With Love....

 

A very good friend of mine, has this habit of saying what is mine, is mine is mine. And knowing her, yeah I loved the way she says it. She also has this unusual way, of coming and sitting on the handle of my chair and giving me a hug.

Sometimes, you remember things like that because you know it’s good to be expressive.

Initially I thought I knew everything of the Bible. I loved numbers, and God knew how to get my attention. I would see this number often, the number would be 444. My Bible would always open up to the chapter of Tobit. Since I did not know much I would move through. But one day after repetitive occurrences I looked at the pages. And the chapter on Tobit did not have a page number. So on checking noticed it was 444.

Tobit was a devout and wealthy Israelite living among the captives in Nineveh. A series of unfortunate incidences leave him poor, depressed and blind. Sarah was a young woman who had been married seven times, all seven husbands died on the wedding day. She cried and prayed for God to end her suffering just as Tobit prayed and begged the Lord to let him die because of his misfortunes. Tobit then thought of the money he had saved and hidden with someone and sent his son, Tobiah, to claim it so he would have all of his inheritance when he died. Tobiah did not know the roads well so he hired a man who would travel with him. The man told him of Sarah, saying that he, Tobiah, was her closest relative and had the right to marry her first before anyone else. Tobiah was scared because he knew of what had happened to her former husbands. The man reassured him and told him to take the gall, liver, and heart from this fish. The liver and heart were to drive the demon Asmodeus from Sarah's bridal chamber and the gall was to cure his father's eyes.

Finally, the man who travelled with Tobiah reveals his identity to Tobiah and Tobit. He reveals his identity as Raphael(the angel of love), an archangel from heaven.

MORAL: The truth and the power of love are in the ability to place oneself between the forces of good and evil, because love is confident of being victorious. Love conquers all the obstacles.

Chapter of Tobit illustrates-how God cares for those who love Him. It shows Him rewarding human faithfulness with His faithful deliverance. They have to undergo trials to experience deliverance. Tobit and Sarah suffer but God delivers them in the end. Raphael was sent to heal Tobit and Sarah. What we learn from this chapter is the importance of prayer and we also learn that God delivers. 

 

I encourage you, to believe. God’s ability to set us free from fear, frustration, worry, and confusion is just as great as it ever has been.

What seems to be impossible to most people is just right for a person of faith who knows how to believe God. Storms may come, but they know how to take their faith and make the outcome different. God moves to situations for those who believe in victory over the impossible.

Everything in the natural says “it can’t be done,” but that man or woman will look at that naturally impossible situation and say, “I believe in God.” If you are looking at some problem or difficulty today that looks impossible, I want to tell you that’s exactly where God can move. God only moves where you can’t. God only moves outside of your range of abilities and outside of your power and what you can do. So as you come into a place or a situation where you can’t  and it’s beyond everything in you(where you are totally helpless), that’s where you must boldly stand.  God, I just can’t make it, but I know that You can(you must completely surrender to God-knowing that God can and will). When you believe in this way, you move into the supernatural realm where anything is possible. Those who speak like this are the kind of people that get miracles from God.

Every time the world says it’s impossible, that’s just exactly where God likes to move. The first thing I want you to realize about victory over the impossible is that you must first confess God’s ability boldly. In Daniel 3:16-17, we learn that - If you are going to move in a life that brings you victory over the impossible, you are going to have to learn to confess God’s ability boldly. But to get victory over the impossible you must be able to look in the eye of a circumstance or situation in which everything says it’s impossible and say, I don’t know how, but God is able to deliver me.” These Jewish boys said it to the king. You are going to have to say it to some of the people you know. You are going to have to boldly confess your belief in the ability of God. Well, you must go further than knowing He is able and confess that it is God’s will for you. You will have to start saying, “My God is able and He will deliver me out of the fiery furnace.” You have to start confessing that God’s not only going to move for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, but God’s going to move for me too. (Yes, God I believe. I cant write anything new, in keeping with what You have asked, but I can tell the world that I believe in You, You know I do, and Abba Father, what You showed me on the 29th December, was a part, and I want what You promised me. 'I WAIT' 26.05.2013 updated) We have to believe that God did it then but He’ll do it today also, that’s what gets you the victory.

Most of the people today don’t want anyone to know what they believe in. You are going to have to confess your stand. You must go all the way. You must not yield or submit to the pressure by people or the situations. Whatever your situation, difficulty, or problem is that seems to be impossible, you are going to have to begin to realize and confess that God is able and that God will do it for me. Have courage, God is on your side. I’m taking my stand that He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world. I am more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus.”

The Bible says in Proverbs 18:21, “Death and life is in the power of the tongue.” As you speak those words that line up with the Word of God, God takes those words and begins to work.

What’s holding you back? Why don’t you have everything you want? Are you taking Jesus at His word?

“Ask and it will be given to you.”  Matthew 7:7

Judging by how often Jesus encouraged us to ask, I don’t think He wanted us to be timid about it. Think about it. How many times, the word Ask has been mentioned.

“Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.” Matthew 18:19

“If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”  Matthew 21:22

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”  Mark 11:24

“You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” John 14:14

“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.” John 15:7

“I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.” John 16:23

                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Ask… ask and believe… ask in His name. We need to ask with faith. We need to believe that God will give us what we ask for, and we need to ask in Jesus’ name. BELIEVE!

Yet, do I really believe? I don’t know about you, but I do. Oh! Yes I do. You know I do. Everything I write is of a testimony of witnessing God’s wonderful ways. God is powerful. There is nothing that He can’t do. Can’t is not a word that you would ever use with reference to God.

My mom, always speaks of this instance when the well in our house was being build. In Mangalore, our house is surrounded by sand. And at that point of time, they said it would be impossible for the well to come up. They said it would sink. My grandmother, said nothing doing, she stood in the middle of the well and said build. They did. The well stands strong to this day. My grandmother, I remember one instance of her. But her courage inspires me. Her faith did. What my mother told me about her did.

You may not understand but that’s okay. I do.

What am I saying? I am asking you to believe? Believe against all odds. Believe not because it is up-to you. Believe knowing that God can and Will.

Don’t come to God with half a heart of belief. Don’t come with doubts of any kind. Faith no matter how small is faith. And God-will call. So if you have a need-it is because God is calling you to Him. Come and witness His marvellous doings. And when the situation is beyond you(all you need to do is wait-BE STILL), its not beyond God. Remember.

I ask of you, when you pray to Abba Father, ask with certainty, ask with an expectation. Don’t just believe, but expect God to answer. Don’t just believe, but depend on God to give you what you want. Rely on Him.

I rely on You, Abba Father and I am waiting! (26.05.2013-just knocking your door-You know I love You, my God!)
 

GOD SAYS-TO US:

I love you.  John 3:16, John 13:34

I will never leave you or forsake you.  Hebrews 13:5

I will supply all your needs.  Philippians 4:19

My grace is sufficient. 2 Corinthians 12:9

All things are possible. Luke 18:27

I will direct your steps. Proverbs 3:5-6

I am able.  2 Corinthians 9:8

You can do all things through Christ.  Philippians 4:13

I have not given you a spirit of fear, but power, love and a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

Cast all your cares on me.  1 Peter 5:7

It will be worth it.  Romans 8:28

CONCLUSION: Victory over the impossible comes when you confess God’s ability boldly. Timothy 1:7, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” If God has not given me a spirit of fear, I will not accept fear because it doesn’t come from God.

Stand up then, to that mountain and declare, “Mountain, be moved in the name of Jesus,” and you keep on declaring it, it has to go. Whenever you expect to get a miracle and get into the miracle land where God’s power moves, be prepared for victory.

You must come to be totally helpless, to let God work. He will work gloriously-you know He will.

***This is what I do, I basically take certain passages from the Bible that closely represent my situation, and I hold them close to my heart, and keep praying with the verses in mind.***

REMEMBER: Isaiah 43:1-3 says that when you pass through the rivers, and waters, and fire, I will be with you for I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel. I will not leave thee. I will not forsake thee. Friends, you can stand against the impossible because you know that the presence, and power, and protection of God is with you because He that is in you is greater than he that is in the world.

PRAYER: Abba Father, I cried to you from the depths of my heart and You asked me to ‘wait’ and then this was the passage that You answered my question with "With men it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God." Father, help me to do Your will, always. I need your help, because this situation is beyond me. This I ask in Jesus name, Amen.


Promise Date: 28^th May, 2012.     Mark 10:27

Trust in God!

Fear and what is it? Why is it that most of us no matter how strong, can fall prey to fear? It affects the best of people.

FEAR stands for - FALSE EVIDENCE APPEARING REAL

Most often fear holds us back. In life, each of us will face some fear or the other. I don’t know if you’ve heard this saying : ‘That which does not kill me makes me stronger'. Now if you look at it from the perspective that fear will let you be crippled only if you let it-then welcome to the club, my friend. Believe that fear cannot hold you back unless you let it.

Let me further explain this, now fear just starts off with a notion. And mind you satan (the adversary also known as the enemy) will almost use anything to keep you in his grips. When the enemy knows that you have given in to the fear, then all he has to do is keep you there. And this could go on for a year, two years and in some cases life long. Because what started off as a notion has now grown into conviction. 

And why is it that the enemy would want to hold you back, for the simple reason-that if you don't fear, then you will go ahead in life getting all the blessings that are in store for you. And when you do, then your heart is full of praises. So when he holds you back, he is holding you from the best and he is holding you from giving the highest glory to God.

So, why is it that I am trying to explain something like this. I don’t mean for you to start a war or be cursing people that is no courage. And yes courage is the opposite of fear. But for the time being, let us understand this fear somewhat better.

When you are in fear, you are far from the grace of God. Because God is strength, God is courage, God is Truth. Fear is the opposite. It’s just a lie. It is a deception, used by the enemy to hold you back. And what from you may ask? Well from the promises that God wants to bless you with? Only fear will hold you back. Only fear will keep you from God’s promises.

So if you’ve done the right thing and all hell breaks loose. Do you fear? My strongest advice: Don’t! 

Psalm 23:4 states: For though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. For thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me?

Romans 8:31 – states: If God is for us who can be against? 

For the Spirit of God has set us free.

Fear is never God’s best. God is in the most powerful throne. So my question, why do you not trust God? Why do you trust your fear? Why do you put your trust in circumstances?

Fear is not what God intended for you. Get up my dear friend, get up and shake off the dust. God is for you, God is with you. You are created in His image and likeness. You are the apple of His eye. His eye is ever on the sparrow. How much more will He not care for us?

Timothy 1:7 states-God has not given us a spirit of fear. Get up my fellow Christian brothers and sisters, wake up. Lift up your Cross, because The Cross, is our pride, it is our redemption, it will always, be a reminder to satan, that Christ, triumphed over sin and death. That we are indeed redeemed. That Christ conquered death. And we are born to conquer - and conquer we will. Wake up Christians!

"Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Galatians 6:7.

Do not be fooled into thinking you can "get away with things" that are wrong. Every action has a reaction. We are responsible for our own actions. The time for blaming others for our problems is past. If you don't like how your life is going, act to change your life, as soon as you are able.

Avoid being around the wrong people. Refuse to listen to people who aren't sowing good, positive things into your life. Wisdom in time can save a life of heartache, misery and pain.

Doing wrong is never permissible and you wont escape unpunished.

My word of advice to all who would hear me is: never do wrong, even when you think no one is watching your actions. For God always does and He will reward you based on what you do to others.

"The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh. The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward. As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death." Proverbs 11:17-19.

People hurt those they are to love, and kill with their tongues which is an offence that God takes very seriously. God sees into our hearts. There is no hiding from God. Though you may try, He will expose your heart and you will reap the consequences of your mockery.

God wants honesty. Anything less cannot be accepted because He will not be mocked. The problem is that we do not take God seriously and think that we can defend our sins, and He has to go along with it. This way of thinking leads certain people to be overtaken by evil which leads to God being mocked that can only end in punishment.

"There was also a man named Ananias who, with his wife, Sapphira, sold some property. He brought part of the money to the apostles, but he claimed it was the full amount. His wife had agreed to this deception.

Then Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart? You lied to the Holy Spirit, and you kept some money for yourself. The property was yours to sell or not sell, as you wished. And after selling it, the money was yours to give away. How could you do a thing like this? You weren't lying to us but to God."

As soon as Ananias heard these words, he fell to the floor and died. …

About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what happened. Peter asked her, "Was this the price you and your husband received for your land?"

"Yes," she replied, "that was the price."

And Peter said, "How could the two of you even think of doing a thing like this—conspiring together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Just outside that door are the young men who buried your husband, and they will carry you out, too." Acts 5:1-9

I have seen God work in such amazing ways. God’s word is full of promises of His goodness and love. There is hope when we walk with Him and trust Him in all things.

God’s word clearly states that vengeance is His alone. For those who mock Him, I pray. For those who have been caught in the middle of the mockery, take comfort in His truth. God is faithful to His promises.

If the world hates you, be aware that it hated me before it hated you. If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own. Because you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world—therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘Servants are not greater than their master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also. But they will do all these things to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. John 13:1-17

There’s too much hatred in the world. The world – that is, those who run after power, those who are prepared to lie and cheat to save their face, those who will not stand up for the values of the kingdom — the world hated Jesus, and so it will tend to hate the disciples and persecute them. The world will do to the disciples whatever it did to Jesus.

Life in God’s economy is about our existence for God and one another.

We want everybody to like us. But Jesus indicates here that everybody liking us might just be a sign that we belong to the world instead of to God’s people. Jesus called His disciples “friends, not servants.” “The world will hate you, my disciples,” He says. His disciples, Jesus says, “do not belong to the world.” Jesus promised His disciples persecution and misunderstanding. But – He told His disciples that no matter what the problem and the persecution, they would always be happy, always at peace. “In the world you will have trouble. But courage! I have conquered the world.”
And again, “Your hearts will be filled with joy, and this joy no one will ever take away from you.”

This then is the cost of discipleship: never to be at home in the world, but always to be at home with God, who fills our hearts with joy, courage and tranquility

Peter in Acts 4:12 says, “There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved”. That will get you hated. The world thinks it has the answers.

It’s the night of the Passover meal, Jesus last with his disciples. After supper Jesus gets up, takes off his outer garment, wraps a towel around his waist, pours water into a basin and proceeds to wash the disciples’ feet.

The washing of guest’s feet was the task of the house servant. Jesus doesn’t even ask if He could wash their feet He just did it. I believe that one of the reasons we have such a hard time with the idea of serving others is that we are not secure in ourselves; we are not confident in our relationship to God. Jesus was sure of His relationship to His heavenly Father and therefore was free to serve His disciples. If your self worth is tied to what other people think then playing the role of a servant is out of the question.

The disciples uncomfortably submit to Jesus washing their feet; that is all except for Peter. Peter doesn’t like the idea at all. He tells Jesus, “No!” Jesus not only tells Peter he must submit to the foot washing, but that he had to go and do likewise. You have been called to go and serve others.

Jesus washed their feet and he spoke of His death. Jesus then proceeded to tell them, “A new commandment I give you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.”

Remember John told us Jesus knew the Father put all things in His hands. Jesus was confident in His relationship with the Father, He therefore could serve. We need to be confident in who we are in Jesus so we too can serve. We are to serve others as Jesus did.

We are to love one another, but we are to do it as Jesus loved us. This season let us go forth to show that we follow Jesus by being as loving as He was.

CONCLUSION: 

• Everything that you do has consequences: Don’t be fooled by the world and what the world has to offer. Things aren’t what they seem. Think before you take an action.
• You cannot escape the consequences of your actions: Remember we cannot mock God.
• There are long-term effects of your actions. What goes around comes around: We can’t run from God or hide from Him. We can ignore Him but the results of this will be destruction.
• Actions have consequences. Don't think you can get away with bad choices even if you don't seem to get caught. Remember verse7 tells us that God cannot be mocked. He sees it all.
• We are deceived as a people. What will it take to realize that God is in control and in perfect judgement! We think that we are in control we’ll do what we want to do even if we are wrong as long as no one tells us what to do. We have to realize this - that we can do nothing apart from God. God is in control! He’s All Powerful! 
• As a People, we’re supposed to stand up for what is right.

"Thou shall have no other gods before me. Watch the way you live your life because you reap what you sow.

We sow in one season, we reap in another. Sow a thought you reap an act. Sow an act, you reap a habit. Sow a habit, you reap a character. Sow a character, you reap a consequence.

I believe that: whatever you do will always come back to you and it will come back double the time. My strong advice LOVE with all your heart. It will keep you from all that is bad. Remember, God has given us a free will. I have surrendered mine to God. Have you?

REMEMBER: Dear friend, we are ever under the watchful eye of GOD, and should live in a way that makes His constant vigilance a source of comfort. Let us like the Psalmist  joyfully lay ourselves open before the Lord and say, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting”-Psalm. 139:23-24. Lead us out of the desert and to the river of the water of life that flows from the throne of God and of the Lamb-Rev. 22:1.

PRAYER: Come Holy Spirit! Teach us to have the virtues that will make us be living the true Christian life. This I ask in Jesus name. Amen.

Ave Maria!

 

I love my walks with God. I cherish those moments. Have you ever given a thought to all the great works written by all the greatest of men? And have you ever heard of a single person reading all the books? That would be virtually impossible!
God is sovereign. He alone is in control of everything. He inspires everyone and everything. From the smallest atom to the solar system, God is in control. I am amazed. I am amazed at everything God is. To me, HE is the Almighty, the most Awesome and Amazing my one and only, my GOD.

Last week, I was standing at the bus stop. And there came a 212 route bus, and I was down with asthma, I felt this nudge and I knew it was God and I replied God I am really tired. So the first bus leaves. The second bus again a 212. Again the same thing and again my reply was the same, I just said God I don’t want to walk. Minutes later there is a 214, I climb the bus and what do you think happened? The bus broke down exactly the same spot where I would have to get down from had I taken the 212 bus. When I walked the way, I did not have a complain, I felt good to walk and then I saw this house with the name ‘Ave Maria’ and I understood that’s what God wanted me to do, and I just called out ‘God’ and immediately the answer was yes. So my title today, is to the greatest Woman, in the entire galaxy and through time. It is to my sweetest, mama ‘Mary’.

Of-course you would say, this just could be a coincidence. On nearly reaching home, I saw the bus (say after 7 minutes of time) working fine. So you see my friend, with God there are no co-incidences. There are only miracles. Ask me-and I will tell you of so many of them.

The part before the semicolon is the angel Gabriel's greeting to the Virgin Mary when he told her that she had been chosen by God to bear His Son, Jesus Christ - Luke 1:28

The Hail Mary

Hail Mary, full of grace! the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

The Magnificat

Is a canticle—a hymn taken from the Bible. When the angel Gabriel visited the Virgin Mary he told her that her cousin Elizabeth was also with child. Mary visited her cousin (Elizabeth) and the baby in her womb (John the Baptist)leapt for joy when Elizabeth heard Mary's voice.

The Magnificat-Luke 1:46-55 - is the Virgin Mary's response to Elizabeth's greeting, glorifying God and thanking Him for choosing her to bear His Son.

The Magnificat

My soul doth magnify the Lord:
And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour
Because He hath regarded the lowliness of His handmaid: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
For He that is mighty hath done great things to me: and holy is His Name.
And His mercy is from generation until generations, to them that fear Him.
He hath showed might with His arm: He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.
He hath put down the mighty from their seat, and hath exalted the lowly.
He hath filled the hungry with good things: and the rich he hath sent empty away.
He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy:
As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed for ever.

Memorare

  The Memorare of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of the best known of all Marian prayers.

 Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that any one who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

“For nothing is impossible with God.”   Luke 1:37

One of my favorite parts of the nativity story is when Mary is told she will bear a son who “will be called the Son of the Most High.” She asks, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” and the angel replies, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God. And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month. For nothing will be impossible with God" Luke 1:34-37

I love that final phrase: “For nothing will be impossible with God.” It’s the type of truth we need to remember in our lives, our marriages, our families.

We need to remember that the God who made it possible for a virgin to conceive can heal any marriage and any family problem.

The God who came to live with us understands the temptations we face, and gives us the power to turn away from them.

The God who sent angels to speak to men two thousand years ago still speaks to us today through His Word.

The God who sent Jesus to “save His people from their sins” Matthew 1:21 …… now gives us the power to walk with Him every hour of every day.

We all have something going on in our lives that should cause us to turn to God … some problem or situation that we just can’t seem to solve ourselves.

Our Faith is not dependent on logic. We should place our faith in God and not our circumstances.  God can work in our lives in a mighty way even when there is no hope. If your heart is willing to believe then God will do great things in your life, and nothing will be impossible.

REMEMBER: A barren (senior) woman conceiving a child? Impossible! But God caused Elizabeth to shout for joy when baby-John was born. A virgin becoming pregnant? Impossible! But God made it so! God becomes man without ceasing to be God? Impossible! But Emmanuel was born. God forgives all our sins and gives heaven as a gift -- without requiring any good work on our part? Impossible! But Christ the Savior is born.

You say that life seems hopeless – but really look around you, hope floats. By sending Jesus Christ, God conquered the most impossible of impossibilities: OUR SIN. Any other impossibility (including the one you are facing) is nothing in His sight. "I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?" Jeremiah 32:27 "He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" Romans8:32

So rejoice, for with God nothing is impossible, including your impossibilities.

On the third day there was a wedding in Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there... When the wine ran short Mary said to Him, "They have no wine." Jesus said to her, "Woman, how does your concern affect me? My hour has not yet come."
His mother told the servers, "Do whatever He tells you." John 2:1-11
Jesus and His mother Mary were at a wedding feast at Cana. Mary observes that they have no more wine. Jesus’ mother becomes aware of a most embarrassing situation—the wine has run out, and there appears to be no solution. Either no more wine is available, or there is no money to buy more wine. The guests seem unaware of what is happening. If something is not done, all will be embarrassed.  Jesus’ mother seems to step in and take charge when she says to Jesus, “They have no wine left.” I believe Mary informs Jesus with the hope that He might do something about the situation. Of all those present, the mother of our Lord knows Jesus best. And Jesus says to her, Woman, how does this concern of yours affect me? My hour has not yet come. So in this interaction between Jesus and Mary we note some reluctance on Jesus’ part for his hour had not yet come. And yet, because it is his mother who asks he does it. She simply turns to the servants and instructs them, “Whatever He tells you, do it.” She does not argue with Him, for He has made His point. She does not plead with Him. At the wedding feast of Cana Jesus merely told the servants to draw out the water and take it to the chief steward, He merely willed that it be changed from water to wine, Only God can create or change by an act of His Will alone.

REMEMBER: So, in the end it is clear that Jesus is a bit hesitant at His Mother’s request but out of respect for the fact that it is she who is asking He works the miracle. Far from disrespecting her He is actually indicating respect for her in a tender way that acknowledges that she is His mother and that this fact will make Him reconsider and ultimately reject His reluctance. Jesus showed His obedience and respect to His mother. Hence we seem on good grounds for concluding to the power of Mary’s intercession!

CONCLUSION: As a child, the wedding at Cana was the first miracle I heard of and it has been my favourite one. I guess its childhood feelings attached. But all said and done, the most important fact remains. As a kid, I was taught you go to mama Mary to get to Jesus.  The saying is ‘To Jesus through Mary.’

Following is a short story that Fr. Byron today gave at the 10:15 mass, in his homily. I heard it for the first time and I loved the story. And yes I did have tears in my eyes. All I ask is for you to read. And remember, every life counts. Value every person.

Pastor And his Son.

Every Sunday afternoon, after the morning service at the church, the Pastor and his eleven year old son would go out into their town and hand out Gospel Tracts.

This particular Sunday afternoon, as it came time for the Pastor and his son to go to the streets with their tracts, it was very cold outside, as well as pouring down rain. The boy bundled up in his warmest and driest clothes and said, "OK, dad, I'm ready."

His Pastor dad asked, "Ready for what?"

"Dad, it's time we gather our tracts together and go out."

Dad responds, "Son, it's very cold outside and it's pouring down rain." "Son, I am not going out in this weather."

Despondently, the boy asks, "Dad, can I go? Please?"

His father hesitated for a moment then said, "Son, you can go. Here are the tracts, be careful son."

"Thanks Dad!"

And with that, he was off and out into the rain. This eleven year old boy walked the streets of the town going door to door and handing everybody he met in the street a Gospel Tract.

After two hours of walking in the rain, he was soaking, bone-chilled wet and down to his VERY LAST TRACT. He stopped on a corner and looked for someone to hand a tract to, but the streets were totally deserted.

Then he turned toward the first home he saw and started up the sidewalk to the front door and rang the door bell.. He rang the bell, but nobody answered....

He rang it again and again, but still no one answered.

He waited but still no answer.

Finally, this eleven year old trooper turned to leave, but something stopped him....

Again, he turned to the door and rang the bell and knocked loudly on the door with his fist. He waited, something holding him there on the front porch He rang again and this time the door slowly opened.

Standing in the doorway was a very sad-looking elderly lady. She softly asked, "What can I do for you, son?" With radiant eyes and a smile that lit up her world, this little boy said, "Ma'am, I'm sorry if I disturbed you, but I just want to tell you that *JESUS REALLY DOES LOVE YOU* and I came to give you my very last Gospel Tract which will tell you all about JESUS and His great LOVE."

With that, he handed her his last tract and turned to leave.

She called to him as he departed. "Thank you, son! And God Bless You!"

Well, the following Sunday morning in church Pastor Dad was in the pulpit.

As the service began, he asked, "Does anybody have testimony or want to say anything?

Slowly, in the back row of the church, an elderly lady stood to her feet.

As she began to speak, a look of glorious radiance came from her face, "No one in this church knows me. I've never been here before.

You see, before last Sunday I was not a Christian. My husband passed on some time ago, leaving me totally alone in this world.

Last Sunday, being a particularly cold and rainy day, it was even more so in my heart that I came to the end of the line where I no longer had any hope or will to live.

So I took a rope and a chair and ascended the stairway into the attic of my home.... I fastened the rope securely to a rafter in the roof, then stood on the chair and fastened the other end of the rope around my neck. Standing on that chair, so lonely and brokenhearted I was about to leap off, when suddenly the loud ringing of my doorbell downstairs startled me. I thought, "I'll wait a minute, and whoever it is will go away."

I waited and waited, but the ringing doorbell seemed to get louder and more insistent, and then the person ringing also started knocking loudly.

I thought to myself again, "Who on earth could this be?

Nobody ever rings my bell or comes to see me." I loosened the rope from my neck and started for the front door, all the while the bell rang louder and louder.

When I opened the door and looked I could hardly believe my eyes, for there on my front porch was the most radiant and angelic little boy I had ever seen in my life. His SMILE, oh, I could never describe it to you!

The words that came from his mouth caused my heart that had long been dead, TO LEAP TO LIFE as he exclaimed with a cherub-like voice, "Ma'am, I just came to tell you that JESUS REALLY DOES LOVE YOU."

Then he gave me this Gospel Tract that I now hold in my hand.

As the little angel disappeared back out into the cold and rain, I closed my door and read slowly every word of this Gospel Tract. Then I went up to my attic to get my rope and chair. I wouldn't be needing them any more.

You see---I am now a Happy Child of the KING. Since the address of your church was on the back of this Gospel Tract, I have come here to personally say THANK YOU to God's little angel who came just in the nick of time and by so doing, spared my soul from an eternity in hell."

There was not a dry eye in the church. And as shouts of praise and honor to THE KING resounded off the very rafters of the building, Pastor Dad descended from the pulpit to the front pew where the little angel was seated.

He took his son in his arms and sobbed uncontrollably.

Probably no church has had a more glorious moment, and probably this universe has never seen a Papa that was more filled with love & honor for his son... Except for One.

Our Father also allowed His Son to go out into a cold and dark world.. He received His Son back with joy unspeakable, and as all of heaven shouted praises and honor to The King, the Father sat His beloved Son on a throne far above all principality and power and every name that is named.

PRAYER: Mama Mary, I come to you today. I pray for Gods will in my life. I also know I have a promise that God has put in my heart. This promise means the world to me. 

Led by the Holy-spirit I come to you for help. Anything you ask of Jesus, He will not refuse. With this confidence I come to you, ‘To Jesus through Mary.’ Amen.

I Believe in MIRACLES!…………….

 

Tonight, I look at the star filled sky. Tonight, I am reminded of the beauty of God’s divine creation. 
I am reminded of the time when we were on our way to Mangalore, how splendid everything looked. It was fun, and picturesque. It was far from the hustle of the city life. I am not complaining. I love simplicity, it just amazes me.

But then, again nature untouched by human hands is Gods magnificent hand-work. I mean we get so astonished, when we see certain works of nature. Little do we think, of the Great God who made all of the wonderful things that we see and take so much for granted?

I still am amazed when I watch a plane fly. I am amazed by the birth of a child, I am amazed when it rains, I am amazed that the earth never runs short of all the natural resources. I am amazed at the rate at which food is produced-we have millions of people consuming food-and the next day there still will be more than that for the people. I am amazed that the seas stand within their boundaries (I wont talk negative), I am amazed that we have seasons at their appointed times. I am amazed that there is a whole different universe out there-which is so infinite, that man in all probability will never be able to explore. I am amazed that the Sun comes up every morning I am amazed by the moon and the stars. I am amazed at the human brain, that it can contain information of the entire galaxy in it. I am amazed by the human heart that it works continuously without resting and can never tire down.

I am amazed by You oh God of all things. I am Amazed by Your magnificence. There is none like You. I am amazed by the capacity of a human heart to love and forgive. I believe the heart is the key to You. I believe that our greatest happiness will always come from knowing and understanding that Love is the center of our universe. Without love we will crumble. Without love we will surely die. Without You, Oh God, I dare not exist.

You my God, are my miracle of miracles. Everything I am is my song of praise to you. For the dream you put in my heart, for that song that goes on, for the hope that you have given me-I’m ever grateful. For the love in my world-for your blessing on my dreams-for your promise in my heart-I’m ever hopeful. I wait on you-for the biggest miracle in my life. I wait on You . . . . . .

I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES!

What is faith? Faith is to believe in the impossible. Faith expects-that no matter what the condition is, you believe. Even though you see absolutely nothing-you believe. It has to be the I know, that I know, that I know.

No matter, where and when we when we begin, God does not expect earth shattering faith from us. Just faith that is equal to a mustard seed will do. Come with that-and Let Him lead the way. Remember, Jesus keeps His arms open wide, for you and for me-for us all.

When a miracle happens-This is what we learn that faith expected-and was rewarded. Because, this is how God teaches us to believe. Remember, in the above paragraph, I mentioned that the when’s are not important: now let us understand this concept, age is no criteria to believing. You could be 70 years of age. And God would only see you like a child who has just begun, to take his first step. God, will encourage you with every step you take. Always remember, God is our biggest encourager. And so..this article is just to let you know-you are never alone and if you are facing the 1st stage or maybe you find yourself in the 3rd stage, then I would wish you Gods best, because you are on your way to facing a miracle. Double for the trouble. God always loves to reward.

“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him” Hebrews 11:6

God’s blessing is based on our faith — our belief in Him and His goodness.

God is Faithful-He keeps His promises.

God is Patient-He is no hurry to get it over with.

God rewards-all those who seek Him.

God is Kind-He is tender hearted.

God is love-God expects from us is to love one another.

God is good-He is just to the humble. And the proud He will overthrow.

1. BASIC QUALITIES

This is what we must practise in our daily-walk with God.

We must be faithful.

Remember the first of the ‘10 commandments’

I am the Lord your God, you shall have no other Gods before me.

YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND. Luke 10:27.

We must be Obedient.

Submitting ones will to do the will of God.

We must be Humble.

But He gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”  James 4:6

We need to approach God in prayer through humility.  Obedience to God will keep us humble.

Love our fellow brethren.

Jesus gave us a commandment: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34. These days’ people have very little tolerance level for one another. Precisely, the reason, we need to have love. Only love, will make us see through the faults of others. Only love will teach us a whole lot of other virtues.

Give thanks to God in everything.

Thank God for everything, the good and the bad.

‘give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.’ 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Avoid Gossiping.

If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless.  James 1:26

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue...." Proverbs 18:21

You can either speak death (negative thoughts) into someone or you can speak life (positive thoughts) into them. By starting or repeating a rumour, you are speaking death into that person. But, by ignoring the rumour, or putting an end to it, you are helping to speak life into someone. On one of the Sundays, when coming out from the church, I overheard women criticizing some other friend of theirs. And what shocked me most, was the mass had just got over.  I found it heard to believe. Avoid gossiping or criticizing, both are bad.

Be honest.

The LORD hates anyone who cheats, but he likes everyone who is honest. Proverbs 11:1

The LORD hates every liar, but he is the friend of all who can be trusted. Proverbs 12:22

The Bible tells us to FEAR THE LORD, AND DEPART FROM EVIL-Proverbs 3:7. The Bible says fear (be afraid of) God. That is exactly what it means. Be careful you do not reject the love of the truth.

It is written, Romans 1:25-WHO CHANGED THE TRUTH OF GOD INTO A LIE(?) The answer is Satan moving in the minds of people that do not have a good and honest heart. Hebrews 6:18-It was impossible for God to lie. The Bible warns you, James 3:14-Lie not against the truth.

Never bear false witness & never ever twist the truth. Never ever leave a person in a position where their witness is only God.

Submit yourselves to God, submit yourselves to the truth. Dwell in the truth, and love the truth. Love Jesus and His ways.

We need to be kind.

Kind words are good medicine, but deceitful words can really hurt. Pro 15:4

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

We are to extend loving-kindness to all that come across our path in need.

Luke 6:27-36: Do good to those who hate you.

Bless, pray, turn the other cheek. Practice: the-golden rule-(v.31). What credit do you have if you do good to those who are good to you? Doing good to the enemy leads to great reward and then, Jesus says, you are sons. Namely, you demonstrate sonship and daughtership to God because He is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.

No judgement

Do not condemn anyone. God condemns no one.

Have a Holy Fear of God

To come to God with reverence, I often watch people come to the church and then look at their watch as if they are in such post haste. I mean I don’t understand, God does not force anyone to come to church. You don’t come because you are obligated. You have to come because you love. I don’t think you have to attend the U.S peace conference or the White House meetings. And even if you had to then God comes first. Set your priorities right.

This is what I basically do, I don’t carry my cell and I don’t wear a watch. When I go to church, that time is set aside-God and me. The world can wait. God comes first. And most important of all don’t chat away in the church. It is the dwelling place of God. Just because, God is liberal that does not mean you show no respect. Have a holy fear of the lord. HOLY is His name!

Pray-Repent-Fast

We should fast when we desire to draw closer to God. Fasting is not just a discipline for bringing problems to God to be fixed. It is also an expression of the heart’s longing for a greater intimacy in our walk with Him. God is a jealous God who gives Himself most fully to those who give themselves to Him most completely.

Fasting and prayer does not change God. It changes us. It is not twisting God’s arm to get Him to do our bidding but rather positioning ourselves to receive the grace He freely gives and to do His bidding.

It ensures the sincerity of our humility, repentance, and acceptance of pardon so that we no longer feel estranged from God.

Fasting and prayer combined also aids us in progressing in our walk with God.

2. TRIALS

Trials are nothing-but the test of faith. God will not forsake you. The greater the faith, the greater the trials will be.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many a kind, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. James 1:2-8

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.  James 1:12

As we strive to live in a godly manner, Satan will begin looking for new ways to attack us. One effective assault is through other people sent to hurt, mock, or distract us.

“Knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.” James 1:3 - The word testing here means to be tested and found proven; that is, God is testing our faith in order to prove its strength.

1 Peter 1:6-7 explains this valuable aspect, “In this you greatly rejoice . . . you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith . . . may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

The testing of our faith produces spiritual maturity, which leads to endurance. This enables us to withstand any assault, no matter what form the trials take. Being tested by God strengthens us so that we can face trial after trial and still endure.

A major purpose for our trials is to produce Christ-like character within us. This requires our total surrender to His will. I have never known a time-when I was alone. In all my trials, God has been my refuge. Every trial, has taught me to trust in God-and with that knowledge I write this-Your best days are yet ahead of you. Every ordeal will show you strengths you never thought you had. 2 Corinthians1:4 states, “God comforts us in all-our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” Therefore, God is using our trials to make us more useful in helping others.

By fully understanding someones pain, we will be able to reach out to them in a way in which someone else may be unprepared for. If we have been through it ourselves, we will have an intimate understanding of what the hurting individual needs.

A view of a right understanding of God’s purposes for trials might lead us to the right response.

¦ God is in control- with the timing and intensity-of trials.

¦ God has a specific purpose for each trial in life.

¦ Accept each trial-to result in-good-if we respond with faith.

¦ Discover how each trial can strengthen our faith by proving that we can depend on the Lord for all of our needs.

¦ Rejoice that each trial is an opportunity for God to demonstrate His power to sustain us under tremendous pressure.

In time we will realize that we are capable of handling hardships-this is because our continuing trials have taught us that God will indeed empower us to prevail.

We must be convinced that God will walk us through every step of the trial. Hebrews 13:5

We must have faith that by His grace and the enabling power of the Holy Spirit, we will not only survive, but we will also conquer over each trial.

Being a child of God, you have the means by which to stand firm in the face of any trial. Trust that God has a reason for your sufferings, and submit yourself to whatever He desires to teach you. Look to the promise within your heart-and you will find-God leading you ahead to the promise.

 

 

 

3. PERSEVERANCE

Perseverance means endurance-steadfastness to persist in, to continue, to stand firm and to bear up bravely.

Mark 13:13 "And you will be hated by all for My name's sake, but he who endures to the end shall be saved."
As we endure the difficult times, our example may give strength to another person. Unknowingly, we could help someone who needed help. Perseverance also strengthens our faith in the Lord.

We find in Hebrews 3:14," For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end."

As Christians, we are to persevere to the end. If we stand firm upon the teachings of the Lord, we will endure the sufferings. Jesus told us that there would be tribulations. As we endure these tribulations, our faith will grow stronger.

Romans 5:3-5 states ‘we are told that tribulation produces perseverance. With the strength of the WORD we can face all the trials in our lives. Trials will make us grow stronger.

 

4. PATIENCE

 

We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. Hebrews 6:12
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12

But those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.  Isaiah 40:31

God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. But when the promise was first given Genesis 12:1-3-Abraham and his wife Sarah did not have any children. God continued to restate His promise to Abraham through the years. When Abraham was 100 and Sarah was 90 years old God gave them their son Isaac. Though it took years of patiently waiting, they received the promise of God. Hebrews 6:15 says of Abraham, “And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.”

Joseph’s brothers sold him as a slave-Genesis 37:27-28. Though he did not understand all that was happening, he trusted God to work out His plan in His time. He waited for God to fulfil His promise that Joseph would be a leader of his people. He had to be patient as he believed God. God did lift Joseph up to great power and responsibility. Not only was he a leader of his people, but he ruled over the people of Egypt too. Patience was needed to allow God to accomplish His purposes in the life of Joseph and his family.

The best known story of patience in the Bible is the life of Job. To prove Job’s faithfulness to the Lord, God allowed the devil to destroy everything Job owned-Job 1. Job was a wealthy man. He lost his crops, property, cattle and servants. But most devastating of all was when Job lost his children. However, Job did not blame God. He accepted that God had a plan and would be patient for God to reveal His plan.

Job’s friends came to council him. They tried to find out what great sin Job had committed to deserve the punishment he received. Job would not admit to any sin. He knew God had a plan and was willing to accept what God allowed in his life. In the end God restored to Job twice as much as he had in the beginning-Job 42:10.

“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.” Hebrews 12:2, 3

Whatever the task, God has called us to we need to continue doing the work even if we don’t see the progress we would like to see. Jesus is an eg. of patience for us.

5. PERSISTENCE

 

Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17

The Parable of the Persistent Widow-Luke 18:1-8-teaches the necessity of patience, persistence and perseverance in prayer. We must resist the human tendency of growing weary in prayer. There are several major causes of losing heart: doubt, danger, distractions, and delay.

¶   Sin does not promote a good prayer life—in fact, it will stop it dead.

¶  Prayer and faith go hand in hand. Doubting the inspiration of Scripture and the power of God hinders prayer 1 Timothy 2:8

¶  Daniel faced real danger in praying, but kept on praying, even though it led to the lion's den-Daniel 6.

Satan causes distractions, especially during prayer time. Few things cause us to lose heart in praying more than delays in answers to our requests. Jesus uses this parable to teach us that, though answers often appear to take a long time in coming, we should persevere and not grow weary in praying to God.

Jesus compares God, not with a good man, but with a godless man to emphasize the vast difference between this unjust judge and the righteous God-Luke 18:2-8. The conduct of the unjust judge exposes the chaotic and corrupt judgments in which he presented himself. He acts purely out of self-interest. Yet, this unjust judge could avenge a widow whom he rejected, how much more will the righteous God avenge His elect-Jeremiah 11:20

If God's elect are wrongly treated, they can be sure of vindication. So, if the unjust judge because of a selfish irritation avenges a troublesome widow, how much more will the selfless God come to our aid? We can expect better treatment from a God of loving-kindness than from a heartless judge.

The widow, does not prevail because of her persuasive plea but because of her persistence. Jesus tells us long prayers and repetitions will not make God hear us any better. He already knows our needs-Matthew 6:7-8.

God has assured us that He hears and answers prayer. 
What I've learned is that most often we have the promise of God, in our hearts, but sometimes we give in to the whims and fancies of the world. What I'm saying is think hard. Pray to God, even more than you would at other times. Stay with the promise. God always makes a way, even if you think there is none. Remember, it is God we are speaking about. God never forsakes. God never fails. God expects you to persist. He is mighty proud when you do. That shows Him that You believe, and when you do there will be many more things that come your way. Stay focused, always looking to God. To God be the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

CONCLUSION: God can do the impossible. Luke 18:27-"Jesus replied, 'What is impossible with men is possible with God.'"

The Bible says to rejoice in God’s will.

Seek His purposes.

Remember His promises. (The Bible)

God keeps His promises. God can be relied upon, He can be trusted and believed on, to do that which He has promised to do. We are called to trust that God will fulfil His promises and to believe in Him regardless of the seeming delays. 

I am wishing you God's strength! Come, be a witness to Gods miracles!

REMEMBER: It is only by trusting in God, as a faithful, covenant-keeping God, that we will be able to remain strong in faith. We have then every confidence that which He has promised will be fulfilled. Let us then remain steadfast in faith, and look for the fulfilment of His promises, without despair or disillusionment. Let us always remember, the faithfulness of God in keeping the promises He has made. God is faithful; let us remain faithful to Him no matter what comes our way.

PRAYER: Father, remember that I wait on your word. I love this dream, You have put in my heart. I wait with all the hope in my heart. Keep me always faithful and obedient to you I pray. This I ask in Jesus name. Amen.