The Way, the Truth and the Life
“I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. Nobody can come to the Father except through me.” (John 14: 6-7)
Jesus is my Way. He is my Truth and he is my Life. What does this mean to me today?
A way leads to somewhere. If life is a journey, what is my destination? My whole life is a journey to the Father. All the circumstances and events have been arranged to lead to one destination: the Father. How is Jesus my Way to the Father? His life and teachings form the highway to the Father. They are also the light that light up this highway.
Jesus is my Truth. A truth is. A truth is reality. What is the truth of life? Ask Jesus. He knows. What is the truth about my situation today? Ask Jesus. He knows. Man yearns for truth. St. Augustine says that God has made us for himself and our hearts are restless until they rest in God, the ultimate being and truth.
Jesus is my life. The true life is eternal life. We receive the beginning of this life in baptism. We grow in this life through the sacraments. Sacraments are actions of Jesus Christ instituted to impart grace and eternal life to us.
Lord Jesus, I believe you are my Way, my Truth and my Life. Help me to grow in the understanding of this truth.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Friday, February 24, 2006
Troubled Waters
Troubled Waters
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God still, and trust in me. there are many rooms in my Father’s house; if there were not, I should have told you.” (John 14: 1 – 2).
In 1996, when I reflected on the above scripture, I wrote in my journal:
“This is a very appropriate scripture for my mood now. My heart is troubled by many things. Last night, I slept very little; my body was raked by fever and I was disturbed by mosquitoes. Blessing informed me before I went to bed that there was nothing to eat in the house. Money is running low. The car is immobilized in the drive way. I have no job. Despite all these, Jesus is saying to me: “Do not let your heart be troubled.” O Holy Spirit, how do I remain calm in these troubled waters? If I trust Jesus, should I not trust his words? If Jesus who sees my situation clearer than myself , tells me to be calm and not to worry, I should believe him. I realize that there are two voices speaking to me at this moment: the evil one trying to paint a lurid and hopeless picture of my situation and Jesus whose instructions are clear and simple – “Do not let your heart be troubled. Trust in God still, and trust in me.” Trust in God’s disposal of events.
As I reflect on the above journal entry in 2006, ten years later, I thank the Lord for his faithfulness. I survived the hardship of the period. On the other hand, I marveled that I am able to forget such incidents. How much comfort I would have in troubled times if I remember such incidents?
O Holy Spirit, recall to my mind memories of God’s wonderful deeds in my life.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God still, and trust in me. there are many rooms in my Father’s house; if there were not, I should have told you.” (John 14: 1 – 2).
In 1996, when I reflected on the above scripture, I wrote in my journal:
“This is a very appropriate scripture for my mood now. My heart is troubled by many things. Last night, I slept very little; my body was raked by fever and I was disturbed by mosquitoes. Blessing informed me before I went to bed that there was nothing to eat in the house. Money is running low. The car is immobilized in the drive way. I have no job. Despite all these, Jesus is saying to me: “Do not let your heart be troubled.” O Holy Spirit, how do I remain calm in these troubled waters? If I trust Jesus, should I not trust his words? If Jesus who sees my situation clearer than myself , tells me to be calm and not to worry, I should believe him. I realize that there are two voices speaking to me at this moment: the evil one trying to paint a lurid and hopeless picture of my situation and Jesus whose instructions are clear and simple – “Do not let your heart be troubled. Trust in God still, and trust in me.” Trust in God’s disposal of events.
As I reflect on the above journal entry in 2006, ten years later, I thank the Lord for his faithfulness. I survived the hardship of the period. On the other hand, I marveled that I am able to forget such incidents. How much comfort I would have in troubled times if I remember such incidents?
O Holy Spirit, recall to my mind memories of God’s wonderful deeds in my life.
Thursday, February 23, 2006
The 4-Way Test
The 4-Way Test
“I give you a new commandment: love one another; just as I have loved you, you also must love one another. By this love you have for one another, everyone will know that you are my disciples.” (John 13: 34 – 35)
In the last three years of corporate world experience, I joined the Rotary International Club. We met every week for fellowship and followed a set ritual which reminds one of the Church’s liturgy. One of the rituals that was observed every week was the recitation of the four-way test:
Jesus tells his disciples “just as I have loved you, you also must love one another.” If I can apply the four-way test in my dealings with people today, I will begin to obey the words of Jesus.
“I give you a new commandment: love one another; just as I have loved you, you also must love one another. By this love you have for one another, everyone will know that you are my disciples.” (John 13: 34 – 35)
In the last three years of corporate world experience, I joined the Rotary International Club. We met every week for fellowship and followed a set ritual which reminds one of the Church’s liturgy. One of the rituals that was observed every week was the recitation of the four-way test:
- Is it fair to all concerned?
- Will it build good and better friendship?
- Is it the truth?
- Is it beneficial to all concerned?
Jesus tells his disciples “just as I have loved you, you also must love one another.” If I can apply the four-way test in my dealings with people today, I will begin to obey the words of Jesus.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Washing Feet
Washing Feet
“You call me Master and Lord, and rightly; so I am. If I, then, the Lord and Master, have washed your feet, you should wash each others’ feet. I have given you an example so that you may copy what I have done to you.” (John 13: 13 – 15)
Christ is teaching me through the above incidence humility and the spirit of service. How do I apply this lesson here and now? My home, the Church, my workplace is my training ground, my laboratory to practice this lesson. Through the circumstances of everyday life, God is training me and saving me. How do I wash the feet of my brethren today? What concrete services should I render them that will amount to the washing of feet?
The Visitation of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth was an opportunity for service. Mary anticipated Elizabeth’s needs and fulfilled them. In the home of Elizabeth, Mary must have performed many washing of feet. Jesus is asking me today to anticipate the humble needs of my sisters and brothers and do something about them.
Thank you for the lesson Jesus. I accept your teaching and I am disposed to follow it. I need your grace to live these principles today. Give me your grace.
“You call me Master and Lord, and rightly; so I am. If I, then, the Lord and Master, have washed your feet, you should wash each others’ feet. I have given you an example so that you may copy what I have done to you.” (John 13: 13 – 15)
Christ is teaching me through the above incidence humility and the spirit of service. How do I apply this lesson here and now? My home, the Church, my workplace is my training ground, my laboratory to practice this lesson. Through the circumstances of everyday life, God is training me and saving me. How do I wash the feet of my brethren today? What concrete services should I render them that will amount to the washing of feet?
The Visitation of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth was an opportunity for service. Mary anticipated Elizabeth’s needs and fulfilled them. In the home of Elizabeth, Mary must have performed many washing of feet. Jesus is asking me today to anticipate the humble needs of my sisters and brothers and do something about them.
Thank you for the lesson Jesus. I accept your teaching and I am disposed to follow it. I need your grace to live these principles today. Give me your grace.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Love as I love you
Love as I love you
“I give you a new commandment: love one another; just as I have loved you, you also must love one another. By this love you have for one another, everyone will know that you are my disciples.” (John 13: 34 – 35)
Jesus wants me to “love one another just as he has loved me.” So his love for me is the standard that I will use for others. It does presuppose that I know this standard. How does Jesus love me? How do I feel his love in my daily life?
I feel Christ’s presence and love through the activities of the Holy Spirit in me. I enjoy steady peace and tranquility. And I appreciate this very much. I also have joy and consolation in my heart most of the time. During the day, I experience light and guidance on numerous occasions. These light and guidance come to me as practical wisdom, telling me how to achieve certain results. When I follow the guidance, the consequence is always pleasing and I recognize the source of the idea.
The Holy Spirit also gives me a lot of encouragement when my mood is low. This he does through uplifting scripture passages or through exciting relevant happy memories of victories in similar situations in the past. There is also the gift of patience. This is one of the gifts I cherish very much in my present situation. Scriptures are given me on the need to be patient and biblical models of patience like Abraham are suggested to me. Christ also shows his love for me through answers to my prayers and provision of my daily needs.
Now Jesus is saying to me to do all the above for others. Am I able to do this? The crucial question is: am I willing to do it? Yes, Lord if you will supply the grace. In my daily interaction with people, I will try to be aware of the depth of Christ’s love for me and how he wants me to respond to this love. I will try to lighten people’s burden and not make them heavier. I will spread joy and peace and not sorrow. I will counsel patience and faith. I will do all these because this is how Jesus loves me. Help me Jesus.
“I give you a new commandment: love one another; just as I have loved you, you also must love one another. By this love you have for one another, everyone will know that you are my disciples.” (John 13: 34 – 35)
Jesus wants me to “love one another just as he has loved me.” So his love for me is the standard that I will use for others. It does presuppose that I know this standard. How does Jesus love me? How do I feel his love in my daily life?
I feel Christ’s presence and love through the activities of the Holy Spirit in me. I enjoy steady peace and tranquility. And I appreciate this very much. I also have joy and consolation in my heart most of the time. During the day, I experience light and guidance on numerous occasions. These light and guidance come to me as practical wisdom, telling me how to achieve certain results. When I follow the guidance, the consequence is always pleasing and I recognize the source of the idea.
The Holy Spirit also gives me a lot of encouragement when my mood is low. This he does through uplifting scripture passages or through exciting relevant happy memories of victories in similar situations in the past. There is also the gift of patience. This is one of the gifts I cherish very much in my present situation. Scriptures are given me on the need to be patient and biblical models of patience like Abraham are suggested to me. Christ also shows his love for me through answers to my prayers and provision of my daily needs.
Now Jesus is saying to me to do all the above for others. Am I able to do this? The crucial question is: am I willing to do it? Yes, Lord if you will supply the grace. In my daily interaction with people, I will try to be aware of the depth of Christ’s love for me and how he wants me to respond to this love. I will try to lighten people’s burden and not make them heavier. I will spread joy and peace and not sorrow. I will counsel patience and faith. I will do all these because this is how Jesus loves me. Help me Jesus.
Monday, February 20, 2006
Belief in the Light
Belief in the Light
“I, the light, have come into the world, so that whoever believes in me need not stay in the dark anymore.” (John 12; 46)
Christ is the light of the world. He spoke of faith in him as key to a relationship and benefit of the light. What does belief in Jesus mean to me today? When Christ spoke of belief in him to the people, how would the people listening to him understand him? They would understand him in the context of the scriptures as claiming to be the awaited Messiah. The scriptures had foretold the coming of the Messiah and shown his mission and end in some detail. The audience of Jesus could ask themselves: “What does the word of God say about the Christ? Does this man before us fulfill that brief?”
Belief in Jesus means belief in the word of God about him. For me today, that word is larger than what Christ’s audience knew. Christ has extended the word of God through the New Testament. I know more about Christ than his hearers in the first century. I have the New Testament. I also have the evidence of 2000 years of continuous witness to Jesus. Does this put my faith on fire? Lord Jesus, grant me a burning faith.
“I, the light, have come into the world, so that whoever believes in me need not stay in the dark anymore.” (John 12; 46)
Christ is the light of the world. He spoke of faith in him as key to a relationship and benefit of the light. What does belief in Jesus mean to me today? When Christ spoke of belief in him to the people, how would the people listening to him understand him? They would understand him in the context of the scriptures as claiming to be the awaited Messiah. The scriptures had foretold the coming of the Messiah and shown his mission and end in some detail. The audience of Jesus could ask themselves: “What does the word of God say about the Christ? Does this man before us fulfill that brief?”
Belief in Jesus means belief in the word of God about him. For me today, that word is larger than what Christ’s audience knew. Christ has extended the word of God through the New Testament. I know more about Christ than his hearers in the first century. I have the New Testament. I also have the evidence of 2000 years of continuous witness to Jesus. Does this put my faith on fire? Lord Jesus, grant me a burning faith.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Lifting up
Lifting up
“And when I am lifted up from the earth, I shall draw all men to myself.” (John 12: 32)
Christ promises to draw all men to himself when he is lifted up. His crucifixion, resurrection and ascension into heaven complete the work of salvation of mankind. This is the meaning of the “lifting up.”
It is Christ that draws me to himself. The attraction I have for him and my love for him are his gifts to me. When Christ was lifted up, he sent the Holy Spirit whose work is to draw all men to Christ.
The Pulpit Commentary writes that “Christ declared that the attraction of the cross would be mightier than all the fascination of the prince of this world.”
O Holy Spirit, draw us closer to Jesus. Amen.
“And when I am lifted up from the earth, I shall draw all men to myself.” (John 12: 32)
Christ promises to draw all men to himself when he is lifted up. His crucifixion, resurrection and ascension into heaven complete the work of salvation of mankind. This is the meaning of the “lifting up.”
It is Christ that draws me to himself. The attraction I have for him and my love for him are his gifts to me. When Christ was lifted up, he sent the Holy Spirit whose work is to draw all men to Christ.
The Pulpit Commentary writes that “Christ declared that the attraction of the cross would be mightier than all the fascination of the prince of this world.”
O Holy Spirit, draw us closer to Jesus. Amen.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
The Grain of Wheat
The Grain of Wheat
“I tell you, most solemnly, unless a wheat grain falls on the ground and dies, it remains a single grain; but if it dies, it yields a rich harvest. Anyone who loves his life loses it; anyone who hates his life in this world will keep it for the eternal life.” (John 12: 24 -25)
A grain of wheat must die before it can yield a rich harvest. We take this law of nature for granted. But when Jesus says that the same law of nature applies to me in the spiritual realm, I kick. I kick because I understand what he means. Dying is painful. Dying to my old self means abandoning totally my old world ideas on key areas of my life: family, health, money, job, tools, and food. Then I replace these ideas with Christ’s ideas. The Christ-centered new ideas will influence a new way of seeing things and a new way of behaving.
The process of dying and every kind of dying is very painful. “Anyone who loves his life loses it; anyone who hates his life in this world will keep it for the eternal life.”
Lord Jesus, thank you for your message. Help me to die to my old self. Show me how to do this in all things, big and small.
“I tell you, most solemnly, unless a wheat grain falls on the ground and dies, it remains a single grain; but if it dies, it yields a rich harvest. Anyone who loves his life loses it; anyone who hates his life in this world will keep it for the eternal life.” (John 12: 24 -25)
A grain of wheat must die before it can yield a rich harvest. We take this law of nature for granted. But when Jesus says that the same law of nature applies to me in the spiritual realm, I kick. I kick because I understand what he means. Dying is painful. Dying to my old self means abandoning totally my old world ideas on key areas of my life: family, health, money, job, tools, and food. Then I replace these ideas with Christ’s ideas. The Christ-centered new ideas will influence a new way of seeing things and a new way of behaving.
The process of dying and every kind of dying is very painful. “Anyone who loves his life loses it; anyone who hates his life in this world will keep it for the eternal life.”
Lord Jesus, thank you for your message. Help me to die to my old self. Show me how to do this in all things, big and small.
Friday, February 17, 2006
The Precious Ointment
The Precious Ointment
“Leave her alone; she had to keep this scent for the day of my burial. You have the poor with you always, you will not always have me.” (John 12: 7 – 8)
Jesus accepts an act of kindness from Mary. We note Mary’s generosity. She did not count the cost of the ointment. We know that it was a very expensive brand. Mary thinks simply that her Master and love merits it. Jesus shows his appreciation.
We too are called to a life of friendship and companionship with Jesus. Are you generous to Jesus? How do you show your generosity?
The first thing in friendship is time. Do you provide enough time to nourish your relationship with Jesus? True friendship offers everything: time, talent and treasure. Even life. “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15: 13)
“Leave her alone; she had to keep this scent for the day of my burial. You have the poor with you always, you will not always have me.” (John 12: 7 – 8)
Jesus accepts an act of kindness from Mary. We note Mary’s generosity. She did not count the cost of the ointment. We know that it was a very expensive brand. Mary thinks simply that her Master and love merits it. Jesus shows his appreciation.
We too are called to a life of friendship and companionship with Jesus. Are you generous to Jesus? How do you show your generosity?
The first thing in friendship is time. Do you provide enough time to nourish your relationship with Jesus? True friendship offers everything: time, talent and treasure. Even life. “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15: 13)
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Lazarus
Lazarus
“This sickness will end not in death but in God’s glory and through it the Son of God will be glorified.” (John 11:4)
“I am the resurrection. If anyone believes in me, even though he dies he will live, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11: 26)
“Have I not told you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?” (John 11: 40)
“Unbind him, let him go free.” (John 11: 44)
The raising of Lazarus to life presents us with so many lessons. Jesus wanted to use the occasion to reveal so many things about himself:
But not everyone was happy at the raising of Lazarus to life. For the enemies of Jesus, it was one further provocation to seek his quick elimination. Bear this lesson in mind in spiritual warfare. Do not be intimidated by the potential hostility of the enemy.
“This sickness will end not in death but in God’s glory and through it the Son of God will be glorified.” (John 11:4)
“I am the resurrection. If anyone believes in me, even though he dies he will live, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11: 26)
“Have I not told you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?” (John 11: 40)
“Unbind him, let him go free.” (John 11: 44)
The raising of Lazarus to life presents us with so many lessons. Jesus wanted to use the occasion to reveal so many things about himself:
- He has the power to raise to life and to maintain in life.
- He has the power to raise to spiritual life from the deadness of sin.
- Firm belief in Jesus triggers miracles.
But not everyone was happy at the raising of Lazarus to life. For the enemies of Jesus, it was one further provocation to seek his quick elimination. Bear this lesson in mind in spiritual warfare. Do not be intimidated by the potential hostility of the enemy.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Divine Filiation
Divine Filiation
“Is it not written in your Law: I said, you are gods? So the Law uses the word gods of those to whom the word of god is addressed, and scripture cannot be rejected.” (John 10; 34)
Two messages strike me in the above scripture:
God created man in his image and likeness. He addresses man by his word an adopts him as his son. What does it mean to be a son of God? From Jesus we know the following about God the Father:
What does it mean to be a son? From Jesus’ relationship to his Father, we can deduce the following:
Finally, Jesus strengthens our faith in scripture in John 10: 34 when he says, “Scripture cannot be rejected.”
“Is it not written in your Law: I said, you are gods? So the Law uses the word gods of those to whom the word of god is addressed, and scripture cannot be rejected.” (John 10; 34)
Two messages strike me in the above scripture:
- Our divine filiation
- The authority and power of sacred scripture.
God created man in his image and likeness. He addresses man by his word an adopts him as his son. What does it mean to be a son of God? From Jesus we know the following about God the Father:
- Our Father knows all that we need.
- Our Father cares for every detail of our life, even for a single hair.
- The compassion and mercy of the father of the prodigal son reflects that of God the Father.
- Father answers all our prayers.
What does it mean to be a son? From Jesus’ relationship to his Father, we can deduce the following:
- The Son trusts the Father completely.
- The Son is obedient to his Father.
- The Son is simple and humble.
- The Son is like a ‘mere child’ to his Father.
Finally, Jesus strengthens our faith in scripture in John 10: 34 when he says, “Scripture cannot be rejected.”
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
The Sheep that listens
The Sheep that listens
“The sheep that belong to me listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life; they will never be lost and no one will ever steal them from me. The Father who gave them to me is greater than anyone and no one can steal from the Father. The Father and I are one.” (John 10: 27 – 30)
Jesus describes the devil as a liar and a thief. The devil steals souls. What do I know about thieves? Their operations are covert and secretive and they survey their target with great care. The devil may be very clever but he cannot steal anyone that belongs to Jesus. Jesus promises that those who belong to him “will never be lost and no one will ever steal them from me.” What a message of hope. I belong to Jesus and I listen to him. If I truly listen to him and follow, I will never be lost.
February 14 is the feast day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, two brothers who listened and followed Jesus into missionary work. They evangelized parts of Europe in the 9th century. Pope John Paul II proclaimed them patron saints of Europe, along with St. Benedict, the abbot.
“The sheep that belong to me listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life; they will never be lost and no one will ever steal them from me. The Father who gave them to me is greater than anyone and no one can steal from the Father. The Father and I are one.” (John 10: 27 – 30)
Jesus describes the devil as a liar and a thief. The devil steals souls. What do I know about thieves? Their operations are covert and secretive and they survey their target with great care. The devil may be very clever but he cannot steal anyone that belongs to Jesus. Jesus promises that those who belong to him “will never be lost and no one will ever steal them from me.” What a message of hope. I belong to Jesus and I listen to him. If I truly listen to him and follow, I will never be lost.
February 14 is the feast day of Saints Cyril and Methodius, two brothers who listened and followed Jesus into missionary work. They evangelized parts of Europe in the 9th century. Pope John Paul II proclaimed them patron saints of Europe, along with St. Benedict, the abbot.
Monday, February 13, 2006
Eternal Life
Eternal Life
“I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full.” (John 10: 10)
In the face of anything that threatens life, we instinctively cling to it tightly. Every human being desires life and all of us would like to have it to the full. But when we look around, we see that this is not the case. Our house of clay makes it impossible for us to have this life to the full. Disease, poverty, ignorance and other physical limitations are the conditions of house of clay.
In the face of this reality, Jesus Christ promises: “I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full.” (John 10: 10) What does he mean by this seemingly incredible promise?
What is eternal life?
Why do we need eternal life?
Who gives eternal life?
How is eternal life given?
When is eternal life given?
Where is eternal life given?
We are made in the image and likeness of God, which means that we are essentially spiritual in nature. Eternal life is the proper life of the spirit. This is the life that enables me to live as a son of God in his image and likeness.
Jesus Christ gives eternal life. Through his death and resurrection, he was able to achieve this for us. Christ also gives us his Body and Blood which is the source of eternal life. The Holy Spirit living in the heart of every Christian assures us of the presence of this eternal life in us.
“I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full.” (John 10: 10)
In the face of anything that threatens life, we instinctively cling to it tightly. Every human being desires life and all of us would like to have it to the full. But when we look around, we see that this is not the case. Our house of clay makes it impossible for us to have this life to the full. Disease, poverty, ignorance and other physical limitations are the conditions of house of clay.
In the face of this reality, Jesus Christ promises: “I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full.” (John 10: 10) What does he mean by this seemingly incredible promise?
What is eternal life?
Why do we need eternal life?
Who gives eternal life?
How is eternal life given?
When is eternal life given?
Where is eternal life given?
We are made in the image and likeness of God, which means that we are essentially spiritual in nature. Eternal life is the proper life of the spirit. This is the life that enables me to live as a son of God in his image and likeness.
Jesus Christ gives eternal life. Through his death and resurrection, he was able to achieve this for us. Christ also gives us his Body and Blood which is the source of eternal life. The Holy Spirit living in the heart of every Christian assures us of the presence of this eternal life in us.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Yes I believe!
Yes, I believe!
“Do you believe in the Son of Man?” (John 9: 36)
Jesus asked the blind man whose sight he had restored this point blank question. Today, he asks me too this question. Many times a year he asks me this same question in this form: “Who do you say that I am?”
My answer is: “You are Jesus Christ, the Son of God and son of Mary. You are my Savior and Redeemer; you are my Lord and my God; you are my King and my Boss. You are my best Friend.”
The blind man in today’s scripture had a personal encounter with Jesus that made him believe in him and worship him. Have I got a personal experience of Jesus as my Savior and Redeemer, my best Friend and Companion? Jesus’ intervention in the life of the blind man gave birth to faith in him. What are the interventions of Jesus in my life that touched my faith?
In 1980, Jesus made a way for me to study in London when humanly speaking it was impossible.
In 1986, I was sent by Unilever to work in Paris. It was the Lord’s doing.
In 1991, I got a big promotion within Unilever and I recognized it at once as God’s work.
In 1995, the Lord touched me so deeply with the experience of the Holy Spirit.
The above experiences are just a few examples of faith experiences through which the Lord had touched me. God intervenes in our lives to save us from sin and evil. He intervenes also to strengthen our faith. Watch out for God’s intervention in your life everyday.
“Do you believe in the Son of Man?” (John 9: 36)
Jesus asked the blind man whose sight he had restored this point blank question. Today, he asks me too this question. Many times a year he asks me this same question in this form: “Who do you say that I am?”
My answer is: “You are Jesus Christ, the Son of God and son of Mary. You are my Savior and Redeemer; you are my Lord and my God; you are my King and my Boss. You are my best Friend.”
The blind man in today’s scripture had a personal encounter with Jesus that made him believe in him and worship him. Have I got a personal experience of Jesus as my Savior and Redeemer, my best Friend and Companion? Jesus’ intervention in the life of the blind man gave birth to faith in him. What are the interventions of Jesus in my life that touched my faith?
In 1980, Jesus made a way for me to study in London when humanly speaking it was impossible.
In 1986, I was sent by Unilever to work in Paris. It was the Lord’s doing.
In 1991, I got a big promotion within Unilever and I recognized it at once as God’s work.
In 1995, the Lord touched me so deeply with the experience of the Holy Spirit.
The above experiences are just a few examples of faith experiences through which the Lord had touched me. God intervenes in our lives to save us from sin and evil. He intervenes also to strengthen our faith. Watch out for God’s intervention in your life everyday.
Saturday, February 11, 2006
The Habit of Sin
The Habit of Sin
“I tell you most solemnly, everyone who commits sin is a slave. Now the slave’s place in the house is not assured, but the son’s place is assured. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8: 34 – 36)
Sin is slavery to passion, to self, food, drink, money, habit, etc. Every sin involves the law of compulsion. It is said: Sow a thought, you reap a word and sow a word and you reap a habit; sow a habit and you reap a character. Sow a character and you reap a destiny. The habit or slavery to sin does not happen all at once. The addiction to cocaine does not happen with the first sniff. The very first act sets the stage for the next one and the next one until the habit is formed. Then the law of compulsion takes over. At this point, the stuff says: “Hi, I am here, you must use me now.” And the addict can no longer say No.
Jesus says that he has come to set us free from this compulsion to act sinfully. When sin as alcohol says to me, “Come and drink me now.” I am free to respond: Christ said: “Man does not live by drink alone. There is life for him in every word that comes from the mouth of God.” For every temptation, there is a script (scripture) for it. We must become like good actors familiar with the appropriate response. The word of God makes us truly free because it exposes the lies and errors of the devil. Let the habit of eating the word of God everyday become second nature to us.
“I tell you most solemnly, everyone who commits sin is a slave. Now the slave’s place in the house is not assured, but the son’s place is assured. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8: 34 – 36)
Sin is slavery to passion, to self, food, drink, money, habit, etc. Every sin involves the law of compulsion. It is said: Sow a thought, you reap a word and sow a word and you reap a habit; sow a habit and you reap a character. Sow a character and you reap a destiny. The habit or slavery to sin does not happen all at once. The addiction to cocaine does not happen with the first sniff. The very first act sets the stage for the next one and the next one until the habit is formed. Then the law of compulsion takes over. At this point, the stuff says: “Hi, I am here, you must use me now.” And the addict can no longer say No.
Jesus says that he has come to set us free from this compulsion to act sinfully. When sin as alcohol says to me, “Come and drink me now.” I am free to respond: Christ said: “Man does not live by drink alone. There is life for him in every word that comes from the mouth of God.” For every temptation, there is a script (scripture) for it. We must become like good actors familiar with the appropriate response. The word of God makes us truly free because it exposes the lies and errors of the devil. Let the habit of eating the word of God everyday become second nature to us.
Friday, February 10, 2006
The Truth will make you Free
The Truth will make you Free
“If you make my word your home you will indeed be my disciples, you will learn the truth and the truth will make you free.” (John 8: 31)
To know Jesus, you must know his word. To know his word, you must read it, meditate on it again and again until you become very familiar with it. St. Jerome said that “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.” Christ’s word is truth. Jesus says of himself “I am the truth, the way and the life.” Jesus is the truth that Scripture reveals.
Truth comes as light to chase away error or darkness that is associated with sin, ignorance and death. When the veil of darkness is lifted, one sees the light, that is, the reality on any question, like: family, health, job, money, tools and food.
Jesus promises that knowledge of truth leads to freedom. Am I free in regard to family, health, job, money, tools and food? Not yet. But I trust completely in the word of God. I believe that I am being made free everyday. I do not understand how and I may not see much progress but I believe.
Lord Jesus, I thank you for your word. Thank you for the opportunity to read and reflect on your word. Lord heal me by your word and set me completely free by your word.
“If you make my word your home you will indeed be my disciples, you will learn the truth and the truth will make you free.” (John 8: 31) This is one scripture that can be put to test.
“If you make my word your home you will indeed be my disciples, you will learn the truth and the truth will make you free.” (John 8: 31)
To know Jesus, you must know his word. To know his word, you must read it, meditate on it again and again until you become very familiar with it. St. Jerome said that “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.” Christ’s word is truth. Jesus says of himself “I am the truth, the way and the life.” Jesus is the truth that Scripture reveals.
Truth comes as light to chase away error or darkness that is associated with sin, ignorance and death. When the veil of darkness is lifted, one sees the light, that is, the reality on any question, like: family, health, job, money, tools and food.
Jesus promises that knowledge of truth leads to freedom. Am I free in regard to family, health, job, money, tools and food? Not yet. But I trust completely in the word of God. I believe that I am being made free everyday. I do not understand how and I may not see much progress but I believe.
Lord Jesus, I thank you for your word. Thank you for the opportunity to read and reflect on your word. Lord heal me by your word and set me completely free by your word.
“If you make my word your home you will indeed be my disciples, you will learn the truth and the truth will make you free.” (John 8: 31) This is one scripture that can be put to test.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
10 Tricks of the Devil
My Top Ten Tricks of the Devil
"When he lies he is speaking true to his nature, because he is a liar, and the father of lies" (John 8:44)NJB
"Put on the full armour of God so as to be able to resist the devil's tricks." (Ephesians 6;11)
Falsehood is the most consistent attribute of the devil. Paul urged the Ephesians to put on the full armour in order to resist the tricks of satan. The Cure of Ars used to say, "The devil is a big dog on a chain, who threatens and makes a lot of noise but who only bites those who go too near to him" (Selected Sermons).
These are my top ten tricks of the devil:
1. We pray for miracles and events to happen and when they do, we fail to give God the full credit by dismissing them as coincidences.
2. Don't bother about the saints; they are dead.
3. The devil does not exist.
4. You don't have to belong to a Church to worship God.
5. Why pray since prayers are not answered.
6. All religions lead to heaven.
7. Jesus is not true God and true man.
8. It is impossible to keep on the straight path. Accept yourself as you are.
9. Why go to Church today, you can go next week. Why accept Jesus today, you can do it next year. Why tithe today, you can do it when you get a better job.
10. Be anxious about your job, health, money, family relationship and future.
"When he lies he is speaking true to his nature, because he is a liar, and the father of lies" (John 8:44)NJB
"Put on the full armour of God so as to be able to resist the devil's tricks." (Ephesians 6;11)
Falsehood is the most consistent attribute of the devil. Paul urged the Ephesians to put on the full armour in order to resist the tricks of satan. The Cure of Ars used to say, "The devil is a big dog on a chain, who threatens and makes a lot of noise but who only bites those who go too near to him" (Selected Sermons).
These are my top ten tricks of the devil:
1. We pray for miracles and events to happen and when they do, we fail to give God the full credit by dismissing them as coincidences.
2. Don't bother about the saints; they are dead.
3. The devil does not exist.
4. You don't have to belong to a Church to worship God.
5. Why pray since prayers are not answered.
6. All religions lead to heaven.
7. Jesus is not true God and true man.
8. It is impossible to keep on the straight path. Accept yourself as you are.
9. Why go to Church today, you can go next week. Why accept Jesus today, you can do it next year. Why tithe today, you can do it when you get a better job.
10. Be anxious about your job, health, money, family relationship and future.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
The Light of Jesus
The Light of Jesus
“I am the light of the world; anyone who follows me will not be walking in he dark; he will have light of life.” (John 8: 12)
Christ is the light of the world. He is the meaning of life; he is the explanation to all the questions about life and the world. How? Here are a few examples:
What is the meaning of family life? Ask Jesus.
How do I conduct myself in the family as a father, mother or child? Ask Jesus.
What is the purpose of family life? Ask Jesus.
What is man’s purpose on earth? Ask Christ.
What is the purpose of work? Ask Jesus.
What is the meaning of suffering and death? Ask Jesus.
What is the purpose of money? Ask Jesus.
For every question about life, Jesus has a point of view. His point of view is the light that should guide our thinking and behavior. If we follow Christ’s teaching on everything, we should never walk in the dark. We will be guided by the light of life.
“I am the light of the world; anyone who follows me will not be walking in he dark; he will have light of life.” (John 8: 12) This is God’s promise. It is true.
“I am the light of the world; anyone who follows me will not be walking in he dark; he will have light of life.” (John 8: 12)
Christ is the light of the world. He is the meaning of life; he is the explanation to all the questions about life and the world. How? Here are a few examples:
What is the meaning of family life? Ask Jesus.
How do I conduct myself in the family as a father, mother or child? Ask Jesus.
What is the purpose of family life? Ask Jesus.
What is man’s purpose on earth? Ask Christ.
What is the purpose of work? Ask Jesus.
What is the meaning of suffering and death? Ask Jesus.
What is the purpose of money? Ask Jesus.
For every question about life, Jesus has a point of view. His point of view is the light that should guide our thinking and behavior. If we follow Christ’s teaching on everything, we should never walk in the dark. We will be guided by the light of life.
“I am the light of the world; anyone who follows me will not be walking in he dark; he will have light of life.” (John 8: 12) This is God’s promise. It is true.
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit
“If any man is thirsty, let him come to me! Let the man comes and drinks who believes in me! As scripture says: From his breast shall flow fountains of living water.’ He was speaking of the Spirit which those who believed in him were to receive.” John 7: 38.
On the morning of June 19, 1996 when I read and commented on the above scripture, I woke up to find that thieves had broken into my living room and cleaned up everything. My reflection on the scripture written in my journal that day was more of prayer for guidance and wisdom than on any other thing. I recognized the promise of the Holy Spirit in John 7: 38 and I asked the Lord to minister to my bruised feelings through his Spirit.
Today, ten years after, I am amazed to note how “this also had passed away” as the saying goes. What happened on that day of June that seemed so large and unforgettable has after ten years become a tiny foot print in my walk on the shifting sand of life.
When I read John 7: 38 today, February 2006, what occurs to me immediately are two scriptures from the Old Testament, both from Isaiah:
“All you who are thirsty come to the water! You who have no money, come, receive grain and eat; come, without paying and without cost, drink wine and milk!” (Isaiah 55: 1)
“With joy you will draw water at the fountain of salvation, and say on that day: give thanks to the Lord, acclaim his name; among the nations make known his deeds, proclaim how exalted is his name.” (Isaiah 12: 3).
In both scriptures from Isaiah, we see clear pointer to the Holy Spirit, “which those who believed in him were to receive.” Thank you Jesus for the gift of the Holy Spirit. From my experience I have found that Christians from every denomination and background who may disagree on everything are all agreed on the Holy Spirit, his gifts and his operations.
“If any man is thirsty, let him come to me! Let the man comes and drinks who believes in me! As scripture says: From his breast shall flow fountains of living water.’ He was speaking of the Spirit which those who believed in him were to receive.” John 7: 38.
On the morning of June 19, 1996 when I read and commented on the above scripture, I woke up to find that thieves had broken into my living room and cleaned up everything. My reflection on the scripture written in my journal that day was more of prayer for guidance and wisdom than on any other thing. I recognized the promise of the Holy Spirit in John 7: 38 and I asked the Lord to minister to my bruised feelings through his Spirit.
Today, ten years after, I am amazed to note how “this also had passed away” as the saying goes. What happened on that day of June that seemed so large and unforgettable has after ten years become a tiny foot print in my walk on the shifting sand of life.
When I read John 7: 38 today, February 2006, what occurs to me immediately are two scriptures from the Old Testament, both from Isaiah:
“All you who are thirsty come to the water! You who have no money, come, receive grain and eat; come, without paying and without cost, drink wine and milk!” (Isaiah 55: 1)
“With joy you will draw water at the fountain of salvation, and say on that day: give thanks to the Lord, acclaim his name; among the nations make known his deeds, proclaim how exalted is his name.” (Isaiah 12: 3).
In both scriptures from Isaiah, we see clear pointer to the Holy Spirit, “which those who believed in him were to receive.” Thank you Jesus for the gift of the Holy Spirit. From my experience I have found that Christians from every denomination and background who may disagree on everything are all agreed on the Holy Spirit, his gifts and his operations.
Monday, February 06, 2006
The Right Time
The Right Time
“The right time for me has not come yet, but anytime is the right time for you.” (John 7: 6)
The cousins of Jesus asked him to manifest himself openly in Judaea and Jesus said that the right time for him to do so has not come. This reminds me of the concept of the two times: Chronos and Kairos. While chronos measures physical time – minutes, hours, days, weeks and years, kairos is God’s right time for any event. In the Scriptures, kairos is also indicated as the fullness of time. When we look at the life of Christ, we sense that he seemed to judge time as kairos instead of chronology. The world judges time chronologically but the saints do so in kairos.
We learn also from John 7: 6, that there is a time for everything. To succeed in anything, one must align himself with God’s timetable. How do we find out God’s time in any issue?
First, believe that God is in control of the event. Second, pray for light and guidance. Third, wait for God to speak. “Faith that is firm is also patient.” (Isaiah 28: 16) Lastly, “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2: 4)
The hardest part in this formula is to wait for God to speak. Surrender the problem and the time-table for the solution to God.
“The right time for me has not come yet, but anytime is the right time for you.” (John 7: 6)
The cousins of Jesus asked him to manifest himself openly in Judaea and Jesus said that the right time for him to do so has not come. This reminds me of the concept of the two times: Chronos and Kairos. While chronos measures physical time – minutes, hours, days, weeks and years, kairos is God’s right time for any event. In the Scriptures, kairos is also indicated as the fullness of time. When we look at the life of Christ, we sense that he seemed to judge time as kairos instead of chronology. The world judges time chronologically but the saints do so in kairos.
We learn also from John 7: 6, that there is a time for everything. To succeed in anything, one must align himself with God’s timetable. How do we find out God’s time in any issue?
First, believe that God is in control of the event. Second, pray for light and guidance. Third, wait for God to speak. “Faith that is firm is also patient.” (Isaiah 28: 16) Lastly, “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2: 4)
The hardest part in this formula is to wait for God to speak. Surrender the problem and the time-table for the solution to God.
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