God, our Saviour, And our Hope of Salvation, Grant us the wisdom to live in
anticipation of a new heaven and new earth, a holy and godly life, trusting in You as our Saviour
and walking with You as our Immanuel In order that our hearts may be enlightened to know the
hope to which You have called us, Through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the
Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever more. Amen.
December 24
4th Sunday in Advent
Rejoice, the Lord is near
Old Testament : Zech. 2:6-13
Psalm : 50:1-15
Epistle : 1 Thess. 5:12-24
Gospel : Jn. 16:16-24
Verse for meditation:
“Rejoice always” (1 Thess. 5:16).
The greatest demonstration of a victorious Christian living is to appear rejoicing,
prepared to welcome the coming of the Lord. We affirm our faith that the Lord will come again
through the Apostles and Nicene creeds. There are references to the second coming of the Lord
Jesus Christ not only in the New Testament but also in the Old Testament. For every 25 verses
there is one reference to the second coming of Christ in the New Testament. There are almost
320 references in the New Testament regarding the second coming of Christ. It can be
substantiated from the following verses.
The Testimony of Jesus (Mtt.24,25; Mk 13; Lk 21; Jn 14:1-3, 16: 1-5).
The witness of the angels (Acts 1:11)
The testimony of the apostles:
Peter (Pet 5:4; 2 Pet 3:10-13 etc.)
Paul (1 Thess. 4:16,17, 5:2 etc.
Jude (14,15)
James (James 5:7,8)
John (1Jn 2:28)
The testimony at the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor 11:26)
The prayer of the Church (Rev. 22:20).
The Church believes in the coming of the Lord in the literal sense, but the time of the coming is
not given clearly (Matt 24:36; 1 Thess. 5:2). Therefore, the church is alerted to be ready at all
times. There are different opinions on the purpose of the Lord’s coming. First and foremost, the
purpose of the Lord’s coming is to comfort his people. Secondly, it is to judge the people.
Thirdly, he comes to collect his own people into the glorious permanent tent.
1. For the comforting of his people (Jn. 16:16 – 24)
Jesus has promised that at his coming all tears will be wiped out and the sadness will
turn into joy (Jn. 16:20). The New Testament presupposes that the Lord is coming to collect
God’s people together and wipe away all tears from their eyes (1 Thess. 4:16,17; Rev. 7:17,
21:4,5). The apostle says that he comes for the salvation of those who are waiting for him. A
total redemption will happen at the coming of the Lord (Heb. 9:28). This redemption is not only
for man but it is a cosmic redemption. Paul says the whole creation groans with the birth pangs
for the day of the appearing of the son of man (Rom. 8:18-25).
2. To judge (Zech. 2:10-13)
Some theologians are of the opinion that the judgment referred at Zech. 2:10-132 and
15.50:4-6 point to the judgment of the last days .On that day will happen a judgment that will
bring down rulers from their thrones and lift up the humble, fill the hungry with good things and
send the rich away empty (Lk. 1:51 – 53). Lord Jesus Christ will come back to render apt reward
for all the works that everyone had done (2 Cor. 5:10; 1 Cor. 3:11-15; Matt 12:36, 37; Rom 2:16;
1 Cor. 4:5).
3. Eternal place to be prepared (1 Thess. 5:12-24)
We find the teaching of Paul in Thess. 5:12-24 after talking about the second coming of
Christ. He says that the Lord Jesus Christ comes back to give a permanent joyful eternal home
for his people. It is believed that his people will live in eternity for endless ages (Jn. 14:1-3; Rev
21:1-3). One need to be called ‘faithful servant’ and enlisted here. Here is the essence of the
Christian hope of living with the Lord who is the bride groom. So Paul admonishes to prepare
and wait upon happily for the coming of the Lord (1 Thess. 5:12-24). One should be watchful
and praying (Lk 21:26).
Prayer:
Almighty God, Who deems us as the apple of Your eye as we joyfully wait to receive
Your Son as our redeemer, sanctify our spirit, soul and body to be kept blameless at the coming
to Your Son, so that when He shall come after a little while to be our judge with righteousness
and faithfulness, we would behold Him with sure confidence, Through Jesus Christ, who lives
and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever more.
Amen.
December 24
Christian Eve
God coming to us
Old Testament : Mic. 5:1-9
Psalm : 89:1-4, 19-29
Epistle : Rev. 21:1-5
Gospel : Jn. 1:1-14
Verse for meditation:
“The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory,
the glory of the One and only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth” (Jn. 1:14).
God has sent his son Jesus Christ to this world for the redemption of the whole creation. Before the birth of
Christ on this earth God has declared this through his prophets. This is found in the Old Testament texts for
today (Is. 32:1-20; Ps. 8:1-4, 19-29). Jesus Himself claimed that it is written about him in the Psalms and in
the books of the prophets and in the laws of the Jewish people (Lk 24:44; Jn. 5:39). The birth of Christ, His
ministry, death, resurrection, ascension and the second coming – all are already prophesied. The birth of
Christ is a unique and the greatest event of history, the incident of God coming down to intervene in human
history. A God who is spirit and not visible to necked eyes came to this world as a person in form. It would
be good to meditate upon the divine purpose of the birth of Jesus Christ. He came to save sinners, to
preach the good news of the inauguration of the kingdom of God and the message of deliverance. As Saint
John says, he came to destroy and put an end to the works of Satan. And finally Jesus came to serve and
give his life as a ransom for many.
1. To save the sinners (Mic. 5:1-9)
Jesus came to save the sinners as prophesied to Judah, the smallest clan, Bethlehem Ephrata (Mic.
5:2). Micah prophesied during the time of B.C 742 – 687. He was a contemporary of Hosea, Amos and
Isaiah. He prophesied the seriousness of the judgment that is to happen to them due to their sin, the sons of
Samaria (Mic. 1:5-7) and Judah (19-16) who declares the final blessings, the coming and rule of the
Messiah. The angel of the Lord spoke to Joseph prior to the birth of Jesus as follows: “She will give birth to
a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matt 1:21).
Paul records that ‘Christ has come to save the sinners’ (1 Timo. 1:15-17). All the synoptic gospels witness
the words of Jesus, “I have come to call for repentance not the righteous but the sinners (Matt. 9:12, 13; Mk.
2:1; Lk. 5:31, 32, 19:10). The prime message of Jesus is, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save
what was lost” (Lk 19:10). The message of Christmas is the message of the forgiveness of sin.
2. To preach the Kingdom of God (Ps. 89:1-4, 19-29)
The Old Testament depicts Christ as a king who does his ministry with an ever lasting anointing. “I
will also appoint him my firstborn, the most exalted of the kings of the earth. I will maintain my love to him
forever, and my covenant with him will never fail. I will establish his line forever, his throne as long as the
heavens endure” (Ps. 89:27-29). Jesus declared that he has come to preach the gospel (Lk 4:43; Mk. 1:38).
The main content of the preaching of Jesus was kingdom of God. Jesus divided the history of the world into
two as the time of the law and the prophets up to John the Baptist and then the time of preaching of the
gospel (Lk. 16:16). Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking but it is justice and peace and the joy of the
infilling of the Holy Spirit. Kingdom of God is the sharing of justice, peace, truth, joy and care for others. If
such a status will arrive, there will be no one in the society without food, water and clothing. That is why
Jesus taught that you seek first the kingdom of God and all these will be there for your (Matt. 6:33). We
should remember the words of Isaiah that He will not falter or be discourage till he establishes justice on
earth (Is. 42:4). Jesus declared to Pilot that his kingdom is not of this world (Jn. 18:36, 37). Jesus taught his
disciples to pray always without ceasing “Let thy Kingdom come”. Thus, the message of Christmas has
become the message of the kingdom of God.
3. For a total deliverance (Rev. 21:1-5)
In this text though we find the reference to the second coming of Jesus Christ, these verses imply
the main message as a total deliverance that He gives to his people “The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the
prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s
favor” (Lk. 4:18, 19). The reference that we find in Lk. 4:18,19 which has been quoted by Jesus from Isaiah,
has became Jesus’ famous vision of the Nazareth ‘Manifesto’ turned into the message of Christmas.
The Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.
To preach deliverance to the captives.
To preach sight to the blind.
Setting free the intimidated people.
Preaching the year of message of the Lord.
When we put together these five messages the majority of them talk of the liberation that it is not only
spiritual but also physical, social and moral. Thus the message of Christmas becomes the message of a
total deliverance.
4. To topple down evil forces (Ps. 89:1-4, 19-21)
As said earlier when the kingdom of God is established the evil forces need to be toppled down. The
constant fight of Jesus against the evil forces during his earthly ministry is seen in the words of John when
he says ‘the son of God appeared to destroy the works of the devil’ (1 Jn. 3:8). All strictness and forms of
oppression need to be demolished. Then only the work of the kingdom of God will start. Jesus said, “But if I
drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you” (Matt. 12:28).
5. The word became flesh and came to us with full of Grace (Jn. 1:1-14).
Christ is the word incarnate when commandments, religion and law came through Moses, grace and
truth came through Jesus Christ to the world. It was given as ‘grace upon grace’. It is the grace of ministry
and committed servanthood. The selfless word Jesus says, “The son of man came not to be served, but to
serve and give his life as a ransom for many”, is the message of Christmas. “I am coming to do your will”
(Heb 10:9). He appealed to God through these above words and took upon himself the horrible cross and
demonstrated the selfless nature of God. Therefore, Peter preached that God has sent him that every one
should turn away from wicked ways (Acts 3:26). The message of Christmas is the message of ministry and
self denial.
Prayer:
Eternal God, Who has sent His only Son to the smallest of the towns in Judah, to bring peace to the
whole world, Grant us the grace to recognize Him, receive Him and believe in Him, as the Word, incarnated
and lived among us full of grace and truth, so that we would become Your children, always living with You.
Through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever more.
Amen.
December 25
Christmas
Christmas finding space for the Prince of Peace
Old Testament : Isaiah 9:2-7
Psalm : 85:8-13
Epistle : Ephesians 1:3-14
Gospel : Luke 2:1-14
Verse for meditation: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his
favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)
‘The birth of Jesus Christ’ is the physical expression of God who is always in fellowship
with men. The angel told Joseph regarding the name of Jesus Christ that He would be called
‘Immanuel’ which means ‘God with us.’ The message of Christmas is the message of the
fellowship of God with men. It is beyond human comprehension that a God who is omnipotent,
omnipresent, omniscient, self existing, eternal and holy is living with men. But this realization is
a blissful experience at the same time. Therefore, Christmas becomes a joyful celebration.
Through this message we will discuss the idea of ‘God with us’ as found throughout the Bible.
Secondly, it examines the context in which Isaiah had the vision of ‘Immanuel’ and finally the
message of Christmas is seen as a great command which compels the Church to involve in
evangelization.
God and man walked together in the Garden of Eden when God created man. It was God’s
garden but when man disobeyed God and committed sin he was sent out of the garden.
Following this God selected a few and walked with them only. Eanoch and Noah are good
examples of this (Genesis 5:21-24; 6:8, 9). Then in the Book of Exodus, God required man to
build a tent of meeting to live with man (Exodus 25:8). God was again with the people of Israel
during their journey in the wilderness as the ‘pillar of cloud’ and ‘pillar of fire’ (Exodus 40:34-38).
God walked along with Moses and Joshua doing supernatural miracles (Exodus 33:12-16,
Joshua 1:5) and continued to fill the holiest of holies in the temple with His presence that
Solomon has built for God. Thus, we find God in the Old Testament as He was with certain
persons and at certain places, along with the people to be there to lead them. Today, we
meditate upon God who has become Immanuel. Jesus said to his disciples, “Behold I am with
you till the end of the earth….” (Mat.28:20). “I will not leave you astray” (John 14:18). After
the earthly ministry of Jesus he has sent the Holy Spirit to be with us and to instruct and guide
us (John 14:16,26; 16:8-13; 2 Cor.13:14). After this period even the second coming of Christ is
also recorded with these words, “Behold the tent of God in the midst of men” (Revelation
21:3). Thus, the character of God as one who is with man can be seen from the book of
Genesis to Revelation at different times. May God help us to realize His ‘ever presence’ as we
celebrate the birth Christ who has come as ‘Immanuel.’ There was no room for Jesus to be
born even in the Inn – who came as the prince of peace and Immanuel. The Lord is looking for
people who are ready to give a place to Christ who is always with us.
I. A place in the heart for the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:2-7)
Christ came to this world as light to the people who were walking in darkness. He is born
as wonderful minister, mighty God, everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. But when his
parents came to Bethlehem from Nazareth they had no place even at the inn for Jesus to be
born. Shall we submit ourselves at this Christmas that Jesus Christ will be born in us (Gal 4:19)
as the Prince of Peace in our hearts.
II. The grace shared by the Prince of Peace (Ephesians 1:3-14)
Ephesians 1:3-14 explains about the divine election that happens through Jesus Christ
by the grace of God. Man needs the grace of God to know Christ and to give one’s heart for
Him. Thus, those who are elected by the grace should become ‘a place’ for others.
III. Finding space for the Prince of Peace: Good News of great joy for all people (Luke
2:1-14)
The angel of Lord announced to the Shepherds regarding the birth of Jesus as follows.
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will
be for all the people” (LK2:10 NIV). Almost two thousand years have passed since the birth of
Jesus Christ. So, this Christmas reminds us of our duty to communicate this message of great
joy to all people. As we have come to know the Lord all others should also know Him. Out of the
6 lakh villages in India people of 4 lakh villages have not yet known Jesus as they ought to
know. We have a great responsibility to make them know this message. Saint Paul says, “It has
always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I
would not be building on someone else’s foundation (20). Rather, as it is written: “Those
who were not told about Him will see, and those who have not heard will understand.”
(Romans 15:20, 21 NIV). When Paul wanted to preach the gospel at Asia and Bithuniya, the
Spirit of the Lord has not allowed him for that. But on the same night he had a vision. This is
known as the Macedonian call. Macedonia is in Europe. Gospel had not yet reached there. Paul
wants to go to Macedonia. The Gospel should be preached to the unreached places (Matt.
23:14). Then only this would become a great joy to all people. Preach to all creation, all people
groups (Mark 16:15; Matt.28:18-20). This is the message in the great command of Jesus. The
message of Christmas is a command for the evangelization of the whole creation.
Prayer: God, the Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, Who became a human being, to be born of
a virgin and laid in a manger, to live as ‘Immanuel’, to be obedient even unto the death upon a
Cross, Make our hearts humble enough to offer space for the Prince of Peace so that we may
experience and share the Good News of Your salvation for all, Through Jesus Christ, who lives
and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever more.
Amen.
December -31
Year ending
Come to the Lord with Thanksgiving
Old Testament
2 Samuel 6:1-15
Psalm 91
Epistle
Colossians 3:12-17
Gospel
Luke 17:11-19
Verse for meditation:
“Well done, my good servant!’ his master replied. ‘Because you have
been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.’ …… “The second
came and said ‘Sir, your mina has earned ten more.” (Luke 19:17, 18)
Today, the last day of the year as we look back we are bound to thank God for all his wonderful
guidance throughout this year and come to his presence with praise and thanks giving. “… and
be thankful” (Col. 3:15). This is the teaching of the word of God. Not only for the past year, let us
thank God of each and every day of our lives. In the days of the Old Testament, thanksgiving
offering was offered to God (Lev.7:11-21). The first fruit was also offered as a thankoffering
(Deut. 26:1-11). Thanking God honestly from the bottom of our hearts is also a thank offering
(Heb 13:15; Hos. 14:2; Psalms 69:30, 31; 119:108). Saint Paul taught to request God all our
needs with thanksgiving (Phil. 4:6, 7). Always give thanks for everything (Eph 5:19, 20;
1Thes.5:18). Paul gave such admonitions. He who offers the sacrifice of thanksgiving glorifies
the Lord (Psalms 50:14, 23).
1. Offers heart felt Thanksgiving (2Sam6:1-15)
David says to praise God. The incidents related to the situation when the Ark of the
Covenant has been brought from the house of Abhinadab are being related here. Out of
ignorance David was bring the ark in bullock cart which was supported to be carried by the
priests. God was angry and the bullocks were frightened. Uzzah lifted up his hand and held the
ark as to prevent it from falling. But God’s anger killed Uzzah then and there. Learning a lesson
from the incident afterwards David brought the ark as required by the law (2 Sam.6:12-23). He
learns that praising and worshipping God should be according to God’s rules. Thankoffering
should be offered that the Lord will accepted it (Lev. 22:29). Unleavened bread (thin bread) and
cakes are to be offered to God as thankoffering (Lev. 7:12-14; Deut 26:1-11). Unholy life and
false devotion are represented by the leavened dough (1 Cor. 5:7, 8; Lk 12:1; Matt. 16:12).
2. Come to the presence of the Lord with thanksgiving (Lk 17:11-19).
Ten lepers were healed. Only are person came back. He praised God aloud. He fell at
the feet of Jesus and thanked him. Seeing the devotion of this Samaritan Jesus asked “Ten are
healed where are the nine others?” (Lk 17:18). This incident helps us to remember all benefits
what the Lord has done and come to his presence and give thanks to him. The former American
president George Washington celebrated the 3rd October 1789 as ‘thanksgiving’ day. Even to
day, this day is being observed to thank God and men. The famous writer and counselor
Norman Vincent Pele said, “Look back to book a head”. When we are stumbled in our
progressing journeys our past experiences encourage us – the ways in which the Lord has lead
us.
3. Always give thanks (Colo.3:12-17).
Paul challenges us not only during the worship services but always to be with thankful
heart (Eph 5:19, 20; Colo. 3:15-17; 1 Thess. 5:18). In all words and actions always thank God.
Thank both God and men.
Prayer:
Everlasting God, the Creator and sustainer of the whole creation, our times are in Your
hands; as You have brought us to the end of a year in ways mysterious to us, enable us to put
our trust in You fully so that we may truly experience Your blessings each day of our lives and
also inherit life eternal; through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,
One God, now and forever more.
Amen.
December 31
1st Sunday after Christmas
Family Sunday
Family as Gift of God
Old Testament Jos. 24:14 – 22
Psalm 128
Epistle Eph. 3: 14-21
Gospel Mk 3: 31-35
Verse for meditation:
“Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother” (Mark
3:35)
God has instituted the family from the time of creation and He is the cause for all the families of
heaven and earth. As we have reached the last days of this year let us thank God remembering all
the benefits the Lord has given us during this year. Let us also try to strengthen our familial
relationship.
1. Christ centered family: Serve God through the whole family (Joshua 24:14-22).
The decision of Joshua is very famous. “… But as for me and my household, we will
serve the LORD.” (Jos. 24:15). The family that serves God will be strengthened forever.
Remember the saying, “The family that prays will stay together.” If the gift of the family
relationship should stay back, the family should be a ‘Christ centered family’. It is important that the
family should pray together, worship together and participate in Church activities as a family,
because Christ is both the chief and the head of the family.
2. Love centered family (Ephesians 3:14-21)
Love is the greatest factor in family relationship (1 Corinthians 13). Paul says that the head
of the family is God the Father. He concludes that portion with a prayer to be deep-rooted in love
and based on love, to know the length, width, depth and height of love along with all saints. He
again repeats the need of love in the family (Ephesians 5:23-25). Just as Christ has loved man,
husbands and wives should love. Christ loved us not by seeing good in us. We should love even
when there are bad qualities in people. That is the depth of love.
3. Know the family of the families (Mark 3:31-35).
When we turn to be Christ Centered family, it would become love centered one. When
families will live in love, our eyes will be opened from the level of ‘I and my family’ to see the ‘family
of the families’. As Christ has paid himself for family relationships we could see the extension of
the boundaries of the families. “Who are my brothers? Who are my sisters? Behold those who do
the will of God.” There is not much place for self. The thought ‘our families’ rather than ‘my family’
is being strengthened because all families are the gifts from God.
Prayers:
God, the author of all families, from whom every family in heaven and on earth receives
its true name, Grant us and our families the wisdom to decide, to serve You alone, so that we
would remain as members of the household of Your Son Jesus Christ, Who lives and reigns with
You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever more
Amen.
