Three Little Words: Pastor Rajiv's Message, Centenary Methodist Church, Delhi

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Saturday Vespers: Your Prayers Are Needed

 

As we usually do on Saturday, we are escalating various prayer needs to you, our readers for your support through your prayers.

We who have so much to do and seek quiet spaces to hear His voice each day, we who are anxious over many things look forward to His coming among us. He comes to us through other people and their love and concern for us. He comes to us through men and women who need our help. 

We have been praying for her for some time, and today, as this new year begins, we bring her to You for Your healing hand.

We also ask for healing and pain relief for a senior lady in the Delhi area of India, who is suffering from back pain. In the extreme cold, we ask for Your healing touch and protection. May Your healing touch rest upon them both.

Today the world also needs your prayer support: 

Peace for All Nations: We pray for peace in every land. May conflicts be resolved, and may leaders seek wisdom and compassion. Help us to bridge divides and foster understanding among all people.

Healing for the Sick: We lift up those who are suffering from illness, both physical and mental. Grant them strength, comfort, and healing. Bless the hands of those who care for them, and may Your healing touch be upon them.

Support for the Oppressed: We pray for those who are oppressed, marginalized, and facing injustice. Give them hope and resilience, and empower us to stand with them in their struggles. May Your justice prevail in every situation.

Guidance for Leaders: Guide our leaders with wisdom and integrity. May they govern with a heart for service, prioritizing the well-being of their people. Help them to make decisions that promote peace, equality, and prosperity.

Protection for the Vulnerable: We ask for Your protection over the vulnerable and the voiceless. Shield them from harm and provide for their needs. Help us to be instruments of Your love and compassion in their lives.

Strength for the Faithful: Strengthen the faith of those who seek You. Encourage them in their journey, and may they find solace and purpose in Your presence. Unite us all in our shared mission of love and service.

Hope for the Future: As we face the challenges of the world, instill in us a sense of hope and determination. Remind us that with Your guidance, we can make a positive difference. May we work together to create a world that reflects Your love and grace.

Everyone is Needed By Someone: A Short Story

1 Corinthians 12:14 ESV
"For the body does not consist of one member but of many".

1 John 4:7-8 ESV 
"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love".

In the quaint town of Willow Creek, nestled amidst rolling hills, lived a solitary old watchmaker named Mr. Silas. He had a small shop on the main street, its windows adorned with intricate clocks, each ticking away with a rhythm that seemed to echo the quiet rhythm of his life. Mr. Silas was known for his meticulous craft, his hands, weathered by time, capable of repairing even the most delicate of mechanisms. Yet, he was often seen alone, his days spent in the quiet hum of his workshop, surrounded by gears and springs.

One rainy afternoon, a young girl named Lily wandered into Mr. Silas' shop, her worn-out shoes squeaking on the wooden floor. Lily was new to Willow Creek, and as she explored the town, she found herself drawn to the mesmerizing glow of the clocks in Mr. Silas' window. Inside, she shyly asked him to fix her old pocket watch, a gift from her late grandmother. The watch was more sentiment than function, its hands frozen in time, yet to Lily, it was a precious heirloom.

Mr. Silas, initially hesitant to engage with a stranger, was touched by Lily's genuine affection for the watch. He took it with a gentle smile, promising to do his best to mend it. As the days went by, Lily would often visit the shop, bringing stories of her life and eagerly asking about the watch's progress. Mr. Silas, who had grown accustomed to his solitary existence, began to look forward to her visits. He found himself sharing tales of his own life, his passion for clockwork, and the intricate beauty of time.

As Lily listened, she began to see Mr. Silas not just as a watchmaker, but as a man with a rich history and a quiet strength. She noticed how his hands, while weathered, moved with precision as he worked on the watch, each tick a testament to his dedication. When the watch was finally repaired, Lily was overjoyed. She carefully placed it in her pocket, feeling a deep connection to her grandmother and the old watchmaker who had brought it back to life.

From that day on, Lily became a regular visitor to Mr. Silas' shop. She would often bring her friends, sharing stories about the kind old man who could fix anything. Slowly, Mr. Silas' workshop, once a place of quiet solitude, became a hub of laughter and conversation. The townspeople, who had once simply passed by his shop, began to drop in for small repairs, drawn by the warmth of Lily's presence and the gentle wisdom of Mr. Silas.

In the end, it was Lily, a young girl new to the town, who reminded everyone that even the most solitary among them had something valuable to offer, and that everyone, no matter how ordinary they might seem, was needed by someone. Mr. Silas, the old watchmaker, found companionship and purpose in Lily's eyes, while Lily discovered a mentor and a friend in the quiet man who had once been so alone. And so, the town of Willow Creek learned that even the smallest of connections could make a big difference, weaving a tapestry of lives where everyone was needed, and everyone belonged.

Revive and Renew

Some time back we had related a popular African folk story about how, in the jungle at dawn, all the animals get up and get to work. The gazelle knows it must outrun the fastest leopard or be eaten, and the leopard knows it must outrun the fastest gazelle or go hungry.

Like them, with each day of blessed awakening, a Christian must also revive and persevere. The cares of the day, concerns, sickness, troubles, financial burdens, temptations - all wear us down, and just as the leopard wears down its prey till it succumbs, so does the world and its diverse temptations and troubles, wear down our resistance.

The only way we can overcome is to renew and revive every morning with time devoted to conversing with God, reviewing our life, asking our questions to gain understanding so that we do not follow a blind faith but a faith based on understanding, knowledge and experience. Everyday is a new day and every day we learn something new from His word. Everyday we have new experiences which can wear us down or push us up and we need His word to renew us with understanding and wisdom.

Rev Francis Taylor sums this up well when she writes -

"Life is always going to throw hardships at us. Some will shake our faith and there will be those who will say that these hardships mean either that there is no God, or that God has abandoned us. Not true. God is with us in the difficult times. As with the early Christians, we need to stand firm and persevere in our faith, knowing that God will never abandon us. All we need to do is call upon him".

Saturday Vespers: The Power of Prayer

The power of prayer is well known and experienced. What possibly may not be so known is the power of corporate prayer. It is power multiplied to the power of 'n'.

We bring prayer requests to you every week for this very reason: everyone mentioned here needs you. We have seen the results of your prayer as well: The Pastor who's wife has stage four cancer seems to be getting better. She is happier, more health and her appetite is coming back, which is always a good sign. The Pastor in Melbourne is now fine, doing well and back to his ministry. We want you to know that your prayers are making a difference so please do continue. Remember this verse -

"Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ".

—Galatians 6:2 (NRSV)

Today we bring these requests for you -

- Miranda requests prayer saying: May STEVES SURGERY GO SMOOTHLY AND HEAL HIM

- We ask you to continue to prayer for the Pastor in India for the healing of his wife and a an miracle from Jesus.

- Pray for the senior lady in India for the healing of her back pain and relief.

- Brij requests prayer for his workplace - for Gods will to be done and wisdom to prevail on everyone. Help him to overcome his issues so that Gods hand is seen by all.

- Prayers for Maime and he new spouse

- Paladin requests prayer and says-

Please pray for me 1. I need a financial miracle in the worst kind of way...2. That the government won't take my bank account away from me (I am in the nursing home)...3. For good results from a DNA test...4. That God would provide me with money to eat with each and every month...5. That I would be able to pay my own debts and not have to depend on someone else...6. That I would lose 30 lbs...7. That God might see fit to restore my health...8. That God would help me not to give up on my dreams and my goals...9. That I might be able to go out West two more times and go back to Kentucky as well...10. That God would straighten out all of the mess that is in my life right now...11. That God would help me make sense of everything...12. That God would give me some encouragement-I feel defeated all of the time, and I feel as if something bad is going to happen to me...13. That God would calm me down and settle my nerves over all of this...

- A businessman in India requests prayer for guidance and success as he moves forward in his business ops

- The situation in California is currently quite challenging due to ongoing wildfires. Southern California is experiencing severe wildfires fueled by intense Santa Ana winds and extreme drought conditions. These fires have caused significant damage, with thousands of buildings destroyed and tens of thousands of people under evacuation orders. The Hughes Fire in Castaic, the Palisades Fire, and the Eaton Fire are among the most impactful, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain them. Pray for those affected, those helping and those supporting.

Pastor Rajiv's Mid-Week Message

 

How Can I trust God?

We often hear these buzz words - "Trust in God". We hear it sermons and most of all we hear it from well-wishers when we are in some trouble or a possible rock bottom. Its even printed on currency as - "In God we Trust". 

It's easy to say; easy to hear; but very difficult to listen and do. Often this line becomes "jargon".

So how can we actually develop trust in God?

First let's get it clear: Building trust is an ongoing process. It's not overnight and instantaneous. It requires faith, patience, and a willingness to surrender control. It's about believing in His plan and timing, even when life is uncertain. Here are a few things we can do:

Get to Know God

Every time I read the Bible, I learn something new about God. Charles Spurgeon, a renowned preacher, once said, "Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the book widens and deepens with our years." This emphasizes the idea that the Bible is an ever-deepening source of wisdom and revelation. The Bible is God's Word and the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance. Reading and meditating on scripture helps you understand His promises and character. Verses like Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding," provide reassurance and encouragement. Furthermore, sharing your hopes, dreams and problems is essential. Regular communication with God through prayer is essential. Share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with Him. Prayer is not just about asking for help but also about building a connection and seeking His presence. How many times have we prayed - "Hi God, how are you today?"

Understand that trusting God is a journey. Embrace the process and be patient with yourself as you grow in faith.

Learn to recognize God’s Faithfulness- Recall times when God has been faithful and answered your prayers. Reflecting on past blessings can strengthen your trust in His ability to provide and guide you. Also get inspired by other's stories and testimonies.

Surrender Control - again, easier said than done. Trusting God involves surrendering control and letting go. This can be challenging, especially when facing difficult situations, but it's a crucial step in developing trust.

Recognize FEAR for what it is (FALSE EVIDENCE APPEARING REAL. Remember, Satan is a deceiver). Let Faith replace fear. Faith is hope and belief that God will do us no harm. He wishes the best for us. Find His assurances in His word. Find His promises. Without knowing what He can and will do, how can anyone build trust and faith?

Trust often involves waiting for God's timing, which may not align with our own. Patience is key to trusting that God is working behind the scenes and that His timing is perfect.

Practice Inclusive Decision making - every day, every minute we are taking a decision. The choice is do we decide with our own will or God's? Involve God in all your decisions. He will guide through His word and through various circumstances, opportunities and/or failures. Yes, failures too guide us on the right track.

Finally - and we have said this before - cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Thankfulness helps shift your focus from what you lack to what you have, deepening your trust in God's provision. Become thankful and dependable. Become trustworthy to God as well. Do what you promise to do or do not make any promises. For example, we may recite the Lord's Prayer every day, but do we do what we say we will do? 

As we become trustworthy to God, we will build our own trust as well. 

Where is God?

In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Captain Tom Moore, a 99-year-old war veteran, set out to raise funds for the UK's National Health Service by walking 100 laps around his garden. His initial goal was to raise £1,000, but his effort resonated with people worldwide, and he ultimately raised over £32 million. Captain Tom's determination and generosity inspired millions and provided much-needed support to healthcare workers.

The Spanish Flue was another large scale disaster. The pandemic, which occurred from 1918 to 1920, was one of the deadliest in history, infecting around 500 million people and claiming at least 50 million lives worldwide. During this time, many nurses stepped up to provide palliative care, despite the high risk of infection. They worked tirelessly to ventilate rooms, administer remedies, and ensure patients were warm, nourished, and hydrated. Their efforts were crucial in alleviating the suffering of those affected by the flu.

One notable example is the story of Nurse Clara Maass, who had previously contracted and survived yellow fever while working as a nurse. During the Spanish Flu, she volunteered to participate in an experiment to find a cure for the disease and ultimately succumbed to it, sacrificing her life in the hope of helping others

There is a lot of good work being done in the world and we saw the human side of humans coming out in empathy, for the affected people. Whether covid time or not, many, many people across the world need financial support, recognition and moral support. The latest tragedy we are seeing is in California, where it has been challenging for firefighters and residents alike, with mandatory evacuations in place for many communities. The fires have highlighted the need for better community planning and infrastructure to prevent such devastating events in the future.

In all these disasters and pandemics, we may well ask "where is God?'

During challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, many people turned to their faith for comfort, hope, and understanding. Believers found solace in knowing that God was present with them, even amidst the trials and uncertainties. Here's a perspective on where God was during the COVID-19 pandemic:

1. In the Hearts of Healthcare Workers:- Many healthcare workers displayed incredible bravery, compassion, and dedication. Their selfless acts of caring for the sick and vulnerable reflected God's love and mercy.

2. In the Acts of Kindness: - People around the world came together to help one another, whether by delivering groceries to neighbors, donating to food banks, or supporting frontline workers. These acts of kindness and generosity were seen as expressions of God's grace.

3. In the Strength of Communities:- Communities united to support each other, showing resilience and solidarity. Virtual worship services, prayer groups, and community initiatives helped people stay connected and find strength in their faith.

4. In the Moments of Reflection:- The pandemic provided an opportunity for many to pause, reflect, and deepen their spiritual practices. People found comfort in prayer, meditation, and reading scripture, drawing closer to God.

5. In the Comfort of Prayer:- For many, prayer became a source of solace and strength. Seeking God's presence and guidance through prayer provided peace and reassurance during uncertain times.

6. In the Healing and Recovery:- Stories of recovery and healing offered hope and a reminder of God's power to restore and renew. Medical advancements and the efforts of researchers and scientists were seen as blessings and answers to prayers.

7. In the Hope for the Future:- Faith provided hope for a better future and the belief that God was working through the situation to bring about good. Trust in God's plan helped many navigate the challenges with hope and resilience.

While the pandemics brought immense pain and loss, many found comfort in their faith and the belief that God was with them, providing strength, guidance, and love. Today, whatever our situation - God is there for us to find. Within us and around us. 

Saturday Vespers

We thank You, Lord, for Your abundant grace, mercy, and the countless ways You have sustained us. As we embark on the journey ahead, we seek Your guidance and wisdom. May Your light illuminate our path, helping us navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie before us. Grant us the courage to pursue our dreams and the strength to overcome any obstacles we encounter.

Fill our hearts with love, kindness, and compassion, so that we may extend these gifts to those around us. Help us to be instruments of Your peace, spreading hope and joy in a world that often needs it. We pray for Your protection over our loved ones and ourselves, keeping us safe and healthy throughout the year. May Your presence be a constant source of comfort and encouragement.

We humbly ask for Your mercy and guidance for those in need:

For the sick and suffering, may Your healing hand rest upon them, bringing comfort and restoration.

For those burdened with worries and anxieties, grant them peace and the assurance of Your presence.

For the lonely and isolated, surround them with Your love and bring kind companions into their lives.

For families facing challenges, may Your wisdom and strength uphold them, fostering unity and understanding.

For our leaders and those in positions of authority, guide them with Your wisdom to make decisions that promote justice and compassion.

As we rest this evening, we ask for Your protection over us. May our hearts and minds be filled with Your peace, and may we awaken refreshed and ready to serve You anew.

Today, we also ask for Your miracles, our Miracle Maker. We pray for the Pastor's wife who is suffering from stage 4 cancer. We have been praying for her for some time, and today, as this new year begins, we bring her to You for Your healing hand.

We also ask for healing and pain relief for a senior lady in the Delhi area of India, who is suffering from back pain. In the extreme cold, we ask for Your healing touch and protection. May Your healing touch rest upon them both.

Annie1 requests prayer for moving to another town on her own.

Miranda asks for healing

Tanu requests for prayers for resources and money to build her family home

Thank You, Lord, for the promise of new beginnings. We trust in Your plan for our lives and look forward to the blessings that await us.

Be Prepared - Based on a KJV Devotional

The scout's motto in America is "Be Prepared". It is well known that Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance.

This is also echoed throughout the Bible - Be prepared.

"So neither I, nor my brethren, nor my servants, nor the men of the guard which followed me, none of us put off our clothes, saving that everyone put them off for washing". Nehemiah 4:23 KJV

Just as Nehemiah and his men were always prepared to defend the walls of Jerusalem, fully armoured, we too need to be prepared with the Armour of God, at all times, to defend ourselves spiritually.

I did not take this seriously till I realized mistakes I was making, in my attitude, my behavior and my habits. When I tried to stop them, they kept coming back till I started putting on the Armour one by one.

Our shield and weapons are the word of God and our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ! The more we meditate and study the word, the more we can overcome. The the enemy cannot penetrate our minds and hearts. This is time tested and proven.

Let not the armor and the sword get rusted. Always be prepared.

He is the Way

Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19 KJV

Sometimes, no matter how hard we think about our situation, there seems to be no way out and no hope. The choice is either giving up, ending things, or letting go. But deep down, you know you are not ready for any of this. Have you been in this situation? Does this resonate with you?
Friends, we may run out of options, but God doesn’t! There’s always a way for Him because He is able to make all things possible! Remember, God is not just making a way in the wilderness. He is the Way! 

(Based on a KJV Devotional post)

Don't Give me what I deserve: Short Story

A man used to give a beggar $1000 every month. The man continued in this state for a period of time. One day, he gave the beggar only $750. The beggar was surprised by that, but he said to himself, $750 is better than nothing. He left. After a month, he gave the beggar only $500. The beggar was surprised! He said to the man, “You used to give me $1000, then it decreased and became $750. Now, $500, why?” May I know the reason? The man replied, “In the past, all my children were young and I was well-off, so I would give you $1000. Then my daughter grew up and entered university, and the university expenses were high, so I started giving you $750. Now, my second son entered university, and the expenses increased, so I gave you $500.” The beggar asked him, “How many children do you have?” The man replied, “Four.” The beggar asked, “And will you educate them all at my expense?!”

Like the beggar in the story, Sometimes, we consider kindness and goodness of God as our right and not as unearned blessings. We can never ever earn any, but it is His love and grace that we enjoy them.

Take, for example, a promotion in a job or a new car etc. While we do seek the Lord's blessings, deep in our hearts many of us feel we "earned it".

Ephesians 2:8 says: "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God".

I sure am glad God doesn't give me what I deserve.

Don't Crowd Out Jesus!

Would you like to live in a crowded house, with people you may not like, who are Loud, abusive and arrogant and maybe bullies? No?

Well, neither does Jesus.

Philippians 4:8 tells us how to clean out the temple of God - our minds and our bodies. 

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things".

The verse is a powerful reminder to keep our faith clear and focused, avoiding the distractions and negativities that can cloud our spiritual journey. Just as we wouldn't want to live in a chaotic and unhealthy environment, we should ensure that our minds and hearts remain pure and centered on Christ. This means intentionally choosing what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy, as Philippians 4:8 advises. By doing so, we create a welcoming space for Jesus within us, allowing His presence to shine brightly in our lives and guiding us with His love and wisdom. Let's not let the noise and turmoil of the world crowd out our connection with Him; instead, let's nurture our relationship with Christ, keeping Him at the forefront of our thoughts and actions.

Sunday Quotes: God Calling

Todays' quotes are taken from a book called "God Calling", authored by two ladies called "the listeners" and edited by A.J. Russel. The two ladies seek no praise and choose to remain anonymous. But their claim that their messages came from the living Christ Himself! Whether one chooses to believe or not, what we cannot but realize is that their messages are deep in spiritualty and wisdom and (as A.J. Russel says) spirit led, because the Holy Spirit is not a silent spirit. We also know that if we do take the trouble to quieten our minds and hearts and God will speak to us as well, as He does to many. Not as in an event, but as a day to day conversation - guiding, sharing His peace and encouraging every day.  While we would have liked to tell you more about these ladies, today we will only quote from their book - God Calling - 

"Each word or thought of yours can be like a pearl that you drop into the secret place of another heart, and in some hour of need, lo! the recipient finds the treasure and realizes for the first time it's value."

"Life with me is not an immunity from difficulties, but peace in difficulties". 

"Joy is the result of faithful trusting acceptance of my will, when it seems not joyous."

"Hope with certainty". 

"You cannot escape discipline". 

Saturday Vespers

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, we pause to reflect on the blessings and lessons of the past. We thank You for Your grace, mercy, and the countless ways You have sustained us.

Lord, we ask for Your guidance and wisdom as we embark on the journey ahead. May Your light shine upon our path, illuminating our way and helping us navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie before us. Grant us the courage to pursue our dreams and the strength to overcome any obstacles.

Fill our hearts with love, kindness, and compassion, so that we may extend these gifts to those around us. Help us to be instruments of Your peace, spreading hope and joy in a world that often needs it.

We pray for Your protection over our loved ones and ourselves, keeping us safe and healthy throughout the year. May Your presence be a constant source of comfort and encouragement. We ask for Your mercy and guidance for those in need:

For the sick and suffering, may Your healing hand rest upon them, bringing comfort and restoration. For those burdened with worries and anxieties, grant them peace and the assurance of Your presence. For the lonely and isolated, surround them with Your love and bring kind companions into their lives. For families facing challenges, may Your wisdom and strength uphold them, fostering unity and understanding. For our leaders and those in positions of authority, guide them with Your wisdom to make decisions that promote justice and compassion. As we rest this evening, we ask for Your protection over us. May our hearts and minds be filled with Your peace, and may we awaken refreshed and ready to serve You anew.

Today we also ask for your miracles, our Miracle Maker. We ask for a miracle for the Pastor's wife who is suffering from 4th stage of cancer. We have been praying for her for some time and today, as this new year begins we bring her to you for you healing hand.

We want to ask once again, for healing and pain relief for a senior lady in the Delhi area of India, as she is suffering too, from back pain. In the extreme cold we ask for your healing touch and protection. we also pray for another senior lady in the same area who has slipped and fallen and hurt her head and is currently in hospital. May your healing touch rest on them both.

Please pray for residents, law enforcement, firefighters, and government officials in the midst of the disaster in southern California and Los Angeles area. Ask God to protect those who are in harm’s way, comfort those who are mourning, and strengthen families who have lost everything.

Lyne requests you to pray for her sister Dee, who has a heart catherization procedure today that nothing goes wrong and that she can go home after the procedure.

AR asks for prayers for his daughter as he has been having some negative dreams about her safety. Please ask for God's hedge of protection around her.

Thank You, Lord, for the promise of new beginnings. We trust in Your plan for our lives and look forward to the blessings that await us.

Saturday Vespers

 

This Saturday before Christmas, we come before our God, with hearts full of gratitude for His unfailing love and mercy. We thank Him for the countless blessings He has bestowed upon us, even those we may not see or acknowledge. We especially thank Him for the Gift of Jesus Christ, and the hope, peace & joy we have through Him. 

We humbly lift up those who are in need of His divine intervention and care. For those suffering from illness, to grant them healing and strength. Comfort for those who are in pain, physically, emotionally, or spiritually, and to let them feel His presence by their side.

We pray for those who are facing difficult decisions or challenges. Lord, guide them with Your wisdom and grant them clarity and peace. May they find the courage to trust in Your plans and walk the path You have set before them.

We are grateful for our readers from around the world who pray for prayer requests and today we also ask for prayer from all our readers for - 

Ms. Jayasudha for protection and healing from her cancer. Also pray for her peace in Christ as she struggles with negative dreams and thoughts. 

For Diane that she does not have any scary symptoms and has assurance of it soon

For Jamie and Bob, and their health and wellbeing.

Dr. Moreland requests prayer for Prayers for a 2 year old girl named Isla, in the hospital and her family.

For all those who are feeling lost or alone this Christmas, we ask that You surround them with Your love and light. Send them companions who will support and uplift them, and may they always know that they are never truly alone with You in their hearts.

In our world filled with strife and division, we pray for peace and unity. Help us to be instruments of Your peace, showing love and understanding to all, regardless of our differences.

Lastly, we ask for Your continued blessings upon our families and friends. Keep them safe and healthy, and may our relationships be strengthened by Your grace.

The Old Woman and a Blanket

 

It was December and a cold one at that. An old woman worked in a home for cleaning and washing. One day she complained about the cold to the mistress, about how she could not sleep in the cold at night. The mistress, who was a very thoughtful and kind lady decided to get the old maid a blanket, for Christmas, to keep her warm and so she did.

Next day a beautiful woolen blanket was delivered, in beautiful Christmas colors of green, red and white.

As the maid was getting ready to leave, the mistress gave her the blanket, but instead of being pleased, the maid scornfully stated she did not want it. On being asked why, she said she didn't like it because it had a white color which would get dirty and she would have to wash it, so she would prefer one without white. The mistress got a bit upset because she had gone through a lot of trouble and expense to get the blanket delivered urgently. "Anyway," she said, "don't take it if you don't want. I can't force you. I will see how and when it can be exchanged".

The maid left leaving the blanket behind. That night was the coldest night of that season.

Thinking about this story, one wonders that how many times have we behaved like the maid? How many times we have rejected the warmth of Gods' blessings, which maybe long term, for our short-term demands? In our short sight we cannot see beyond the horizon, but God can and blesses us with His plans which are based on His vision, but we don't see it.

The only way our vision can be in sync with Gods plans is for us to trust Him completely, without reservation or ambiguity or conditions.

Christ Himself was part of Gods long term plan for each one of us. A gift to mankind. But, like the old maid, sometimes we reject the gift and the warmth of Jesus and His offer of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love for short term material gains and pleasures.

This Christmas, will we truly and earnestly and happily accept God's gift? 

A Christmas Story by Helen Steiner Rice

The Story of the Christmas Guest

by Helen Steiner Rice

It happened one day at December's end
Some neighbors called on an old-time friend.
And they found his shop so meager and mean,
Made gay with a thousand boughs of green.
And old Conrad was sitting with face ashine,
When he suddenly stopped as he stitched the twine.
And he said, "My friends, at dawn today,
When the cock was crowing the night away,
The Lord appeared in a dream to me.
And He said, 'I'm coming your guest to be."
So I've been busy with feet astir,
Strewing my shop with branches of fir.
The table is spread and the kettle is shined,
And over the rafters the holly is twined.
And now I'll wait for my Lord to appear;
And listen closely so I will hear,
His steps as he nears my humble place.
And I'll open the door and I'll look on his face."
Then his friends went home and left Conrad alone,
For this was the happiest day he had known.
For long since his family had passed away.
And Conrad had spent many a sad Christmas Day.
But he knew with the Lord as his Christmas guest,
This Christmas would be the dearest and best.
So he listened with only joy in his heart,
And with every sound he would rise with a start,
And look for the Lord to be at his door,
Like the vision that he had had a few hours before.
So he ran to the window after hearing a sound,
But all he could see on the snow covered ground,
Was a shabby beggar whose shoes were torn.
And all his clothes were ragged and worn.
But old Conrad was touched, and he went to the door
And he said, "Your feet must be cold and sore.
I have some shoes in my shop for you.
And I have a coat to keep you warmer, too."
So with grateful heart the man went away.
But Conrad noticed the time of day
And he wondered what made the dear Lord so late,
And how much longer he'd have to wait.
Then he heard another knock, and he ran to the door,
But it was only a stranger once more.
A bent old lady with a shawl of black,
And a bundle of kindling piled on her back.
But she asked only for a place to rest,
a place that was reserved, for Conrad's great guest.
Her voice seemed to plead, "Don't send me away,
Let me rest for awhile this Christmas Day."
So Conrad brewed her a steaming cup
And told her to sit at the table and sup.
After she had left, he was filled with dismay,
For he saw that the hours were slipping away
The Lord had not come as He said He would,
And Conrad felt sure he had misunderstood.
When out of the stillness, he heard a cry.
"Please help me and tell me - Where am I?"
So again he opened his friendly door,
And stood disappointed as twice before.
It was a child who had wandered away,
And was lost from her family on Christmas Day.
Again Conrad's heart was heavy and sad,
But he knew he could make this little girl glad.
So he called her in and he wiped her tears,
And he quieted all of her childish fears.
Then he led her back to her home once more,
And as he entered his own darkened door,
He knew that the Lord was not coming today,
For the hours of Christmas had all passed away.
So he went to his room, and he knelt down to pray.
And He said, "Lord, why did you delay?
What kept You from coming to call on me?
I wanted so much Your face to see."
Then softly, in the silence, a voice he heard.
"Lift up your head - I have kept My word.
Three times my shadow crossed your floor.
Three times I came to your lowly door.
I was the beggar with bruised, cold feet;
I was the woman you gave something to eat;
I was the child on the homeless street.
Three times I knocked, three times I came in,
And each time I found the warmth of a friend.
Of all the gifts, love is the best.
I was honored to be your Christmas guest.

Charity Wrapped in Dignity

"Leave it for the alien, the fatherless and the widow, so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands"

Christmas is around the corner and a time of joy, love, and giving, and is often intertwined with the spirit of charity. It's a season when people are more inclined to think of others, especially those less fortunate. The story of Christmas, especially the birth of Jesus, is often associated with humility, compassion, and selfless giving. By helping others, we not only bring joy to their lives but also experience a sense of fulfillment ourselves.

But here is the thing: when we help someone with money or some material things, it often jolts their own self worth. So while we may help them temporarily, we may hurt them permanently. So, taking a cue from Christmas, we try to understand what charity should mean.

Jesus took birth to die. We all do. But He took birth to die for us. He knew from the very beginning that he was the scapegoat! He knew His fate and yet He did it and went ahead. Why?

A. God, in His compassion wanted us to attain salvation and yet, needed to follow His own rule for forgiveness of our sins: There had to be a sacrifice.

B. God understood human nature and knew that the desire to rebuild a relationship could be kindled in the human heart.

C. God in His infinite wisdom also gave us the honour to choose - a life with God or a life without God.

To be able to offer man a chance at forgiveness and to wipe the slate clean, He sent His son, with this great mission: The salvation of mankind. 

Yes, that is the story of Christmas and it is the very definition of charity as well. A charity which we need to practise through out year and throughout the time we have here on earth.

Christmas defines true charity which is not merely about giving material possessions. It is about offering compassion, understanding, and the opportunity to rebuild one's life. By treating others with dignity and respect, we can empower them to overcome adversity and achieve their full potential.

Interestingly, many , many years before Christmas, Jesus's ancestor Boaz, showcased dignified charity when he told his workmen not to glean all the corn, but to leave them for Ruth. He not only redeemed her, but he did it with love and respect. 

Similarly, when Jesus was with the Samaritan woman at the well, He did not dwell on her sin. He did not scorn. He already knew what she had done. Instead, the Lord continually focused on her salvation. 

Today, we can reflect on that great sacrifice our God made for us. Without scorning us, without counting our sin, He gave us the greatest gift mankind can ever receive, so that we can live a joyous and abundant life. Let us pass on a little of the joy and abundance we have received.