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.

The Rod and the Staff

Psalm 23 is one of the most cherished and widely recognized psalms in the Bible. Written by King David, it is a profound declaration of faith and trust in God's guidance and protection. While it is a beautiful Psalm, it does contain some enigmatic verses and references, among which is one in verse 4: The rod and the staff. How can a rod and staff comfort anyone? those words conjure up visions of hard punishment, some possibly reminding us of Oliver Twist and Mr. Beadle.

Today we will try and understand this one line - "thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me".

The entire psalm uses the metaphor of God as a shepherd and the believer as His sheep. This imagery was relatable to the people of David's time, as shepherding was a common occupation. The shepherd's role was to provide, protect, and guide the sheep, which beautifully parallels God's relationship with His people.

Being that the God is imagined as our shepherd, the Shepherd’s Tools will naturally be of relevance. The rod and staff are tools used by shepherds to guide, protect, and discipline their sheep. The rod was an oaken club, about two feet long which the shepherd used to ward of wild animals and protect his sheep. It is also used to discipline the sheep when needed. 

The staff on the other hand, is a long, slender tool with a hook or crook at one end, used by shepherds to guide and care for their sheep. Even if the sheep fall into a hollow, the staff can be used to pull out the sheep from the abyss. It symbolizes the shepherd's authority, concern, and kindness towards the flock.

Thus, the rod can be used to fend off predators, while the staff helps guide and support the sheep.

These tools symbolize God's protection, discipline and guidance. The rod represents God's power to protect from harm, from the world' dangers as well as from our own selves, as well as ensure discipline and the staff signifies His guidance and support. Together, they provide comfort, knowing that God is actively involved in the believer's well-being.

In modern times, this verse continues to resonate deeply. Whether facing personal struggles, illness, loss, or uncertainty, believers find solace in knowing that God walks with them through every trial. It serves as a reminder that God's guidance and protection are constant, and His presence brings comfort and strength.

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.