The Wrong "IF"

Jesus said unto him, "If thou canst believe". — Mark 9:23

A certain man had a demoniac son, who was afflicted with a dumb spirit. The father, having seen the futility of the endeavours of the disciples to heal his child, had little or no faith in Christ, and therefore, when he was bidden to bring his son to him, he said to Jesus, “If thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.” 

Now there was an “if” in the question, but the poor trembling father had put the “if” in the wrong place: Jesus Christ, therefore, without commanding him to retract the “if,” kindly puts it in its legitimate position. “Nay, verily,” he seemed to say, “there should be no ‘if’ about my power, nor concerning my willingness, the ‘if’ lies somewhere else.” “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” The man’s trust was strengthened, he offered a humble prayer for an increase of faith, and instantly Jesus spoke the word, and the devil was cast out, with an injunction never to return. There is a lesson here which we need to learn. 

We, like this man, often see that there is an “if” somewhere, but we are perpetually blundering by putting it in the wrong place. “If” Jesus can heal me—“if” he can give me grace to overcome temptation—“if” he can give me pardon—“if” he can make me successful? No. “If” you can believe, he both can and will. You have misplaced your “if.” 

If you can confidently trust, even as all things are possible to Christ, so shall all things be possible to you. 

All things, without limit, are possible to him that believes.

(Based on a KJV devotional)

Words

Question: Do your words stir up discord or bring peace?

Scripture: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” — Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)

Fact: "Violent language often is as deadly as a lethal weapon.”

Every word we speak carries weight. It can either be a spark that ignites conflict or a balm that brings healing. In moments of tension, our instinct may be to defend, correct, or retaliate—but Scripture calls us to something higher: peace.

Ask yourself: Do my words stir up discord or bring peace? Do they reflect frustration or faith? Judgment or gentleness?

In the words of Tom Hanks in Life, Hope and Truth - "When I was a little boy, my mother taught me: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” I’ve thought about that many times, but it just isn’t true. As well-intentioned as the statement may be, words do hurt!

Words are incredibly potent. Wise King Solomon knew that, writing, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). What we choose to say really does matter!

Consider the power of words of hatred and defiance on a placard being carried by a protester. Consider the impact of words of anger and venom being shouted through a megaphone to a riled-up crowd. Consider the words of disrespect and attack said by one political leader about another.

Or, conversely, consider the words of comfort from a friend to one in need. Consider the words that encourage someone trying to master a new skill. Consider the impact of words of love and affection from a spouse or family member as when one is struggling with a trial.

Consider even the importance of correction that is given out of love and concern and with an eye toward helping us improve. Solomon also wrote, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful” (Proverbs 27:6).

It seems to be the norm today for many to say whatever they think or feel—uncensored and without much thought for how it may impact others. Social media platforms are used to attack, malign and bully almost with impunity. No dignity. No respect. Only using words as if they were arrows or bullets.

It is all too common for words to be used with devastating effect within families. Parents disparage and ridicule their children. Children say hurtful and angry things to parents, sometimes calling them vile names. Husbands and wives get angry with each other, and with their words they slice and dice like a wood chipper, spitting their mate out the other side.

Sometimes the impact of hateful or hurtful words will echo in the mind for decades, long after the speaker may have forgotten about it.

Conversely, we may also find that gentle and kind words of encouragement can buoy the heart and mind for decades, and once again, long after the speaker may have entirely forgotten them.

How have you used your words in the past? How do you use your words today? No one is perfect with his or her words (James 3:8), but we can always learn to do better".

Jesus didn’t just speak truth—He spoke it with grace. His words restored dignity, calmed storms, and invited the broken to belong. As His followers, we’re called to do the same.

You can study more about this in our online article “Sticks and Stones: 6 Ways to Improve Your Words.”

Never Rejected!

 

And when the LORD saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb: but Rachel was barren. Genesis 29:31 (KJV)

Leah was the woman no one chose. 

Her father used deception to marry her off. Her husband, Jacob, loved her sister more. And in a world that prized beauty and favor, Leah felt invisible.

But God saw her.

Look at her history - In Genesis 29, Leah names her sons with aching hope—“Now my husband will love me,” she says. Yet it’s not until her fourth son, Judah, that her focus shifts: “This time I will praise the Lord.” In her pain, Leah found purpose. In rejection, she discovered worship.

And God saw her.

Leah kept trying to earn love by seeking “more.” More children, more effort, more hope that maybe this time, someone would truly choose her. She was caught in a cycle many perfectionists know—chasing worth through what we can do.

But God saw her, not for her role but for her heart.

And He honored her. From Leah came the priestly tribe of Levi and the royal line of Judah—from which Jesus Himself would descend. The woman overlooked by man was chosen by God to carry the promise.

Taking a leaf out of Leah's story, remember this: even if others overlook you, God does not. He sees your silent tears. He knows your name. You don’t have to earn His love, not by perfect church attendance, perfect behavior, or perfect ministry. He loves you because you are His!

In fact, Scripture reminds us that God is especially near to the brokenhearted and the weary. Jesus doesn’t turn away from suffering—He steps into it. He walks with you through every scan, every treatment, every sleepless night.

You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned. You are not a burden to Him.

God’s love is not based on your health, your strength, or your ability to “stay positive.” It’s based on His unchanging character. And He has promised: “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out.” That includes you—today, tomorrow, and in every moment of every journey.

Is the Church Important? - Pastor Rajiv's Mid-Week Message

 

Godly Surrender

Read Mark 10:21 

Many a Sunday morning we stand up and sing the song - "All to Jesus I surrender". But do we truly mean that? Do we truly surrender all? 

In the quoted passage we have a near perfect young man, who did everything God expected but could not surrender.

Today let us think, have we truly surrendered? - what does surrender look like?

First and foremost, surrender needs us to let go of the control we want over our lives. Realize that that fantastic job, that promotion or a great business are not because of our abilities but because of Gods blessings. Therefore, they are not our priority even though they may give us economic power. It involves recognizing that one is not self-sufficient, and that divine grace is essential. And divine grace comes from divine wisdom.

It means letting go of the desire to dictate the course of one's life and trusting that God's plan is superior. It involves a profound act of yielding one's will and control to divine authority.

In practice this means that we become executors of Gods will in our lives rather than decision makers. It means we put every situation, every day, every problem, every solution, every honor at Gods feet first.

This is not to be confused with revering God or respecting God. There is a difference between respecting God and making Him first in our lives.

When we make God first, we may start our day by asking God - what would you have me do today? Or how do you want me to act in "x" situation? Essentially start the day by passing control of everything for the day to God.

Surrender therefore requires humility, acknowledging one's own limitations and dependence on God.

This may involve making changes in one's behavior, attitudes, and priorities to align with divine principles and a willingness to accept His authority.

In theory we all do that: in practice maybe we don't.

King David consulted God before taking any action. Do we consult God say, before a meeting? If the meeting is critical we may pray and ask for His guidance and help. But do we ask His will? No. We state our will and may we end it by saying - "but your will be done". That to my mind is not total surrender. It is "grudging acceptance or maybe defeated acceptance".  

Therefore, total surrender also includes an "embracement" of Gods decision, His wisdom and His will, with happiness, joy and priority because we place our trust in Him more than in our own abilities.

What is the outcome? Ultimately, surrender will bring inner peace and freedom. By relinquishing the burden of control, one can experience a sense of release and trust. It's like sitting in a chauffeur driven car and driven through chaotic traffic as opposed to driving and navigating that traffic ourselves.

Surrender therefore is good for us. It not only helps us navigate this life peacefully but helps to build our next life as well by building a relationship with God, with Jesus and with the Holy Spirit.

Finally, It is important to understand that surrender is often a process, and not a one time event. It is something that is worked on daily.

In essence, surrendering to Jesus or God is about placing one's life in divine hands, trusting in divine guidance, and seeking to live in accordance with divine will.

My Covid Diaries: A Nightmare turned Miracle!

Today we share a short diary of a Covid survivor – a senior lady in Delhi, India, who calls her experience “a nightmare turned miracle”. We share with you the Covid Diary of Ms. S. Massey, a retired School Principal, mother and grandmother. She credits ONLY God’s grace and mercy that she is able to share her story today – in her own words:

“9th May, 2021: 10 PM : Tested positive for Covid, asymptomatic. Being 70 years of age and an asthma patient, I was advised hospitalization. In spite of non availability of beds and oxygen, it was with God’s grace I was able to get an admission to a well known hospital. Tests showed about a 20% infection and treatment was started.

10th May, 2021: Slight improvement, but still asymptomatic.

11th May, 2021: Stable and ready to be discharged and to quarantine at home! Discharge procedure starts. My happiness knew no bounds and all friends, family, church people who had been praying for me heaved a sigh of relief and thanked God.

But, during the day my condition deteriorated and I was sent back into ICU. An emergency X-Ray of the lungs showed drastic worsening and my Oxygen level decreased to dangerous levels. People started [raying for me all over again, being informed and requested by my son.

As my condition worsened, I felt myself drift into a deep dark valley and as if I was slipping into another world. I lost the time and days and nights passed without any awareness. I had no consciousness, no sensation and no sound. I underwent a tricostmy surgery and lost the use of my vocal cords.

I must admit that I probably posed a huge challenge to the team of doctors, God bless them for not giving up on me and working under the direction of our Lord.

With no sense of what was going on, I do remember seeing my late husband, sitting on the highest seat of a stadium. I stretched out my arm asking him to hold me as I was gong to join him but he turned his face from me. I also saw my elder sister and brother in law walking head of me, so I called out to them as well to stop and wait for me but they don’t. (I did not know that both had already passed of Covid together). These memories haunt me even today.

I saw different churches, ones which I never knew even existed, new priests giving sermons from beautiful pulpits, reading scripture and choirs of people dressed in purple and white. Churches with different European architectures, including Greek and roman designs, stained glass windows. I also saw the baby Jesus in His manger, huge candles burning as group of angels sing and bow down with their wings covering their faces. The whole scene before me was pure, powerful and spiritual. The environment was filled with a blue hue, I have never seen in my life and I cannot explain the serene beauty of that place where I was.

Suddenly I saw water, as clear as crystal, gushing from a beautiful golden gate, guarded by two angels, and then I am standing in my home church behind the lectern, facing the cross and saying – Lord send me back as I have to preach Jesus – as the only God, the true god and a miracle God.

It was not a plea, or a begging tone but the tone and voice of a fighter, which later scared me as to how could I behave like that in front of God? From childhood I had been taught to petition God but not like this!

4th of August, 2021: Suddenly a strong beam of light emanated from that cross and engulfed me. My conscious date changed from the 11th of May to the 4th of August, 2021, the day God chose to send me back and the date I was finally discharged, after 3 months on a ventilator!

My weight had reduced from 68 Kg to 40 Kg, paralyzed below the waist, darkened skin and on a wheelchair. I was hardly able to speak.

I had my first review with the doctor one month later when he said – Ma’am you are a miracle. A Covid warrior. I wanted to tell him the warrior was not me but Jesus. I was only the medium to glorify His name.

While the Doctor put me on physio for 6 months, I was up in two months and able to walk in 3. God healed me to keep my promise – to glorify the name of Jesus.

Today, I keep that promise everyday – to witness, to pray for others who maybe going through a bad patch, to teach faith and trust.

I do hope my story will also strengthen you, and inspire you to Jesus Christ – our Saviour and Lord”.

Sunday Quotes

 

It is not our business to make the message acceptable, but to make it available. We are not to see that they like it, but that they get it. - Vance Havner

Let me remind you that this is God's universe, and He is doing things His way. You may think you have a better way, but you don't have a universe to rule. - J. Vernon McGee

"When we share Christ, the Truth behind our transformation, we are offering people an opportunity to be transformed." ~ David Jeremiah

"When the Lord's white sheep become dirty gray, all black sheep feel more comfortable." ~ Vance Havner

"If you see a Bible that is falling apart, it probably belongs to someone who isn't!" ~ Vance Havner

"God often hides His blessing in trouble or trial, which makes it all the sweeter when it comes our way." ~ Aiden Wilson Tozer

"The best use of life is love. The best expression of love is time. The best time to love is now." ~ Rick Warren

"God is not just saving individuals and preparing them for heaven; rather, He is creating a people among whom He can live and who in their life together will reproduce God’s life and character." ~ Gordon Fee

"If you're praying, you're not worrying, and if you're worrying, you're not praying!" ~ Ruffin McNeill

"Sometimes we make the mistake of thinking God uses only 'special' people the strong, the intelligent, the beautiful. We don't think He has a place for the rest of us. We are so wrong!" ~ Chuck Smith

"I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God's hands, that I still possess." ~ Martin Luther

"The moment God put a dream in your heart, the moment the promise took root, God not only started it, but He set a completion date." ~ Joel Osteen

"Sometimes God lets you be in a situation that only He can fix so that you can see that He is the One who fixes it. Rest. He's got it." ~ Tony Evans

"Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less." ~ C. S. Lewis

"The nature of Christ's salvation is woefully misrepresented by the present-day evangelist. He announces a Saviour from Hell rather than a Saviour from sin. And that is why so many are fatally deceived, for there are multitudes who wish to escape the Lake of fire who have no desire to be delivered from their carnality and worldliness." ~ Arthur W. Pink

"The universe is wired with the electricity of God, & each of us is a lamp. It doesn't matter the size or shape of the lamp; it only matters that the lamp is plugged in. With every prayer, every thought of forgiveness, every meditation, every act of love, we plug in. The more of us who plug in, to more the darkness of the world will be cast from our midst. Today, let's all increase love's wattage!" ~ Marianne Williamson

"Most of all, God has blessed us by giving us the privilege of knowing Him and walking with Him every day. He did this by sending His Son into the world to die for our sins." ~ Billy Graham

"We need to replace the lies of the enemy with the truth of God; to do so we need to know the truth of God." ~ Christine Caine

"Don't waste another moment crying over what went wrong! If it wasn't a blessing - it was a lesson." ~ Paula White

"Humility is not a character trait to develop, it's the natural by-product of being with Jesus." ~ Louie Giglio

"Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can." ~ John Wesley

"When to give grace? I'd rather stand before God knowing I loved others too much rather than regretting that I judged too harshly." ~ Lysa TerKeurst

"Always be ready to give a good testimony for the Lord, but remember that the best testimony a Christian can have is a love for others and good work habits." ~ Larry Burkett

"We suffer much agony because we try to get from people what only God can give us, which is a sense of worth and value. Look to God for what you need, not to people." ~ Joyce Meyer

Salvation is not an Event

 

Salvation is not a singular event, so we shouldn't treat it as such. It is an ongoing process that began at the cross and continues throughout our earthly lives, involving faith, repentance, and transformation. Lent plays an important role along the way.

Phil Ashey, pastor of South Riding Church in Virginia, observed, "Our culture is so focused on an event rather than a process. Even as evangelicals, I think we've been trapped by the idea that salvation is a one-time event, like a sale that we've got to close. But often, it's a process in which people ask questions again and again and approach God repeatedly to consider faith. I see Lent as a door—an entryway—for people to connect or reconnect with Jesus."

Engaging in this process means approaching God, understanding His will and power, and reflecting on our faith in Him. Lent offers a unique opportunity to dedicate time toward this reflection. Over these 40 days, we examine our lives, confront our baggage and sinfulness, and commit to change. It is a time for corrective actions that lead to spiritual regeneration, for salvation itself hinges on being reborn or transformed. This journey doesn't happen in an instant or even in a single season—it unfolds in steps. Lent provides the space to take these steps, whether by shedding harmful habits or cultivating new ones, while spending meaningful time with God.

For some, Lent may extend beyond the traditional 40 days and span an entire year, as they continually evaluate and strive to deepen their spiritual lives. For others, the concentrated period of Lent is vital. Regardless of timing, the effort and outcome matter most.

Above all, we must remember that Jesus sacrificed Himself for the salvation we seek. This process calls for sincerity, earnestness, and a wholehearted commitment to change.

When Moses Spoke....

Moses' first speech in Deuteronomy is a profound historical review that serves to remind the Israelites and us, of their/our past, instruct them in the present, and prepare them for the future. The speech is found in Deuteronomy 1:1–4:43 and is a foundational text for understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel and, today, between God and us.

Through this speech, Moses calls the Israelis to remember God's faithfulness, learn from their history, and commit to a life of obedience and trust in the Lord as they stand on the brink of the Promised Land.

This speech is as relevant today as it was then; we too have travelled the Christian's road and many of us stand ready to be prepared for the future. Our memories of "good" are short but we seldom forget the "bad" - and which necessitates a hard look at the past so that we do not forget God's infinite blessings and so that we can be strong and confident of the future.

"As Moses is giving the Israelites his final teaching and advice before they enter the Promised land he is reminding them of all the blessings the Lord has bestowed on them from the time he rescued them from Egypt". 

As we move forward in life, do we not need these reminders as well?

A central theme of the speech is the call to obedience and the reminder of God's laws. Moses underscores that adherence to God's commandments is crucial for the Israelites to thrive in the land they are about to inherit. He warns them against idolizing earthly things and urges them to remain faithful, emphasizing that their relationship with God is the foundation of their identity and success as a nation.

What of us today? Do we truly consider God as the foundation of our success? Do we consider Gods Word & commands as "Guidelines for suggested living" or really treat them as "commandments" which are sacrosanct?

Ms. Francis Taylor says - "I have mentioned before that many of us consider the commandments "suggestions" or commandments for only the time in which they were given. But think of the discord caused by dishonesty, greed and abuse of authority. Moses' advice to the Israelites is just as true today as it was millennia ago. Following God's law is just as important now as it was then".

As we proceed through Lent, let us read again Moses' address to the people in Deuteronomy and be reminded of who we are and whose we are!

A Life Turned Upside Down: Pastor Rajiv's Mid-Week Message

                                                                  

Since we are talking about Covid days this week, and you think Covid turned our lives upside down, well, think of this scenario:

A strange person appears before you, someone whom you have never seen before, stands before you in your room, and starts talking to you about your future - pretty freaky!! isn’t it?

Today I want us to wind back 2025 years and look at the life of a 16 year old Jewish teenager in Israel. This teenager had her life turned completely upside down by the visit of a stranger, in circumstances similar to what we mentioned.

We are first introduced to her by name in Matthew’s gospel but we are told of her by Isaiah in his prophecy ‘Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel’ - Isaiah 7:14

So here we have Mary a 16 year old teenager living the normal life of a 16 year old. The Bible does not specify anything about her life prior to Gabriel’s visit but I am sure we can picture the life of a 16 year old village girl living in those times.

She would be helping her mother in the kitchen, maybe taking care of younger siblings, if she had any, helping with the household chores and of course playing with other village girls her own age.

And, to complicate matters, she was pledged in marriage to Joseph the village carpenter, which seemed to be a normal practice in Jewish families. And now, into this ‘normal’ scenario enters the angel Gabriel, and turns Mary’s world upside down completely.

Not only that, the message that was given her must completely baffled her: “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favour with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

Imagine the enormity of that message and it’s effect on her: (And you thought Covid had turned you upside down?)

In her confused and fearful state of mind she was only able to manage the one question which was at the top of her mind. The passage says “how will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

Mary’s question would have arisen from the social and legal norms of that time. If she was found to be with child out of wedlock she would be branded an adulteress she could be stoned to death as per Jewish law

And what would Joseph her fiancée think?

The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God - Vs 35

Mary’s question was not a question of doubt but a question of faith. Because asking in faith is very different to asking in doubt. Gabriel’s message puzzled her but she did not dismiss it in unbelief.

Mary’s response at the end of the passage is a demonstration of her faith, her obedience and her complete submission to God’s will.

Mary’s response is what should be the response of every believer to God’s calling even though His calling will usually turn your world upside down, making life inconvenient and maybe even dangerous, as it did hers and as it did the apostles.

Mary’s calling was not an easy task that she had been called for as we read along the gospels and even beyond when we see Mary’s suffering and hardship which finally culminated in seeing her son dying a gruesome death on a Roman cross.

Mary demonstrated to us how we should respond when God calls us to do His work, in any circumstance. Think of all the health workers during Covid – who bravely took up their calling to help people. Like Mary they did not shirk or make excuses out of fear - But through it all, put aside all doubts and all questions and all insecurities and responded to the calling with faith.

Today it will be well for each of us to think: how will I respond to God’s calling? How will I react to my world being turned upside down? I may lose friends and family, or wealth or time etc. But what will my response be? Will we, like Mary, look on it in faith? Or look at it in doubt?

The Reality of Psalm 91: A Covid Story

The COVID times were extraordinary. Today it is five years, or half a decade, that it was declared a Pandemic. As of April 2024, the virus had infected over 704 million people worldwide, and the number of deaths had reached almost 7.5 million. During the peak, one saw relatives, friends & neighbors drop like flies. Tragedy was all around us. 

My family and I had been stuck in two different countries, 6000 miles apart, away from our home and each other. Yet were brought together, under His shadow against mighty odds and impossibilities. While thousands, nay millions, fell at the sides, we were kept safe in a safe country, in the safe home of a Pastor and his family. COVID was all around us, yet did not come near us. Our daughter in India too remained safe as we tried to come back and she tried to get back to us. 

Over those three years, as our savings disappeared, business dwindled and stopped, we never went hungry or in want. Everything was provided for by our God. The destruction of those days could not destroy us.

That is when we realized the reality of God as He spoke to us through Psalm 91 - we practically lived it! 

“Psalm 91:10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling”.

We lived the complete Psalm 91 day by day.

One particular incident cannot be forgotten. Due to a sudden and definitive requirement of 1 million in cash, in a foreign land, with no access to our funds (the particular account did not have internet access), we panic. As we lay in agony and fear, the bell chimed in my phone indicating a mail had come. With great dread I opened it and lo- there was a mail from a strange id known as the Messianic Bible group. The subject was - Fear not for the Lord is always with you. Addressed to me by name. I do not know how it came for I was not part of any Messianic group, nor registered for any mails. Never before had I even received a mail from these people. As I read that mail, a great sense of calm and peace came over me. It started with a quote

“Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My victorious right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

My heart stopped pounding. I have never forgotten that because I believe it was God reassuring me. 

Later that night a thought came into my mind - talk to the bank manager (he too was a Christian). I did talk to him the next day and without the necessary documents he transferred the money. Problem solved.

Then came the third wave - as our business collapsed, customers threatened us, friends became foes, legal notices were sent, business destroyed, Covid raged on and on and we continued to overcome. For us Psalms 91:13 came alive – “Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet”.

Though we had some ground support, that too finally faded away. How long can anyone support you without finance? Nights were spent in worry about the future: would we see our home again? would ever again be reunited as a family? But through it all, we learned to trust Him. Again Psalm 91 gave us the assurance of protection and deliverance. As Covid struck the world again and again, Psalm 91 assured us

"You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day, Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.

A thousand may fall at your side, And ten thousand at your right hand; But it shall not come near you".

After three years we finally made it back home. Broken in all respects but happy. Happy that we had found the God in all His glory. He delivered us - literally.

“Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name".

We survived.

This does not mean life was or is trouble free. It means we survive and live on His grace. On His protection. We called upon Him and He answered. 

"For He gave His angels charge over us, who kept us in all our ways and did not let us dash our foot against any stone".

We leave this testimony not just as a personal account of survival and deliverance but as an invitation to discover the immense power and grace available through Jesus Christ. In the face of life's uncertainties and trials, His love remains steadfast, and His promises offer unshakable assurance.

This journey has taught us that while life may never be free from hardships, His grace sustains us, His protection surrounds us, and His presence uplifts us. Through the storms, through the losses, and through the fear, His word remained true: “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name.”

May this story inspire you to trust in His providence and find refuge in His shadow. In Him, you can tread through adversity, rise above despair, and walk with unwavering faith, knowing that His angels watch over you. Our experience is not just a tale of survival, but a celebration of a victorious life—a life anchored in the power and love of Jesus Christ. 

We have made Psalm 91 our go to prayer because we have seen and experienced the reality of those verses. My family & I will never forget that we have passed through the valley of the shadow of death & who's staff guided us through. 

(In the picture is Psalm 91 and is downloadable as a prayer, should you need it). 

 

 

Sunday Quotes

The chief purpose of prayer is that God may be glorified in the answer. 

 R. A. Torrey

Too many Christians live their Christian lives inside their heads; it never gets out through hands and feet and lips. - Vance Havner

God gives us people to love and things to use, not things to love and people to use. - Max Lucado

There is no sweeter manner of living in the world than continuous communion with God - Brother Lawrence

Real true faith is man's weakness leaning on God's strength. - Dwight L. Moody

The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, 'O God, forgive me,' or 'Help me.' - Billy Graham

Creative words generate energy; negative words drain out energy. - Robert H. Schuller

It is not the bee's touching of the flower that gathers honey, but her abiding for a time upon the flower that draws out the sweet. It is not he that reads most, but he that meditates most, that will prove the choicest, sweetest, wisest and strongest Christian. - Thomas Brooks

We shall not grow weary of waiting upon God if we remember how long and how graciously He once waited for us. - Charles Spurgeon

Every day we live is a priceless gift of God, loaded with possibilities to learn something new, to gain fresh insights. - Dale Evans

If we want to be known in heaven and feared in hell we must be willing to lose our reputation here on earth. - Loren Cunningham

The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation. - Dwight L. Moody

People who walk by faith don't see obstacles, they see opportunities. - Warren W. Wiersbe

Kids today learn a lot about getting to the moon, but very little about getting to heaven. - David Jeremiah

Moses spent forty years thinking he was somebody; forty years learning he was nobody; and forty years discovering what God can do with a nobody. - Dwight L. Moody

Peace doesn't come from finding a lake with no storms. It comes from having Jesus in the boat. - John Ortberg

Accept the risen Jesus into your life. Even if you have been far away, take a small step towards Him. He awaits you with open arms. - Pope Francis

All places are places of worship to a Christian. Wherever he is, he ought to be in a worshiping frame of mind. - Charles Spurgeon

To know the will of God is the greatest knowledge! To do the will of God is the greatest achievement. - George W Truett

God not only orders our steps, He orders our stops. - George Muller

How you live your life is a testimony of what you believe about God. - Henry Blackaby

When a train goes through a tunnel and it gets dark, you don't throw away the ticket and jump off. You sit still and trust the engineer. - Corrie Ten Boom

If you want to give the devil a nervous breakdown, just get up every day and see how much good you can do. - Joyce Meyer

Knowing that we are fulfilling God's purpose is the only thing that gives rest to the restless human heart. - Charles Colson

If we do not fill our mind with prayer, it will fill itself with anxieties, worries, temptations, resentments, and unwelcome memories. - Scott Hahn

God doesn't bless us just to make us happy; He blesses us to make us a blessing. - Warren W. Wiersbe

Strive to make every person feel special. After all, every person you meet is made in the image of God.- Joel Osteen

Don't worry about having the right words; worry more about having the right heart. It's not eloquence he seeks, just honesty. - Max Lucado

Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire? - Corrie Ten Boom

Becoming a Christian is the work of a moment; being a Christian is the work of a lifetime. - Billy Graham

Pastor Rajiv's Mid-Week Message

 

The Loving Lizard

                          

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." - John 15:13

In a small village in Japan, there was an old house that had been abandoned for many years. One day, a man decided to renovate the house. As he started to remove the wooden wall panels, he noticed something unusual. A small lizard was nailed to the wall by one of its feet.

The man felt sad for the lizard, which must have been trapped there for a long time. However, as he examined the lizard more closely, he noticed something even more surprising. Another lizard was bringing food to the trapped lizard, ensuring that it didn't starve.

Despite the hardship of being nailed to the wall, the trapped lizard had been sustained by the unwavering care of its companion. The free lizard had dedicated itself to feeding the trapped one, showing an incredible level of devotion and compassion.

This story serves as a beautiful reminder of the power of love and the lengths to which creatures, great and small, will go to support and care for one another. It illustrates the deep bonds that can exist between animals and the remarkable ways they can demonstrate kindness and loyalty.

The question is this: That story was about lizards. Would we as human beings do the same or be lesser than a humble house lizard? 

When called upon, would we care for another even when it is not convenient or maybe needs a sacrifice? Would we, like Jesus, give up our lives for someone? 

Of course we would not. Or would we? Only we can answer that question for ourselves. 

Sunday Quotes

Inspiring Christian quotes serve as beacons of hope, faith, and encouragement in our daily lives. They remind us of God's unwavering love, the strength found in Christ, and the beauty of living with purpose and compassion. These quotes, often drawn from Scripture or the wisdom of Christian thinkers, provide guidance during challenges and celebrate the joy of faith. Whether uplifting the spirit or deepening one's connection with God, they resonate with timeless truths that inspire believers to walk in love, grace, and perseverance.

“Satan is so much more in earnest than we are—he buys up the opportunity while we are wondering how much it will cost.” (Amy Carmichael)

“Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can.” (John Wesley)

“If you board the wrong train, it is no use running along the corridor in the other direction.”

“Every temptation, directly or indirectly, is the temptation to doubt and distrust God.” John Macarthur 

 “The issue of faith is not so much whether we believe in God, but whether we believe the God we believe in.” RC Sproul 

 “The Son of God became a man to enable men to become sons of God.” - C S Lewis 

 “Today Jesus Christ is being dispatched as the Figurehead of a Religion, a mere example. He is that, but he is infinitely more; He is salvation itself, He is the Gospel of God.” - Oswald Chambers 

“I will not glory, even in my orthodoxy, for even that can be a snare if I make a god of it... Let us rejoice in Him in all His fullness and in Him alone.”- Martin Lloyd-Jones

“Here lies the tremendous mystery: that God should be all-powerful, yet refuse to coerce. He summons us to cooperation. We are honored in being given the opportunity to participate in his good deeds. Remember how He asked for help in performing his miracles: Fill the water pots, stretch out your hand, distribute the loaves.” - Elisabeth Elliot

“The terrible, tragic fallacy of the last hundred years has been to think that all man's troubles are due to his environment, and that to change the man you have nothing to do but change his environment. That is a tragic fallacy. It overlooks the fact that it was in Paradise that man fell.”

“Be still, and know that I am God. We must not interpret that ‘Be still’ in a sentimental manner. Some regard it as a kind of exhortation to us to be silent; but it is nothing of the sort. It means, ‘Give up (or ‘Give in’ and admit I am God’. God is addressing people who are opposed to Him.”

Martyn Lloyd -Jones 

“We have to pray with our eyes on God, not on the difficulties.”

Oswald Chambers 

“I have heard of some good old woman in a cottage, who had nothing but a piece of bread and a little water, and lifting up her hands, she said, as a blessing, “What! all this, and Christ too?” - Charles Spurgeon

“Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows; it empties today of its strength.” - Corrie Ten-Boom

“Tears shed for self are tears of weakness, but tears shed for others are a sign of strength.” - Billy Graham

“Faith is to believe what we do not see, and the reward of this faith is to see what we believe.”

St. Augustine

What Would Jesus Do?

In our last post we talked about Jesus being the way and why we need to follow Him, if we want salvation. Following Jesus means commitment to living a life that mirrors his teachings, values, and example, prioritizing his will above all else, and striving for spiritual growth through faith, love, and service. In short it means "living Jesus" every day. Addressing challenges He faced - His way. Relating to people - His way.

How we can do that is to ask ourselves in every situation - what would Jesus do? And then do what He would do. If we don't know- go to the Word. Ask.

Rev Francis Taylor says this -

"Everyone faces temptation every day. It may be something as unimportant as having an extra piece of candy, or skipping exercise, but it could be as serious as giving in to road rage, drinking too much, cheating, gambling, taking drugs, or – (insert your favorite vice here)! Jesus was tempted to let us know that this is something we all must overcome. When you face a temptation, how do you respond? Jesus looked to scripture for the answer."

So, there you have it. Jesus lived by the "Book." Time we did do and do what He did.

The Way : Beyond the Cross

Did you know that the Early followers of Christ were called followers of "the way"? The term "Christianity" came much later.

Let us pause and think why were they called that? What was "the way"? The answer will open the door to another basic question: why should anyone follow Christ?

Because Christ offered true followers a pathway to salvation. Jesus was and is the way to our salvation.

Thus, our ultimate goal to follow a resurrected Jesus is because He is the way to salvation. 

How may you ask? Jesus said to take up our cross and follow Him - essentially symbolizing the end of our earthly self and a new beginning. When a person carried a cross in Jesus’ day, no one thought of it as a persistent annoyance or symbolic burden. It was literal! "To a person in the first century, the cross meant one thing and one thing only: death by crucifixion. To carry a cross was to face the most painful and humiliating means of death human beings could develop. Two thousand years later, Christians view the cross as a cherished symbol of atonement, forgiveness, grace, and love. But in Jesus’ day the cross represented a torturous death. The Romans forced convicted criminals to carry their own crosses to the place of crucifixion (see John 19:17). Bearing a cross meant one was about to die, and that one would face ridicule and disgrace along the way".

Therefore, Jesus’ command to “take up your cross and follow Me” is a call to self-abasement and self-sacrifice, no matter how hard or painful it may be. One must be willing to die to self in an absolute surrender to God, crucify our "self" and resurrect finding hope, strength, and transformation through our challenges.

This Lenten season, can we reflect on what we need to do to follow His way, or "the Way"? 

One suggestion is to adopt the principle of "what would Jesus do" or WWJD. In our next post we will cover that principle.

A Woman of Substance

 

The Bible features many amazing women who played significant roles in various narratives. On this International Women’s Day, we would like to highlight one such woman – Rahab, a Canaanite woman who helped Israelite spies and later became part of the lineage of Jesus.

Rahab is a significant figure in the Bible, known for her bravery, faith, and role in the Israelite conquest of Jericho. Her story is primarily found in the Book of Joshua, chapter 2, a powerful example of faith, courage, and redemption. Her actions had a lasting impact on the Israelite history and the lineage of Jesus Christ

To understand the importance of her role, we must first understand why Jericho was so important to the Israelites?

In the biblical account, Jericho holds significant importance as the first city the Israelites encountered after crossing the Jordan River into Canaan around 1,400 BCE. The story highlights the miraculous destruction of the formidable Wall of Jericho, which fell after the Israelites marched around it for seven days, bearing the Ark of the Covenant. This event symbolizes not only a pivotal moment in the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land but also serves as a testament to their faith and obedience in following divine instructions.

Knowing the importance of capturing Jericho, the Israelis sent spies into the city to do what spies do: Ascertain strengths and weaknesses. If these spies had been captured or killed, the morale of the Israelis would have gone crashing to the ground. After all, if they could not capture the first city they encountered in the promised land, what would they do for the rest? They probably would not have attempted to war with Jericho, their faith in God would have been shaken and a defeat at Jericho could have delayed the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land. Jericho was a key entry point into Canaan, and losing the battle would have hindered their progress and possibly prolonged their efforts to take possession of the land. They knew that.

And that is where Rahab mattered. She made sure that the spies were NOT captured and the Israelis went ahead and did what God wanted them to thus fulfilling the promise of divine intervention and Gods plan. She had faith in God, His promises and His power even though she was not an Israelite. 

Rahab's story is a powerful example of faith, courage, and redemption. Her actions had a lasting impact on the Israelite history and the lineage of Jesus Christ. Rahab is commended for her faith in the New Testament. She is mentioned in the "Faith Hall of Fame" in Hebrews 11:31, and James 2:25 highlights her righteous deeds.

Do read about Rahab today. Her story is a powerful reminder that our past does not govern our future and faith, courage, and positive choices can lead to transformation and a meaningful legacy. Her example inspires us to believe in the possibility of change, take risks for what we believe in, and live out our faith in God in tangible ways.