Tag: bible verses

Posted in Christian, poetry

A Star, Magi and a Baby

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“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”” (Mathew 2:1-2)

As the feast of Epiphany approaches with the first Sunday of the year comes by, the visit of the infant Christ by the Magi is being primarily celebrated. Also known as the Three Kings‘ Day or Little Christmas, this feast celebrates the manifestation of Christ. As the three kings visited infant Jesus and brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

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These three gifts had significant meaning with gold as a symbol of kingship on earth, frankincense (an incense) as a symbol of deity and myrrh (an embalming oil) as a symbol of death, burial and healing purposes. These the three gifts signify the baby Christ as the King, God and Suffering Redeemer as well as highlight the natures of virtue, prayer and suffering.

“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.” (Mathew 2:10-12)

In the midst of the celebrations of the feast of Epiphany, one shouldn’t forget to understand the significance and meaning of the visit of the three wise men. Like the presents brought by the three magi, we should have the true presents for baby Christ. Presents that come from the heart, reflecting the true spirit of Christian behaviour and living. As the the three most important fruits of the Spirit go by love, joy and peace; bringing these gifts and sharing them would bring far deep happiness and contentment from within.

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Though thousands of centuries will pass,
Oblivion will burry past dates,
But those stories live in the hearts
And they redeemed rich life!

One of them is the birth of the King!
No, not in the mansions, but in the barn of a wretched man.
A star in heaven, brighter than all grief,
All announced the arrival of God!

The Baby was lying in a small manger,
Shepherds hastily bowed before Him.
Replaced joy indefatigable fear!
Maria hugged the baby tenderly.

Christ has come! Left heaven …
Imagine this just for a moment!
Perhaps a tear flowed down his cheek,
when he made a firm decision …

Christ came so that the light would dispel darkness, to
embrace all with Father’s love, to
die for all people to Him,
and to redeem us all with pure blood!

Christ, the Savior, Jesus has come!
He was crucified … Risen !!! Now calls out:
“Leave the vice, take off your heavy load!”
He is the way and the life! And only He saves!

Christ is now not a baby in his arms,
As many depict Him.
Do not belittle the Lord in hearts!
Blessed are those who only glorify Him!

Christ has come! Many years have passed,
but He is the foundation for Christians!
And on this holiday, this Christmas,
We rejoice in this message again!

Ermolova S. (Source: vk.com)

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Posted in Christian, Daily, Photography Art, poetry

Glow of Peace

Posted on by Sugar and Spice..... Among Other Things

In the wee morning hours, as the church service had come to a close, the rays of dawn had lighted up the chapel hall. The colours of dawn through the glass stained windows had brought a sense of peace within. Through the stillness of winter, those rays bring colour, hope and joy to the gray and dark times.

One of the best parts about His Grace is handing over our troubles of life in His Hands. There is nothing as fulfilling as being blessed with the feeling of quietness and harmony within the soul. Leaving all the mundane worries, trifling matters and sorrows in His Hand, the soul is rested and comforted. Such is due to the blessing being bestowed on man on the blessed day of Christmas.

“And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.” (Luke 1:76-79)

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Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem

Thunder rumbles in the mountain passes
And lightning rattles the eaves of our houses.
Flood waters await us in our avenues.

Snow falls upon snow, falls upon snow to avalanche
Over unprotected villages.
The sky slips low and grey and threatening.

We question ourselves.
What have we done to so affront nature?
We worry God.
Are you there? Are you there really?
Does the covenant you made with us still hold?

Into this climate of fear and apprehension, Christmas enters,
Streaming lights of joy, ringing bells of hope
And singing carols of forgiveness high up in the bright air.
The world is encouraged to come away from rancor,
Come the way of friendship.

It is the Glad Season.
Thunder ebbs to silence and lightning sleeps quietly in the corner.
Flood waters recede into memory.
Snow becomes a yielding cushion to aid us
As we make our way to higher ground.

Hope is born again in the faces of children
It rides on the shoulders of our aged as they walk into their sunsets.
Hope spreads around the earth. Brightening all things,
Even hate which crouches breeding in dark corridors.

In our joy, we think we hear a whisper.
At first it is too soft. Then only half heard.
We listen carefully as it gathers strength.
We hear a sweetness.
The word is Peace.
It is loud now. It is louder.
Louder than the explosion of bombs.

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We tremble at the sound. We are thrilled by its presence.
It is what we have hungered for.
Not just the absence of war. But, true Peace.
A harmony of spirit, a comfort of courtesies.
Security for our beloveds and their beloveds.

We clap hands and welcome the Peace of Christmas.
We beckon this good season to wait a while with us.
We, Baptist and Buddhist, Methodist and Muslim, say come.
Peace.
Come and fill us and our world with your majesty.
We, the Jew and the Jainist, the Catholic and the Confucian,
Implore you, to stay a while with us.
So we may learn by your shimmering light
How to look beyond complexion and see community.

It is Christmas time, a halting of hate time.

On this platform of peace, we can create a language
To translate ourselves to ourselves and to each other.

At this Holy Instant, we celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ
Into the great religions of the world.
We jubilate the precious advent of trust.
We shout with glorious tongues at the coming of hope.
All the earth’s tribes loosen their voices
To celebrate the promise of Peace.

We, Angels and Mortal’s, Believers and Non-Believers,
Look heavenward and speak the word aloud.
Peace. We look at our world and speak the word aloud.
Peace. We look at each other, then into ourselves
And we say without shyness or apology or hesitation.

Peace, My Brother.
Peace, My Sister.
Peace, My Soul.
— Maya Angelou
(Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem)

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Posted in Christian, Family and Society, Life, Random Thoughts

More than A Chance

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“A little child, a shining star, a stable rude, the door ajar. Yet in that place, so crude, forlorn, the Hope of all the world was born.” Anonymous

As the last Sunday before the Advent approached, the youth group had decided to do a different tree for this year. Along with the tradition of setting up the big Christmas tree, green complete with the tiny ornaments, snow globes, garlands and clumps of holly; the “Jesse Tree” was set up in the central lawn of the chapel. Unlike the elaborately Christmas tree, the Jesse Tree was one of the very old medieval customs to mark and celebrate the gift of the Advent. As per the custom, a tree was selected and during the four weeks leading to the Advent, each day had the teachings and records from the Scriptures, from the Creation to the day of the Advent. With each story, the respective symbol was up on the tree.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:14)

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The last week before this Sunday had seen the symbols of water lily, made from fine white crepe paper as well as a miniature painting of the mother and child go up. Numerous symbols adorned the tree ranging from the miniature apple (Adam and Eve) , the rainbow ( story of Noah’s Ark and the flood), the cutout drawing of a tent (God’s promise to Abraham), the ram, multicoloured robe, the six pointed star of “David”, a temple cutout, the scallop shell and the like, were few of the tokens adorning the tree.

Each branch of the Jesse tree is a sign of new beginnings. The first Jesse trees were large carvings, tapestries or even stained glass windows put in Churches that helped illiterate people to learn about the Bible, from the creation to the Christmas Story. These trees today, stay as an Advent calendar, serving to remind each Christian of the promises of His Word and gift of another Chance through the birth of His Son.

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While the significance of the Jesse tree lies in the scriptures of the prophet Isaiah wherein His Promise of new Life and beginnings through His Son Christ. The greatest gift of the Advent is the “gift of His Love”, another chance to receive the fruits of the Spirit as well as the gift of His Grace and His Love. During the times of turmoil, be it from external or internal influences, it is His Promise that helps us gain the courage to survive the ordeal and return strengthened and reinforced in His Love. Let this Advent be another blessing, giving each one their own special gift, miracle as well as memories to hold for a lifetime.

“11 A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse;
from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.
2 The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—
the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and of might,
the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord—
3 and he will delight in the fear of the Lord.
He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes,
or decide by what he hears with his ears;
4 but with righteousness he will judge the needy,
with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.
He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth;
with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked.
5 Righteousness will be his belt
and faithfulness the sash around his waist.”
(Isaiah 11:1-5.King James Version)

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Posted in Christian, Family and Society, Personal Musings, Random Thoughts, Reflections

Small but Profound

Posted on by Sugar and Spice..... Among Other Things

“And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.” (Matthew 17:20)

While attending the Sunday meet for the women wing of the church, the talk had moved around the daily difficulties as well as conflicting work schedules, the fiasco of the holidays and the winter aliments affecting the elderly at home. In the course of the conversations, the feeling that resonated through was that He will find a way for us. Later on, reflecting these thoughts what ran through was the expression from the bible of “faith as a grain of mustard seed”.

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Found mostly in temperate regions, the black mustard is a large annual plant growing up to nine feet tall, from a proverbially small seed (approx. 3mm). As noted by theologian Ben Witherington notes that the mustard plant demonstrates that “Though the dominion appeared small like a seed during Jesus’ ministry, it would inexorably grow into something large and firmly rooted, which some would find shelter in and others would find obnoxious and try to root out.”

“Have faith in God,” Jesus said to them. (Mark 11:22)

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Faith should be in effect like the mustard seed. It may in small measure but have a profound influence. Faith never dictates nor directs, but it grows into belief in His Word and that all will be done by His Will. Faith also gives hope that like today, tomorrow will have it own share of troubles but a way will be found through. Faith grows through prayer and His teaching. Faith helps one to face an uncertain tomorrow. Faith is what drives each one through tough times. Once each one of us grows the mustard tree, the vitality and peace from it will be felt deep within. If not for inner peace, which is fostered by Faith and Hope; the practicality of a life lived in harmony, contentment, love and happiness would be just a futile dream.

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)

One little girl had to have an operation. The doctor told her before putting on the operating table, “Before you are operated, we will put you to sleep. (i.e. anaesthetize)” The girl looked at him and, smiling, said, “And if you put me to sleep, then I must pray first.” She knelt at the table and said, “I go to bed, Lord, and I ask You to save my soul. But if I have to die before I wake up, then I ask You, Lord, to take my soul as per Thy Will.”
The doctor later said that this evening he prayed for the first time in thirty years!

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Posted in Christian, Daily, poetry, Reflections

His Peace at Heart

Posted on by Sugar and Spice..... Among Other Things

“The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.” (Psalm 29:11)

As the weekend had approached, there was a sense of restlessness going stronger with each passing hour. Come the weekend, it was no better. Saturday was enveloped in preparing for the neighbourhood Christmas programme amidst the weekend chores. With the fellowship meeting at church on the same evening, is when the unrest slowly began to cease. One of the best places to unwind and cast the cares of the world onto His Hands, is the better ways of being in peace within.

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

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Inner peace is at times, an abstract term. After a week of confrontations, debates, schedules being completed or reschedules and redefined; each person needs an outlet to recharge, rejuvenate and relax. While some of us may find it in a book, few in the company of good friends in different relaxed surroundings, others following their creative interests and the rest seeking happiness in their home nest; the Christian peace is obtained through prayer and casting the burdens in His Hands. Such peace leaves not only one feeling content within but blessed by His Love and His Mercy. As nature, life and His Words have taught; inner peace mayn’t be as the world sees it, but as long as your heart and mind is at rest, one is happy. May His peace be in each of our lives and stay with us.

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)

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Peace
By Bessie Rayner Parkes

The steadfast coursing of the stars,
The waves that ripple to the shore,
The vigorous trees which year by year
Spread upwards more and more;

The jewel forming in the mine,
The snow that falls so soft and light,
The rising and the setting sun,
The growing glooms of night;

All natural things both live and move
In natural peace that is their own;
Only in our disordered life
Almost is she unknown.

She is not rest, nor sleep, nor death;
Order and motion ever stand
To carry out her firm behests
As guards at her right hand.

And something of her living force
Fashions the lips when Christians say
To Him Whose strength sustains the world,
“Give us Thy Peace, we pray!”

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Posted in Christian, Daily, poetry, Reflections

Reach Out and Pray

Posted on by Sugar and Spice..... Among Other Things

“Trust the unknown to His Hands of the Known”

During the days when things go wrong, such that one feels that the whole world is conspiring against them; it is certain words or emotions that echo through the mind preserving the sanctity and peace. Lost adrift in the rising tide, the options are stark. Cry for help, reach out for the help, cry and splash around in the water drowning in the process or remember HIS Words and pray for HIS Help to hold on to and find a way out.

As one tries to find a wave in the sea to ride along and get back the bearings; reaching out for His Known Hand may be what makes the difference in catching the wave, which helps one to reach the shore safely.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ( Jeremiah 29:11)

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A Plea To The Lord
Rosemary Ammar

I woke up on Monday and looked up at the sky
With a pain in my heart and tears in my eyes
I said “Lord, please help me, I don’t know what to do.
I lost my job, I need some help, I have no one but you.”

The Lord looked down upon me with sadness in his eyes.
“The world is in a sorry state and I apologize.
For all the pain it’s caused you, there’s just one thing I’ll say:
“It’s okay to cry my child, but don’t forget to pray.”

I woke up on Tuesday and looked up at the sky
With a pain in my heart and tears in my eyes
I said “Lord please help me, I don’t know what to do.
The food is scarce, the kids are sick, I have no one but you.

The week dragged by thru Saturday and things seemed worse each day.
I remembered what the Lord said: “It’s okay to cry, but pray”
So I cried and prayed, I cried and prayed, with no relief in sight.
And I went to bed exhausted but couldn’t sleep that night.

I woke up on Sunday and looked up at the sky
With pain in my heart and tears in my eyes
I said “Lord I’ve had enough and I’m about to break
I think I might just end it all, for everybody’s sake.”

“I’ve not deserted you my child, I’ve counted every tear
Your burdens, although heavy, are not more than you can bear
Soon the sun will warm your face and make you smile again
So rest a little easier and trust in me till then.”

Then the Lord reached down and held me in his arms
With a gentle hand he wiped my tears and spoke these words so calm
“My child I love you dearly and have heard you pray your best
But there is no crying on Sunday, it is the day of rest.

I’ve heard you cry, I’ve heard you pray and I will not desert you
Your faith in Me will get you through these tragedies that hurt you.
So rest today and worry not and leave the rest to me
If you do that, I can promise you, the best is yet to be.”

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Posted in Christian, Daily, Personal Musings, Reflections

Listen for His Voice

Posted on by Sugar and Spice..... Among Other Things

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Sunday afternoons is the most awaited time. With the extended family almost always in for a visit or “one’s better half” at home, there are a couple of hours to unwind and relax. These few hours offer an ear to the wandering thoughts in the mind. The inner doubts, fears and hopes for the future often come to the forefront. While it is important to put ourselves in His Hands, at times one needs to address these thoughts for like doubting Thomas, the mind tends to settle when reality is shown to it.

“Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” ( 1 Peter 5:7)

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Thoughts reflect the words, actions and feelings that follow. The voices in one’s head can arise at the wrong time. Pushing them down near about always gives vent as anger, irritation and rudeness often, to the wrong person or the poor soul who is around when the boiling limit has reached. At the heart, one mayn’t want to get on with this behaviour, but it may surface unless one learns to address the fears and insecurities. Listen to those voices, hear them out but chose how to go about them. Hand over the burdens to Him, For He will always find a way out for us, especially when one is in a bind.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” (Isaiah 43:2)

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Voices And Choices
Ron Atchison

It happens to me too,
the voices and choices
are too much at times
and I need a quiet place
just me and the moon
or me and the sky
a place where I can hear God whisper
reminding me to breathe
asking me to ‘hold on’
and when I hear this
I know everything will be O.K.

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

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