Reflections

  Entering the New Year with Hope in God Bible Reading: St. Matthew 7:7-12 Key Verse: “ Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." (St. Matt. 7:7,8) DEVOTION We have come to the last day of one more year in our lives. Sermon on the Mount gives thoughts of par excellence where Jesus embodied himself as a great teacher. And the given text is from the sermon on the mount (Matt. 7:7-12). We see a progressive intensity, going from ask to seek to knock. Jesus told us to have intensity, passion, and persistence in prayer. In this three-fold description of prayer as asking, seeking, and knocking we see different aspects of prayer and different aspects of its reward. Prayer is like asking in that we simply make our requests known to God, and everyone who asks receives. Receiving is the reward of asking. Prayer is like see...

  Ebenezer: God’s Help Thus Far Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 7:1-12 Key Verse:   "Thus far the LORD has helped us" (1 Sam.7:12). DEVOTION 1 Samuel 7 recounts the Israelites’ repentance under Samuel’s leadership, abandoning idolatry and restoring the Ark of the Covenant to Kiriath-Jearim. Facing an imminent attack by the Philistines, they cried out to God, who delivered them through divine intervention. In gratitude, Samuel set up a stone named Ebenezer, signifying God’s help and faithfulness. The chapter portrays Israel as a fractured community compromised by idolatry and external influences. Samuel’s call to repentance highlights the power of moral accountability and the need to return to foundational principles of truth, justice, and faith. This leadership offers a model for modern communities grappling with division, corruption, or systemic injustice. Israel’s victory underscores that ultimate power and justice come from God, not human institutions. Societies facing oppression ...

  God who led us till now Bible Reading: St. Matthew 11:25-30 Key Verse:   Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (Mt.  11:28 ) DEVOTION A blessed year 2024 is coming to a close. Like every year, it has been filled with pain, happiness, tragedy, natural disasters, financial struggles, and the loss of loved ones. Yet, if we reflect on the whole year, we can see that God has been good to us, caring for us in our most difficult moments. The poem "Footprints in the Sand," reminds that during our tough times in life, God would hold us in His mighty hands.     The unknown poet wrote:   “One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Scenes from my life flashed across the sky. In each, I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints; other times there was only one. During the low periods of my life, I could see only one set of footprints, so I said, “You promised me, Lord,...

  God’s Love: An Unshakeable Foundation Bible Reading:  Romans 8:31-39 Key Verse:   For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom.  8:39 ) DEVOTION Romans 8:31-39 reveals a profound truth: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” Paul’s question emphasizes the unmatched power, glory, and majesty of God. There is nothing in existence that God cannot overcome. Yet, the foundation of His greatness is His love; a love so vast it surpasses human understanding. This love sustains us through grace, mercy, and redemption. We live and look to eternity because of it. God’s love is the unshakable foundation upon which we build our lives. Despite challenges or uncertainties, His love remains steadfast and victorious. Paul highlights this through Christ...

  Chosen, Sanctified, Firm in Faith Bible Reading: 2 Thess.  2:13-15 Key Verse:   Brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teaching we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. (2 nd Thess.  2:15 ) DEVOTION In 2 nd  Thessalonian  2:13-15 , Paul reminds the Thessalonians of their identity in Christ. This passage reminds the absolute truth that we are chosen by God, consecrated by the spirit and stand firm in faith. God’s choice is not based on anything we have done but on His everlasting love and grace. Sanctification is not just a one-time event but an ongoing work of the spirit in transforming believers into the image of Christ. This reality humbles us and fills us with gratefulness. It convinces us that our salvation is secured in Christ Jesus and rooted up in His divine purpose and plan. This is grounded in their firm faith and the truth of the Gospel, which secures their salvation. Paul reminds that, from the b...

  Christ’s Birth brings True Freedom Bible Reading:  Galatians 4:1-7   Key Verse:   But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. (Galatians 4: 4-5) DEVOTION God saw the condition of his creation in bondage under the law of justification for salvation. So, when the time had come, God sent his one and only son Jesus to be born into this world, to redeem us from the curse of that law. This demonstrates the unconditional love of our heavenly father towards his creation. John 3:16 clearly describes our Abba father’s love, “For God so loved the world that he gave, his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life”. Jesus purchased us out from the law and the slavery of sin through his blood. Jesus didn’t stop there instead through his death he gave us the “title of sonship” – a title that is ...

  Proclamation of Peace and Joy Bible Reading:  St. Luke 2:8-14 Key Verse:  “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14) DEVOTION On Christmas day, families around the world eagerly indulge in joyful reunions. However, amidst the festive gatherings, it’s essential to pause and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. The proclamation of the good news by the angels reminds us of three main things: God reveals Himself through the marginalized: The shepherds were a poor, lowly class of people. It is likely that they were minding the lambs used for temple sacrifices. How ironic then that those charged with the responsibility of caring and rearing the blemish free sacrificial lambs, are amongst the first to whom the birth of the one true Lamb of the world, who takes away the sin of the world, is revealed.  They are the first to be told that the Messiah, who Israel had been waiting for over 400 years for, was final...

  Christ’s humility brings true peace Bible Reading:  Philippians 2:5-11 Key Verse:  “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name.” (Phil. 2:9) DEVOTION The letter to the Philippians is one of the authentic epistles in the Bible authored by Paul. In this epistle, Paul pours out his heart into words and genuinely exhorts people of Philippians to be Christ-like and urges them to always carry His attributes. Phil 2: 5-11 is said to be one of the pure jewels in the New Testament. It’s depth and beauty are beyond human comprehension.  Christ abandoned his sovereign position, came down from heaven, emptied himself on the cross and lost his life to give us eternal life. He was exalted into heaven and was given the name above all names.  Be Christ-like (v 2:5):  Paul is urging us to possess all the attributes of Jesus Christ. Paul does not call on individuals to imitate Christ in the privacy of their prayer clo...

  The Ruler Brings Eternal Peace Bible Reading:  Micah 5:1-9 Key Verse:  “Your hand will be lifted up in triumph over your enemies and all your foes will be destroyed.” (Micah 5::9) DEVOTION The prophet Micah foretells the fall of Israel and the capture of King Zedekiah by Babylon. He highlights Bethlehem Ephrathah, within Judah's territory, as the birthplace of both King David and, later, Jesus Christ. Through the phrase “from of old, from everlasting,” Micah emphasizes the eternal nature of God manifested in the incarnation of Jesus. Before the Messiah’s arrival, Micah prophesies a period of suffering and hardship for Israel. However, with the Messiah’s coming, there will be restoration—both for the gentiles and for Israel—bringing them back to the Lord. The Messiah is described as a bringer of peace, ensuring victory over enemies like Assyria and Nimrod. Israel is depicted as both a blessing, like dew from the Lord, and a force to be reckoned with, like a lion ins...

  The Ruler Brings Eternal Peace Bible Reading:  Micah 5:1-9 Key Verse:  “Your hand will be lifted up in triumph over your enemies and all your foes will be destroyed.” (Micah 5::9) DEVOTION The prophet Micah foretells the fall of Israel and the capture of King Zedekiah by Babylon. He highlights Bethlehem Ephrathah, within Judah's territory, as the birthplace of both King David and, later, Jesus Christ. Through the phrase “from of old, from everlasting,” Micah emphasizes the eternal nature of God manifested in the incarnation of Jesus. Before the Messiah’s arrival, Micah prophesies a period of suffering and hardship for Israel. However, with the Messiah’s coming, there will be restoration—both for the gentiles and for Israel—bringing them back to the Lord. The Messiah is described as a bringer of peace, ensuring victory over enemies like Assyria and Nimrod. Israel is depicted as both a blessing, like dew from the Lord, and a force to be reckoned with, like a lion ins...

  Arrival of the Savior of the World Bible Reading:  St. John 1:9-14 Key Verse:  “The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” (St John 1:9) DEVOTION Light is used in the Bible as a symbol of life, knowledge and goodness. A key aspect of Christ’s nature that John highlights is that He is the bearer of light. Jesus brings the revelation of God’s life and light into a dark world. We are reminded that Jesus is the true light and this light is not limited but shined to the whole world. Jesus is the true light of God for those who partake of his salvation. When we receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, He makes God’s light shine in our hearts so we can know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. Those who trust in Jesus and believe in the light become children of light. As children of the light, we are called to bring his salvation to the ends of the earth. Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your ...

  Mar Thoma Church Day Bible Reading:  St. John  11:13-16 Key Verse:  Thomas said …, "Let us also go, that we may die with him." (John 11: 16) DEVOTION The liturgical calendar (lectionary) of the Mar Thoma Church observes December 21st as Mar Thoma Church Day (Sabha Dhinam). According to church tradition, it's believed that the Apostle St. Thomas brought the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the Malabar Coast of Kerala, India, in the first century (52 AD). Today's scripture passage focuses on the faith response of St. Thomas.   In this passage, Jesus is informed that his beloved friend Lazarus is sick. He intentionally waits with the disciples for two days before returning to him. The disciples encourage Jesus not to go to Lazarus, fearing that he will be killed. Jesus and His disciples had just fled Jerusalem because they were going to be stoned to death. Christ proclaimed to be God- in Truth- causing the Jews to come against Him with stones (St. John 10:30), their dea...

  Discipleship - Readiness to Die with Christ Bible Reading:   2 Corinthians 6:3-10 Key Verse:  “Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses.” 2 Cor. 6:4 DEVOTION What does it mean to truly follow Christ? The answer could be to give everything we are and have to Him. But then we must ask ourselves - Does our life of discipleship merely serve as an example of endurance, or does it clearly proclaim the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? In 2 Cor. 6:3-10, Paul outlines the paradoxes of Christian discipleship. He writes that he is “dying, and yet we live” and “sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.” His life demonstrates that following Christ means being ready to endure suffering, misunderstanding, and even death.   Discipleship is not just a call to endure life’s challenges with patience. It is a call to reflect Christ through those very challenges. Every trial faced becomes an opportunity t...

  Repent for Promised Restoration Bible Reading:   Acts  3:19-23 Key Verse:  Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. Acts  3:19 DEVOTION As Christians, we are promised restoration because of the grace of God and his crucifixion. Ephesians 2:8 states, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God”. We have a God that cares for us, that loves us, and by having faith in Him, we are saved. But what is faith when not accompanied by deeds? James  2:18-19 , “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that - and shudder”. God calls us to have faith in him, and faith in itself requires not only believing in Him, but also acting in Him.   We, as Christians, are called to repent, and then turn to God so that our sins may b...

  Christ Our Peace Maker Bible Reading:   Ephesians 2:4-18   Key Verse:  “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility…” Eph.  2:14 DEVOTION As Christians who are walking in our faith journey, we are brought into various seasons of our lives where we may face adversity. These seasons are unpredictable. One minute everything is good, but the next moment your faith is being tested. We don't know when these seasons will arise in our lives, but in the midst of our trials we have easy access to peace. Our peace comes from Jesus Christ. He provides a peace that covers all understanding. It is something that mere human beings are unable to understand. But that is the beauty of God! He works in ways beyond our comprehension to orchestrate all things for His glory. Paul describes peace as being one with our brothers and sisters in Christ. For many of us, this is hard. There are often barri...

  The Righteous Branch Reigns Bible Reading:  Isaiah 11:1-5 Key Verse:  “The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him – the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord…” Isaiah 11:2: DEVOTION We see this uplifting passage as written for a people and a nation in conflict. Our world is always in a state of conflict - political, social, economic and so forth. Peace seems to be elusive in both personal and public life. If there is peace, it is but a brief prelude to conflict. However, the promise of this passage is of one who will possess a divine balance that will foster peace – something that is foundational to a just society and highly sought after by many leaders and governments of the world, but that is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to actually realize. This descendant of Jesse, and hence of King David, will possess wisdom, understanding, counsel, knowledge, faithfulness and fear of th...

  Christ: Son and King Bible Reading:  Hebrews 1: 5-9 Key Verse: “Your Throne, O God, will last forever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.” - Hebrews 1:8  DEVOTION In Hebrews 1:5-9, we are reminded of the unique identity of Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the eternal King. This passage sets Jesus apart from the angels, declaring His divine sonship and supreme authority. Unlike angels, who serve as messengers, Jesus is exalted as the radiance of God’s glory, ruling with justice and righteousness. These angels worship Him, thus proving His divine authority. Although Christ is fully God, He is also distinct from the Father. When God brings His only Son into the world, He is to be worshiped. The throne of Christ is eternal, and His kingdom is marked by righteousness. In verse 9, we read: "You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy." This ...

  Joseph’s Obedience & Courage in Response Bible Reading:  Mathew  1:18-23 Key Verse :Matthew 1:22  “All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophets” DEVOTION The promises of the Lord are everlasting. A Christian can bank on the Lord’s words in all situations and under all circumstances. Psalm 119 : 96 reads I have seen a limit to all perfection but your commandment is exceedingly broad.  This advent season we are again reminded of the faithfulness of the Lord of the old Testament incarnated to bring redemption to us sinners. This Christmas as we sing carols and decorate the trees let us think about a character in the whole celebration Joseph. Just imagine the ridicules he might have faced when he decided to support a pregnant Mary. What courage of conviction and compassion must Joseph have had to endure all the snide comments and whisperings! Unconditional faith and acceptance of the instructions from the angel of t...

  Following the Call to Obedience & Service Bible Reading:  1 Thess.  5:12-22 Key Verse :“…always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.” 1Thess.5:15 DEVOTION In his epistle to the Thessalonians, St. Paul expresses heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering faith and encourages them to embody love, resilience, and mutual support as they face life's challenges. Specifically, in 1 Thessalonians  5:12-22 , Paul underscores the significance of living out Kingdom values, particularly in the realms of community and service. Call to Kingdom Values : Paul's message urges believers to be an alternate community that reflects Christ’s teachings, particularly through acts of kindness and compassion. He draws parallels with the Good Samaritan, highlighting the need to re-evaluate how we perceive those on the margins of society. This involves taking time to understand and support those who are downtrodden, embodying a spirit of sacrificial love similar t...

  The Path of Virtue & Discipleship Bible Reading:   II Peter 1:5-11 Key Verse :For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love -  II Peter 1:5-7 DEVOTION Path of virtue is essential for true discipleship.  The passage calls us to make every effort to add certain virtues to our faith and provides an assurance that such a life leads to spiritual and fruitful relationship with God.  The path of virtue involves a commitment to growing in goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, and love.  A true disciple does not merely believe in Jesus but actively reflects Him through a transformed life marked by these virtues.  If a person lacks these qualities, they are described as “nearsighted and blind” havi...

   The sign of Emmanuel: Trusting in God’s Promises Bible Reading:   Isaiah  7:10-17 Key Verse “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”  Is  7:14 DEVOTION Of all the prophesies in the Old Testament regarding Jesus’s birth, none is as specific as the one given through the prophet Isaiah around 700 years before it came to pass. Looking at the background of the story, it was given to King Ahaz of Judah during a time of great crisis. While in conflict with the neighboring kingdoms, God graciously offers him protection from his enemies.  He refuses to trust in God’s deliverence and therefore God gives him this great sign of the coming Messiah. Signs are an integral part of our everyday life. Road signs takes us to our destination, weather signs tells us the upcoming season, and there are even audio signs which informs or warns us. They always points us to a certain ...

Trust in the Lord: Journey of Faith & Obedience Bible Reading:   Proverbs 3:5-6 Key Verse  In all your ways submit to him,  and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs3:6) DEVOTION When we talk about Faith and Obedience the first example that comes to our mind is that of Abraham; known as the father of believers and obedience. God did not spare Abraham from the test; He tested the faith and obedience of Abraham; and when God saw the extent of Abraham’s obedience told him, ‘’Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything unto him; for now  I know that thou fearest God’’.  The Bible has the story of prophet Job, who also was put to many severe tests. God allowed satan test Job by taking away his wealth, children and health. Prophet Job suffered so much that his family members told him to leave his faith in God and also asked him to reject God. Job lost everything but he refused to curse God. The story of Job tells us how to respond to suffer...