Ashram Community Sermon Outlines/Themes-2025 Prepared by Revd. Dr. D J AjithKumar

June 19, 2024 980 views

April 2025

April 6 (Fifth Sunday in Lent)

Theme: “The God Who Breathes Life into Dry Bones”

Bible Portions:

Old Testament: Ezekiel 37:1–14

Psalm: Psalm 130

Epistle: Romans 8:6–11

Gospel: John 11:1–45

The God Who Breathes Life into Dry Bones

Key Verse:Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live.” (John 11:25)

Introduction

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Many of us in our villages face struggles – poverty, sickness, loss of hope, and discouragement. Sometimes, our lives feel like a field of dry bones, lifeless and hopeless. But today, we will hear the good news: our God is the God who breathes life into dry bones! He is the One who revives the dead, restores the broken, and renews our strength.The passages we read today – Ezekiel 37:1–14, Psalm 130, Romans 8:6–11, and John 11:1–45 – all point to God’s power to bring life where there is death. We will focus on three key truths from these scriptures that teach us how God works to bring life, hope, and renewal.

1. God Sees Our Hopelessness and Speaks Life (Ezekiel 37:1–14)

In Ezekiel 37, God shows the prophet a valley full of dry bones. These bones represent the hopeless state of God’s people – defeated, scattered, and lifeless. But God asks Ezekiel, “Can these bones live?” (Ezekiel 37:3). When Ezekiel answers, “O Lord God, you know,” God commands him to prophesy over the bones. As he speaks, the bones come together, receive flesh, and finally, receive the breath of life.This passage reminds us that God sees our hopelessness. Sometimes we feel like those dry bones—dead in our faith, struggling in our families, or burdened by life’s troubles. But God does not abandon us. He speaks life into our situations. His Word brings transformation.In our villages, many people struggle with despair due to financial hardships, illness, or lack of opportunities. But when we trust God’s Word, we see change. When we pray, worship, and declare God’s promises, new life comes into our homes and communities.

2. God Revives Those Who Wait on Him (Psalm 130 & Romans 8:6–11)

Psalm 130 is a cry from a person in distress: “Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord!” (Psalm 130:1). The psalmist is waiting for God’s help, trusting that He will redeem His people. This teaches us that when we wait on the Lord, He revives us.In Romans 8:6–11, Paul reminds us that life in the Spirit brings peace and resurrection power. “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies” (Romans 8:11). This means that even in our struggles, the Holy Spirit is at work, bringing life and hope.In our villages, we often experience long periods of waiting – waiting for rain, for healing, for provision, for change. The Bible encourages us that God revives those who wait on Him. Just as a farmer waits for the harvest, we must trust that God is working, even when we do not see immediate results.

3. God Brings Resurrection Through Jesus Christ (John 11:1–45)

The most powerful example of God giving life is seen in John 11, where Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. When Lazarus was sick, his sisters sent word to Jesus. But Jesus delayed, and Lazarus died. When Jesus arrived, Martha expressed her disappointment, saying, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:21). But Jesus responded with these powerful words: “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).Jesus stood before the tomb and called Lazarus to come out, and the dead man walked out alive!This story teaches us that no situation is too hopeless for Jesus. Even when everything seems lost, Jesus can bring resurrection. He has power over death, sickness, and despair.Many people in our villages have lost faith in God because of suffering. But today, Jesus is calling us to believe in Him. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The same Jesus who raised Lazarus is working in our lives today.

Conclusion

Dear friends, God is the God who breathes life into dry bones. No matter how hopeless a situation seems, He has the power to revive and restore. From today’s sermon, we have learned:

God sees our hopelessness and speaks life (Ezekiel 37:1–14).
God revives those who wait on Him (Psalm 130 & Romans 8:6–11).
God brings resurrection through Jesus Christ (John 11:1–45).

If you feel like dry bones today – discouraged, tired, or lost – remember that God is speaking life over you. Trust in His promises, wait on His timing, and believe in the resurrection power of Jesus.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for Your Word today. We thank You that You are the God who breathes life into dry bones. Lord, in times of hopelessness, speak life into our hearts. Revive us with Your Holy Spirit. Strengthen those who are weak, comfort those who are grieving, and heal those who are sick.Jesus, we believe that You are the resurrection and the life. We trust in Your power to change our lives, our families, and our villages. Let Your Spirit move among us and bring a great revival.We pray for our communities, that they may be filled with faith, hope, and love. May we always wait on You and never lose heart.In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray.Amen.

April 13 (Palm Sunday / Sunday of the Passion)

Theme: “Hosanna! The King of Peace Has Come”

Bible Portions:

Old Testament: Zechariah 9:9–12

Psalm: Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29

Epistle: Philippians 2:5–11

Gospel: Matthew 21:1–11

Hosanna! The King of Peace Has Come

Key Verse:“Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” (Matthew 21:9, ESV)

Introduction

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today, we celebrate Palm Sunday, the day when Jesus entered Jerusalem as the King of Peace. The people of the city welcomed Him with great joy, waving palm branches and shouting “Hosanna!”, which means “Save us now!”. This was a moment of excitement, but many people misunderstood the kind of king Jesus was. He did not come as a warrior king but as the King of Peace.In many of our villages, we long for peace-peace in our homes, in our fields, and in our hearts. We want a leader who will bring justice and relief from struggles. Today, we will look at three important truths from the Scriptures that teach us about the King of Peace who has come.

1. Jesus is the fulfilment of God’s Promise (Zechariah 9:9–12)

The prophet Zechariah, hundreds of years before Jesus, gave a prophecy:

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey.” (Zechariah 9:9)This prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey. Unlike earthly kings who ride on horses to show their power, Jesus came humbly on a donkey, showing that His kingdom is one of peace, not violence.This is an important lesson for us. In our world, people seek power through money, position, and force, but Jesus shows that true kingship is through humility and righteousness. Many of us may feel weak, small, or unimportant, but God’s promises are for the humble. Jesus is our King who fulfils God’s promises and brings salvation, not oppression.If you are struggling today, take heart – Jesus is the King who comes not to rule over you with fear but to bring you into His kingdom of peace and righteousness.

2. Jesus is the Way to God’s Presence (Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29)

Psalm 118 is a song of thanksgiving and victory. It says,

“Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the Lord” (Psalm 118:19). Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem fulfilled this Psalm because He is the gate through which we enter God’s presence. The crowds in Jerusalem shouted “Hosanna!” because they hoped Jesus would save them from Roman rule. But Jesus came not just to save them politically but to open the way to God’s eternal kingdom.Many of us long for deliverance – from poverty, illness, or struggles. These are real concerns, and Jesus cares for them. But His greatest work was opening the gates of salvation for us. Through Him, we can have peace with God, and we are invited to live in righteousness, thanksgiving, and trust in His promises.Palm Sunday reminds us that true joy is found not in temporary success but in being close to God. No matter our circumstances, we have victory through Jesus.

3. Jesus is the Servant King Who Brings True Peace (Philippians 2:5–11 & Matthew 21:1–11)

In Philippians 2:5–11, Paul teaches us about the attitude of Jesus:

“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him.” (Philippians 2:8-9)Jesus did not come to rule with power and wealth like earthly kings. Instead, He humbled Himself and gave His life for us. His kingdom is not of force and war but of love, peace, and sacrifice.In Matthew 21:1–11, we see that the people praised Jesus as the Son of David, expecting a political king. But by the end of the week, these same people turned against Him and shouted, “Crucify Him!” This is because they wanted a king who would meet their desires, not a king who would lead them to holiness.Many times, we also have wrong expectations from God. We pray and ask for blessings, but when things do not happen as we expect, we lose faith. But Jesus came to give us more than just temporary relief – He came to give us eternal life and peace.If you are facing troubles today, remember: Jesus, the Servant King, is with you. He calls us to follow Him in humility and trust that true peace is found in serving others and surrendering to God’s will.

Conclusion

Dear friends, Palm Sunday is a day of celebration, but also of deep reflection. The people of Jerusalem rejoiced when Jesus entered, but within days, many turned against Him. Let us not make the same mistake. Let us welcome Jesus not just with words, but with our hearts and lives.

From today’s message, we learn:

Jesus is the fulfilment of God’s promise (Zechariah 9:9–12). He is the King who brings salvation, not oppression.
Jesus is the way to God’s presence (Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29). Through Him, we have victory and a relationship with God.
Jesus is the Servant King who brings true peace (Philippians 2:5–11 & Matthew 21:1–11). His kingdom is one of humility, sacrifice, and eternal life.

As we enter Holy Week, let us follow Jesus in faith, humility, and trust. Let us not just shout “Hosanna” with our lips but honour Him with our lives. The King of Peace has come – will you welcome Him into your heart today?

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for sending Jesus, the King of Peace, into our lives. Just as the people welcomed Him in Jerusalem, we welcome Him into our hearts and homes. Lord, help us to trust in Your promises, to walk in Your ways, and to follow You in humility and faith.Forgive us when we seek temporary blessings instead of eternal peace. Give us the strength to surrender to Your will, just as Jesus humbled Himself for us. Let our villages, our families, and our communities be filled with Your peace.May this Holy Week be a time of deep reflection and renewal in our faith. We cry out, Hosanna! Save us now, Lord! Lead us into Your everlasting kingdom!In the name of Jesus Christ, our King, we pray.Amen.

Maundy Thursday – April 17, 2025

Theme: “The New Commandment of Love”

Bible Portions:

Old Testament: Exodus 12:1–4, 11–14

Psalm: Psalm 116:1–2, 12–19

Epistle: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26

Gospel: John 13:1–17, 31b–35

The New Commandment of Love

Key Verse:“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34, NIV)

Introduction

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today is Maundy Thursday, a day of great significance in our Christian faith. The word Maundy comes from the Latin word mandatum, meaning commandment, referring to Jesus’ words: “A new command I give you: Love one another.” On this night, Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, instituted the Lord’s Supper, and prepared for His ultimate sacrifice on the cross.In our village churches, we understand the importance of love, humility, and service. Jesus teaches us not only to receive love but also to give love by serving others selflessly. Today, we will meditate on three important lessons from the Scriptures about the new commandment of love.

1. Love as Deliverance: The Passover and Jesus’ Sacrifice (Exodus 12:1–4, 11–14 & 1 Corinthians 11:23–26)

In Exodus 12, God commanded the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb and mark their doorposts with its blood, so that the angel of death would pass over their houses. This was the beginning of the Passover, a festival remembering God’s deliverance of His people from slavery in Egypt.Jesus, on the night of Maundy Thursday, redefined this Passover. He became the true Passover Lamb, sacrificing Himself to deliver us not from Egypt, but from sin and eternal death. As 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 tells us, Jesus took bread and wine, saying:“This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” (1 Corinthians 11:24). This shows us that true love is sacrificial. Love is not just about words; it is about giving ourselves for the well-being of others. In our village communities, we know the importance of sharing and supporting one another, whether in times of joy or difficulty. Jesus calls us to live in this sacrificial love, just as He gave Himself for us.

2. Love as Service: The Humility of Jesus (John 13:1–17)

The second great act of Maundy Thursday is Jesus washing the feet of His disciples. This was a task normally done by servants, but Jesus, the Son of God, knelt before His followers and washed their feet. He then told them:“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” (John 13:15)In our villages, we often see humility in the way people serve one another – whether it is a mother feeding her children first, a farmer sharing his harvest with neighbours, or elders guiding the younger generation. Jesus teaches us that true love is shown in humble service.Many times, we want to be respected and honoured, but Jesus says: The greatest in God’s kingdom is the one who serves. When we wash each other’s feet—both literally and spiritually – we show that we are not above anyone else, but that we belong to each other in love.Are we willing to humble ourselves to serve others? True love means being willing to help, forgive, and uplift those around us, just as Jesus did.

3. Love as a Commandment: The Mark of True Disciples (John 13:31b–35 & Psalm 116:1–2, 12–19)

Jesus gave His disciples a new commandment:

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34). This love is not just an emotion or feeling, but a commandment. It is a choice to live in unity, forgiveness, and kindness, even when it is difficult. Jesus did not say, “Love those who love you.” He said, “Love one another as I have loved you.”In Psalm 116:1–2, 12–19, the psalmist expresses gratitude to God’s love and asks, “What shall I return to the Lord for all His goodness to me?” The answer is found in obedience to God and showing His love to others.In many of our villages, divisions and conflicts can arise over land, family matters, or misunderstandings. But Jesus calls us to break these barriers and build bridges of love and reconciliation. Our love for one another is the proof that we are truly His disciples.The world will know Jesus not by our words alone but by the love we show –

Love that forgives even when wronged,

Love that serves without expecting a reward,

Love that cares for the poor, the sick, and the outcast.

When we love this way, our churches and villages will become places of peace, healing, and unity.

Conclusion

Dear friends, Maundy Thursday is not just about remembering history—it is about living the commandment of love today.

We have learned:

Love as Deliverance – Jesus, the true Passover Lamb, sacrificed Himself to set us free.
Love as Service – Jesus humbled Himself and washed His disciples’ feet, teaching us to serve others.
Love as a Commandment – Jesus commanded us to love as He loved, making love the mark of true discipleship.

Tonight, as we reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and humility, let us ask ourselves:

Are we willing to love sacrificially, as Christ did for us?

Are we willing to serve humbly, following Jesus’ example?

Are we willing to obey His commandment to love, even when it is difficult?

Let this Maundy Thursday be a time of commitment—to love, serve, and follow Christ with all our hearts. The new commandment of love is not just for one night, but for a lifetime.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for Your unfailing love and for sending Jesus, our Passover Lamb, to set us free. Lord Jesus, You showed us the way of humility, service, and sacrificial love. Help us to follow Your example in our daily lives.Forgive us when we fail to love as You have commanded. Give us strength to serve others with humility, to love without expecting anything in return, and to be a light in our villages and communities.May Your love flow through us, bringing peace where there is conflict, healing where there is hurt, and unity where there is division. As we prepare for Good Friday and Easter, renew our hearts and deepen our commitment to live by Your new commandment of love.We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.Amen.

Good Friday – April 18, 2025

Theme: “It Is Finished”

Bible Portions:

Old Testament: Isaiah 52:13–53:12

Psalm: Psalm 22:1–22

Epistle: Hebrews 10:16–25

Gospel: John 18:1–19:42

Key Verse:“When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” (John 19:30, NIV)

Introduction

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today is Good Friday, the day we remember the greatest sacrifice ever made. Jesus, the Son of God, suffered and died on the cross for the sins of the world. His final words, “It is finished” (John 19:30), were not words of defeat, but of victory. These words mean that His mission was completed, the price for our sins was paid, and salvation was made available to all who believe.For our reflection today, let us meditate on three key aspects of “It is finished” based on the Scriptures.

1. The Suffering Servant: The Price of Redemption (Isaiah 52:13–53:12 & Psalm 22:1–22)

The prophecy of Isaiah 53 describes the suffering of the Servant of the Lord, who was despised, rejected, and wounded for our sins. Isaiah 53:5 says:

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”

The Psalmist in Psalm 22 prophetically cries out the very words Jesus spoke from the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Psalm 22:1). This Psalm describes in detail the agony of Jesus on the cross.In our village communities, we understand pain and suffering. Many people suffer poverty, sickness, rejection, and hardships. But Jesus took upon Himself our pain. His suffering was not in vain—it was the price of our redemption. When He said, “It is finished,” He meant that the punishment for our sins was fully paid.Let us take comfort in knowing that Jesus understands our suffering and has already won the victory for us. No matter what we go through, we are not alone. The cross reminds us that God is with us in our suffering and has a purpose for our pain.

2. The New Covenant: Access to God Through Jesus (Hebrews 10:16–25)

The second truth about “It is finished” is that Jesus fulfilled the Old Covenant and established the New Covenant. Hebrews 10:19–20 says:

“Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body…”

In the Old Testament, only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place once a year to offer a sacrifice for the sins of the people. But when Jesus died, the temple curtain tore in two (Matthew 27:51), showing that through His death, all people now have direct access to God.In our villages, some people believe that they need a mediator or priest to connect with God. But Jesus has opened the way for us to approach God freely. We do not need any other sacrifice—His sacrifice was perfect and complete.Now, as Hebrews 10:22 says, “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings.”Jesus’ finished work on the cross means we can come boldly before God in faith, prayer, and worship.

3. The Victory of Salvation: Jesus’ Mission Accomplished (John 18:1–19:42)

The Gospel of John describes in detail the final hours of Jesus—His betrayal, trial, crucifixion, and death. When Jesus said “It is finished,” He was declaring that His mission to save humanity was completed.

Satan was defeated. Jesus’ death crushed the power of Satan and sin (Colossians 2:15).
The penalty for sin was paid. Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Salvation is now available to all. No matter who we are or what we have done, we can receive forgiveness and eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Many people in our villages still live in fear of curses, evil spirits, and ancestral sins. But the cross of Jesus breaks all these chains. His blood cleanses us from all sin and gives us victory over darkness.Now, all who believe in Jesus have eternal hope. The cross is not the end—it is the beginning of new life in Christ.

Conclusion

Dear brothers and sisters, Good Friday is a day of deep sorrow but also of great hope. Jesus’ words, “It is finished,” mean:

Our redemption is complete – Jesus suffered so that we may be saved.
We have direct access to God – Jesus’ death established a new relationship with God.
The victory over sin and death is won – We are no longer slaves to fear, sin, or Satan.

As we reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus today, let us surrender our hearts to Him and live in the freedom He has given us. We no longer need to fear judgment because Jesus has already taken our place.Let us respond in gratitude by living lives that honor His sacrifice—lives of faith, love, and service to others.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for sending Jesus, the Lamb of God, to take away the sins of the world. Lord Jesus, You suffered and died for us, and with Your final words, “It is finished,” You declared the victory of salvation.Help us to live in the freedom and grace You have given us. Remove all fear, guilt, and sin from our lives. Give us faith to trust in You completely. Strengthen us to share Your love and truth with those around us.Bless our villages, our families, and our churches. May Your sacrifice bring peace, healing, and transformation in our lives.We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.Amen.

Sermon on the Seven Words of the Cross

Key Verse

Luke 23:34 – “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

This verse captures the heart of Jesus’ sacrificial love, forgiveness, and grace, which are central themes in His seven last words on the cross.The seven words of the cross are often meditated upon during reflections on the crucifixion of Jesus. These seven statements are compiled from the four Gospels, as not all are found in each Gospel. The number seven symbolizes completeness in the Bible—seen in seven churches, seven stars, seven lamps, seven seals, seven trumpets, seven festivals, and seven days. This biblical significance may have contributed to the idea of the seven words of Jesus on the cross.

The Seven Words:

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34)
“Truly, I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
“Woman, here is your son. Then he said to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’” (John 19:26-27)
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34)
“I am thirsty.” (John 19:28)
“It is finished.” (John 19:30)
“Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” (Luke 23:46)

These statements can be categorized into different themes:

The first three are directed toward people—his persecutors, the repentant thief, and his mother.
The next two reflect his personal suffering—his sense of abandonment and his thirst.
The final two statements reflect his completion of the mission—one referring to the past (“It is finished”) and the other to the future (“Into your hands I commit my spirit”).

Additionally, three statements are prayers to God, three are dialogues with people, and one addresses the world. This division highlights Jesus’ relationship with both the Father and humanity.

1. “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34)

This first word from the cross is a prayer of forgiveness. Even in his suffering, Jesus asks for mercy on behalf of those crucifying him. This echoes the Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us” (Matthew 6:12, 14-15).Robert Louis Stevenson once avoided praying the Lord’s Prayer because he felt he lacked the moral strength to forgive others. Alexander Pope wrote, “To err is human, but to forgive is divine.” The parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:21-35) reminds us that we must forgive as we have been forgiven. Jesus instructs us to forgive before we pray and before offering sacrifices (Mark 11:25; Matthew 5:23-24). The apostles also taught about forgiveness (2 Corinthians 2:7; Ephesians 4:32).

2. “Truly, I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)

Even in agony, Jesus shares the gospel. The word “today” signifies immediate salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2; Luke 19:5, 9). Jesus reaffirms that sinners, including tax collectors and prostitutes, will enter the Kingdom of God before the self-righteous (Matthew 21:31). This promise to the thief on the cross illustrates the hope of redemption.

The thief’s repentance includes five steps (Luke 23:39-43):

He feared God.
He admitted his sin.
He acknowledged Jesus’ innocence.
He recognized Jesus as King.
He asked for eternal life.

This word affirms that God forgives those who truly repent, regardless of their past.

3. “Woman, here is your son… Here is your mother.” (John 19:26-27)

Here, Jesus entrusts his mother to John, demonstrating his care for family responsibilities. This statement is not about worshiping Mary but about fulfilling the commandment to honour one’s parents (Ephesians 6:1-4). In today’s world, caring for the elderly is increasingly crucial. Jesus’ words from the cross highlight the importance of compassion and responsibility toward our parents.

4. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34)

This cry echoes Psalm 22:1. Some interpret it as a moment of abandonment, while others see it as a declaration of purpose. A.T. Robertson suggests it means, “My power, my power, why have you forsaken me?” Another interpretation by Racco A. Errico and George M. Lamsa suggests, “For this purpose I was spared.”Regardless of interpretation, this moment signifies Jesus bearing the full weight of humanity’s sin (Isaiah 53:6; 1 Peter 2:24).

5. “I am thirsty.” (John 19:28)

Jesus, fully God and fully human, experiences physical thirst. This fulfills prophecies (Psalm 22:15; 69:3). The soldiers offer him wine mixed with gall, but he refuses (Matthew 27:34; Mark 15:23), choosing to endure the full suffering of the cross. Some theologians also interpret this as spiritual thirst—for the salvation of humanity.

6. “It is finished.” (John 19:30)

These words signify Jesus’ complete fulfilment of his mission. He has fulfilled the Law (Matthew 5:17), completed prophecies, and redeemed humanity (Galatians 3:14). The work of salvation is accomplished.The cross, once a symbol of shame, becomes the power of God for those who believe (1 Corinthians 1:18). It reconciles humanity with God (2 Corinthians 5:19) and breaks down barriers (Ephesians 2:14-16). Through his blood, peace is attained (Colossians 1:20). Jesus’ death cancels humanity’s debt before God.

7. “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” (Luke 23:46)

Jesus’ final words reflect complete trust in the Father. This prayer was a common Jewish bedtime prayer, indicating peace and confidence. Jesus dies not in despair but in faith and surrender.

Conclusion:

The seven words of Jesus on the cross provide deep spiritual insights. They teach us about forgiveness, redemption, compassion, suffering, fulfilment, and trust in God.

As we reflect on these words, let us apply their lessons in our lives:

Forgive others as we have been forgiven.
Share the gospel even in difficult circumstances.
Care for those in need, especially family.
Trust God in moments of suffering.
Seek spiritual nourishment.
Rest in the finished work of Christ.
Commit our lives into God’s hands with faith.

May these words strengthen our faith and draw us closer to the cross of Christ, where salvation and eternal life are found.

Holy Saturday – April 19, 2025

Theme: “The Light Will Dawn in the Darkness”

Bible Portions:

Old Testament: Job 14:1–14

Psalm: Psalm 31:1–4, 15–16

Epistle: 1 Peter 4:1–8

Gospel: Matthew 27:57–66

THE LIGHT WILL DAWN IN THE DARKNESS

Key Verse: Matthew 27:60 – “And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.”

Introduction

Holy Saturday is a day of silence, waiting, and hope. It is the in-between moment – between Good Friday’s sorrow and Easter Sunday’s joy. The disciples were in despair, Jesus lay in the tomb, and darkness seemed to have triumphed. But even in the silence of this day, God was at work. Holy Saturday teaches us that no matter how dark the night, the light of God will surely dawn.For many of us in our village churches, we experience struggles, loss, sickness, and difficulties. There are times when we feel like we are in the tomb of despair. But Holy Saturday reminds us that God’s plan is never defeated. Even in the silence, God is working to bring His light into our darkness.From our given passages, we will reflect on three important lessons that give us hope in the darkness:

Darkness Is Not the End (Job 14:1–14)
Our Times Are in God’s Hands (Psalm 31:1–4, 15–16)
The Righteous Will Be Vindicated (1 Peter 4:1–8, Matthew 27:57–66)

1. Darkness Is Not the End (Job 14:1–14)

In Job 14, Job cries out in despair, seeing the shortness and troubles of life. He asks, “If someone dies, will they live again?” (Job 14:14). This question was answered on Easter morning when Jesus rose from the dead.Many in our villages go through suffering and pain. We see sickness, poverty, and injustice. Like Job, we may question, “Lord, will there be light again?” Holy Saturday teaches us that the suffering of this world is not the final word. Jesus, though buried in the tomb, was not abandoned. God had a greater plan – resurrection was coming!A farmer plants seeds into the ground. For days, the seed is buried in darkness. But after some time, the seed sprouts, and new life emerges. In the same way, our sufferings are not the end. God is preparing a new beginning for us.Job’s question – “If someone dies, will they live again?” – finds its answer in Christ. Yes! Because of Jesus, death is not the end. There is hope beyond the grave. Our darkness will not last forever. The light of God’s new day is coming!

2. Our Times Are in God’s Hands (Psalm 31:1–4, 15–16)

Psalm 31 is a prayer of trust. In verse 15, the psalmist declares, “My times are in your hands.” Even in the midst of danger and uncertainty, he trusts that God is in control.Holy Saturday was a time of waiting. The disciples did not know what would happen next. They were afraid and confused. But Jesus had already surrendered His spirit to the Father, trusting Him completely.

Application for Us:

We may not always understand what is happening in our lives.
There are times when God seems silent, and we do not see His plan.
But our times are in His hands. He is always working for our good.

A potter shapes clay on the wheel. At first, the clay looks like a shapeless lump. But the potter carefully molds it, and over time, it becomes a beautiful vessel. In the same way, God is shaping our lives. Even when we don’t see it, He is at work.This Psalm reminds us to trust in God’s timing. The silence of Holy Saturday is not God’s absence. It is His preparation for something glorious. Our times – our struggles, our joys, our future – are in His hands. We can trust Him completely.

3. The Righteous Will Be Vindicated (1 Peter 4:1–8, Matthew 27:57–66)

1 Peter 4:1–8 encourages us to live righteously, even in suffering. The passage reminds us that Jesus suffered, but in the end, He was victorious.In Matthew 27:57–66, Joseph of Arimathea, a faithful disciple, takes the body of Jesus and lays it in the tomb. The Pharisees and chief priests placed guards at the tomb, thinking they had won. But they did not realize that the greatest victory was yet to come.

Lessons for Us:

The world may mock and reject the righteous, but God will have the final say.
Evil may seem to prevail for a time, but justice and truth will be revealed.
Just as Jesus’ suffering led to His resurrection, our struggles will lead to God’s glory.

Imagine a mango tree. When it is planted, it does not bear fruit immediately. People may think it is useless. But in the right season, the tree blossoms and gives sweet fruit. In the same way, God’s promises may take time, but they will surely be fulfilled.The guards at Jesus’ tomb thought they could stop God’s plan. But they were wrong. No stone, no guard, no human effort can stop the power of God. Jesus was about to rise, proving that righteousness will always be victorious in the end.

Conclusion

Holy Saturday is a day of waiting. It teaches us that even when things seem hopeless, God is at work. The darkness will not last forever. Just as Jesus rose from the dead, we too will see the light of God’s deliverance.

If you are in a time of struggle, remember – darkness is not the end.
If you feel lost, trust – your times are in God’s hands.
If you are facing opposition, stand firm – the righteous will be vindicated.

Just as the morning sun breaks through the night, the light of Christ will shine upon us. Let us hold on to hope, for the light will dawn in the darkness.

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You that in our darkest moments, You are still at work. As we remember Holy Saturday, help us to trust in Your timing and Your plan. Strengthen our faith when we feel lost, and remind us that the light of Your resurrection will surely shine. Bless our villages, our families, and our churches with Your hope and peace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

April 20 (Easter Sunday)

Theme: “He Is Risen: Victory Over Sin and Death”

Bible Portions:

Old Testament: Isaiah 25:6–9

Psalm: Psalm 118:14–24

Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:1–11

Gospel: Matthew 28:1–10

“He Is Risen: Victory Over Sin and Death”

Key Verse:Matthew 28:6 – “He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”

Introduction:

On this glorious Easter Sunday, as we gather in the presence of our risen Savior, we are reminded of the greatest victory that has ever been won – the victory over sin and death. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just a historical event; it is a transformative moment that changed the course of human history and offers hope to each one of us. Today, we stand on the threshold of a new dawn – one that dispels the darkness of sin and death and ushers in the light of eternal life.This message of resurrection is not just for the past but is a living reality that continues to shape our lives. In the village context, where we often face struggles, challenges, and hardships, the resurrection brings us hope and assurance that the power of sin and death has been defeated. As we explore the Scriptures today, we will see how the resurrection of Jesus speaks to us in three powerful ways:

The Resurrection Brings Victory Over Sin
The Resurrection Brings Hope to the Hopeless
The Resurrection Brings New Life and Purpose

Let us delve into these three aspects of the resurrection, beginning with the message from the Old Testament prophecy, moving to the Psalms, and culminating in the New Testament revelation.

1. The Resurrection Brings Victory Over Sin (Isaiah 25:6-9)

In Isaiah 25:6-9, we hear a beautiful prophecy that speaks of the victory over death and sin. Isaiah writes:

“On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wine, of rich food full of marrow, of aged wine well refined. And He will swallow up on this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death forever, and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of His people He will take away from all the earth, for the Lord has spoken.” (Isaiah 25:6-8)

These words are a foretaste of the victory that Jesus accomplished on the cross and through His resurrection. The “veil” that covers all nations symbolizes the sin and separation between humanity and God. But the resurrection of Jesus is God’s answer to this problem. By rising from the dead, Jesus defeated the power of sin that separates us from God.Through His victory, we are no longer under the power of sin. The resurrection assures us that sin no longer has the final word. Just as death was swallowed up in victory, so too, through Jesus’ resurrection, we can live free from the chains of sin. It is not just a historical event but a present-day reality for all who believe.In the village setting, where daily life is often filled with struggles – whether it’s the burden of past mistakes, the weight of shame, or the temptation to give in to sin – the resurrection offers a fresh start. Jesus’ victory over sin invites us to turn away from our past and walk in the newness of life, free from the guilt and shame that once held us captive.

2. The Resurrection Brings Hope to the Hopeless (Psalm 118:14-24)

In Psalm 118:14-24, we find a song of victory and hope that points us to the resurrection of Jesus:

“The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation. Glad songs of salvation are in the tents of the righteous: ‘The right hand of the Lord does valiantly, the right hand of the Lord exalts, the right hand of the Lord does valiantly!’ I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the Lord. The Lord has disciplined me severely, but He has not given me over to death.” (Psalm 118:14-18)

This psalm reflects the deep joy and triumph of the believer who has experienced deliverance from death. The psalmist proclaims, “I shall not die, but I shall live.” This is a prophetic declaration of the victory over death, a victory that was won through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The resurrection transforms despair into hope. It speaks to those who feel trapped in hopelessness, who have lost the sense of God’s presence, or who face hardships that seem insurmountable.In the rural settings of our villages, people often experience feelings of hopelessness due to poverty, illness, or lack of opportunity. Yet, the resurrection reminds us that no situation is beyond God’s redeeming power. Even in the darkest times, when all seems lost, the resurrection brings the light of hope.As we reflect on the resurrection, let us remember that Jesus is the source of our hope. He has conquered death, and through Him, we have the hope of eternal life. This hope is not just for the future, but it is a present reality that empowers us to endure and persevere, knowing that no trial or difficulty can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.

3. The Resurrection Brings New Life and Purpose (1 Corinthians 15:1-11)

In 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Paul reminds us of the centrality of the resurrection to the Christian faith:

“Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you – unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then He appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, He appeared also to me.” (1 Corinthians 15:1-8). Paul emphasizes the importance of the resurrection as the foundation of the Christian faith. It is not just a doctrine to be believed, but a living reality that shapes the life of the believer. The resurrection of Jesus is the key to new life and purpose. Through His resurrection, Jesus not only secured our salvation but also called us to live lives that reflect the victory He won for us.The resurrection transforms us from living in fear and defeat to living in victory and purpose. We are no longer defined by our past mistakes or our failures. We are defined by the new life that Jesus gives. The resurrection gives us the strength to face life with hope, to live with purpose, and to share the good news of Jesus with others.In the villages, where many face hardship, the resurrection brings a message of purpose and transformation. It calls us to live not for ourselves but for the glory of God, to serve others, and to be agents of change in our communities. The resurrection gives us a mission—to proclaim the victory of Jesus over sin and death and to invite others into the new life He offers.

Conclusion:

As we celebrate this Easter Sunday, we are reminded of the victory of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His resurrection is the triumph over sin, the defeat of death, and the promise of eternal life. It brings victory, hope, and new life to all who believe.As we live in the light of the resurrection, let us hold fast to the hope it brings. Let us walk in the victory over sin, share the hope with the hopeless, and live with the purpose of serving God and others. The resurrection is not just a past event; it is a living reality that empowers us to live in the fullness of God’s grace.

Concluding Prayer:

Gracious and loving God, we thank You for the victorious resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. We thank You that through His victory over sin and death, we have the hope of eternal life. May the power of the resurrection fill our hearts with joy and hope, and may it transform our lives.We pray for those who are struggling in darkness, for those who feel hopeless, and for those who are burdened by sin. May the light of the resurrection shine brightly in their lives and bring them new life and purpose.Help us to live in the victory of the resurrection, to walk in Your grace, and to share the hope of Jesus with others. We commit ourselves to You, Lord, and ask that Your resurrection power continue to work in and through us for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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April 27 (Second Sunday of Easter)

Theme: “Blessed Are Those Who Believe”

Bible Portions:

Old Testament: Acts 2:14a, 22–32

Psalm: Psalm 16

Epistle: 1 Peter 1:3–9

Gospel: John 20:19–31

“Blessed Are Those Who Believe”

Key Verse:
John 20:29 – “Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.'”

Introduction:

On this second Sunday of Easter, we gather as a community to reflect on the message of faith, believing in the risen Christ even when we do not physically see Him. The theme of today’s sermon, “Blessed Are Those Who Believe,” resonates deeply in our hearts, especially as we reflect on the disciples’ journey from doubt to faith, from fear to courage, and from hopelessness to the joy of resurrection. In the rural setting, where life can sometimes be hard and full of uncertainties, we are called to trust in the unseen reality of God’s work and His promises.As we explore the Scriptures today, we will discover three essential truths that guide our belief:

Faith is Based on the Evidence of Jesus’ Resurrection
Faith Leads to Joy and Hope
Faith Is a Blessing and a Source of Assurance

Let us dive into these points and uncover how the blessedness of believing in Jesus can transform our lives.

1. Faith is Based on the Evidence of Jesus’ Resurrection (Acts 2:14a, 22-32)

In Acts 2:14a, 22-32, we encounter Peter’s powerful sermon on the day of Pentecost. Peter boldly declares the centrality of Jesus’ resurrection in the Christian faith:

“Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves know—this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. God raised Him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for Him to be held by it.” (Acts 2:22-24)

Peter explains that the resurrection of Jesus is not a myth, nor a figment of imagination, but a historical fact based on the powerful works and miracles Jesus performed during His earthly ministry. The resurrection is the ultimate proof of Jesus’ divinity and the fulfilment of God’s plan of salvation for the world.In rural communities, many still wrestle with doubts and uncertainties about the faith. They wonder if the resurrection really happened, if it has any relevance for their everyday lives. Peter’s message reminds us that the resurrection of Jesus is not just a theological idea, but a real, historical event that changed everything. The evidence of His life, death, and resurrection is the foundation upon which our faith rests.When we share the gospel in villages, we are not asking people to believe in something that has no foundation. We are inviting them to believe in the truth of Jesus Christ, who died and rose again to offer us forgiveness and eternal life. The resurrection is the proof that Jesus is who He claimed to be – our Savior and Lord. Just as Peter testified to the truth of the resurrection, we too must stand firm in the evidence of Christ’s victory over death and proclaim it to others.

2. Faith Leads to Joy and Hope (Psalm 16)

Psalm 16 expresses the deep joy and security that come from placing our trust in God. In verses 9-11, the psalmist writes:

“Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let Your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:9-11)

This psalm reflects the joy and hope that believers experience in knowing that God will not abandon them, even in the face of death. The psalmist’s confidence in God’s protection is rooted in the trust that God will deliver and protect His faithful ones from corruption and death. The resurrection of Jesus Christ provides the fulfilment of this psalm’s promise. Jesus is the Holy One whom God did not allow to see decay, and through His resurrection, He brings the joy of eternal life to all who believe.For those of us living in villages where life can be difficult, the resurrection gives us an enduring hope. The struggles of life – poverty, illness, and loss – can cause despair and hopelessness. Yet, in the midst of our pain and hardship, the resurrection reminds us that God is with us, offering us hope beyond this life. Just as Jesus triumphed over death, He offers us the assurance that we too can experience life, joy, and peace in His presence.The resurrection gives us a joy that the world cannot take away—a joy that surpasses our circumstances. It is a joy grounded not in earthly pleasures, but in the assurance of eternal life with God. In times of trial, we can look to Jesus, the risen Lord, who brings us hope and the fullness of joy in His presence.

3. Faith Is a Blessing and a Source of Assurance (John 20:19-31)

In John 20:19-31, we read the powerful story of Jesus’ appearance to His disciples after His resurrection. Thomas, one of the twelve, was not present when Jesus first appeared to the others. When he heard of the resurrection, he doubted, saying:

“Unless I see in His hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into His side, I will never believe.” (John 20:25)

Eight days later, Jesus appeared to Thomas and invited him to touch His wounds. Jesus responded to Thomas, saying:

“Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29)

In this encounter, Jesus speaks a powerful word of blessing over those who believe without seeing. This blessing is not just for Thomas, but for all who would come to faith in Him in the years to come. It is a reminder that our faith is not based on physical sight, but on trust in the testimony of those who have witnessed the resurrection and on the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts.In our rural contexts, many people may never have seen Jesus in the flesh. Yet, the blessing of belief extends to all who have faith in Him. For us, the resurrection is not a distant event from the past but a living reality that we experience through the Holy Spirit. Even in the absence of physical sight, we are called to trust in the risen Lord and to know the blessing of believing in Him.Jesus’ words to Thomas encourage us to hold firm to our faith, even when we cannot see the full picture. Just as the disciples were transformed by their encounter with the risen Christ, so too are we transformed by our belief in Him. This faith brings us assurance and confidence in God’s promises, knowing that He is alive and active in our lives today.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on the theme, “Blessed Are Those Who Believe,” we are reminded that faith in the risen Christ is not a mere intellectual assent, but a living and active trust in the victory over sin and death. It is faith based on the solid evidence of Jesus’ resurrection, faith that leads to joy and hope, and faith that is a blessing, bringing us assurance of eternal life with God.As we live out this faith in our villages, let us share the good news of the resurrection with those around us, encouraging them to believe, even when they do not see. Let us walk in the joy and hope that the resurrection brings, and let us embrace the blessing of believing in the risen Lord.May our faith be a testimony to the power of Jesus’ resurrection, and may we live as people who are blessed because we believe in the one who conquered sin and death.

Concluding Prayer:

Gracious and loving Father, we thank You for the gift of faith, for the hope and joy that come through the resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. We thank You for the blessing of believing, even though we have not seen, and for the assurance that You are with us always.Lord, help us to walk in the light of the resurrection, to share the good news with others, and to live as people who are filled with Your joy and hope. Strengthen our faith, O Lord, and help us to trust in You, even in the midst of doubt and uncertainty.We pray for all those in our communities who are struggling with fear and doubt. May they come to know the risen Christ, and may they experience the joy of believing in Him. We ask all of this in the precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

March 2 (Sunday before Lent)

Theme:Prepare the Way of the Cross

Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Joel 2:12–17
- Psalm: Psalm 51:1–12
- Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:20b–6:10
- Gospel: Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21

Key verse, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21)

As we stand on the threshold of the Lenten season, we are invited to reflect deeply on the meaning of the cross and our journey towards it. The Sunday before Lent serves as a time of preparation, self-examination, and spiritual renewal. It is a moment when we hear the call of God to turn away from distractions and realign our hearts with His will. The Scripture readings for today—Joel 2:12–17, Psalm 51:1–12, 2 Corinthians 5:20b–6:10, and Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21—guide us in preparing the way of the cross. The cross is not merely a symbol of suffering but a path of transformation. It is a journey of repentance, faith, and renewed commitment to God. Jesus Himself calls us to take up our cross daily and follow Him (Luke 9:23). But how do we prepare for this journey? Let us reflect on four key aspects drawn from our passages today.

1. A Call to True Repentance (Joel 2:12-17)

The prophet Joel delivers a compelling call from God: “Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; rend your hearts and not your garments” (Joel 2:12-13). This passage emphasizes that preparing for the way of the cross begins with genuine repentance. It is not about outward displays of religiosity but about a deep, inner transformation. In the Old Testament, people often tore their garments as a sign of sorrow. However, God desires a change of heart rather than just external expressions of grief. True repentance means turning away from sin and drawing closer to God with sincerity. The Lenten season is a time for us to examine our lives and ask: Are we truly repentant, or are we merely going through religious motions?

Imagine a tree with rotting roots. No matter how green its leaves appear, it will eventually wither if the decay is not addressed. Similarly, if our repentance is only surface-level, it will not lead to true spiritual renewal. God calls us to rend our hearts, allowing Him to heal us from within.

2. A Plea for Renewal and Restoration (Psalm 51:1-12)

David’s heartfelt prayer in Psalm 51 teaches us that true repentance leads to a desire for renewal. He pleads, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). This psalm reminds us that we cannot prepare for the way of the cross by our own strength; we need God’s mercy and transformation. David acknowledges his sin and seeks God’s cleansing. Likewise, as we approach Lent, we must seek the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives to restore our joy and faith. A clean heart is necessary for walking the way of the cross with sincerity.

Imagine an artist restoring an old, faded painting. The process involves removing the dirt and grime to reveal the masterpiece underneath. In the same way, God wants to restore our souls, removing sin and renewing us to reflect His image.

3. A Commitment to Faithful Service (2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10)

Paul reminds us that as followers of Christ, we are ambassadors of God’s reconciliation. “We entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God” (2 Corinthians 5:20b). The way of the cross is not just about personal repentance but about our commitment to serve and reflect Christ in the world. Paul describes the hardships he faced – beatings, imprisonments, and sufferings – yet he remained faithful. He endured trials with “purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, the Holy Spirit, genuine love” (2 Corinthians 6:6). This passage challenges us to live faithfully even in difficult times, demonstrating the love and grace of Christ.

A lighthouse stands firm amidst the storm, guiding lost ships to safety. Likewise, as believers, we must remain steadfast, shining Christ’s light despite challenges.

4. A Treasure in Heaven, Not on Earth (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21)

Jesus teaches that preparing for the way of the cross involves prioritizing eternal treasures over worldly gains. He warns against practicing righteousness for human recognition, emphasizing that our fasting, giving, and prayer should be done in secret, for God sees the heart. Our key verse, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21), reminds us to fix our focus on heavenly rewards rather than earthly possessions. True preparation for the way of the cross requires detachment from materialism and a commitment to kingdom values.

A traveller on a long journey does not carry unnecessary baggage. Similarly, as we prepare for the cross, we must let go of worldly distractions and focus on what truly matters – our relationship with God.

Conclusion

As we step into the Lenten season, let us take these four lessons to heart. True preparation for the way of the cross involves:

Repentance that comes from the heart (Joel 2:12-17).
Renewal through God’s mercy and cleansing (Psalm 51:1-12).
Commitment to faithful service despite challenges (2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10).
A focus on eternal treasures rather than earthly wealth (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21).

Let us examine our hearts, seek God’s renewal, serve Him faithfully, and prioritize the eternal over the temporal. The cross is a journey of sacrifice, but it is also the path to resurrection and victory. May this Lenten season draw us closer to Christ and prepare us to walk the way of the cross with faith and devotion.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, As we prepare for the journey of Lent, help us to rend our hearts and not just our garments. Cleanse us, renew us, and strengthen us to walk the way of the cross with sincerity and faith. Teach us to serve You wholeheartedly, to endure challenges with grace, and to fix our eyes on eternal treasures. May we follow Christ’s example, embracing the cross with joy, knowing that it leads to resurrection and eternal life. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

5 March, 2025

Ash Wednesday

The spirit of Christian discipline (sadhana)

Isaiah 58.1-9 a

Psalm 32.1-7

1 Cor. 9. 24-27

Matt. 6. 1-18

Key Verse: “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:6

Today, we gather on Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten season – a period of reflection, repentance, and renewal. As Christians, we embrace this season not as a burden but as a spiritual opportunity. Ash Wednesday calls us to humility and reminds us of our mortality, marked by the ashes we receive. The ashes symbolize our need for repentance and our dependence on God’s grace. Lent is a time of spiritual discipline, often marked by prayer, fasting, and acts of service. But more than outward rituals, it is a time to cultivate the spirit of Christian discipline, or sadhana – a word borrowed from spiritual traditions, meaning dedicated practice or spiritual effort. This season challenges us to go beyond the superficial, to enter into a deeper relationship with God, and to embody the disciplines that lead us closer to Christ. The Scriptures for today emphasize the heart of this spiritual discipline and provide guidance on how to walk this path during Lent. Let us reflect on four key aspects of Christian discipline as we journey through Lent, based on Isaiah 58, Psalm 32, 1 Corinthians 9, and Matthew 6.

1. True Fasting: The Discipline of Justice and Compassion (Isaiah 58:1-9a)

In Isaiah 58, the prophet confronts the people of Israel who believed that external acts of fasting would earn them favour with God. However, their fasting was hollow because it did not lead to true change in their hearts. God, through Isaiah, makes it clear that true fasting is not merely abstaining from food but involves acts of justice and compassion. In Isaiah 58:6-7, God asks, “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter – when you see the naked, to clothe them?” This passage reminds us that spiritual discipline should not be disconnected from our actions toward others. Our fasts, prayers, and self-denial are meaningless if they do not lead us to love and serve others. Lent invites us to take on a discipline of justice – to actively work for the liberation of the oppressed, the feeding of the hungry, and the clothing of the naked. True spiritual growth comes when we align our hearts with God’s heart for the poor, marginalized, and broken. Let this Lent be a time when we not only abstain from personal pleasures but also embrace the call to justice and compassion, making our spiritual discipline a transformative experience for others as well.

2. The Joy of Forgiveness: The Discipline of Confession (Psalm 32:1-7)

Psalm 32 is a beautiful meditation on the joy of forgiveness. David writes about the burden of unconfessed sin and the liberation that comes from repentance. Psalm 32:5 says, “Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.’ And you forgave the guilt of my sin.” Lent is a time for self-examination and confession. The ashes of Ash Wednesday remind us of our mortality and our need for God’s grace. We are encouraged to come before God in humility, acknowledging our sins and receiving His forgiveness. Confession is not a one-time act but a discipline – a regular practice of opening our hearts before God. It is through confession that we experience the joy of forgiveness and the healing of our souls. David reminds us that God is not waiting to condemn us but to forgive us. Lent is a season to embrace the grace of God, to lay down the burdens of guilt and shame, and to walk in the freedom of forgiveness. During this Lent, let us practice the discipline of confession, knowing that in doing so, we draw nearer to God and experience His boundless mercy.

3. Running the Race: The Discipline of Self-Control (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)

In 1 Corinthians 9, the Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of an athlete running a race to describe the Christian life. He highlights the importance of self-control and spiritual discipline in pursuing the prize of eternal life. In 1 Corinthians 9:25, Paul writes, “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” Paul reminds us that the Christian life is not a casual stroll but a race that requires dedication and discipline. Lent is a time when we are called to practice self-control, not merely to prove our strength but to cultivate spiritual growth. Whether through fasting, prayer, or service, the spiritual disciplines we engage in during Lent help us to run the race with perseverance. Paul’s words challenge us to remember that our discipline is not for worldly recognition but for a crown that lasts forever – the ultimate reward of eternal life with Christ. As athletes undergo rigorous training to achieve victory, so too must we train ourselves in the ways of God, putting aside distractions and focusing on the goal of becoming more like Christ. This Lenten season, let us commit ourselves to the discipline of self-control, knowing that our efforts are not in vain but lead us closer to the heart of God.

4. Inner Devotion: The Discipline of Humility and Sincerity (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18)

In the Gospel reading from Matthew 6, Jesus teaches about the importance of inner devotion over outward displays of piety. He warns against practicing righteousness to be seen by others, whether in giving, praying, or fasting. Jesus emphasizes that these acts should be done in secret, with humility and sincerity, for the eyes of God alone. In Matthew 6:3-4, Jesus says, “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” The discipline of humility is central to the Lenten journey. It is easy to fall into the trap of doing good deeds for recognition, but Jesus calls us to a higher standard—one where our devotion is between us and God. The external acts of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving are valuable, but only when they reflect an inward transformation. Lent is a time to strip away the pretence, to stop seeking the approval of others, and to focus on our relationship with God. During this Lenten season, let us embrace the discipline of humility, doing our acts of devotion quietly, not for the praise of others, but for the glory of God.

The Concept of Lent in Christianity: A Time of Spiritual Discipline

Lent is a sacred period in the Christian calendar, lasting 40 days, mirroring Jesus’ 40 days of fasting and prayer in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). It is a season that calls us to self-reflection, repentance, and spiritual discipline. Traditionally, Christians observe Lent through fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, but at its heart, Lent is about drawing nearer to God. The purpose of Lent is not to merely give up certain foods or habits but to engage in a deeper sadhana – a practice of spiritual discipline that transforms us from within. As we practice self-denial and reflect on the sacrifice of Christ, we are invited to grow in holiness, humility, and love for others.

Practical Ways to Embrace Lent: Engaging in Service, Reflection, and Transformation in our Sadhana

Here are some practical suggestions that can be incorporated into the Lenten season. These suggestions align with the spirit of Christian discipline and can serve as ways to engage the church and the community in meaningful acts of service, reflection, and transformation during Lent. Each of these actions connects with the themes of justice, compassion, humility, and self-discipline as discussed in this sermon:

1. Reconciliation with Broken Relationships

Encourage the congregation to reflect on any unresolved conflicts or broken relationships in their lives. Lent is a time for healing and reconciliation. Challenge individuals to reach out to those they may have hurt or who have hurt them and to seek forgiveness and restoration. True Christian discipline involves peace-making, as Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9).

2. Planting Trees and Environmental Stewardship

Organize a church-wide initiative to plant trees or create community gardens. Caring for creation is a biblical mandate (Genesis 2:15), and Lent offers a time to focus on environmental stewardship. Encourage the congregation to adopt sustainable practices, reduce their carbon footprint, and promote environmental awareness as part of their Lenten journey.

3. Abstaining from Single-Use Plastics

Challenge the church to commit to reducing or eliminating the use of single-use plastics during Lent. This small but impactful act reflects our care for God’s creation. Organize workshops or educational sessions to raise awareness about environmental issues, waste reduction, and eco-friendly alternatives.

4. Waste Management and Clean-Up Campaigns

Host a community clean-up event or organize waste management drives, teaching the importance of responsible waste disposal and recycling. The church can partner with local organizations to reduce litter and clean public spaces, as a sign of caring for the local environment and serving the community.

5. Abstaining from Alcohol and Drugs

Encourage individuals struggling with addiction to use Lent as a time to seek help and support. Organize prayer groups or support meetings for those working to overcome addictions. The church can also advocate for sobriety and provide resources for those seeking to break free from harmful substances.

6. Peace-making and Conflict Resolution Workshops

Organize workshops on conflict resolution and peace-making. Teach practical skills for resolving disputes within families, workplaces, and the community. This aligns with Jesus’ call to be peacemakers and reflects the heart of Christian discipline in action.

7. Volunteering for the Poor and Marginalized

Encourage the congregation to dedicate time each week during Lent to volunteer at local shelters, food banks, or social service programs. Acts of compassion, such as feeding the hungry, providing shelter for the homeless, and caring for the sick, are powerful expressions of Christ’s love in the world.

8. Visiting the Elderly and Homebound

Organize visits to nursing homes, elderly members of the church, or those who are homebound. The Lenten season is a perfect time to show care and attention to those who may feel isolated or forgotten. Personal interaction and showing kindness to the elderly is a beautiful way to embody the compassion of Christ.

9. Supporting Local Farmers and Sustainable Agriculture

Promote buying locally grown produce and supporting farmers who practice sustainable agriculture. This can be done by encouraging church members to visit local farmers’ markets or start a food co-op. Support for ethical and sustainable food practices reflects the spirit of justice and care for creation.

10. Reducing Energy Consumption

Encourage families to commit to reducing their energy consumption by being mindful of their use of electricity, water, and fuel. Simple actions like turning off lights, reducing water waste, and carpooling can make a significant environmental impact. This can be tied to the biblical call to be good stewards of God’s creation.

11. Mentoring Youth and Children

Lent is a great time to focus on nurturing the next generation. Encourage church members to volunteer as mentors for children or teenagers, offering guidance and support. Churches can organize Bible study sessions, tutoring programs, or extracurricular activities to invest in the lives of young people.

12. Promoting Mental Health Awareness

Organize mental health awareness seminars or support groups during Lent. Christian discipline also involves caring for our emotional and mental well-being. Offering support to those struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress aligns with Jesus’ ministry of healing and wholeness.

13. Fasting from Excess and Practicing Simplicity

Challenge individuals and families to fast from unnecessary consumerism. Encourage them to practice simplicity by decluttering their homes, donating unused items to charity, and avoiding excessive spending. This discipline teaches contentment, gratitude, and a focus on what truly matters in life.

14. Community Peace Walk or Prayer March

Organize a community peace walk or prayer march to promote peace and unity. Invite people from different backgrounds, churches, and faiths to join together in prayer and reflection on issues affecting the community, such as violence, poverty, or injustice.

15. Encouraging a Digital Detox

In today’s digital world, many of us are overly attached to technology. Encourage a “digital fast,” where individuals limit or abstain from social media, excessive screen time, or digital distractions during Lent. This time can instead be spent in prayer, reading Scripture, or engaging in meaningful activities with family and friends.

16. Donating to Charitable Causes

Encourage families to set aside a portion of their income during Lent to donate to charitable causes that work to alleviate poverty, hunger, and injustice. This can be part of a Lenten almsgiving project, where the entire church comes together to support a specific cause, whether local or global.

17. Holding Prayer Vigils for Peace

Organize special prayer vigils during Lent for global or local issues—praying for peace in war-torn regions, justice for the oppressed, or healing for the sick. This is a way for the church to lift up the needs of the world and intercede on behalf of those suffering.

18. Hosting a “Day of Silence”

Invite church members to observe a “Day of Silence” during Lent. This spiritual practice involves dedicating a day to silence and solitude, away from the busyness of life, to focus on prayer, reflection, and listening to God’s voice. It can be a powerful way to cultivate inner discipline and deepen one’s spiritual life.

19. Organizing Lenten Bible Study Groups

Create small Bible study groups that meet weekly during Lent to focus on Scripture, prayer, and spiritual growth. These groups can serve as a source of support and encouragement as participants reflect on what it means to live a disciplined and Christ-cantered life.

20. Promoting Acts of Kindness

Challenge the church to engage in daily acts of kindness throughout Lent. Encourage members to do something kind for a stranger, neighbour, or family member – whether through words of encouragement, lending a helping hand, or sharing a meal. These acts can be small yet powerful ways to reflect the love of Christ.

These practical suggestions offer a way for the congregation to actively live out the spirit of Lent through Christian discipline. These actions not only help deepen the individual’s relationship with God but also positively impact the community and reflect Christ’s love in tangible ways.

Conclusion

As we begin this Lenten season on Ash Wednesday, let us remember that Christian discipline is not a matter of outward performance but an inward journey of transformation. Like the people of Israel in Isaiah’s time, we are called to fast in ways that lead to justice and compassion. Like David in Psalm 32, we are invited to confess our sins and receive the joy of forgiveness. Like Paul, we are encouraged to run the race with self-control and perseverance. And like Jesus teaches in Matthew 6, we are called to practice our faith with humility and sincerity. Lent is a time to embrace the spirit of Christian discipline, not as a burden but as a path to deeper communion with God. Let us use this season to cultivate the habits of prayer, fasting, service, and confession, knowing that God is with us on this journey and that He desires to draw us ever closer to Him.

Prayer

Gracious and loving God, as we begin this Lenten season, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your guidance and grace. Help us to embrace the disciplines of prayer, fasting, and service, not as empty rituals, but as pathways to deeper communion with You. Teach us to seek justice, to confess our sins, and to practice humility. May this season be a time of transformation for our hearts, drawing us ever closer to the image of Christ. We thank You for Your mercy, Your forgiveness, and Your love, which sustain us through every step of our journey. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

March 9 (First Sunday in Lent)

Theme:Jesus Overcomes Temptation

Bible Portions:

Old Testament: Genesis 2:15–17, 3:1–7
Psalm: Psalm 32
Epistle: Romans 5:12–19
Gospel: Matthew 4:1–11

Key Verse:“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” (Matthew 4:1)

The season of Lent is a time of self-examination, repentance, and spiritual renewal. It is a period that invites us to reflect on our own struggles with sin and to find strength in Christ, who overcame temptation. On this First Sunday in Lent, our focus is on the victory of Jesus over temptation, as recorded in Matthew 4:1-11. His triumph in the wilderness serves as a powerful example and encouragement for us in our daily battles against sin and evil. Temptation is a universal human experience. From the beginning of creation, as seen in Genesis 3:1-7, to our present lives, people have struggled with the lure of disobedience and the challenge of remaining faithful to God. Psalm 32 reminds us of the joy of forgiveness when we turn back to God, while Romans 5:12-19 highlights how Jesus, the second Adam, reverses the consequences of the first Adam’s failure. Through today’s sermon, we will explore four key lessons on how Jesus overcomes temptation and what that means for us as His followers.

1. The Reality of Temptation (Genesis 2:15–17, 3:1–7)

The first lesson we learn is that temptation is real and part of human experience. In Genesis 3:1-7, we read about how Adam and Eve succumbed to the serpent’s temptation. The devil deceived them into doubting God’s goodness, leading them to disobey His command.The serpent questioned God’s word, saying, “Did God really say…?” (Genesis 3:1). This same tactic is used today – temptation often begins with doubt, leading us to question God’s love and truth. Adam and Eve’s failure brought sin into the world, affecting all humanity. In contrast, Jesus, the second Adam, overcame the tempter’s deceit in the wilderness. Where the first Adam failed in the lush garden, Jesus triumphed in the barren desert. This teaches us that though temptation is real, victory is possible through God’s Word and obedience to Him.A young man struggling with dishonesty at work once prayed for strength to resist. He realized that every small lie led to bigger compromises. One day, he decided to be truthful even if it meant losing favor with his boss. Over time, his honesty earned him great trust and promotion. Likewise, overcoming temptation in small ways prepares us for greater victories.

2. The Strength to Overcome (Psalm 32)

Psalm 32 teaches us that true strength comes from confessing our sins and trusting in God’s grace. It says, “Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.” (Psalm 32:1, NIV).Jesus, unlike Adam and Eve, did not yield to temptation because He remained fully dependent on God. His response to Satan was always grounded in Scripture, saying, “It is written…” (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10). This shows us that victory over temptation comes from knowing and obeying God’s Word. When we fail, we can turn to God in repentance, and He will forgive and strengthen us. Psalm 32 reminds us that hiding our sins brings distress, but confessing them brings restoration and joy.A man once carried a heavy burden of guilt for years until he finally confessed it to God and sought forgiveness. He described the experience as if a great weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Similarly, Jesus frees us from guilt and empowers us to resist future temptations.

3. The Victory of Christ (Romans 5:12–19)

In Romans 5:12-19, Paul explains how sin entered the world through one man, Adam, but grace and righteousness came through Jesus Christ. Adam’s failure brought condemnation, but Christ’s obedience brings salvation. Jesus’ victory over temptation was not just for Himself but for all of us. By overcoming Satan, He began His mission to undo the damage caused by sin. His victory gives us the assurance that we, too, can stand firm in the face of temptation. We often try to resist temptation through our own strength, but true victory comes through Christ. When we abide in Him, we receive His strength to overcome.Imagine a child trying to carry a heavy load alone but failing. When the father steps in to help, the burden becomes light. In the same way, when we rely on Christ, He carries our burdens and empowers us to overcome.

4. The Power of God’s Word and Spirit (Matthew 4:1–11)

Jesus’ encounter with the devil in the wilderness highlights the power of God’s Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit. “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.” (Matthew 4:1). This shows that God allows us to go through trials to strengthen our faith. Satan tempted Jesus in three ways:

Physical Temptation (Turning Stones into Bread) – Satan targeted Jesus’ hunger, but Jesus responded, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4).
Emotional Temptation (Testing God’s Protection) – Satan urged Jesus to jump from the temple, but Jesus refused to test God. (Matthew 4:7).
Spiritual Temptation (Worshiping Satan for Power) – Jesus rebuked Satan, saying, “You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.” (Matthew 4:10).

In each case, Jesus countered temptation with Scripture, showing that God’s Word is our weapon against sin.A soldier going into battle without a weapon is defenceless. Likewise, a Christian without knowledge of Scripture is vulnerable to Satan’s attacks. When we equip ourselves with God’s Word, we stand firm in faith.

Conclusion

Jesus’ victory over temptation teaches us key lessons:

Temptation is real, but we can choose obedience.
Strength to resist comes from knowing and trusting God’s Word.
Christ’s victory is our victory, freeing us from the power of sin.
The Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome when we rely on Him.

As we journey through Lent, let us commit ourselves to prayer, fasting, and the study of Scripture. When we face trials, let us remember that Jesus has already won the victory and given us His strength to overcome.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the victory of Jesus over temptation. As we walk through this season of Lent, strengthen us to resist the schemes of the enemy. Fill us with Your Spirit and help us rely on Your Word daily. When we stumble, remind us of Your grace and forgiveness. Lead us in righteousness and make us more like Christ. In His victorious name, we pray. Amen.

March 16 (Second Sunday in Lent)

Theme: “God’s Covenant with Abraham”

Bible Portions:

Old Testament: Genesis 12:1–4a
Psalm: Psalm 121
Epistle: Romans 4:1–5, 13–17
Gospel: John 3:1–17
Key Verse: John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

The concept of a covenant is central to the biblical narrative. God’s covenant with Abraham is one of the foundational covenants in Scripture, setting the course for God’s plan of salvation. As we enter the season of Lent, we reflect on God’s unwavering commitment to His people and the fulfilment of His promises through Jesus Christ. Abraham’s journey of faith, trust in God’s promises, and obedience illustrate the nature of our own journey with God. This sermon will explore God’s covenant with Abraham and its significance for us today in four aspects: The Call to Trust, The Assurance of God’s Help, The Promise of Justification by Faith, and The fulfilment in Christ.

1. The Call to Trust (Genesis 12:1-4a)

Abraham’s story begins with God’s call to leave his homeland and go to a place that God would show him. This was a call to trust God completely without knowing the details of the journey ahead. God made a covenant with Abraham, promising to bless him, make his name great, and make him a blessing to all nations.Imagine being asked to leave everything behind – your home, family, and familiar surroundings – to go to an unknown destination simply on the word of someone you trust. Abraham’s faith was remarkable because he obeyed immediately.Similarly, God calls us today to step out in faith, trusting His guidance even when the road ahead seems uncertain. Lent is a time for us to examine our hearts and renew our commitment to follow God’s calling with faith.

2. The Assurance of God’s Help (Psalm 121)

Psalm 121 is a song of assurance and trust in God’s divine protection. Abraham had to face many uncertainties, yet God was his constant help and shield. The psalmist declares, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2). This psalm reminds us that God does not call us to a journey and then leave us alone. He watches over us, protects us, and walks with us every step of the way.

A child learning to walk often stumbles, but the parent is always nearby to catch them. Likewise, God is always present to uphold us when we falter.In our spiritual journey, especially during Lent, we may face trials, temptations, and moments of weakness. However, we must remember that God is our guardian, and He will not let us fall. Abraham trusted in this divine assurance, and we too must rely on God’s help in our lives.

3. The Promise of Justification by Faith (Romans 4:1-5, 13-17)

Paul, in his letter to the Romans, emphasizes that Abraham was justified by faith, not by works. “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” (Romans 4:3) This covenant was based on faith, not on Abraham’s actions.

Many people believe they must earn God’s love through good works. However, Paul reminds us that righteousness comes through faith in God’s promises, just as it did for Abraham.During Lent, we are called to reflect on our own faith. Are we trying to earn God’s favour, or do we rest in His grace? God’s covenant with Abraham shows that faith in His word is what brings righteousness.

4. The fulfilment in Christ (John 3:1-17)

The ultimate fulfilment of God’s covenant with Abraham is found in Jesus Christ. When Nicodemus, a Jewish leader, came to Jesus seeking answers, Jesus explained the necessity of being born again. He pointed to the heart of the Gospel: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16). Just as Abraham’s faith led to blessings for all nations, so Jesus’ sacrifice brings salvation to all who believe.

A lighthouse stands firm amidst storms, guiding ships to safety. Likewise, Jesus is the light of the world, guiding us to eternal life through faith in Him.As we journey through Lent, we are reminded of God’s great love and His ultimate sacrifice in Christ. Through Him, the covenant with Abraham extends to all people, offering us eternal life.

Conclusion

God’s covenant with Abraham is a testament to His faithfulness, love, and plan for salvation. Just as Abraham responded to God’s call with trust, we too are called to walk in faith. We can find assurance in God’s help, rely on His righteousness through faith, and rejoice in the fulfilment of His promises through Christ. During this Lenten season, may we renew our commitment to God, trusting in His covenant and embracing the new life offered through Jesus.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your covenant of grace, first given to Abraham and fulfilled in Jesus Christ. As we journey through this season of Lent, strengthen our faith to trust in You, even when the path is uncertain. Remind us that You are our help and shield, guiding and protecting us at all times. We rest not in our own works but in the righteousness that comes through faith in Your promises. May we fully embrace the gift of salvation through Your Son, and may our lives reflect Your love to the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

March 23 (Third Sunday in Lent)

Theme: “Living Water for the Thirsty Soul”

Bible Portions:

Exodus 17:1–7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1–11, John 4:5–42

Key Verse:“But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:14)

Water is essential for life. Without water, all living things perish. Our physical bodies need water, but so do our souls. Many people today experience a deep spiritual thirst-a longing for meaning, purpose, peace, and fulfilment. This thirst cannot be quenched by material wealth, worldly pleasures, or human wisdom. It can only be satisfied by the Living Water that Christ offers.Our Scripture readings today guide us to understand how God provides for His people, not just physically but spiritually. In Exodus 17:1-7, God miraculously provides water from the rock for the Israelites. Psalm 95 reminds us to listen to God’s voice and not harden our hearts. Romans 5:1-11 speaks of the justification and peace we have through Christ. And in John 4:5-42, Jesus reveals Himself as the source of Living Water to the Samaritan woman at the well.Through these passages, we will explore four key truths about the Living Water that Christ offers.

1. God Provides Water for the Thirsty (Exodus 17:1-7)

The Israelites were wandering in the desert, thirsty and desperate for water. They complained against Moses, doubting God’s provision. But God, in His mercy, commanded Moses to strike the rock at Horeb, and water gushed out to quench their thirst. This miraculous event shows us that God provides for His people even in the driest places of life.Imagine being stranded in a scorching desert with no water in sight. You would do anything for a sip of water. Similarly, when we go through trials, disappointments, and hardships, we may feel like we are wandering in a spiritual desert. But just as God provided water from the rock, He provides Living Water to refresh and sustain us.Jesus Christ is our spiritual Rock. 1 Corinthians 10:4 tells us, “They drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ.” Just as the rock in the wilderness was struck to give water, Jesus was struck on the cross to give us eternal life. If we come to Him in faith, He will satisfy our deepest needs.

2. A Hardened Heart Blocks the Flow of Living Water (Psalm 95)

Psalm 95 is both an invitation to worship and a warning against hardening our hearts. The Israelites in the wilderness hardened their hearts at Meribah and Massah, refusing to trust God despite His past faithfulness. Because of their unbelief, they could not enter God’s rest.Many people today refuse to trust God. Instead of seeking the Living Water, they look for satisfaction in temporary things—success, relationships, wealth—but still remain spiritually dry. Jesus calls us to soften our hearts and receive His life-giving presence.

Hebrews 3:15 echoes this warning: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” If we want to experience God’s Living Water, we must surrender our doubts, fears, and sins, opening our hearts to His grace.

3. Living Water Brings Justification and Peace (Romans 5:1-11)

Paul tells us that through faith in Christ, we are justified and have peace with God. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross reconciles us to God and fills us with His love through the Holy Spirit.Romans 5:5 declares, “God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” This image of God pouring out His love reminds us of Living Water flowing into our souls, bringing joy and peace.

A broken cistern cannot hold water. Similarly, a life without Christ is like a cracked pot – unable to hold the peace and joy we seek. But when we are filled with the Holy Spirit, our lives overflow with the love of God, like a wellspring of Living Water.No matter what trials we face, we can rejoice because God’s Living Water sustains us even in suffering. Just as water strengthens and refreshes a weary traveller, God’s grace strengthens us in our journey of faith.

4. Jesus is the Source of Living Water (John 4:5-42)

The story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman is a powerful illustration of spiritual thirst and divine satisfaction. The Samaritan woman came to the well daily to draw water, but she was spiritually empty. Jesus offered her something greater: Living Water that would never run dry.Like the Samaritan woman, many people try to quench their spiritual thirst with temporary pleasures. But Jesus says in John 7:37, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.” Only Jesus can satisfy the thirst of our souls.This encounter transformed the Samaritan woman’s life. She went from being an outcast to a bold evangelist, telling others about Jesus. When we drink from the Living Water of Christ, we are not only satisfied but also become channels of His grace to others.

Conclusion

Jesus is the Living Water that quenches our spiritual thirst. He alone can satisfy our deepest needs, soften our hardened hearts, justify us by His grace, and fill us with overflowing joy and peace.If you are thirsty today—if you long for peace, purpose, and fulfilment-come to Jesus. Drink deeply of His grace, and He will refresh your soul.

Concluding Prayer:

Heavenly Father, We thank You for the Living Water You offer us through Jesus Christ. Forgive us for seeking satisfaction in things that do not last. Soften our hearts that we may receive Your grace. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit so that we may overflow with Your love and share it with others. Strengthen us in times of dryness, and lead us into Your eternal rest. May we always thirst for You and find our satisfaction in Christ alone. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Final Encouragement: Come to Jesus today. Drink deeply from His Living Water, and never thirst again!

March 30 (Fourth Sunday in Lent)

Theme: “I Was Blind, but Now I See”

Bible Portions:

1 Samuel 16:1–13, Psalm 23, Ephesians 5:8–14, John 9:1–41

Key Verse:“One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” (John 9:25)

Vision is one of the greatest gifts we have. Without it, we cannot perceive the beauty of God’s creation or navigate the world effectively. But there is another kind of blindness that is even more dangerous—the spiritual blindness that keeps us from recognizing God’s presence and truth. In today’s Gospel reading from John 9, we encounter a man who was physically blind but received both physical and spiritual sight through Jesus Christ. His journey mirrors our own spiritual transformation, moving from darkness to light, from ignorance to faith.Our Scripture readings today highlight the theme of moving from blindness to sight, from darkness to light, and from rejection to divine calling. In 1 Samuel 16:1–13, we see how God chooses David, not based on outward appearance but on the heart. Psalm 23 speaks of God as our shepherd, guiding us from fear to assurance. Ephesians 5:8–14 reminds us that we were once in darkness but are now called to live as children of light. And finally, John 9 tells the powerful story of a blind man receiving sight, both physically and spiritually.Let us explore four key truths from these passages that teach us how we can move from blindness to sight in our spiritual journey.

1. God Sees What We Cannot See (1 Samuel 16:1–13)

When God sent Samuel to anoint the next king of Israel, Samuel looked at Jesse’s sons and assumed that the most impressive in stature would be God’s choice. But God said, “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7). Imagine a sculptor looking at a rough block of stone. While others see just a rock, the sculptor sees a masterpiece waiting to emerge. Similarly, God sees beyond our limitations and failures to the potential He has placed within us.We often judge by appearance, but God judges by the heart. Many people are spiritually blind because they focus only on external qualities – wealth, status, or beauty – while neglecting the heart. When we surrender to God, He removes our blindness and helps us see His purpose for our lives.

2. The Lord Guides Us Through Darkness (Psalm 23)

Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in the Bible, offering comfort and assurance in times of fear and uncertainty. Verse 4 states, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” This reminds us that God is our shepherd, leading us out of spiritual blindness and into His marvellous light.Life is full of dark valleys—moments of doubt, pain, and confusion. But God promises to guide us through them. Just as a shepherd uses a rod and staff to protect and lead the sheep, God provides direction and security for those who trust Him.Many of us struggle with spiritual blindness when facing trials. We question God’s plan, unable to see His guiding hand. But Psalm 23 assures us that even in the darkest moments, God’s presence is with us, illuminating our path.

3. We Are Called to Live as Children of Light (Ephesians 5:8–14)

Paul writes in Ephesians, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” (Ephesians 5:8) This verse reminds us that salvation is not just about believing in Jesus but also about living differently as a result of that belief.Consider a person trapped in a dark cave. Even a small torchlight can make a huge difference in finding the way out. In the same way, when we accept Christ, we receive His light, which guides our actions and transforms our way of life.Spiritual blindness is not just about lacking knowledge but also about living in ignorance of God’s truth. Paul calls us to wake up from spiritual sleep and let Christ’s light shine in our lives. This means living in integrity, seeking righteousness, and being a testimony to others.

4. Jesus Gives Us True Sight (John 9:1–41)

The story of the blind man in John 9 is one of the most powerful demonstrations of Jesus’ ability to heal both physical and spiritual blindness. The man was born blind, but Jesus healed him, and in doing so, revealed that He is the light of the world.The Pharisees refused to believe that Jesus performed this miracle. Their physical eyes worked, but their hearts were blind. On the other hand, the healed man not only received physical sight but also recognized Jesus as the Son of God.Many people today remain spiritually blind, unable to see Jesus for who He truly is. They may have knowledge, wealth, or power, but they lack spiritual vision. True sight comes when we open our hearts to Jesus and allow Him to remove the blindness of sin and unbelief.

Conclusion

The journey from blindness to sight is a spiritual transformation that happens when we encounter Jesus. From the calling of David to the assurance of Psalm 23, from Paul’s call to live in the light to the healing of the blind man, we see that God desires to open our eyes to His truth.If you feel spiritually blind today, Jesus is ready to heal you. He is calling you to see with the eyes of faith, to trust in His plan, and to walk in His light.Let us echo the words of the healed man: “I was blind, but now I see!”

Concluding Prayer:

Heavenly Father, We thank You for opening our eyes to Your truth. Forgive us for the times we have walked in darkness and failed to trust in Your plan. Remove the blindness of doubt, fear, and sin from our lives. Help us to see as You see, to walk as children of light, and to live in Your truth. May we, like the blind man, boldly declare, “I was blind, but now I see!” Thank You for Your grace and love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Final Encouragement: If you are seeking clarity, hope, or direction, turn to Jesus. He is the Light of the World, and He will give you true sight.

January 2025

January 5 (Second Sunday of Christmas / Epiphany Observed)

Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 60:1–6
- Psalm: Psalm 72:1–7, 10–14
- Epistle: Ephesians 3:1–12
- Gospel: Matthew 2:1–12

Sermon: “Arise, Shine: The Light of Christ Has Come”

Introduction

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you” (Isaiah 60:1). This powerful declaration from the prophet Isaiah invites us into a profound reflection on the coming of Christ, who is the true Light of the world. Light symbolizes life, hope, guidance, and joy. Just as the dawn dispels darkness and heralds a new day, the coming of Christ has shattered the darkness of sin and brought hope to all nations. Today, we will explore how Christ’s light shines in our lives and calls us to arise and shine in a world still struggling with darkness.

Our sermon will focus on four key points:

Arise and Shine: The Prophetic Call (Isaiah 60:1-6)
Shining in Justice and Compassion (Psalm 72:1-14)
The Mystery Revealed in Christ (Ephesians 3:1-12)
Guided by the Light: The Journey of the Wise Men (Matthew 2:1-12)

1. Arise and Shine: The Prophetic Call (Isaiah 60:1-6)

Isaiah 60 is a prophetic vision of restoration and hope for Israel. The people were living in despair, but God speaks a word of promise: “Arise, shine, for your light has come.” This light is not merely a metaphor; it represents the presence and glory of God coming to redeem and restore His people.

When we think of light, we imagine something that dispels darkness and reveals what is hidden. In the same way, the coming of Christ brought clarity to a world clouded by sin. He came as the true light, illuminating the path to God and showing us how to live in love and truth. As John 1:5 says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

Illustration: Imagine a lighthouse guiding ships safely through treacherous waters. In the same way, Christ is our beacon, guiding us through life’s storms and uncertainties. He calls us to reflect His light so that others may find their way to God.

We are called to arise and shine because His light has come upon us. This is both a privilege and a responsibility. As followers of Christ, we must reflect His glory in our daily lives, becoming bearers of hope in a dark world.

2. Shining in Justice and Compassion (Psalm 72:1-14)

Psalm 72 is a prayer for the king, asking God to endow him with righteousness and justice. It envisions a reign where the poor are defended, the oppressed are delivered, and peace flourishes. This psalm finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the King of kings, whose reign is marked by justice, compassion, and peace.

“He will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help” (Psalm 72:12). Christ’s light shines brightest when His people embody His justice and compassion. As His followers, we are called to care for the marginalized and stand against injustice.

Illustration: Consider the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). While others passed by the wounded man, it was the Samaritan who stopped, cared for him, and showed mercy. In doing so, he reflected the light of God’s compassion. Similarly, we are called to be lights in our communities, reaching out to those in need.

Shining Christ’s light involves more than words; it requires action. We must be agents of change, working for justice and extending compassion to all.

3. The Mystery Revealed in Christ (Ephesians 3:1-12)

In Ephesians 3, Paul speaks of the “mystery” that was hidden for ages but is now revealed in Christ. This mystery is that Gentiles are also heirs together with Israel, members of one body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus.

The coming of Christ brought unity where there was once division. His light breaks down barriers of race, class, and nationality, creating one new humanity in Him. Paul emphasizes that this mystery was revealed so that “through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known” (Ephesians 3:10).

Illustration: Think of a stained-glass window. When light shines through it, the different pieces of glass form a beautiful picture. In the same way, Christ’s light shining through the church reveals the beauty of God’s diverse and united people.

As the church, we are called to proclaim the mystery of Christ’s love and grace to the world. We do this by living in unity and sharing the good news with all people.

4. Guided by the Light: The Journey of the Wise Men (Matthew 2:1-12)

The story of the wise men in Matthew 2 is a powerful illustration of seeking and following the light of Christ. Guided by a star, they traveled a great distance to find the newborn King. When they found Him, they bowed down and worshiped Him, offering gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Their journey reminds us that Christ’s light is for all people, regardless of nationality or status. The wise men’s response—worship and generosity—is the proper response to encountering the light of Christ.

Illustration: Just as the wise men followed the star with perseverance and faith, we too are called to follow Christ’s light in our lives. Sometimes the journey is difficult, but His light never fades.

Matthew 2:10 says, “When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” Encountering Christ brings joy and transformation. As we are guided by His light, we become sources of joy and hope to those around us.

Conclusion

“Arise, shine, for your light has come.” This call is not just for ancient Israel; it is for us today. Christ, the Light of the world, has come, and His light shines in us and through us. We are called to reflect His light by living in His truth, embodying His justice and compassion, proclaiming His mystery, and following His guidance.

Let us arise from complacency and shine brightly in our families, communities, and workplaces. The world needs the light of Christ, and we are His chosen vessels to carry that light.

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, the Light of the world. Help us to arise and shine, reflecting His light in all we do. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we may live in truth, act with justice, and walk in love. Guide us, like the wise men, to seek and follow Your light with perseverance and faith. May Your glory be revealed through us, and may we bring hope and joy to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

January 12 (Baptism of the Lord)

Theme: “This Is My Beloved Son”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 42:1–9
- Psalm: Psalm 29
- Epistle: Acts 10:34–43
- Gospel: Matthew 3:13–17

Introduction:

Beloved in Christ, today we gather to meditate on a profound moment in the life of our Lord Jesus Christ—His baptism in the River Jordan. This Sunday, we remember the event where Jesus, though sinless, humbled Himself to be baptized by John the Baptist. It was during this sacred act that the heavens opened, the Spirit descended like a dove, and the voice of God declared, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). This declaration reveals the identity and mission of Jesus and speaks to us about the nature of our relationship with God.

Our sermon will focus on four key points based on the given scripture portions, each illustrating the significance of Jesus’ baptism and its meaning for us today.

1. The Chosen Servant of God (Isaiah 42:1-9)

Isaiah 42:1 begins with a declaration: “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight.” This passage prophesies the coming of God’s servant who will bring justice and salvation to the nations. Jesus is the fulfillment of this prophecy. His baptism marks the beginning of His public ministry, where He takes on the role of the suffering servant who will redeem humanity.

Isaiah emphasizes that God’s servant will act with gentleness and humility: “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out” (Isaiah 42:3). In the same way, Jesus’ ministry was characterized by compassion, healing, and restoration. His baptism was not for the remission of sins, but a public identification with sinful humanity.

Reflection: Just as Jesus was chosen and commissioned, we too are called by God to be His servants. Our baptism signifies our entry into God’s covenant, marking us as His beloved children and setting us apart for His mission. Are we living as God’s chosen ones, reflecting His justice and love in the world?

Illustration: Consider the story of a young child adopted into a loving family. Though the child had no previous claim, the parents declared, “You are ours, and we love you.” In baptism, God declares His love for us and calls us His own, just as He did for His Son.

2. The Power and Majesty of God (Psalm 29)

Psalm 29 is a majestic hymn that portrays the power of God’s voice over creation. The repeated refrain, “The voice of the Lord”, echoes the divine authority and glory of God. In Matthew 3:17, when God declares, “This is my beloved Son,” we witness the power of God’s voice affirming Jesus’ identity.

The psalm speaks of God’s voice thundering over the waters and shaking the wilderness. Similarly, at Jesus’ baptism, the voice of God speaks over the waters of the Jordan, signifying a new creation and the beginning of a new covenant. Just as God’s voice brought order out of chaos in Genesis, His voice at the baptism of Jesus ushers in the new era of salvation.

Reflection: The voice of the Lord is powerful and majestic, yet it also speaks personally to us, declaring us as His beloved children. Are we listening for God’s voice in our lives, guiding and affirming us in our identity and purpose?

Illustration: Imagine standing at the edge of a vast ocean, feeling the power of the waves. The ocean’s might reminds us of God’s greatness, yet the gentle lapping of the water at our feet speaks of His nearness and care.

3. The Universality of God’s Salvation (Acts 10:34-43)

In Acts 10, Peter declares, “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears Him and does what is right” (Acts 10:34-35). This was a groundbreaking revelation for Peter, as he understood that God’s salvation is available to all people, not just the Jews.

Peter goes on to proclaim the good news about Jesus, highlighting His baptism, His ministry of doing good and healing, His death on the cross, and His resurrection. The baptism of Jesus is central because it inaugurates His mission to bring salvation to all.

Reflection: Our baptism unites us with Christ and calls us to be witnesses to the universality of God’s love. Are we embracing the mission of sharing the good news with people from all walks of life, just as Jesus did?

Illustration: Think of a lighthouse that stands on the shore, casting its light far and wide. No matter who is out at sea, the light is there to guide them safely home. In the same way, God’s love reaches out to all, inviting everyone into His family.

4. The Confirmation of Sonship (Matthew 3:13-17)

The key verse of our sermon comes from Matthew 3:17: “And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.’” This declaration is a profound moment of affirmation and confirmation. Jesus’ baptism is not only a public identification with humanity but also a divine confirmation of His identity as the Son of God.

The descent of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove symbolizes peace, purity, and the presence of God. It signifies that Jesus is the anointed one, empowered by the Spirit to fulfill His mission.

Reflection: When we are baptized, we too are affirmed as God’s beloved children. Through the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to live out our identity and calling. Are we living with the confidence that comes from knowing we are God’s beloved?

Illustration: Imagine a child receiving words of encouragement from a parent before a big event. Those words give the child confidence and strength. Similarly, God’s declaration over Jesus gives us confidence in our identity as His children.

Conclusion:

The baptism of Jesus is a powerful reminder of His identity, mission, and the universal nature of God’s salvation. It also speaks to us about our identity as God’s beloved children, called and commissioned to live out His mission in the world. Let us, therefore, listen for God’s voice in our lives, embrace our calling, and live as faithful witnesses to His love and grace.

Concluding Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who humbled Himself to be baptized and identified with us. Thank You for declaring Him as Your beloved Son and for calling us to be Your children. Help us to live in the confidence of Your love, empowered by Your Spirit to fulfill our mission in the world. May we always hear Your voice guiding us and may we be faithful witnesses of Your grace to all people. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

January 19 (Second Sunday after Epiphany)

Theme: “Behold the Lamb of God”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 49:1–7
- Psalm: Psalm 40:1–11
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:1–9
- Gospel: John 1:29–42

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. As we gather on this Second Sunday after Epiphany, we focus on a profound and life-changing declaration made by John the Baptist: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates the essence of our Christian faith. It invites us to see Jesus not only as a teacher or miracle worker but as the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humanity. Today, as we reflect on the scriptures from Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, and John 1:29-42, we will explore what it means to behold the Lamb of God and how this transforms our lives.

Let us focus on four key points:

1. The Lamb of God: God’s Chosen Servant (Isaiah 49:1-7)

In Isaiah 49, the prophet speaks of a servant chosen by God before birth, destined to bring salvation not only to Israel but to the entire world. This servant is a foreshadowing of Christ, the Lamb of God. Isaiah records the words of the servant: “He made my mouth like a sharpened sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me” (Isaiah 49:2). This imagery highlights the divine mission of Jesus, whose words and actions would cut through the darkness of sin and bring light to the nations.

Jesus, the Lamb of God, was sent into the world with a clear purpose: to bring salvation. His mission was not easy. Like the servant in Isaiah, He faced rejection and suffering, but He remained faithful to His calling. This reminds us that God often calls us to challenging tasks. We, too, are called to be servants who reflect the light of Christ in a world filled with darkness.

Illustration: Imagine a lighthouse standing firm against raging storms, guiding ships to safety. In the same way, Jesus stands as our guiding light, and we, His followers, are called to reflect that light in our communities.

Reflection: Are we willing to follow the example of Jesus, the Lamb of God, even when the path is difficult? Are we ready to be servants who shine His light in dark places?

2. The Lamb of God: The Sacrifice for Sin (Psalm 40:1-11)

Psalm 40 is a psalm of trust and thanksgiving. The psalmist declares, “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry” (Psalm 40:1). This verse reminds us of the faithfulness of God in delivering His people. However, the psalm also points to a deeper truth: sacrifices and offerings alone are not what God desires. In verses 6-8, the psalmist says, “Sacrifice and offering you did not desire—but my ears you have opened—burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. Then I said, ‘Here I am, I have come—it is written about me in the scroll.'”

These words find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the Lamb of God, who came to do the will of God. Unlike the repeated animal sacrifices of the Old Testament, Jesus offered Himself once for all as the perfect sacrifice. His obedience to the Father’s will brought about our redemption.

Illustration: Consider a debt that keeps accumulating, with no way to pay it off. Each attempt to reduce the debt only adds more interest. Then, someone steps in and pays the entire amount in full. This is what Jesus did for us—He paid the debt of sin that we could never repay.

Reflection: Have we truly grasped the magnitude of what Jesus, the Lamb of God, has done for us? Do we live in gratitude for His sacrifice and seek to do His will?

3. The Lamb of God: The Source of Grace (1 Corinthians 1:1-9)

In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul reminds the believers of the grace they have received through Christ Jesus. He writes, “I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus” (1 Corinthians 1:4). The grace of God is a gift made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God. Through Him, we are enriched in every way and called into fellowship with God.

Paul emphasizes that this grace not only saves us but also sustains us. It is by God’s grace that we are called to live holy lives and to serve Him faithfully. Jesus, the Lamb of God, is both the giver and sustainer of this grace.

Illustration: Picture a vine and its branches. The branches can bear fruit only when they remain connected to the vine. In the same way, we can bear spiritual fruit only when we remain connected to Jesus, the Lamb of God, who is the source of all grace.

Reflection: Are we relying on God’s grace daily, or are we trying to live the Christian life in our own strength? Do we remember to give thanks for the grace that sustains us?

4. The Lamb of God: The Invitation to Follow (John 1:29-42)

In John’s Gospel, we see John the Baptist pointing to Jesus and declaring, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). This declaration not only identifies Jesus as the Messiah but also invites others to follow Him. When John’s disciples hear this, they immediately begin to follow Jesus. Later, Andrew brings his brother Simon Peter to Jesus, saying, “We have found the Messiah” (John 1:41).

This passage highlights the importance of recognizing Jesus as the Lamb of God and responding to His invitation. Following Jesus means leaving behind our old ways and embracing a new life in Him. It also means inviting others to experience the transformative power of the Lamb of God.

Illustration: Imagine a person who finds a hidden treasure in a field. Overwhelmed with joy, they sell everything they have to buy that field. In the same way, when we truly behold the Lamb of God, we are willing to give up everything to follow Him.

Reflection: Have we responded to the invitation to follow Jesus wholeheartedly? Are we pointing others to the Lamb of God, just as John the Baptist did?

Conclusion

Dear brothers and sisters, as we conclude, let us remember that beholding the Lamb of God is not a one-time event but a daily posture of our hearts. Jesus, the Lamb of God, is God’s chosen servant, the perfect sacrifice for our sins, the source of grace, and the one who invites us to follow Him. Let us behold Him with awe, gratitude, and commitment.

May we, like John the Baptist, point others to Jesus so that they, too, may behold the Lamb of God and experience the life-changing power of His love.

Concluding Prayer

Gracious and loving God, we thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. Help us to behold Him daily in our lives, to follow Him faithfully, and to share His love with others. Strengthen us by Your grace, sustain us in our journey of faith, and fill our hearts with joy and gratitude for the sacrifice of the Lamb. May our lives reflect His light and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ precious name, we pray. Amen.

January 26 (Third Sunday after Epiphany)

Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 9:1–4
- Psalm: Psalm 27:1, 4–9
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:10–18
- Gospel: Matthew 4:12–23

Sermon: “The Light That Brings Hope”

Third Sunday after Epiphany | January 26, India’s Republic Day

Key Verse:
“The people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death, a light has dawned.” – Matthew 4:16 (NIV)

Introduction: The Need for Light in Darkness

On this significant day, as we gather in worship, we also celebrate the 75th anniversary of India’s Republic Day. It is a day that reminds us of our journey from colonial rule to freedom and the adoption of our Constitution, which stands as a beacon of hope and justice. Just as the Constitution brought a new light into the lives of millions of Indians by ensuring rights, dignity, and freedom, so does God’s light bring spiritual hope to the world in times of despair.

Today’s theme, “The Light That Brings Hope,” is deeply relevant—not only to our faith but also to our role as citizens. As followers of Christ, we are called to walk in His light and be instruments of hope, both in the church and in our society. Let us reflect on how God’s light brings deliverance, confidence, unity, and a call to mission.

Point 1: The Light of Deliverance (Isaiah 9:1–4)

Isaiah’s prophecy in chapter 9 comes at a time of deep national crisis. The people of Israel, living under the threat of war and exile, were walking in great darkness. Yet, Isaiah declares hope:
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2).

This light signifies deliverance from oppression, the breaking of yokes, and the end of fear. Historically, just as the people of Israel longed for freedom from their enemies, we too, as a nation, experienced the light of freedom when we gained independence. Republic Day marks the formalization of that freedom, enshrining justice, equality, and fraternity in our Constitution.

In our personal lives, the light of God offers us deliverance from the darkness of sin, fear, and despair. No matter how deep the darkness in our circumstances may be, God’s light has the power to bring us into a new dawn of hope.

Illustration: Imagine a long, cold night during which you wait anxiously for the first rays of dawn. When the sun rises, it not only brings warmth but also renews your spirit. God’s light works similarly—it breaks through the darkest moments of life and renews our hope.

Point 2: The Light of Confidence (Psalm 27:1, 4–9)

The Psalmist proclaims with confidence:
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1).

Even though the Psalmist faces adversaries, he does not fear, because the Lord’s light gives him assurance and strength. This confidence comes from his deep relationship with God, as expressed in verse 4: “One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.”

On Republic Day, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by those who had the courage to dream of a free and just India. Their confidence in a brighter future empowered them to fight for the nation’s freedom. In the same way, as Christians, we are called to have confidence in God’s light, even when life brings challenges.

Reflection: Today, whether we face personal struggles or societal issues, we can hold on to the confidence that God is our light. Just as the Psalmist was not shaken by fear, we too can find courage to move forward in life, knowing that God walks with us.

Point 3: The Light of Unity (1 Corinthians 1:10–18)

Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, addresses a serious issue: division in the church. He appeals to the believers to be united in mind and thought, reminding them that they are all part of the body of Christ. Paul’s message is clear—true unity comes not by following human leaders but by focusing on Christ, the true Light.
“Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you?” (1 Corinthians 1:13).

On Republic Day, we celebrate the unity of India, a nation of diverse languages, cultures, and religions. Despite our differences, we are bound by the ideals of our Constitution. Similarly, as a church, we are called to reflect unity, focusing not on what divides us but on Christ, who unites us in His love.

Illustration: Just as a rainbow displays different colors but remains one beautiful arc in the sky, the church, though diverse, becomes a beacon of hope when united in Christ. In a divided world, we are called to be a light of unity, showing that harmony is possible through love and mutual respect.

Point 4: The Light of Mission (Matthew 4:12–23)

The Gospel of Matthew records the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. After John the Baptist is imprisoned, Jesus moves to Galilee and begins preaching:
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 4:17).

Jesus’ ministry is marked by both proclamation and action—He not only preaches the Good News but also heals the sick and calls His disciples to follow Him. He invites them with a powerful mission:
“Come, follow me, and I will send you out to fish for people” (Matthew 4:19).

On this Republic Day, we can reflect on our mission as citizens of India and as followers of Christ. Just as our leaders envisioned a nation built on justice and equality, Jesus envisions a world where His followers bring hope and healing to others. Our mission is to shine His light in every sphere of life—our homes, workplaces, communities, and beyond.

Reflection: In our daily lives, we can become the light that brings hope to others. Whether through acts of kindness, standing up for justice, or simply sharing the love of Christ, we are called to continue Jesus’ mission of bringing light to the world.

Conclusion: Be the Light That Brings Hope

On this third Sunday after Epiphany and on India’s Republic Day, we are reminded of the power of light to transform darkness. Just as the dawn of freedom brought hope to our nation, the light of Christ brings hope to our lives. Whether it is deliverance from personal struggles, confidence in the face of fear, unity in a divided world, or the call to mission, God’s light empowers us to live with hope and purpose.

Let us, as followers of Christ, shine His light in our families, communities, and nation. As we celebrate Republic Day, may we also renew our commitment to being agents of God’s hope and light in the world.

Concluding Prayer:

Almighty God,
We thank You for being our everlasting light and source of hope. On this day, as we celebrate our nation’s Republic Day, we pray for our country—bless our leaders, guide our citizens, and fill our land with peace and justice.

Lord, may Your light shine brightly in our hearts, driving away fear, division, and despair. Help us to walk in confidence, united in Your love, and committed to the mission of spreading hope. May we be instruments of Your light in a world that longs for hope. Strengthen us to live as faithful disciples, reflecting Your glory in all we do.

In the name of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, we pray. Amen.

February 2025

February 2 (Presentation of the Lord / Candlemas)

Theme: “A Light for Revelation to the Nations”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Malachi 3:1–4
- Psalm: Psalm 84
- Epistle: Hebrews 2:14–18
- Gospel: Luke 2:22–40

February 9 (Fifth Sunday after Epiphany)

Theme: “The Lord’s Light Is Shining in You”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 58:6–12
- Psalm: Psalm 112:1–9
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 2:1–12
- Gospel: Matthew 5:13–20

February 16 (Sixth Sunday after Epiphany)

Theme: “Choose Life: The Way of God’s Kingdom”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Deuteronomy 30:15–20
- Psalm: Psalm 119:1–8
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 3:1–9
- Gospel: Matthew 5:21–37

February 23 (Transfiguration Sunday)

Theme: “Jesus Is Glorified: Listen to Him”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Exodus 24:12–18
- Psalm: Psalm 99
- Epistle: 2 Peter 1:16–21
- Gospel: Matthew 17:1–9

March 2025

March 2 (Sunday before Lent)

Theme: “Prepare the Way of the Cross”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Joel 2:12–17
- Psalm: Psalm 51:1–12
- Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:20b–6:10
- Gospel: Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21

Ash Wednesday – March 5, 2025

Theme: “Return to the Lord with All Your Heart”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Joel 2:1–2, 12–17
- Psalm: Psalm 51:1–17
- Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:20b–6:10
- Gospel: Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21

March 9 (First Sunday in Lent)

Theme: “Jesus Overcomes Temptation”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Genesis 2:15–17, 3:1–7
- Psalm: Psalm 32
- Epistle: Romans 5:12–19
- Gospel: Matthew 4:1–11

March 16 (Second Sunday in Lent)

Theme: “God’s Covenant with Abraham”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Genesis 12:1–4a
- Psalm: Psalm 121
- Epistle: Romans 4:1–5, 13–17
- Gospel: John 3:1–17

March 23 (Third Sunday in Lent)

Theme: “Living Water for the Thirsty Soul”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Exodus 17:1–7
- Psalm: Psalm 95
- Epistle: Romans 5:1–11
- Gospel: John 4:5–42

March 30 (Fourth Sunday in Lent)

Theme: “I Was Blind, but Now I See”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: 1 Samuel 16:1–13
- Psalm: Psalm 23
- Epistle: Ephesians 5:8–14
- Gospel: John 9:1–41

April 2025

April 6 (Fifth Sunday in Lent)

Theme: “The God Who Breathes Life into Dry Bones”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Ezekiel 37:1–14
- Psalm: Psalm 130
- Epistle: Romans 8:6–11
- Gospel: John 11:1–45

April 13 (Palm Sunday / Sunday of the Passion)

Theme: “Hosanna! The King of Peace Has Come”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Zechariah 9:9–12
- Psalm: Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29
- Epistle: Philippians 2:5–11
- Gospel: Matthew 21:1–11

Maundy Thursday – April 17, 2025

Theme: “The New Commandment of Love”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Exodus 12:1–4, 11–14
- Psalm: Psalm 116:1–2, 12–19
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26
- Gospel: John 13:1–17, 31b–35

Good Friday – April 18, 2025

Theme: “It Is Finished”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 52:13–53:12
- Psalm: Psalm 22:1–22
- Epistle: Hebrews 10:16–25
- Gospel: John 18:1–19:42

Holy Saturday – April 19, 2025

Theme: “The Light Will Dawn in the Darkness”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Job 14:1–14
- Psalm: Psalm 31:1–4, 15–16
- Epistle: 1 Peter 4:1–8
- Gospel: Matthew 27:57–66

April 20 (Easter Sunday)

Theme: “He Is Risen: Victory Over Sin and Death”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 25:6–9
- Psalm: Psalm 118:14–24
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:1–11
- Gospel: Matthew 28:1–10

April 27 (Second Sunday of Easter)

Theme: “Blessed Are Those Who Believe”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Acts 2:14a, 22–32
- Psalm: Psalm 16
- Epistle: 1 Peter 1:3–9
- Gospel: John 20:19–31

May 2025

May 4 (Third Sunday of Easter)

Theme: “Walking with Jesus: The Road to Emmaus”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Acts 2:14a, 36–41
- Psalm: Psalm 116:1–4, 12–19
- Epistle: 1 Peter 1:17–23
- Gospel: Luke 24:13–35

May 11 (Fourth Sunday of Easter)

Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Acts 2:42–47
- Psalm: Psalm 23
- Epistle: 1 Peter 2:19–25
- Gospel: John 10:1–10

May 18 (Fifth Sunday of Easter)

Theme: “Jesus: The Way, the Truth, and the Life”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Acts 7:55–60
- Psalm: Psalm 31:1–5, 15–16
- Epistle: 1 Peter 2:2–10
- Gospel: John 14:1–14

May 25 (Sixth Sunday of Easter)

Theme: “The Spirit of Truth Is Our Helper”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Acts 17:22–31
- Psalm: Psalm 66:8–20
- Epistle: 1 Peter 3:13–22
- Gospel: John 14:15–21

June 2025

June 1 (Seventh Sunday of Easter / Sunday after Ascension)

Theme: “Jesus Prays for Us”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Acts 1:6–14
- Psalm: Psalm 68:1–10, 32–35
- Epistle: 1 Peter 4:12–14; 5:6–11
- Gospel: John 17:1–11

June 8 (Pentecost Sunday)

Theme: “The Holy Spirit Empowers Us”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Acts 2:1–21
- Psalm: Psalm 104:24–34, 35b
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 12:3b–13
- Gospel: John 20:19–23

June 15 (Trinity Sunday)

Theme: “The Triune God: Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Genesis 1:1–2:4a
- Psalm: Psalm 8
- Epistle: 2 Corinthians 13:11–13
- Gospel: Matthew 28:16–20

June 22 (Second Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “God’s Call and Promise to Abraham”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Genesis 12:1–9
- Psalm: Psalm 33:1–12
- Epistle: Romans 4:13–25
- Gospel: Matthew 9:9–13, 18–26

June 29 (Third Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Do Not Fear: You Are Precious to God”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Jeremiah 20:7–13
- Psalm: Psalm 69:7–18
- Epistle: Romans 6:1b–11
- Gospel: Matthew 10:24–39

July 2025

July 6 (Sixth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Come to Me, and I Will Give You Rest”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Zechariah 9:9–12
- Psalm: Psalm 145:8–14
- Epistle: Romans 7:15–25a
- Gospel: Matthew 11:16–19, 25–30

July 13 (Seventh Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “The Sower and the Seed”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 55:10–13
- Psalm: Psalm 65:1–13
- Epistle: Romans 8:1–11
- Gospel: Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23

July 20 (Eighth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “The Wheat and the Tares”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Genesis 28:10–19a
- Psalm: Psalm 139:1–12, 23–24
- Epistle: Romans 8:12–25
- Gospel: Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43

July 27 (Ninth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “The Kingdom of Heaven Is Like…”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: 1 Kings 3:5–12
- Psalm: Psalm 119:129–136
- Epistle: Romans 8:26–39
- Gospel: Matthew 13:31–33, 44–52

August 2025

August 3 (Tenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “You Give Them Something to Eat”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 55:1–5
- Psalm: Psalm 145:8–9, 14–21
- Epistle: Romans 9:1–5
- Gospel: Matthew 14:13–21

August 10 (Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Take Heart, It Is I”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: 1 Kings 19:9–18
- Psalm: Psalm 85:8–13
- Epistle: Romans 10:5–15
- Gospel: Matthew 14:22–33

August 17 (Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Faith That Moves Mountains”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 56:1, 6–8
- Psalm: Psalm 67
- Epistle: Romans 11:1–2a, 29–32
- Gospel: Matthew 15:21–28

August 24 (Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Who Do You Say That I Am?”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 51:1–6
- Psalm: Psalm 138
- Epistle: Romans 12:1–8
- Gospel: Matthew 16:13–20

August 31 (Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Jeremiah 15:15–21
- Psalm: Psalm 26:1–8
- Epistle: Romans 12:9–21
- Gospel: Matthew 16:21–28

September 2025

September 7 (Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Love Fulfils the Law”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Ezekiel 33:7–11
- Psalm: Psalm 119:33–40
- Epistle: Romans 13:8–14
- Gospel: Matthew 18:15–20

September 14 (Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “How Often Should I Forgive?”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Genesis 50:15–21
- Psalm: Psalm 103:1–13
- Epistle: Romans 14:1–12
- Gospel: Matthew 18:21–35

September 21 (Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “The Generous Master”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Jonah 3:10–4:11
- Psalm: Psalm 145:1–8
- Epistle: Philippians 1:21–30
- Gospel: Matthew 20:1–16

September 28 (Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Which Son Did the Father’s Will?”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Ezekiel 18:1–4, 25–32
- Psalm: Psalm 25:1–9
- Epistle: Philippians 2:1–13
- Gospel: Matthew 21:23–32

October 2025

October 5 (Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “The Kingdom Will Be Given to Others”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 5:1–7
- Psalm: Psalm 80:7–15
- Epistle: Philippians 3:4b–14
- Gospel: Matthew 21:33–46

October 12 (Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “The Wedding Banquet Is Ready”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Exodus 32:1–14
- Psalm: Psalm 106:1–6, 19–23
- Epistle: Philippians 4:1–9
- Gospel: Matthew 22:1–14

October 19 (Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Give to God What Is God’s”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 45:1–7
- Psalm: Psalm 96:1–9
- Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
- Gospel: Matthew 22:15–22

October 26 (Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “The Greatest Commandment”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Leviticus 19:1–2, 15–18
- Psalm: Psalm 1
- Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 2:1–8
- Gospel: Matthew 22:34–46

Reformation Day – October 31, 2025

Theme: “The Righteous Shall Live by Faith”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Jeremiah 31:31–34
- Psalm: Psalm 46
- Epistle: Romans 3:19–28
- Gospel: John 8:31–36

Reformation Sunday – November 2, 2025

Theme: “Freedom in Christ”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Deuteronomy 6:1–9
- Psalm: Psalm 119:1–8
- Epistle: Galatians 5:1–6
- Gospel: John 15:1–11

November 2025

November 2 (All Saints Sunday)

Theme: “Blessed Are the Saints”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Revelation 7:9–17
- Psalm: Psalm 34:1–10, 22
- Epistle: 1 John 3:1–3
- Gospel: Matthew 5:1–12

November 9 (Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Keep Your Lamps Burning”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Amos 5:18–24
- Psalm: Psalm 70
- Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18
- Gospel: Matthew 25:1–13

November 16 (Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost)

Theme: “Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Zephaniah 1:7, 12–18
- Psalm: Psalm 90:1–8, 12
- Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11
- Gospel: Matthew 25:14–30

November 23 (Christ the King Sunday)

Theme: “Christ the King Will Judge All Nations”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Ezekiel 34:11–16, 20–24
- Psalm: Psalm 95:1–7a
- Epistle: Ephesians 1:15–23
- Gospel: Matthew 25:31–46

November 30, 2025 (First Sunday of Advent)

Theme: “The Coming of the Son of Man”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 64:1–9
- Psalm: Psalm 80:1–7, 17–19
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:3–9
- Gospel: Mark 13:24–37

December 2025

December 7 (Second Sunday of Advent)

Theme: “Prepare the Way of the Lord”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 40:1–11
- Psalm: Psalm 85:1–2, 8–13
- Epistle: 2 Peter 3:8–15a
- Gospel: Mark 1:1–8

December 14 (Third Sunday of Advent)

Theme: “The Joy of the Lord Is Our Strength”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 61:1–4, 8–11
- Psalm: Psalm 126
- Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 5:16–24
- Gospel: John 1:6–8, 19–28

December 21 (Fourth Sunday of Advent)

Theme: “Behold, the Virgin Shall Conceive”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: 2 Samuel 7:1–11, 16
- Psalm: Psalm 89:1–4, 19–26
- Epistle: Romans 16:25–27
- Gospel: Luke 1:26–38

December 25 (Christmas Day)

Theme: “Unto Us a Child Is Born”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 9:2–7
- Psalm: Psalm 96
- Epistle: Titus 2:11–14
- Gospel: Luke 2:1–14

December 28 (First Sunday after Christmas)

Theme: “The Flight to Egypt”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Jeremiah 31:15–17
- Psalm: Psalm 124
- Epistle: Galatians 4:4–7
- Gospel: Matthew 2:13–23

December 31, 2025 – Year-End Thanksgiving

Theme: “Ebenezer: Thus Far the Lord Has Helped Us”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: 1 Samuel 7:7–12
- Psalm: Psalm 90:1–12
- Epistle: Philippians 4:4–7
- Gospel: Luke 17:11–19

January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day / The Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus

Theme: “The Name Above Every Name”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Numbers 6:22–27
- Psalm: Psalm 8
- Epistle: Philippians 2:5–11
- Gospel: Luke 2:21

January 2026 Themes and Bible Portions

January 4, 2026 – Second Sunday after Christmas

Theme: “The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Jeremiah 31:7–14
- Psalm: Psalm 147:12–20
- Epistle: Ephesians 1:3–14
- Gospel: John 1:10–18

January 6, 2026 – Epiphany (Monday)

Theme: “The Light for All Nations”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 60:1–6
- Psalm: Psalm 72:1–7, 10–14
- Epistle: Ephesians 3:1–12
- Gospel: Matthew 2:1–12

January 11, 2026 – First Sunday after Epiphany (Baptism of Our Lord)

Theme: “This Is My Beloved Son”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 42:1–9
- Psalm: Psalm 29
- Epistle: Acts 10:34–43
- Gospel: Matthew 3:13–17

January 18, 2026 – Second Sunday after Epiphany

Theme: “Come and See”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: 1 Samuel 3:1–10
- Psalm: Psalm 40:1–11
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:1–9
- Gospel: John 1:43–51

January 25, 2026 – Third Sunday after Epiphany

Theme: “The Light Has Dawned”
Bible Portions:
- Old Testament: Isaiah 9:1–4
- Psalm: Psalm 27:1, 4–9
- Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:10–18
- Gospel: Matthew 4:12–23

2024 October 6

Walking in the Light of God’s Love

Scripture Readings:

Psalm: Psalm 27:1-4
Old Testament: Isaiah 60:1-3
Epistle: Ephesians 5:8-10
Gospel: John 8:12

Key Verse from the Gospel: “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” – John 8:12 (NIV)

As we gather together on this Sunday, in this beautiful village church, let us pause to reflect on the guiding light of God’s love. We live in a world where darkness – both literal and figurative – can often surround us. It might be the struggles we face, the uncertainties of life, or the temptations and evils that try to drag us down. But in the midst of all this, God’s Word offers us a powerful reminder: we are not alone. God’s light shines upon us and through us, showing us the way forward.

Our readings today call us to focus on the light of God, a theme that has profound significance in both our spiritual and daily lives. The Psalmist declares that God is the light of our salvation, Isaiah urges us to arise and shine, Paul exhorts us to walk as children of light, and Jesus assures us that He is the light of the world. Today, we will reflect on three points that remind us how walking in the light of God’s love transforms our lives: 1) God’s light brings security, 2) God’s light reveals our true identity, and 3) God’s light leads us into a life of witness.

1 God’s Light Brings Security

In Psalm 27:1-4, David writes, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Here, we see the deep confidence David places in the light of God’s presence. When God is our light, there is no darkness we should fear, no evil that can overpower us, and no circumstance that should make us despair.

David faced many dangers in his life – whether it was King Saul chasing him, enemies on the battlefield, or personal struggles. Yet, in all of these situations, he knew one thing for certain: God was his light and salvation. The light of God brings a sense of safety and security. Like a child who feels secure in the light of day but frightened in the dark, we too can find peace and confidence when we trust in God’s light to guide us.

Imagine a traveller walking through a forest at night with no flashlight. The journey would be treacherous, filled with fear of unseen obstacles or dangers lurking in the shadows. But with a bright light in hand, the same path becomes manageable, and the traveller can walk with courage. Similarly, God’s light allows us to walk through the “forest” of life without fear, knowing that He illuminates our way.

2 God’s Light Reveals Our True Identity

In Isaiah 60:1-3, the prophet proclaims, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.” Isaiah speaks to a people in darkness, calling them to step into the light of God’s glory and reflect that light to the nations. When we walk in the light of God, not only do we see clearly the path ahead, but we also see ourselves clearly.

Paul picks up this theme in Ephesians 5:8-10, saying, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth).” Paul contrasts our former state of darkness with our new identity as “children of light.” Walking in God’s light means embracing who we truly are – God’s beloved, His chosen people, and bearers of His light.

In the light, we see ourselves as God sees us – precious, loved, and redeemed. In the light, we also see areas of our lives that need to change, areas where we still walk in the shadows of sin or brokenness. But this is not a light that condemns us; it is a light that heals, restores, and transforms us.

Think of a mirror in a dimly lit room. The image we see is unclear, distorted. But once the room is filled with light, we can see our reflection accurately. When God’s light shines on us, we see both our imperfections and the beauty of who He has created us to be. It is in His light that we are truly known and loved.

3 God’s Light Leads Us into a Life of Witness

Finally, Jesus declares in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Jesus is not only the light for our own lives but the light for the entire world. When we follow Him, we become carriers of that light to others.

Jesus calls us to walk in the light, but He also commissions us to be a light in the world. In Matthew 5:14, He says, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” Our faith is not just for us to hold privately; it is meant to shine outward, to influence, and to illuminate the lives of others.

As we walk in the light of God’s love, we are called to share that light with those around us – our families, neighbours, and communities. This can be through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or simply by living a life that reflects the goodness and grace of God.

Imagine a single candle in a dark room. While it may seem small, its light pierces through the darkness and brings clarity. But now, imagine that everyone in the room lights a candle. The room is no longer dim but bright and full of light. When we live as witnesses to Christ’s light, we help drive out the darkness in the world, one small act of faith and love at a time.

As we reflect on the message for today, let us remember that the light of God is more than just a symbol – it is a life-changing reality. It brings security, reveals our true identity, and calls us to be witnesses of that light to the world. Whether we face fear, uncertainty, or temptation, we know that the light of God’s love will guide us, transform us, and help us shine brightly in this world.

Let us leave here today with a renewed commitment to walk in God’s light, trusting that His light will never fail us.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for being the light in our lives, for guiding us through the darkness, and for showing us who we truly are in You. As we go out into the world, help us to walk as children of light, reflecting Your love and grace in all we do. May Your light shine through us, bringing hope and encouragement to those who need it most. Keep us close to You, and remind us that with You, we will never walk in darkness. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

October 13

Gratitude: The Key to a Joyful Life

Scripture Readings:

Psalm: Psalm 103:1-5
Old Testament: Deuteronomy 8:10-14
Epistle: Philippians 4:4-7
Gospel: Luke 17:11-19

Key Verse from the Gospel: “Jesus asked, ‘Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?’” – Luke 17:17-18 (NIV)

As we gather together on this Sunday, in this peaceful village, we come with hearts open to the Word of God. Today, I want us to reflect on a theme that touches every aspect of our lives – gratitude. Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”; it is a posture of the heart that recognizes the blessings and goodness of God in every situation.

Our readings today remind us that gratitude is a key to unlocking joy, peace, and contentment in life. Whether it is the Psalmist calling us to bless the Lord with all our souls, Moses warning the Israelites not to forget the Lord after receiving blessings, or Paul urging us to rejoice in the Lord always, the message is clear: a grateful heart leads to a joyful life. Most powerfully, in the Gospel reading, we hear the story of the ten lepers who were healed by Jesus, yet only one returned to express his gratitude.

Today, we will reflect on three points that encourage us to live with hearts full of gratitude: 1) Gratitude acknowledges God’s blessings, 2) Gratitude nurtures contentment and peace, and 3) Gratitude strengthens our relationship with God and others.

1 Gratitude Acknowledges God’s Blessings

In Psalm 103:1-5, David exclaims, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name!” The Psalmist is not just casually thanking God; he is calling his entire being to recognize the goodness of God. David goes on to list the many ways God has blessed him – He forgives our sins, heals our diseases, redeems our lives, and crowns us with love and mercy. Gratitude begins by acknowledging that every good thing in our lives comes from God.

Too often, we can take God’s blessings for granted. When life is going well, when we have food on our table, when our health is good, and our families are safe, it’s easy to forget to express gratitude to God. In Deuteronomy 8:10-14, Moses warns the Israelites not to forget the Lord after they have entered the Promised Land and experienced abundance. He tells them to give thanks for the blessings they enjoy, reminding them that it is God who has provided for them.

Imagine a child who receives a beautiful gift but becomes so caught up in playing with it that they forget to thank the one who gave it. This often happens in our relationship with God. We are surrounded by the blessings of creation, health, family, and daily provision, but we become so preoccupied with the blessings themselves that we forget to thank the Giver.

Gratitude begins with a conscious effort to recognize God’s hand in our lives, even in the small, everyday moments. Let us be like David, who continually reminded himself to bless the Lord and not forget His benefits.

2 Gratitude Nurtures Contentment and Peace

In Philippians 4:4-7, Paul encourages the believers to “rejoice in the Lord always” and to “not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Here, Paul links gratitude with peace. When we cultivate a grateful heart, we develop an inner contentment that transcends our circumstances.

Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have. Instead of dwelling on unmet desires or challenges, we begin to appreciate the blessings already present in our lives. This mindset helps us find contentment even when life doesn’t go according to our plans. Paul himself was writing this letter while in prison, yet his heart overflowed with gratitude and joy. Gratitude, therefore, is not dependent on our external circumstances, but on our internal attitude toward God.

Consider a farmer who, after a season of drought, is tempted to complain about the poor harvest. Yet, when he looks at the land, he notices that despite the challenges, there is still some crop left, his family is safe, and the sun rises every morning to bring new hope. He chooses gratitude over complaint. The same is true for us – when we practice gratitude, we focus not on what’s missing, but on the abundance of what God has already provided.

Gratitude leads to peace because it reminds us that God is in control and that we can trust Him to meet our needs. When we thank God in all circumstances, we open the door for His peace to guard our hearts and minds.

3 Gratitude Strengthens Our Relationship with God and Others

In the Gospel reading from Luke 17:11-19, we hear the story of ten lepers who cry out to Jesus for healing. Jesus, in His compassion, heals them all, but only one – a Samaritan – returns to give thanks. Jesus asks, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?” This story highlights the importance of expressing gratitude, not just for the blessings we receive, but as a way of deepening our relationship with God.

The one leper who returned to Jesus not only received physical healing but also a deeper spiritual encounter. Jesus told him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” His gratitude opened the door for a greater blessing – a relationship with the Healer Himself. Gratitude brings us closer to God because it acknowledges our dependence on Him and recognizes His grace at work in our lives.

Furthermore, gratitude strengthens our relationships with others. When we express thanks to the people in our lives – whether family, friends, or members of our community – we foster deeper connections. Gratitude helps us see the good in others, appreciate their contributions, and build stronger bonds of love and respect.

Think of a family gathering where everyone is focused on what they didn’t get – perhaps someone didn’t receive the help they wanted, or a small mistake was made in the meal preparation. The atmosphere becomes tense and unhappy. Now imagine the same gathering, but this time, people express gratitude – thanking each other for their efforts, appreciating the time spent together. The mood shifts from tension to joy. Gratitude has the power to transform not just our own hearts, but the hearts of those around us.

When we live with a heart of gratitude, we honour God and build a community of love and encouragement.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on today’s readings, we see that gratitude is not just an occasional act, but a way of life. Gratitude acknowledges God’s blessings, nurtures contentment and peace, and strengthens our relationships with God and others. The leper who returned to thank Jesus reminds us that gratitude is a choice – one that brings us closer to the heart of God and leads to a joyful life.

As we go out into the world this week, let us practice gratitude in all things. Let us thank God for His daily mercies, even in the small and simple moments. Let us express thanks to those around us, building up our relationships with love and appreciation. And let us remember that, in all circumstances, we can find joy through a grateful heart.

Prayer: Gracious and loving God, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude. Thank You for the countless blessings You have poured into our lives – the gift of salvation, the daily provision of our needs, the love of family and friends, and the strength to face each new day. Help us, Lord, to cultivate a spirit of gratitude in all things, and to trust You even in the midst of challenges. May our hearts overflow with thankfulness, and may we shine as lights of Your grace in the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

October 20

Faith that Overcomes the World

Scripture Readings:

Psalm: Psalm 27:1-5
Old Testament: Joshua 1:6-9
Epistle: 1 John 5:1-5
Gospel: Mark 10:46-52

Key Verse from the Gospel: “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.” – Mark 10:52 (NIV)

We all face challenges, trials, and obstacles in life. Sometimes, it may feel as though the weight of the world is upon our shoulders, and we wonder how we can endure. Today, we will reflect on a theme that offers hope and strength in the midst of such difficulties – faith that overcomes the world. Faith is not just about believing in God; it is about trusting Him to carry us through the toughest situations, knowing that in Him we are more than conquerors.

Our scripture readings this morning lead us to understand that true faith has the power to transform lives, to give us courage in difficult times, and to bring us closer to God. Psalm 27 reminds us that God is our light and salvation, Joshua is encouraged to be strong and courageous, and 1 John 5 speaks of faith that overcomes the world. But it is in the Gospel reading from Mark 10 that we see faith in action through the story of blind Bartimaeus, whose persistent faith in Jesus leads to his healing and restoration.

Let us explore three aspects of faith that we can learn from these scriptures today: 1) Faith overcomes fear, 2) Faith gives us courage to move forward, and 3) Faith leads us to restoration and healing.

1 Faith Overcomes Fear

In Psalm 27:1-5, the Psalmist declares, “The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid?” This powerful statement of faith begins with a recognition of who God is – our light, our salvation, and our protector. When we recognize God as the foundation of our lives, fear has no hold on us.

Fear is one of the greatest obstacles we face in life. It prevents us from stepping out in faith, from taking risks, from trusting in God’s promises. Fear can paralyze us, making us feel small and helpless in the face of challenges. But faith, when rooted in God, overcomes fear. It reminds us that we are not alone, that the God who created the universe is with us, and that He is greater than any obstacle we face.

Imagine a young child learning to swim. At first, the child is fearful, hesitating to jump into the water. But as soon as the child realizes that a loving parent is standing in the pool, ready to catch them, fear begins to melt away. The child’s trust in the parent overcomes the fear of the water. In the same way, our trust in God overcomes the fears that try to hold us back.

Faith calls us to trust in God’s presence and power, just as the Psalmist does. We may not always see what lies ahead, but faith assures us that God is our light, guiding our steps even in the darkest of times.

2 Faith Gives Us Courage to Move Forward

In Joshua 1:6-9, God speaks directly to Joshua, saying, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua was facing a tremendous task: leading the people of Israel into the Promised Land. It was a land filled with uncertainty and challenges, but God called him to move forward in faith, knowing that He would be with him.

Faith does not eliminate challenges, but it gives us the courage to face them head-on. God’s call to Joshua is the same call He extends to us today – be strong and courageous, for He is with us wherever we go. Whether it is in our families, our work, our health, or our community, God calls us to move forward in faith, trusting that He will provide the strength we need.

I once heard the story of a farmer who, after years of struggling with poor crops, decided to invest in a new irrigation system for his fields. Many of his neighbours doubted his decision, saying it was too risky and expensive. But the farmer had faith that his efforts, combined with God’s blessing, would yield a fruitful harvest. Despite the challenges, he moved forward with courage, and by the end of the season, his fields produced abundantly. Faith requires us to take steps of courage, even when the future is uncertain.

Joshua was not promised an easy journey, but he was promised God’s constant presence. In the same way, when we step out in faith, we may not be guaranteed immediate success, but we are guaranteed that God will be with us. That assurance gives us the courage to keep moving forward, trusting that His plan is greater than our fears.

3 Faith Leads to Restoration and Healing

The Gospel reading from Mark 10:46-52 tells the story of Bartimaeus, a blind man who was sitting by the roadside, calling out to Jesus. Despite the crowd trying to silence him, Bartimaeus kept crying out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” His faith was persistent and unwavering, and Jesus responded by healing him. Jesus said, “Go, your faith has healed you.” Immediately, Bartimaeus received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.

Bartimaeus’s story is one of hope and restoration. He was not just healed physically, but his life was completely transformed by his encounter with Jesus. His faith in Jesus’s power to heal him was the key to his restoration. He refused to let the voices of the crowd discourage him, and his persistence in faith led him to Jesus.

Many of us have experienced moments when we felt like Bartimaeus – on the sidelines, struggling, feeling unheard or overlooked. But just as Jesus stopped and responded to Bartimaeus, He also hears our cries. Whether we are struggling with physical illness, emotional pain, or spiritual weariness, faith in Jesus can bring healing and restoration.

Bartimaeus’s story reminds us that faith is not passive; it is active and persistent. When we cry out to Jesus in faith, we open the door for His healing power to work in our lives. It may not always come in the way we expect, but Jesus hears us and responds to our faith. His desire is to bring restoration, healing, and wholeness to every area of our lives.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on these scriptures today, we are reminded that faith is more than just a belief in God’s existence – it is a powerful force that overcomes fear, gives us courage to move forward, and brings restoration and healing. Faith is the key that unlocks God’s blessings in our lives.

In Psalm 27, we are encouraged to trust God as our light and salvation, allowing faith to cast out fear. In Joshua, we are called to be strong and courageous, moving forward with confidence in God’s promises. And in the story of Bartimaeus, we see that persistent faith leads to healing and restoration.

As we go out into the world this week, let us walk by faith, trusting that God is with us in every situation. Whether we are facing personal challenges, making difficult decisions, or seeking healing, let us place our faith in Jesus, knowing that He is the One who gives us strength, courage, and new life.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of faith. We thank You for Your presence in our lives, for being our light and salvation in times of fear and uncertainty. Help us to grow in our faith, to trust You more deeply, and to follow You more closely. Give us the courage to move forward in the face of challenges, knowing that You are with us. And like Bartimaeus, may we come to You with persistent faith, trusting in Your power to heal and restore. We ask this in the name of Jesus, our Savior. Amen.

27th October

Reformation Sunday

Scripture Readings:

Psalm: 81.1-14

Old Testament: 2 King.23.1-9

Epistle: Romans 11.1-6

Gospel: Luke 11.33-36

Key Verse: Luke 11:33 – “No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand so that those who come in can see the light.”

Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, as we gather on this Reformation Sunday, we reflect on the profound impact of the Reformation on our faith and church. This day invites us to remember the historical events that ignited a movement of renewal and change in the Church, encouraging us to examine our own lives and faith in the light of God’s Word. The Reformation was not merely a historical event but a transformative moment that emphasized the core tenets of our faith: grace, Scripture, faith, and the priesthood of all believers. As we explore our readings today, we will uncover themes of restoration, the importance of obedience to God, and the call to shine our light in a world that often prefers darkness. Our scriptural journey takes us from the reforms of King Josiah to Paul’s reflections on God’s faithfulness, concluding with Jesus’ teaching about the light within us. Let us open our hearts and minds to the truths that God has for us today.

I The Restoration of Worship (2 Kings 23:1-9)

Our first reading takes us to the reign of King Josiah, a young king who sought to restore true worship in Israel. In a time when the people had turned to idol worship and abandoned the ways of the Lord, Josiah took bold steps to cleanse the temple and restore proper worship. In verses 1-3, we see Josiah gathering the people to hear the Book of the Law, which had been rediscovered in the temple. Upon hearing the words of the Lord, Josiah is deeply moved. He tears his clothes in repentance, recognizing the gravity of the nation’s sins. His response is a testament to the importance of God’s Word in guiding us back to Him. Josiah’s reforms included destroying the altars to foreign gods and reinstating the Passover, a critical event in Israel’s history that reminded the people of their deliverance from slavery. His actions reflect a deep desire for authentic worship, aligning the nation with God’s commandments. In our own lives, we are often called to evaluate what we have allowed to take precedence over our worship of God. Are there distractions or idols that have crept into our lives, diverting our attention from our relationship with Him? Just as Josiah led his people back to true worship, we too are invited to examine our hearts and seek restoration. Consider a modern example: a church that found itself struggling with dwindling attendance and a sense of apathy among its members. After prayer and reflection, the leadership recognized the need for renewed focus on worship and community. They began a series of initiatives emphasizing prayer, Scripture reading, and service to the community. Over time, they witnessed a revitalization in attendance and spiritual fervour. As we reflect on Josiah’s reforms, let us ask ourselves: What steps can we take to restore authentic worship in our lives and communities? How can we align ourselves with God’s Word and ensure that our worship is genuine and reflective of our faith?

II The Call to Listen and Obey (Psalm 81:1-14)

Psalm 81 is a poignant reminder of God’s desire for His people to listen and obey. The psalmist begins with a call to worship: “Sing for joy to God our strength; shout aloud to the God of Jacob!” (v. 1). This call to worship sets the tone for the reflection on God’s faithfulness and the people’s response. In verses 8-10, God speaks directly to His people, urging them to listen: “Hear, O my people, and I will warn you – if you would but listen to me, O Israel! You shall have no foreign god among you.” God’s desire is clear—He longs for His people to turn away from the distractions and false gods that lead them astray. The psalm highlights the consequences of disobedience. When the people failed to listen and follow God’s commandments, they experienced the repercussions of their choices. God’s desire is not for punishment but for relationship—a relationship built on trust, obedience, and love. In our contemporary context, how often do we find ourselves distracted by the noise of the world? In our pursuit of success, comfort, and validation, do we overlook the gentle promptings of the Holy Spirit? The call of the psalmist is relevant today, urging us to pause and listen to God’s voice amid the chaos. Reflecting on a personal story, consider a time when a woman felt overwhelmed by her responsibilities at work and home. Despite her busyness, she sensed God urging her to slow down and spend time in prayer and Scripture. Reluctantly, she heeded the call and found renewal in her spirit and clarity in her priorities. As we reflect on Psalm 81, may we cultivate a heart that is receptive to God’s voice, allowing His words to guide our decisions and shape our lives.

III The Faithfulness of God (Romans 11:1-6)

In Romans 11, Paul grapples with the tension between God’s faithfulness and the apparent rejection of the Gospel by many of His people, Israel. He poses the question: “Did God reject His people? By no means!” (v. 1). Paul highlights that God’s faithfulness remains intact despite human unfaithfulness. Using the example of Elijah, who felt alone in his faithfulness, Paul assures us that God always preserves a remnant. Even in difficult times, God is at work, drawing His people back to Himself. In verses 5-6, Paul emphasizes that it is by grace that we are saved, not by our works. This grace is a gift from God, reminding us that our standing before Him is not based on our performance but on His unchanging love. As we reflect on God’s faithfulness, we are called to trust in His promises. The Reformation sought to remind the Church of this grace and to reject any notion that our salvation could be earned through human effort. It invites us to embrace the truth that we are fully accepted by God through Christ. Consider the story of a man who struggled with feelings of unworthiness, believing he had to earn God’s love. After much reflection and study, he realized that his worth was not determined by his actions but by God’s grace. This revelation transformed his relationship with God, leading him to live out of gratitude rather than fear. As we embrace the truth of God’s faithfulness in our lives, may we respond with gratitude, allowing His grace to shape our actions and attitudes.

IV The Light Within Us (Luke 11:33-36)

In our Gospel reading, Jesus teaches about the importance of being a light in the world. He states in verse 33, “No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand so that those who come in can see the light.” Jesus emphasizes that our lives should reflect His light, illuminating the darkness around us. As believers, we are called to shine brightly in a world often marked by despair, division, and confusion. The light within us is a testament to God’s grace and truth, and it should not be hidden. In verses 34-36, Jesus connects our spiritual sight to the light we possess. If our eyes are healthy and focused on Him, our whole being will be filled with light. However, if we allow distractions or sin to cloud our vision, we risk living in darkness. This call to be a light is a powerful reminder of our role in the world. We are not merely passive observers but active participants in God’s mission. As we engage with our communities, we must reflect Christ’s love, justice, and truth in our actions and words. Reflect on a time when you witnessed someone shining their light in a difficult situation. Perhaps it was a neighbour who offered help to those in need, or a friend who spoke words of encouragement to someone struggling. These acts of light can have a profound impact, drawing others to the hope found in Christ. As we embrace our calling to be lights in the world, let us commit to shining brightly, allowing God’s love to flow through us and reach those around us.

Here’s a brief overview of Martin Luther and other key figures in the Reformation that you can incorporate into your sermon on Reformation Sunday.

Martin Luther: The Catalyst of the Reformation

Martin Luther (1483-1546) was a German theologian, monk, and professor who is widely regarded as the catalyst for the Protestant Reformation. His journey toward reform began in earnest when he struggled with the idea of salvation and the church’s practices. Luther was particularly troubled by the sale of indulgences – payments made to the Church to reduce punishment for sins. In 1517, he famously nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, challenging the Church’s authority and advocating for a return to biblical teachings.

Luther emphasized the principles of sola fide (faith alone), sola gratia (grace alone), and sola scriptura (Scripture alone). He argued that salvation is a gift from God received through faith, not a result of human works. His translations of the Bible into German made the Scriptures accessible to the common people, encouraging individuals to read and interpret the Bible for themselves. Luther’s actions not only led to his excommunication but also sparked a movement that would change the landscape of Christianity forever.

As we reflect on Reformation Sunday, we honour not only Martin Luther but also a host of faithful men and women who sought to return the Church to its biblical foundations. Figures like John Calvin, Huldrych Zwingli, William Tyndale, John Knox, and even Desiderius Erasmus played crucial roles in this transformative movement. Each of these individuals, inspired by their conviction of God’s truth, took significant risks to stand against the tide of tradition that had drifted from Scripture. Their collective efforts remind us that the journey of faith is not a solitary path but one enriched by the contributions of those who have gone before us. Just as they illuminated the truths of God’s Word in their time, we are called to carry that light forward into our own context. Luther’s boldness in challenging the established norms of the Church serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing firm in one’s convictions and the transformative power of God’s Word.

Other Key Figures in the Reformation

John Calvin (1509-1564): A French theologian and pastor, Calvin was instrumental in the development of Reformed theology. His work, Institutes of the Christian Religion, outlined his understanding of Christian doctrine and emphasized the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the necessity of grace. Calvin’s ideas influenced many Protestant communities, particularly in Switzerland and beyond.

Huldrych Zwingli (1484-1531): A contemporary of Luther, Zwingli was a leader of the Reformation in Switzerland. He advocated for a return to the Scriptures and rejected many of the Church’s traditions that he deemed unbiblical. Zwingli’s emphasis on the authority of Scripture and his interpretation of the Eucharist were foundational to the development of Reformed thought.

William Tyndale (1494-1536): An English scholar and translator, Tyndale is best known for his translation of the New Testament into English, which was the first to be printed. His work laid the groundwork for subsequent English translations, including the King James Version. Tyndale was martyred for his efforts, but his translations helped to democratize the reading of Scripture and promote the Reformation in England.

John Knox (1514-1572): A Scottish minister and theologian, Knox was a leading figure in the Scottish Reformation. He established the Presbyterian Church in Scotland and advocated for reforms that emphasized the authority of Scripture and the priesthood of all believers. Knox’s writings and leadership played a significant role in shaping the religious landscape of Scotland.

Desiderius Erasmus (1466-1536): While not a Reformation leader in the same sense as Luther or Calvin, Erasmus was a humanist and scholar whose work laid the intellectual groundwork for the Reformation. His critical edition of the Greek New Testament encouraged the study of Scripture and emphasized the need for reform within the Church. Erasmus championed a return to simple Christianity based on Scripture.

Conclusion

As we conclude our reflections on this Reformation Sunday, we are reminded of the critical themes of restoration, obedience, faithfulness, and light. Just as King Josiah sought to restore true worship, we are called to evaluate our own lives and ensure that our worship is genuine and reflective of God’s heart. In our worship, let us remember the importance of listening to God’s voice and responding to His call. May we rest in the assurance of God’s faithfulness, trusting in His grace that sustains us. And as we embrace our identity as lights in the world, let us shine brightly, sharing the hope and love of Christ with those around us. As we celebrate the Reformation, may it inspire us to continue seeking renewal in our faith and our communities, drawing closer to God and reflecting His light in a world that desperately needs it.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Word and the truth revealed through Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we celebrate this Reformation Sunday, help us to embrace the themes of restoration, obedience, faithfulness, and light. May our worship be genuine, our hearts receptive, and our lives a reflection of Your love. Empower us to shine brightly in our communities, drawing others to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

2024 September 15

The Address of God

Genesis 1.26-31

Psalm.139. 1-14

Col.1.24-29

John 14.1-7

Introduction

In our world, when we seek to connect with someone, we often ask for their address -a specific place where they can be found, a location that defines their presence. But when it comes to God, the question arises: Where can we find Him? Where does God dwell? The answer is profound and beautifully simple – Jesus Christ. Jesus is the ultimate address of God, the place where God’s presence is fully revealed. In Jesus, the invisible God becomes visible, and the distant becomes nearby. Yet, this revelation doesn’t end with Jesus alone. The miracle of the Gospel is that the same Jesus, who is the address of God, dwells within each one of us. Through the Holy Spirit, God’s address becomes our address, making our lives a living testimony of His presence in the world. Today, let us explore the depths of this truth and consider what it means for us to carry the very presence of God within us.

One thing that concerned a former Buddhist when he came to Christianity was the personality of God. There is not much discussion about the personhood of God in Buddhism. Buddhism is an atheism among the nine philosophies of India. Therefore, many doubts arose in his mind about the personality of God. The first of them is the address of God. So, the seeker’s logical problem was that if God is a person, he must have an address. Because he came to Christianity, he has decided come to the book of Genesis. The first question was to Adam, the first man. “Where is God, can you tell me the address of God?” Adam said: “I know; it is the Garden of Eden. But where is the Garden of Eden now? Adam had no answer. Then he came to Abraham, the father of the believers. He was also asked the same question. “Jehovah appears where I prepare the altar and sacrifice”. But what the young man needed was God’s current address. Abraham had no answer either. Finally, he asked Moses. Moses had no doubts. He said: “There is a presence of God in the Holy of Holies of the Tabernacle”. But this too was not a satisfactory answer. Where is the tabernacle now? Where is the Holy of Holies? Finally, he came to the wise Solomon. Surely Solomon must have answered, he thought. Without hesitation, Solomon replied: “God is in the Holy of Holies of the Temple”. But where is the Jerusalem Temple? It is almost 2000 years since it was destroyed. And where is God? What is God’s present address? Solomon had no answer. Eventually he came to Jesus in the New Testament. Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6) and those who have seen me have seen the Father (14:7). I and the Father are one (John 10:30). No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). The young man understood that God’s title is Jesus Christ. But where is Jesus Christ now? The answer given by the New Testament is the statement here: “Jesus Christ dwells in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). The apostles strongly taught that Jesus Christ is in you (2 Cor 13:5; Rom 8:10; 2 Cor 4:6,7; Gal 1:15,16; 2:20; 4:19; Eph 3:17; 1 John 4:4; 2 Thess 1 :10). It is a spiritual mystery that Christ is in us as we are in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21; John 15:1-27). Jesus teaches through the parable of the vine (John 15). God dwells in him who confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, and he dwells in God (1 John 4:15). If God’s address is Jesus Christ, then if Jesus Christ is in us now, God’ present address is our address within Jesus Christ. In other words, it is a spiritual authority for the believer – to be the address of God. Almighty, omnipresent, eternal and omniscient God is within you. Because God is within, God’s immeasurable power is within you. This realization will increase our faith. God has made us extraordinary citizens through Jesus Christ. Supernatural power is given within us. Finally, we have been made the address of God. Your address is God’s address. This was the discovery of that young Buddhist.

Although I tried to write with him through imagination, I cannot miss a theology in this imagination. This is the doctrine of Genesis that man was created in the image and likeness of God. It is based on the Christian Anthropology that man was created clothed with glory and honor. Returning to that divine state is one of the blessings of man’s redemption. The purpose of human life is complete only when man realizes the powers, rights and responsibilities given by God. It is an important realization – “Through Jesus Christ man becomes God’s address”.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the reality that Jesus is the address of God, we are reminded that our lives are not just about ourselves – they are about revealing the presence of God to the world. Just as Jesus embodied God’s love, grace, and truth, we too are called to be living witnesses of His presence. The address of God is no longer confined to a temple or a distant place, but it is found in the hearts of those who believe. As we go forth, may we carry this truth with us, knowing that wherever we are, God’s address is also there. Let us embrace the responsibility and the privilege of being bearers of His presence, shining His light in a world that desperately needs to know where God can be found – through us, in Christ, who lives in us. Amen.

Prayer

Gracious and Loving God, we thank You for the profound truth that You have revealed to us today – that in Jesus Christ, we have found Your address, the place where Your glory, love, and truth dwell. We are humbled to know that through Your Spirit, You have made Your home within us, allowing us to carry Your presence wherever we go. Lord, as we leave this place, may we be ever mindful of the great privilege and responsibility that comes with being Your dwelling place. Help us to reflect Your love, grace, and truth in all that we do. Strengthen us to be bold witnesses of Your presence in a world that longs to know You. Fill us with Your Spirit, so that our words and actions may bring glory to Your name. May our lives be a living testimony of Your presence, and may others see You in us and come to know the joy of having You as their God. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, who is the address of God, and who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

2024 September 22

The other side of faith

Psalm.119.65-72

Exodus.15.22-27

Heb.11.35-40

John.16.25-33

Introduction:

Faith is often seen as a source of strength, hope, and assurance – a solid foundation that keeps us anchored in the storms of life. Yet, faith also has another side, one that we sometimes find difficult to face. This other side of faith is marked by trials, sufferings, and moments of deep struggle. It’s the side where our trust in God is tested, where we walk through valleys of uncertainty and pain. But it is in these very moments, when our faith is refined and strengthened, that we come to understand its true depth and power. Today, we will explore this other side of faith, recognizing that while it brings challenges, it also leads us to ultimate victory in Christ. The trials we endure are not the end of the story – they are the pathway to the triumph that God has promised to those who hold fast to their faith.

Hebrews 11:35-40 indicates that while some received many positive blessings through faith, ‘others’ had to face many negative things:

“Others were beaten without having a promotion in order to get the best possible resurrection. Others suffered the ordeal of ridicule, whipping, chains, and imprisonment. Stoned, slaughtered by the sword, tested, killed by the sword, clothed in goats’ and goats’ skins, suffering hardships and sufferings. They wondered through forests, mountains, caves, and clefts of the earth; The world was not worthy of them” (Hebrews 11:35-38).

They also endured all these hardships by faith. Let us not be ignorant of this gift of faith. Because Jesus said, “You have trouble in the world” (John 16:33). In order to keep the churches firm in the faith, Paul said that it is necessary to enter the kingdom of God through many tribulations (Acts 14:22). There are many other verses that prove that there is suffering in the Christian life.

We rejoice in tribulation, knowing that tribulation produces endurance, and endurance produces endurance, and endurance produces hope (Romans 5:3,4).

• If we are children, then we are also heirs; Heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ; Let us suffer with him, that we may be glorified with him. I consider that the sufferings of this age are nothing if we consider the glory that is to be revealed in us (Romans 8:17,18).

• However, we have this deposit in earthen vessels so that this supreme power may come not as our own, but as a gift from God. Yet we who suffer in every way are not narrow; But those who suffer do not despair; But those who suffer are not abandoned; But those who fall do not perish; Always bearing the death of Jesus in the body so that the life of Jesus may be revealed in our body. We who live so that the life of Jesus may be revealed in our mortal bodies are always given over to death for Jesus. Thus death pervades us and life pervades you. As it is written, “I believed, therefore I spoke” because we have the same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak (2 Cor 4:7-13).

• But to those who are willing to live godly in Christ Jesus, all things will suffer (2 Tim 3:12).

• Beloved, do not be surprised that a rare thing has happened to you in the trial of fire that has happened to you. Rejoice as you are partakers of Christ’s sufferings. So you will rejoice and be glad at the appearing of his glory (1 Peter 4:12,13).

Resist him steadfast in the faith, knowing that all the sufferings are coming to an end for your brotherhood in the world. But the almighty God, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will establish and strengthen you who suffer for a little while (1 Peter 5:9,10).
You have not faced a non-human test; God is faithful; He will also make a way out with the temptation, so that you will be able to endure and not allow yourself to be tempted beyond what you are able (1Cor 10:13).
Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles, that we may be strong to comfort those who are in any trouble with the comfort with which God comforts us. As Christ’s sufferings abound in us, so our comfort through Christ abounds. If we suffer, it is for your comfort and salvation; If we are comforted, it works for your comfort in suffering the same things that we suffer (2 Cor 1:3-6).
You have been given the gift not only to believe in Christ but also to suffer for Him (Phil 1:29).
You yourselves know that we have been appointed to suffer. (1 Thessalonians 3:3).
That is what you have been called to. Christ also suffered for you. You have left an example for us to follow in His steps (1 Peter 2:21).
Brethren, consider the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord as examples of suffering and longsuffering. We praise those who persevere as blessed. You have heard of Job’s endurance and seen the end the Lord brought; For the Lord is merciful and gracious (James 5:10,11).

The apostles believed that all such tests were for testing the Christian life and for elevation in the spiritual life. Mature Christian character is formed through suffering. God is love. There are difficulties in love. Through the cross, the Bible points to a suffering God. The author of the Hebrews is of the opinion that the above-mentioned believers are those who have renounced their worldly promotion or deliverence for a better resurrection (Hebrews 11:38). Christians should have a clear understanding of this. All the saints in the Old and New Testaments have travelled through tribulations. There is no liberation without suffering. There is no redemption without shedding of blood. There is no resurrection without the cross. There is no faith without suffering.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on the trials and sufferings that mark the other side of faith, we are reminded that these challenges are not meant to defeat us, but to shape us into the image of Christ. They are the crucible through which our faith is purified and our trust in God is deepened. Though the road may be hard, we can walk it with confidence, knowing that our faith is not in vain. The God who allows us to face these trials is the same God who leads us to victory. We may not see the end from the beginning, but we can trust that in the end, there will be triumph. Our faith will not fail us, because it is rooted in the One who has overcome the world. Let us therefore stand firm, knowing that through every trial, God is with us, and the victory is assured.

Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, We come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the gift of faith, even when it leads us through times of trial and suffering. We thank You for the assurance that our faith is not in vain, and that every challenge we face is an opportunity to grow closer to You and to be strengthened in our walk with Christ. Lord, we acknowledge the difficulties and pains that come with the other side of faith. We ask for Your strength to endure, Your wisdom to understand, and Your grace to trust You through it all. Help us to remember that in our weakness, Your power is made perfect, and that You are always working for our good, even when we cannot see it. Grant us the courage to stand firm in our faith, knowing that the victory is already won in Christ Jesus. Fill us with Your peace, and remind us that no trial or suffering can separate us from Your love. May our lives be a testimony to Your faithfulness, and may we always look forward to the day when our faith will be rewarded with the joy of seeing You face to face. We pray this in the name of Jesus, our Savior and our Victory. Amen.

2024 September 29

Inner Man and Faith

Genesis.2.1-7

Psalm.34.10-22

1 Thess.5.23-28

John.3.1-7

Introduction:

In our journey of faith, we often focus on the outward expressions – our actions, our words, and the way we live out our beliefs. However, the true foundation of our faith lies deep within us, in what the Bible calls the “inner man.” The inner man is the core of our being, the place where our spirit communes with God and where our true strength is found. If the inner man is weak, our faith will struggle to withstand the challenges of life. But if the inner man is strengthened, our faith becomes unshakable, rooted deeply in the power and presence of God. Today, we will explore the vital connection between the inner man and our faith, and how nurturing our inner life leads to a stronger, more resilient faith that can weather any storm.

The New Testament believes that man has three elements: body, mind, and spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:23). It is described in different ways in the Bible as body – soul – spirit, and body – life – spirit (3 John 2; Heb 4:12; 2 Cor 4:16). Paul indicates that even though the outward person is decaying, the inward person is being renewed day by day (2 Cor 4:16). It is also called the new man being renewed (2Co 3:10). Another time, Paul says that there are three parts: mind, body, and spirit (Romans 7:15-25). When it says, “I torture and enslave my body” (1 Cor 9:27), the ‘I’ is the inward human spirit. Where it says, “You shall surrender your bodies”, the word “you” refers to the inner man. When it says, “We groan and dwell in these tents”, the “we” refers to the inner man, the spirit (2 Cor. 5:1-10). This is the secret man of the heart that Peter speaks of (1 Peter 3:4). In Eden, God made man from dust. The breath of God breathed into him. That is the life or spirit of God. Then man became a living soul (Soil + Spirit = Soul) (Genesis 2:7). The spirit of man is part of the spirit of God. That is the inner man in man. When man sinned, he died spiritually (Genesis 2:17). Rebirth is when the inner man, the soul of man, comes back to life. This too can only happen by the Spirit of God (John 3:3-16). This is what happens when Jesus Christ comes into a person.

The spirit of man and the inner man

It means ‘the heart of a tree’. A ‘heart of a town’ means the main part of a town. The heart of a tree means the main part of that tree. Similarly, the heart of a man is the main part of that man. The main part of man is his spirit. Biblically speaking, the ‘human heart’ is not the biologically speaking heart that pumps blood throughout the body; It is the spirit which is the main part of man, that is the inner man. Paul taught that we should walk according to the Spirit and not the flesh (Romans 8:4-13). He who walks according to the flesh (the desires of the body) is carnal and he who lives according to the will of the Spirit is spiritual. He who lives without the consciousness of the Spirit is primitive (natural man) or carnal (1 Cor 2:10-16). As the outer human body grows, the inner human soul must also grow. This is what the apostle calls spiritual growth (Heb 5:11-14; Eph 4:22-24; Gal 4:1).

Growth of the inner man

The growth of the inner man plays an important role in the life of faith. To grow from infancy to the head of Christ (Eph 4:12-15). There are many other passages in the New Testament that emphasize the importance of spiritual growth – 2 Peter 3:18; Hebrews 6:1; Luke 17:5; 8:14-15; 1 Peter 2:2-3; Col 1:9,10; 2:6,7; 1Cor 13:10-12; 2 Peter 1:5-8; 1 Cor 3:2-8. Those who have been born again should be concerned about their inner man. These are some of the steps to do so.

1. To grow spiritually in the written word of God and in the counsel based on the word of God. Just as babies need milk to grow, spiritual babies need the unadulterated milk of God’s Word (1 Peter 2:2). The inner man lives by the Word of God (Matthew 4:4; Acts 29:28; Hebrews 5:11-14).

2. Personal prayer is a source of spiritual growth (1 Tim 4:5; 1 Cor 14:1-4,14).

3. The works of the flesh must be brought into subjection by the Spirit (Romans 8:5-13, 1Cor 9:27). A person without self-control cannot grow spiritually. Be careful not to slip in words (James 3:2).

4. Waiting on God in meditation is good for spiritual strength (Isaiah 40:30,31).

5. A loving approach to others can strengthen the inner man – love increases the spirit (1 Cor 8:1; Eph 4:11-16). One should abandon evil and do good and seek peace and pursue it. As aforesaid, guard your tongue from doing harm and your lips from lying (Psalm 34:13; 37:27; 1 Peter 3:10,11; Hebrews 12:14).

Only when the inner man is strengthened with full strength can he be strengthened in faith – Eph 3:16-19. Because God imparts faith to each one in different measure.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on the importance of the inner man in our walk of faith, we are reminded that true strength comes not from external circumstances, but from within. It is in the quiet places of our hearts, where the Holy Spirit works, that our faith is truly fortified. When we allow God to strengthen our inner man, we find that our faith becomes more than just a belief – it becomes a living, active force that sustains us through all of life’s challenges. Let us commit ourselves to the cultivation of our inner man, seeking God’s presence in prayer, meditation, and the study of His Word, so that our faith may be firmly rooted and able to grow, no matter what we face.

Concluding Prayer:

Our Father in heaven, We come before You with humble hearts, recognizing our need for Your strength in our inner man. We know that without Your sustaining power within us, our faith can easily waver and falter. We ask that You would work deeply in our hearts, strengthening our inner being with Your Spirit, so that our faith may be strong and steadfast. Lord, help us to cultivate our inner life, seeking You in the quiet moments and allowing Your Word to nourish our souls. May our inner man be renewed day by day, growing in the knowledge and love of You. As we are strengthened within, may our faith reflect that strength, standing firm in the face of trials and radiating Your peace and confidence to those around us. We thank You for the promise that You are with us, working in us to will and to act according to Your good purpose. Guide us as we seek to grow in faith, and may our lives bring glory to You in all that we do.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, we pray. Amen.

1 September, 2024

15 Sunday after Pentecost

God’s Judgment is Just and Merciful

Isaiah 51.3-8

Psalm 9.7-12

Romans 2.1-11

John 8.2-11

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Today, on this 15th Sunday after Pentecost, we gather to reflect on a profound and sometimes unsettling topic: God’s judgment. The concept of judgment often brings with it feelings of fear and anxiety, but as we explore today, God’s judgment is not only just but also merciful. In a world filled with injustice, the assurance of God’s righteous judgment offers hope. We’ll explore this theme through the lens of Scripture, looking at Isaiah 51:3-8, Psalm 9:7-12, Romans 2:1-11, and John 8:2-11, and consider how God’s judgment is a demonstration of both His justice and His mercy.

1. The Justice of God’s Judgment (Psalm 9:7-12)

The psalmist declares in Psalm 9:7-8, “But the Lord sits enthroned forever; he has established his throne for judgment. He judges the world with righteousness; he judges the peoples with equity.” These verses emphasize that God’s judgment is not arbitrary or unjust but is rooted in righteousness and equity. God, as the ultimate Judge, sees all and knows all. He is not swayed by appearances or influenced by partiality, as human judges might be. The justice of God’s judgment is a central theme throughout the Bible. It assures us that evil will not go unpunished and that righteousness will be rewarded. This is comforting in a world where injustice often seems to prevail. We see corruption, exploitation, and the oppression of the innocent, and it can lead us to question whether there is any justice at all. Yet, Scripture reminds us that God’s judgment is just and fair. He will right all wrongs, and His judgment will be the final word.

2. The Promise of Restoration (Isaiah 51:3-8)

Isaiah 51:3 offers a beautiful promise: “For the Lord will comfort Zion; he will comfort all her waste places, and will make her wilderness like Eden, her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the voice of song.” Here, we see that God’s judgment is not only about punishment but also about restoration. His justice is intertwined with His mercy. In this passage, God promises to restore Zion, to turn her desolate places into a paradise like Eden. This is a powerful image of God’s merciful judgment. Even as He judges, He also redeems and restores. God’s judgment is not vindictive; it is restorative. It seeks to bring about healing and renewal. The theology of God’s justice and mercy is encapsulated in this vision of restoration. Even when God disciplines His people, it is with the ultimate goal of bringing them back to Himself, of restoring them to a state of blessing and peace.

3. The Impartiality of God’s Judgment (Romans 2:1-11)

In Romans 2:6-11, the Apostle Paul writes, “He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, he will give eternal life; but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury.” This passage highlights the impartiality of God’s judgment. God shows no favouritism. Whether Jew or Gentile, all are judged according to their deeds. Paul’s message is clear: no one can escape God’s judgment. It doesn’t matter what background you come from, what privileges you have, or what religious rituals you’ve performed. What matters is how you have lived your life. Have you sought to do good, to live according to God’s truth? Or have you been self-seeking, disregarding God’s commandments? This impartiality of God’s judgment reinforces the idea of His perfect justice. Unlike human judges, who can be influenced by biases or external factors, God’s judgment is purely based on truth and righteousness. This should lead us to self-examination. Are we living in a way that aligns with God’s will? Are we seeking His glory, or are we driven by our own selfish desires?

4. The Mercy in God’s Judgment (John 8:2-11)

The story of the woman caught in adultery in John 8:2-11 is a powerful example of the mercy in God’s judgment. The religious leaders brought this woman to Jesus, ready to stone her according to the Law of Moses. But Jesus responded with profound wisdom and mercy. He said, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her” (John 8:7). One by one, the accusers left, and Jesus was left alone with the woman. He then said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more” (John 8:11). This passage shows that God’s judgment is not only just but also merciful. Jesus did not condone the woman’s sin, but He also did not condemn her. He gave her a chance to repent and change her ways. This is the essence of God’s mercy. While He is righteous and just, He is also compassionate and willing to forgive those who turn to Him. This story also serves as a reminder that we should not be quick to judge others. We are all sinners in need of God’s mercy. As recipients of His mercy, we are called to extend that same mercy to others. God’s judgment is not about retribution but about bringing people to repentance and restoration.

Conclusion

As we conclude, let us remember that God’s judgment is both just and merciful. He is a righteous Judge who sees all and knows all. His judgment is impartial, and no one can escape it. But at the same time, His judgment is filled with mercy, offering us the opportunity to repent and be restored.

The reality of God’s judgment should lead us to live lives of righteousness, seeking to do good and follow His will. It should also fill us with hope, knowing that God’s justice will ultimately prevail and that His mercy is always available to those who seek it. Let us embrace both the justice and mercy of God, trusting in His righteous judgment and His compassionate love. May we live in a way that reflects His character, and may we extend the mercy we have received to others.

Prayer

Gracious and merciful God, we thank You for Your just and righteous judgment. We are grateful for the mercy You extend to us despite our shortcomings. Help us to live lives that honour You, seeking to do good and follow Your will. May we always be mindful of Your justice and extend Your mercy to others. We ask for Your guidance and strength as we strive to live according to Your truth. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

16 Sunday after Pentecost

8 September, 2024

Nothing Is Impossible for Faith

Exodus 4.10-17

Psalm 124

Ephesians 6.10-18

Mark 9.14-29

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. On this 16th Sunday after Pentecost, we gather to explore a theme that is foundational to our Christian walk: faith. The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the power and importance of faith, reminding us that nothing is impossible for those who believe. Today, we will delve into this truth through the lens of Scripture, focusing on Exodus 4:10-17, Psalm 124, Ephesians 6:10-18, and Mark 9:14-29. We will consider the theology of faith and how it empowers us to overcome obstacles, face challenges, and trust in God’s promises, no matter how impossible they may seem.

1. The Struggles of Faith (Exodus 4:10-17)

In Exodus 4:10-17, we encounter Moses, a man chosen by God to lead His people out of slavery in Egypt. Despite this divine calling, Moses struggles with doubt and insecurity. He protests to God, saying, “O my Lord, I am not eloquent, either in the past or since you have spoken to your servant, but I am slow of speech and of tongue” (Exodus 4:10). Moses’ hesitation reflects a common struggle many of us face – doubt in our own abilities and a lack of faith in God’s power to work through us. God’s response to Moses is both reassuring and empowering. He reminds Moses that He is the Creator of all things, including human ability: “Who has made man’s mouth? Who makes him mute, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak” (Exodus 4:11-12). God’s answer highlights a crucial aspect of faith: it is not about our abilities but about trusting in God’s power. When God calls us to a task, He also equips us for it. Faith requires us to move beyond our insecurities and trust that God will provide what we need. Moses’ eventual obedience, despite his initial reluctance, shows that faith is not the absence of doubt but the willingness to act despite it. This passage teaches us that when we trust in God’s strength rather than our own, nothing is impossible.

2. The Assurance of God’s Protection (Psalm 124)

Psalm 124 is a song of thanksgiving for God’s protection and deliverance. The psalmist declares, “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side – let Israel now say – if it had not been the Lord who was on our side when people rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us up alive” (Psalm 124:1-3). This psalm reflects the confidence that comes from knowing that God is our protector, a confidence that is rooted in faith. The psalmist’s words remind us that faith is not just about believing in God’s existence but about trusting in His active involvement in our lives. Faith assures us that God is on our side, fighting our battles, and shielding us from harm. This trust in God’s protection is crucial, especially when we face situations that seem overwhelming or impossible. The imagery in Psalm 124 paints a picture of desperate circumstances – being swallowed alive, engulfed by floods, and caught in a trap. Yet, in each scenario, God intervenes and delivers His people. This psalm encourages us to have faith in God’s protection, knowing that He is always with us, even in the most perilous situations. When we trust in His protective care, we can face any challenge with confidence, believing that nothing is impossible with God.

3. The Power of Faith in Spiritual Warfare (Ephesians 6:10-18)

In Ephesians 6:10-18, the Apostle Paul exhorts believers to “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might” (Ephesians 6:10). He goes on to describe the armour of God, a metaphor for the spiritual resources available to us as we engage in spiritual warfare. Central to this armour is the “shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16). Paul’s depiction of faith as a shield emphasizes its protective power. Faith is not passive; it is an active defence against the attacks of the enemy. When we hold up the shield of faith, we are essentially saying, “I trust in God’s promises more than the lies of the enemy. I believe in God’s power more than the threats I face.” This kind of faith makes us resilient in the face of spiritual challenges.

The theology of faith as presented in this passage is profound. It teaches us that faith is not just a belief but a stance, a way of living that consistently trusts in God’s power and promises. This faith enables us to stand firm, no matter what spiritual battles we face. When we are clothed in the armour of God, empowered by faith, we can confidently declare that nothing is impossible for those who believe.

4. The Miraculous Power of Faith (Mark 9:14-29)

The story in Mark 9:14-29 is a vivid demonstration of the miraculous power of faith. A father brings his demon-possessed son to Jesus after the disciples fail to cast out the spirit. The father, desperate and at his wit’s end, pleads with Jesus, saying, “If you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us” (Mark 9:22). Jesus’ response is pivotal: “If you can! All things are possible for one who believes” (Mark 9:23). The father’s immediate reply, “I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24), resonates with many of us. It reflects the tension between faith and doubt that we often experience. But Jesus’ response shows that even imperfect faith – faith mixed with doubt – is powerful enough to bring about miraculous change. Jesus commands the unclean spirit to leave the boy, and he is healed. This passage teaches us that the power of faith lies not in its perfection but in its presence. Even a mustard seed of faith, as Jesus teaches elsewhere, can move mountains (Matthew 17:20). The father’s cry, “I believe; help my unbelief,” is a prayer that many of us need to pray. It acknowledges that our faith may not be perfect, but it is sufficient when placed in the hands of Jesus. When we exercise faith, even in the midst of doubt, we open the door for God’s miraculous power to work in our lives.

Here are some examples from the Bible that demonstrate how faith made the impossible possible:

1. Abraham and Sarah’s Faith for a Child (Genesis 17:15-21; 21:1-7)

Abraham and Sarah were well beyond the age of childbearing when God promised them a son. Sarah was 90 years old, and Abraham was 100. Despite their advanced age and Sarah’s barrenness, they held onto God’s promise. Their faith made what seemed impossible – a child in their old age – a reality. Isaac was born, and through him, God fulfilled His promise to make Abraham the father of many nations.

2. The Crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-31)

When the Israelites were fleeing Egypt, they found themselves trapped between Pharaoh’s advancing army and the Red Sea. It seemed like an impossible situation, but Moses exercised faith, trusting in God’s power to save them. God commanded Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea, and the waters parted, allowing the Israelites to walk through on dry ground. The sea then closed over the pursuing Egyptians, securing Israel’s escape. Faith turned an impossible situation into a miraculous deliverance.

3. The Walls of Jericho (Joshua 6:1-20)

The Israelites faced the fortified city of Jericho as they entered the Promised Land. The city’s walls seemed impenetrable, and from a human perspective, it was impossible to conquer. However, Joshua and the Israelites obeyed God’s unusual instructions to march around the city for seven days, blowing trumpets and shouting on the seventh day. Their faith in God’s plan brought the walls down, leading to the city’s capture.

4. David’s Victory over Goliath (1 Samuel 17:32-50)

David, a young shepherd, faced Goliath, a giant warrior who terrified the Israelite army. Goliath seemed invincible, and no one dared to fight him. However, David’s faith in God gave him the courage to confront Goliath. He declared, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:37). With just a sling and a stone, David defeated Goliath, proving that faith in God can overcome even the greatest obstacles.

5. Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16)

During a severe drought, God sent Elijah to a widow in Zarephath. The widow was preparing to use the last of her flour and oil to make a final meal for herself and her son before they died of starvation. Elijah asked her to make him a small cake first, promising that her supplies would not run out until the drought ended. Despite the apparent impossibility, the widow obeyed in faith, and her flour and oil miraculously lasted throughout the drought, providing for her, her son, and Elijah.

6. Jesus Heals the Centurion’s Servant (Matthew 8:5-13)

A Roman centurion came to Jesus, asking for healing for his paralyzed servant. The centurion expressed his faith by saying that Jesus only needed to speak the word, and his servant would be healed. Jesus marvelled at the centurion’s faith, declaring, “Truly, I tell you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith” (Matthew 8:10). Jesus then spoke the word, and the servant was healed at that very moment. The centurion’s faith made the impossible possible.

7. The Raising of Lazarus (John 11:1-44)

Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus, had been dead for four days when Jesus arrived in Bethany. His sisters, Martha and Mary, were grief-stricken and thought it was too late for a miracle. However, Jesus told Martha, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” (John 11:40). Despite the impossibility of raising someone from the dead, Jesus called Lazarus out of the tomb, and Lazarus came forth alive. This miracle was a profound demonstration of the power of faith in Jesus.

8. Peter Walks on Water (Matthew 14:22-33)

When Jesus walked on water toward His disciples in a boat, Peter asked to come to Him on the water. Jesus invited him, and Peter, in faith, stepped out of the boat and walked on water toward Jesus. As long as Peter kept his eyes on Jesus, he did the impossible. However, when he became distracted by the wind and waves, he began to sink. Jesus immediately reached out and saved him, saying, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31). This story illustrates that faith allows us to accomplish the impossible, but doubt can cause us to falter.

These examples can be woven into your sermon to illustrate the power of faith and how it has repeatedly turned impossible situations into testimonies of God’s greatness. They serve as powerful reminders that when we trust in God, no obstacle is too great, and no situation is beyond His ability to redeem.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the theme “Nothing is impossible for faith,” we see that faith is not merely a belief but a powerful force that can transform our lives. Through the examples of Moses, the psalmist, Paul, and the father in Mark’s Gospel, we learn that faith enables us to overcome doubt, trust in God’s protection, stand firm in spiritual warfare, and experience the miraculous. Faith is the key to unlocking the impossible. It moves us beyond our limitations and connects us to the limitless power of God. While our faith may not always be perfect, it is enough when we place it in God’s hands. Let us, therefore, cultivate a faith that trusts in God’s promises, leans on His strength, and expects the impossible. In doing so, we will see God’s power at work in ways that exceed our imagination.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of faith. We are grateful that through faith, we can experience Your power and presence in our lives. Help us to trust in You fully, even when we face doubts and challenges. Strengthen our faith so that we may stand firm in the face of trials and believe in the impossible. May our lives be a testament to the truth that nothing is impossible for those who believe. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

2024 August 4

Words of faith

Psalm 24, Dt.6.1-9, Romans.10.5-13, Mark 11.12-24

Faith is not a feeling that exists only in the mind, but it is a character that should be manifested through words and actions. A declaration of faith is a very important element in faith. This announcement can be made five.

1. Proclamation of Salvation

2. In family and society

3. Evangelism

4. Declaration of Emancipation

5. Declaration for Martyrdom

1. Proclamation for Salvation

Paul quoted the law and taught that the word should be close to our heart and mouth (Acts 30:14; Romans 10:8). The creed we believe must be in our mouths. Confess Jesus as Lord with your mouth (Romans 10:9). With the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession unto salvation (Romans 10:10). Self-salvation involves a confession (Acts 16:31; Luke 12:8; Matthew 10:32). It is clear from this that we must confess our faith.

2. Family and Society

Word of faith in God – “Hear, O Israel, Jehovah is our God; Jehovah is one. You shall love Jehovah your God with all your heart, with all your mind, and with all your strength” (Dt. 6:4,5) – These words must be in your heart, but Moses taught that it is not enough if it is in the heart. Keep these words that I am commanding you today in your heart. Recite them to your children and talk about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise. (Dt. 6:6,7). Bind them on your hand as a sign; They should be right between your eyes. Write them on your doorposts and on your doorposts (Dt. 6:8,9). It was an important commandment to instruct children (Dt 4:9; Ex. 13:9,16; Dt. 11:18-20) and this cannot be seen as just an instruction. “Always be talking” is the key advice here. To this day, orthodox Jews still follow the word of faith to the letter.

3. Proclamation for Evangelism

We must proclaim the gospel we have believed to others by word of mouth. This is an important Great Commission given by Jesus Christ (Mark 16:15-17; Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:47). Here again our declaration has an important place. Paul’s famous question is how anyone can hear without preaching (Romans 10:14). It is also the primary purpose of the church. Here too there is a declaration of faith.

4. Proclamation for Deliverance

Confession and declaration of faith have brought great miracles. Before the Red Sea, God gave the instruction to “Tell the children of Israel to go forward” (Exodus 14:15). The Red Sea was divided. People were liberated. It is recorded that during Joshua’s battle with the Amorites, the sun and the moon were stopped with words. He said, “Sun, you stand in Gibeon, and moon, you stand in Aijalon”. It reads that the sun and the moon stood still (Joshua 10:12,13). Words of faith brought supernatural miracles. Jesus told dead Lazarus to come out – Lazarus came out alive (John 11:43,44). God changed Abram’s first name to Abraham (Genesis 17:5). The word Abram means Exalted Father. Abraham also means father of many. There is also a view that God put words of faith into Abraham’s mouth. There are many miracles in the New Testament and in the ministries of Jesus and the apostles when they spoke words of faith.

5. Proclamation until Martyrdom

Luke records the confession of faith of Stephen, the first martyr of the early church, as a sermon (Acts 7). Church history says that many who became martyrs in the end-time church gave their lives by confessing the word of faith. Two other martyrs are found in the New Testament – James and Antipas (Acts 12:2; Rev 2:13).

The power of words

Jesus taught that words spoken in faith have power (Mark 11:23,24). For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45). Death and life are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:20,21). Even the world was created by words (Genesis 1:3; Hebrews 11:1,2). Words have power (James 3:1-3). Jesus said that the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life (John 6:63). That is why Peter confessed where we will go if we leave this word (John 6:68). Words of faith must be spoken (2Cor 4:13). Jesus taught that by your words you will be justified and condemned (Matthew 12:36,37). The apostle advises to speak the words of faith boldly (Heb 13:6). There are many proofs that Paul spoke words of faith in the midst of adversity (Phil 4:13,19; 2 Cor 12:9-10). All blessings, from salvation to the greatest spiritual blessing that an individual can receive, come through the declaration of faith. When the words of faith are spoken, it not only strengthens a person physically, mentally and spiritually, but also creates a comprehensive spiritual character in that person. Eventually, that person will become a conduit of blessings to many.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, We come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the power of Your Word and the gift of faith. Thank You for reminding us of the importance of our words and the need to speak in faith, trusting in Your promises and Your love for us. Help us, Lord, to guard our tongues and to speak words that build up, encourage, and reflect the truth of Your Word. Let our confessions be rooted in faith, hope, and love, so that we may witness Your power and grace at work in our lives and in the lives of those around us. Grant us the strength to overcome negativity and doubt, and to continually declare Your goodness and faithfulness. May our words align with Your will, and may they bring glory to Your name. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

2024 August 11

Philip and Andrew

Psalm 103.1-10, 2 King.4.1-7, Philippians 4.1-7, Matthew.6.1-14

The only sign in the four Gospels is that of Jesus feeding the five thousand with five loaves and two fish (Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:32-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-14). Five people are seen in this sign. Philip, Andrew, the boy, the disciples, and the hungry and weary crowd. It is from this incident that a theory of mission and evangelism is formed here. He goes on to preach in detail that the bread that Jesus gives is not just physical hunger, it is the “bread of life”. Jesus is the one who told the tempter that “man does not live by bread alone” when he was tempted to turn the stone into bread after fasting for forty days (Matthew 4:3,4; Dt. 8.3). Therefore, the purpose of this sign was not only to give bread to the hungry. New Testament theologians are of the opinion that the bread of life to the multitude is introduced here. The role of Andrew’s faith in this sign is examined here.

Philip

Philip was said to be the fifth in the list of Jesus’ apostles (Matthew 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14; Acts 1:13). Jesus told Philip to feed the multitude because he was from Bethsaida in Galilee (John 1:44, 12:21). The day after Simon, Andrew’s brother, was brought to Jesus, Jesus told Philip to follow Jesus (John 1:41-43). The first thing that Philip, who followed Jesus from that time, was to lead Nathanael to Jesus: “He who is written in the law, Moses and the prophets, has been found; Philip said to Nathanael, “Come and see” (John 1:45-47). However, Jesus knew Philip’s weakness when he performed this sign in John 6. So he was put to the test and asked, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat” (6:5). Because Jesus knew what he was going to do (6:7). Once in Jerusalem some Greeks came to Philip and said they wanted to see Jesus. Philip consulted with Andrew and both informed Jesus about this (John 12:21,22). During the Last Supper, Philip says to Jesus, “Show us the Father and it is enough for us” (John 14:8). Philip’s argument is that two hundred pieces of bread are not enough for everyone to get a little. A penny is a day’s wages (Matthew 20:2). Today a daily wage earner has a salary of Rs. That is, Philip argued that even if he had two lakh (200 x 1000) rupees, it would not be enough. This shows his calculation that two lakh rupees of bread is not enough for everyone to get a little bit. Despite seeing Jesus turn green water into wine (2:1-11) and Philip knowing similar miracles in the Old Testament (Exodus 16; Numbers 11:31,32; 1Kings 17:9-16; 2Kings 4:1-7) Philip looked into their purse. Even today, such Philip can be seen. They may have once brought many to Jesus. But we should learn from Philip that if we live only by looking at our resources, we will fail. Other evangelists say about this: “This place is a desert (deserted land) and the time is late” (Matthew 14:15, Mark 6:34). All these opinions are facts. But they are negative realities. Philip is talking about intellectual things. A life of faith cannot be lived by negative realities, even if they are intellectual realities. There is still much to say negatively today. Objections, adversities, culture of consumerism, mistrust of the new generation, financial crisis – so many. But Andrew is taking over that task from Philip. That is where faith begins.

Andrew

Andrew is the apostle who brought the boy with the five loaves and two fish to Jesus’ attention (John 6:6-9). Like Philip, he was from Bethsaida in Galilee (John 1:44). He was the son of John and the brother of Simon Peter (John 21:15). Matthew and Luke write him second in the list of disciples (Matthew 10:2; Luke 6:14). Mark is written as the fourth (3:18). There is more information about him in the Gospel of John. Andrew, a disciple of John the Baptist, followed Jesus with another disciple (John 1:36-40). When he realized that Jesus was the Messiah, he brought his own brother Simon to Jesus (John 1:42). As mentioned earlier, it was Andrew who helped Philip to bring the Greeks to Jesus (John 12:20,22). Here the faith of Andreas provides a good lesson. According to Mark 6:38, Jesus himself sent his disciples to look for something to eat. Finally, Andrew is the only one who brings this good news to Jesus. Evangelism requires positive and real faith. Andrew knew that this would not be enough for such a large crowd (John 6:9), but he spoke words of faith. Despite such a simple dish, the creative stance taken by Andrew is commendable here. What he said was kind of stupid, but faith. This kind of faith is essential to evangelism. If you think that you can evangelize with all the facilities, you will never get it again. This is where we are challenged to act like Andrew. Put your resources into Jesus’ hands. It will be praised and blessed and the gospel will spread.

Prayer

Gracious God, We thank You for the inspiring example of Andrew, whose faith and trust in Your power led him to bring others to Jesus. As we reflect on his unwavering faith, we ask for Your help to cultivate a similar faith in our own lives. Lord, grant us the courage to trust in You fully, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Help us to see opportunities to share Your love and truth with others, just as Andrew did. May our faith be strong and steadfast, leading us to act boldly for Your kingdom. Fill our hearts with the assurance of Your presence and guidance, so that we may be faithful servants, always seeking to bring others closer to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

2024 August 18

Great Faith

Psalm 119.1-16, Leveticus.11.44,45, Galatians.5.5-15, Matthew.8.5-13

The first Gentile Jesus encountered in his ministry was a Roman centurion (Matthew 8:5; Luke 7:2). Besides him, the Bible records many other centurions. The one who led the crucifixion of Jesus and finally confessed that Jesus is the Son of God (Matthew 27:54; Mark 15:39; Luke 23:47), the centurion Cornelius who lived as a godly person and finally became a believer of Jesus through Peter (Acts 10), and the centurion Julius who brought Paul to Rome (Acts 27) :1-3,6,11,31,43) et al. Similarly, when Paul’s sister’s son informed him of the plot of the Jews against Paul, it was a centurion who helped the young man to inform the centurion (Acts 23:17). A centurion was the commander of a hundred soldiers, the smallest division in the Roman army. There are ten centurions under one centurion (Acts 23:17-19). Discipline of the soldiers and inspection of weapons were the duties of the centurion. It was said that the six thousand footmen would be Legion. That is, there were six centurions in a legion. Executions were carried out under the supervision of the centurion (Matthew 27:54; Mark 15:39, 44-45; Luke 23:47). According to the order of the centurion, Paul was secretly taken from Jerusalem to Caesarea under the leadership of two centurions (Acts 23:23-35). He was a centurion who was imprisoned by order of Felix and instructed to treat Paul with kindness (Acts 24:23). We meet many such centurions in the New Testament.

During Jesus’ ministry, a centurion once came to Jesus begging for the healing of his servant (Matthew 8:5-13; Luke 7:1-10). Jesus praised the centurion’s faith in this incident as he said: “Not even in Israel was such faith found” (Matthew 8:10; Luke 7:9). This chapter tries to analyze this belief of the centurion.

1. Loving faith

Slaves and servants did not receive human rights and values among the Romans at that time. Back then, slaves were treated like animals. Slaves had no legal rights then. The only difference between an animal and a slave was that slaves had the ability to speak. But Luke records this incident as his beloved servant. The Greek word for “pias” is used. This word is usually used when talking about one’s own children. That is how much love the centurion pleads with Jesus for his servant. This is the faith that spreads through love (Gal 5:6,14). This faith with love towards others is the reason why it is called ‘so great faith’.

2. Belief in the holiness of Jesus

When Jesus said, “I will come and heal him”, the centurion’s attitude was, “I am not worthy that you should come to my house” (Matthew 8:7,8). The centurion is a Gentile and Jesus is a Jew. A Jew does not go into a Gentile’s house. It was unclean to the Jew (Acts 10:25-28). In the Mishnah writings of the Jews, it was written that “the dwellings of the Gentiles are unclean”. But he was ready to come to the centurion’s house and heal him. At the same time, the centurion sincerely admitted that “I am not worthy” without making it a matter of status, shame and pride. It was a confession of Jesus’ holiness. Scholarly opinion is that the centurion did not see this as a racial problem. After all, the centurion concluded that Jesus was holy and I was unclean. It is an approach that believes that all the blessings we receive are by grace and that God is holy, just as the leper came to his knees. It is the ultimate nature of God (1 Peter 1:16; Leviticus 11:44). Don’t forget that God is loving but also holy (Isaiah 6:1-3). Therefore, you should understand that everything you get is due to His grace.

3. Faith in the Word

The centurion’s belief was, “If you say just one word, my child will be healed” (Matthew 8:8). He believed the word of Jesus. This Word created the whole world (Genesis 1:3). This word calmed the wind and the sea. It was this word that parted the Red Sea. It was this word that brought out the dead Lazarus. As mentioned in previous chapters, this Word is the foundation of faith (Romans 10:17). Faith in the Word of God is true Christianity. This Word will cleanse us (Psalm 119:11; Eph 5:26), heal us (107:20) and set us free completely (John 8:31-32). The centurion believed it.

4. Belief in authority

“I am also a man under authority. I have soldiers under me. When I say to one, Go, I go; And when he says to another: Come, he comes; He answered and said to my servant: If you say do this, he does. After hearing that, Jesus was surprised and said to those who followed him: “Truly I say to you, I have not seen such great faith except in Israel” (Matthew 8:9,10). When Jesus says I will come to his house and heal him, suddenly the centurion talks about authority. He says, I am an authority while under the authority of another authority. I know what power is. If you say a word, my child will be healed. Because you have power over all diseases. You have the power to heal the sick, cast out demons, and raise the dead (Matthew 28:18; Mark 3:13-15; 1:26,27). The Messiah has all authority in heaven and on earth. Thus the centurion believed in the authority of Jesus.

5. Belief in the Messiah

Jesus was generally thought to be the teacher (rabbi), king, redeemer (deliverer) of the Jews. But many did not believe that Jesus was the Messiah or Christ, the Son of God. When Peter made this confession, Jesus responded, “God has revealed it to you” (Matthew 16:17). The centurion understood that Jesus was not the only savior of the Jews. Although the Jewish Israelites did not accept Jesus as the Messiah, it can be assumed that the centurion believed. Perhaps that is why it is praised as “great faith, not even in Israel” (Matthew 8:10-12). It is also noteworthy that another time a Canaanite woman (Mark says a young Syrophoenician woman) came to Jesus and received a similar miracle for her daughter (Matthew 15:21-28; Mark 7:24-30). It is explained in the next chapter. All this shows faith in the Messiahship of Jesus. Jesus praised the centurion’s faith. Because without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Our faith is what strengthens and propels our Christian life forward.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, We are grateful for the powerful example of the centurion’s faith as revealed in Your Word. His unwavering belief in Jesus’ authority and his humble trust inspire us to seek a deeper, more profound faith in You. Lord, we ask for Your grace to cultivate such great faith in our own lives. Help us to trust in Your power and Your promises, even when we cannot see the way forward. May we approach You with humility and confidence, knowing that You are able to do all things. Strengthen our hearts, increase our faith, and guide us to live out that faith in every aspect of our lives. May we always remember the centurion’s example and strive to follow his footsteps in trusting You completely. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

2024 August 25

Faith of the Syrophoenician woman

Psalm 100, Isaiah.19.20-25, Revelation.7.7-17, Matthew.15.21-28

It examines the specificity of their faith in the incident where Jesus healed the daughter of a Syrophoenician woman (Matthew 15:21-28; Mark 7:24-30). During the ministry of Jesus, Phoenicia, which included Tire and Sidon, was part of the Roman province of Syria. The Phoenicians called themselves Canaanites. That is probably why this woman is written in Matthew as a Canaanite woman. Canaan is the old name of Phoenicia. This place was called “Syro-Phoenicia” because it was part of the Roman province of Syria. They understand that she is a Gentile woman.

God is the God of all. Religions were formed in man’s quest for God. The philosophies and philosophies that developed as the search for God progressed in different contexts helped shape religions. But God is transcendental. Because religions are man-made, but God is not man-made. That is why Christ introduced transcendental spirituality. Jesus stated that he did not come to abolish the law or the prophets, but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). We live in a multi-religious society full of multifaceted contradictions and various beliefs and practices. According to the 2011 census, 80.5% of India’s population is Hindu. India is a secular country with 13.4% Muslims, 2.3% Christians, 1.9% Sikhs, 0.8% Buddhists, 0.4% Jains and 0.6% other tribal religions. God’s invisible grace is much needed to impart the values of the gospel in this multi-religious society. The Lord sharply criticized the conversion of people by sea and land (Matthew 23:14). What needs to change is people’s view of God. It requires a change of heart.

Liberation for all

God has always become the saviour of all. The history of all liberations is not available to us. God delivered the Philistines from Caphtor and the Arameans from Kir just as God delivered Israel from Egypt (Amo 9:7). He has worked for all through the ages as God who liberates all; Still working (Isaiah 19:20-25).

Saviour of all

Christ said, “I have other sheep that do not fall into this fold” (John 10:16). The Lord’s sheep may be spread over many communities. God has spoken to many Gentiles. Let’s look at some examples.

Abraham introduced his wife as his sister. Abimelech, king of Gerar, took Sarah away. On this occasion God spoke to Abimelech at night (Genesis 20:1-18). Abimelech was a Gentile king (Philistine king).
God revealed the coming famine to Pharaoh, the Egyptian ruler, in a dream (Genesis 41:1).
Gentile Balaam receives God’s revelation (Numbers 22).
God gives revelation to the idolatrous Nebuchadnezzar in a dream about the end times and the coming of the Messiah (Daniel 2). Nebuchadnezzar himself made people worship his idol.
The Gentile Ninevites hear the word of God and accept it and repent (Jonah 3:4).
Pilate’s wife received a dream about Jesus Christ in the New Testament (Matthew 27:19).

Salvation for all

Salvation is God’s gift to all (Revelation 7:9,10). That is why the birth of Jesus Christ was called the joy that should be for all people (Luke 2:10). Both Jews and Gentiles fell into sin. So everyone needed salvation. Paul’s argument is that there is nothing special about the Jew. For he who is outwardly a Jew is not a Jew. And that which is in the flesh without is circumcision (Romans 2:28). He asks what benefit is circumcision to the Jew (Romans 3:1). God is not partial (Acts 10:34; Heb 13:5; Gal 3:27).

Faith of the Ninevites

The Ninevites repented, surprising even Jonah who preached repentance in Nineveh (John 4:1-11). Jonah thought that Nineveh would be destroyed. But Jonah was surprised by God’s attitude of ‘are not these also mine?’ This story reminds us that God is everyone’s God. God has transformed and used many such Gentiles.

Faith of Ethiopian

The Gospel of Christ was heard through Philip the Ethiopian when he came to pray in Jerusalem and returned (Acts 8:26-40). So he too came to Christianity. There are many instances in the New Testament of Gentiles coming to Christ. God sent Peter to the house of the Gentile Cornelius. It was hard for Peter to understand. But gradually, with the vision that Peter received that no one should be seen as impure and what God has cleansed should not be considered as unclean, the Christian testimony happened to be carried there as well. The important thing to know here is that God is God to all without partiality (Acts 10:34; Heb 13:5; Gal 3:27).

Many are called

When Christ taught about the kingdom of God, he concluded in many places as follows: “Those who are first will be first, and those who are second will be first” (Matthew 19:30; 20:16; Luke 13:30). For many are called (Matthew 22:14). At the same time, the chosen ones are few. This divine vision is seen in Revelation 7. An innumerable great multitude from every nation, tribe, and tribe, of every tongue, stands before the Lord (Revelation 7:9-17). Because these too are redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. God has saved them too. In the context of religious pluralism, every Christian has a moral responsibility to share the incomparability of Jesus, but the Gospel calls to do so with knowledge and love.

We see the same attitude in the case of this woman. “Woman, great is your faith, let it be done to you as you wish” (Matthew 15:28) and “Go because of this word” (Mark 7:29). Jesus is not just Jewish. He is the savior of the whole world. This is evident in the confession that even dogs live by the crumbs that fall from their master’s table. The common Jews regarded the Gentiles as dogs. But the ‘great faith’ here is the recognition that all are equal to Christ.

Prayer Loving and inclusive God, We thank You for the powerful example of the Syrophoenician woman’s faith. Her unwavering belief in Your mercy and her recognition of Your boundless love remind us that You are a God of all people, welcoming everyone into Your embrace. Grant us the grace to have faith like hers, persistent and trusting, knowing that Your love knows no bounds. Help us to see beyond our differences and to understand that Your grace and mercy are available to all, regardless of who we are or where we come from. Lord, teach us to live inclusively, reflecting Your love to everyone we encounter. May we be instruments of Your peace and vessels of Your compassion, reaching out to those in need and sharing the hope we have in You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

July 21

What to believe?

Psalm.147, Proverb.3.1-6, 1 Jn.3.1-8, Mark.16.9-20

When we talk about faith, what we want to believe is important. Hebrews chapter 11 discusses faith in detail. Many people who lived by faith are mentioned here. There are two creeds that the Christian Church believes – the Nicene Creed and the Apostles’ Creed. Still, some of them are analyzed in this sermon on the basis of those Creeds which have been accepted by the Christian faith since the early church. Why believe? If asked, we should know to say, “The word of God says so”. We must believe in the written Word (Romans 10:8,9). Supernatural things happen when we believe God’s writings, not man’s writings.

1. God

We must believe in the only God and that God is the creator of everything and He is the one who rewards those who come to God (Hebrews 11:1,6). Because without faith it is impossible to please God. Nothing is impossible for this God. God is greater than any challenge or crisis. Everything is under the control of this God (Genesis 18:14; Jer 32:17; Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37; 18:27; Romans 4:21).

2. The fulfillment of Jesus

We must believe that Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of God and that He bore our sins, sicknesses, curses and death on the cross and thus gave us redemption, salvation, healing, deliverance and eternal life (Isaiah 53:3-5; Matthew 8:17; 1Peter 2:24; Gal 3:13,14). The works of the devil were destroyed fully by Jesus’ death on the cross (1 John 3:8). The handwriting that was against us by the rules of the law was blotted out and removed from the midst of the cross (Col. 2:13,14). Jesus disarmed the principalities and powers and triumphed over them on the cross (Col 2:15). Therefore, the believer has the power to resist all the schemes of Satan. (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:6-8; 1 John 4:4). As per the law – “Cursed is he who hangs on a tree” (Deut 21:23), Jesus was hung on the cross for us and became a curse. So, we are no longer under the curse (Gal 3:13,14; Acts 21:23; Acts 5:30; Gal 4:5). No curse can come upon those who are in Jesus. Jesus taught to believe that when you pray you receive (Mark 11:24; 1 John 5:14,15). This is an unusual faith.

3. Beyond our understanding

God works beyond our understanding (Phil 4:6,7). Therefore, we must not rely on our own understanding but believe beyond understanding (Romans 4:17-23; Proverbs 3:5,6). Our intelligence is limited and childish before God’s intelligence. Because, only God’s wisdom is perfect (Romans 11:33-36; 1Cor 1:20-25).

4. In the name of Jesus

When praying and believing it is important to remember that we do them “in the name of Jesus”. Real faith is not the faith in our faith, but the faith in the name of Jesus Christ. Our faith is weak. It is not to be relied upon. But the name of Jesus is unchanging. It is above all the names. The resurrected Jesus commanded to use the name of Jesus (Mark 16:17,18). This is what Peter said when the lame man was healed (Acts 3:16) – “by faith in his name”.

5. By the grace of Jesus

Faith and grace are closely related. We must believe that it is not by our merits, but by the grace of God alone (1Cor 15:10).

Prayer

Heavenly Father, We come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the truths we have explored today. Thank You for revealing to us the importance of believing in You, our Almighty Creator. We acknowledge Your sovereignty, wisdom, and unfailing love. Help us to deepen our faith and trust in Your divine plan, even when we cannot fully understand Your ways. Lord Jesus, we are grateful for Your life, death, and resurrection, which fulfilled the promises of old and brought us salvation. May we continually believe in Your power to transform our lives and lead us into righteousness. Strengthen our faith to rely on Your name, for there is no other name by which we are saved. Holy Spirit, guide us to embrace the mysteries of faith that are beyond our human understanding. Open our minds and hearts to accept Your ways, trusting that Your thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Fill us with the peace that surpasses all comprehension, knowing that You are in control. Father, we believe in the power and authority of the name of Jesus. Help us to speak His name with confidence and boldness, proclaiming His truth and love to a world in need. May our lives be a testament to the saving grace found in Jesus Christ alone. Finally, we thank You for Your abundant grace that sustains us each day. Remind us of Your unmerited favour and love, which empower us to live faithfully and serve others. May Your grace continue to shape our hearts and guide our steps, drawing us closer to You. As we leave this place, let our belief in You, in Jesus, and in Your grace be the foundation of our lives. Empower us to live out these beliefs with courage, humility, and joy. We ask all this in the precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

July 28

Authorities of the Believer

Psalm 91, Isaiah 54.10-17, 1 John 4.1-6, Luke 10.17-24

Many spiritual powers are given to a person who comes to the born-again experience through faith in Jesus Christ. It is under the authority of a traffic policeman that any big man stops his vehicle on seeing the “Stop” plate. In the same way, it is necessary to recognize and use authority in the life of a believer.

1. Christ in you

The spiritual truth that Christ is in you, the hope of glory, is very powerful (Col 1:27). At this time, we should also remember the saying that he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4). We have within us the power at work which is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine (Eph 3:19,20). Because Paul teaches that you have been raised with Christ and your life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-3). The believers have immeasurable power within them (Eph 1:18,18).

2. The members and ambassadors of Christ

Our bodies are members of Christ (1 Cor 6:15-20). Because it is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1Cor 3:16; 6:19). Paul also teaches that we have the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16). Then body, mind, and spirit belong to Christ. The apostle also tells that a holy life is necessary when we live in this conviction.

Moreover,every Christian is an ambassador or representative of Jesus Christ (2 Cor 5:20). John says about this that we are in this world as Jesus was (1 John 4:17). Jesus said, “As the Father has sent me, so have I sent you” (John 20:21).

3. More than Jesus did

Christ sent the apostles to do more than Jesus did (John 14:12). The reason is also written there (John 14:12-23). It is the gift of the Holy Spirit. It started at the day of Pentecost (John 16:8-13; Acts 2:1-11; Job 2:28; Acts 2:17; Isaiah 28:2). Scholars are of the opinion that the meaning of “more than what I did” could be people’s faith in the gospel, the establishment of the church, and the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in various occasions after the day of Pentecost.

4. Greater than the Old Testament prophets

Jesus taught that those who accept Jesus as Christ are greater than the Old Testament prophets (Luke 10:23,24; Matthew 11:25,26). What the Old Testament prophets and kings did not see or hear is revealed to us through Jesus. The mystery of the salvation of the Gentiles was not revealed to the Old Testament leaders (Eph 3:1-6). Because we live in the time of the proclamation of the kingdom of God (Luke 16:16).

5. Over demonic forces

Jesus gave the apostles authority over demonic powers. I give you authority to trample on serpents and scorpions and all the power of the enemy; Jesus promised that they will not harm you (Luke 10:19; Matthew 18:18; Mark 16:17,18). Those who believe in Jesus receive these powers as apostolic followers of the church. Don’t think of these as powers that only a few have received. “Mark records that “these signs will come to those who believe” (Mark 16:17,18). Some have expressed it as a divine power to make money and fame. But it is the promise and authority given to all who believe in Jesus.

Paul said that what no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has felt, it has been revealed to you by the Spirit of God (1 Cor 2:9). This was hidden in the Old Testament (Isaiah 64:4). But today it is generously open to all who believe in Jesus. This is a spiritual privilege and blessing for the New Testament believers.

6. The angels will also be judged

Paul’s argument is that the New Testament believer has the authority to judge even the angels in the end of the age (1 Cor 6:2,3).

7. Authority for signs

“Signs will accompany those who believe” (Mark 16:16,17). The people of Israel were delivered through 10 signs through Moses. But in the New Testament, Jesus gives this authority to all believers. Because He has all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18).

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You today with hearts full of gratitude and awe for the authority You have bestowed upon us as believers. Thank You for reminding us of the power and responsibility that come with being Your children. We praise You for the privilege of walking in the authority of Jesus Christ, who has overcome the world. Lord Jesus, we acknowledge that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to You, and You have graciously shared this authority with us. Help us to live boldly and confidently in this truth, knowing that through You, we have the power to overcome any challenge, resist temptation, and fulfil our divine calling. Holy Spirit, fill us with Your presence and guidance as we exercise our authority as believers. Teach us to wield this authority with humility, wisdom, and love. Strengthen our faith to declare Your promises, to pray with power, and to stand firm against the forces of darkness. Father, may we always remember that our authority comes from You and is rooted in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Help us to remain connected to the vine, drawing our strength and direction from Him. Empower us to use our authority to bring healing, hope, and transformation to those around us. As we go forth from this place, remind us of our identity and authority in Christ. Equip us to be bold witnesses of Your love and truth, standing firm in the face of adversity, and shining Your light in a world that desperately needs You. May our lives reflect the victory and power that come from being Your beloved children.

We ask all this in the powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.