Tag: Devotional

Scripture: Luke 10: 25-37

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

In the heart of Judea, a certain man set out on a perilous journey from Jerusalem to Jericho. The road was treacherous, winding through desolate terrain, fraught with danger. As fate would have it, he fell prey to ruthless robbers who stripped him, beat him, and left him for dead by the side of the road.

In the midst of this desolation, a priest passed by, a man of faith and spiritual standing. Yet, instead of stopping to aid the wounded traveler, he hurried past, too busy to lend a hand. Similarly, a Levite, a servant of the temple, continued on his way, ignoring the man’s desperate cries for help.

But then, a Samaritan, considered an outcast by society, came upon the wounded man. He didn’t see a stranger or an enemy; he saw a fellow human being in dire need. Moved by compassion, he tended to the man’s wounds, pouring oil and wine, and gently dressing them. He placed the injured traveler on his own donkey, taking him to an inn where he continued to care for him through the night.

The Good Samaritan’s actions teach us a profound lesson about compassion, selflessness, and the true essence of love. Jesus told this parable to emphasize the importance of loving our neighbors as ourselves. It’s easy to show kindness to those we know or who are like us, but true compassion transcends boundaries and prejudices.

The Good Samaritan reminds us that love and compassion should know no limits, no social, ethnic, or religious boundaries. It’s about seeing the needs of others and responding with a selfless heart. In a world often marred by division and indifference, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, to bridge the gaps that separate us and bring healing to the wounded.

As we reflect on the Good Samaritan’s story, may we examine our own hearts and attitudes. Are we too preoccupied with our own concerns to notice the needs of those around us? Are we willing to extend a helping hand to those who are different from us, to the wounded and hurting in our midst? Let us follow the example of the Good Samaritan and embrace the transformative power of love and compassion, for it is in these acts of kindness that we truly live out the teachings of our Savior.

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The Assurance of the Holy Spirit!

By Rev. Manual P Joseph Th.M

On 31 October 2023, Tuesday

In New Testament

Scripture: 1 John 3:24

“The one who keeps God’s commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: We know it by the Spirit he gave us.” (NIV)

In 1 John 3:24, the apostle John offers a profound insight into the intimate relationship between a believer and God. He tells us that by keeping God’s commandments, we abide in Him, and He in us. This is a beautiful expression of the bond we share with our Creator, one built on love, trust, and obedience.

To abide in God means to dwell in His presence, to experience His peace, and to enjoy the blessings of a life rooted in Him. This is not a fleeting connection but a deep and lasting relationship. We become partakers of His nature, sharing in His love, grace, and righteousness.

However, the verse also reminds us that God abides in us, and this is where we find assurance. The Holy Spirit, whom God has given us, serves as the divine seal of His presence within us. When we receive Christ as our Savior and Lord, the Holy Spirit takes up residence in our hearts. He empowers us, guides us, and assures us of God’s abiding presence.

This assurance is vital for the Christian journey. In a world filled with uncertainty and challenges, we can have confidence in our relationship with God. The Holy Spirit acts as a witness to the reality of God’s dwelling within us. He testifies to the truth of God’s promises and His unchanging love.

As we strive to keep God’s commandments and walk in obedience, we continually reinforce our connection with Him. Our love for Him is demonstrated through our willingness to follow His Word. This obedience is not burdensome but liberating, as it leads to a deeper, more meaningful relationship with our Heavenly Father.

In times of doubt or difficulty, we can turn to the Holy Spirit for reassurance. His presence within us reminds us that we are never alone. God is with us, guiding, comforting, and empowering us to live a life that reflects His love and glory.

Let us, therefore, take comfort in the assurance provided by the Holy Spirit. Let us seek to keep God’s commandments out of love for Him, knowing that as we do so, we abide in God, and He abides in us. May this truth be a source of strength, hope, and unwavering faith in our Christian journey.

God’s plan is the best!

By Rev. Manual P Joseph Th.M

On 29 October 2023, Sunday

In Biblical

Scripture: Luke 19: 1-10

…..He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.”……

In our journey through life, we often find ourselves eagerly seeking something more. Like the curious short man, Zachaeus, we yearn for a deeper meaning, a purpose that goes beyond the mundane. Little did he know that the best plan of his life would unfold that very day, forever changing the course of his destiny.

Zachaeus had heard the stories about Jesus, the Messiah who touched hearts and transformed lives. His desire to catch a glimpse of this remarkable man was insatiable. So, he devised what he believed to be his best plan: to climb a sycamore tree, hoping for a fleeting moment with the Savior as He passed through town.

But God’s plan was far more remarkable than Zachaeus could have ever imagined. Without his knowledge, that very night was divinely orchestrated with Zachaeus at the center. God, in His infinite wisdom and love, had seen the longing in Zachaeus’ heart and had a profound encounter in store for him.

How often do we craft our own plans, strategizing and striving to achieve our desires? Yet, amidst our earnest efforts, we may miss the beauty of God’s perfect timing and purpose. The story of Zachaeus reminds us that when we surrender our plans to the Almighty, something extraordinary happens. As we wait upon Him, our aspirations align with His divine will, and our lives are transformed.

God’s timing is impeccable. He knows precisely when to reveal His blessings and orchestrates events to bless us beyond measure. When Zachaeus climbed that tree, he could not have foreseen the Savior’s intention to dine at his house that very evening. In the same way, God’s plan for us is often beyond our comprehension, but it is always filled with grace, mercy, and love.

Let us learn from Zachaeus’ experience and trust in the sovereignty of God. As we offer our hopes and dreams at His feet, He will guide us along the path He has prepared for us. The road may be uncertain at times, but our faith in Him becomes the compass that leads us through life’s twists and turns.
Today, let us pause and reflect on our plans and desires. Are we willing to release them into God’s hands, knowing that His plan for us is always far better than we could imagine? As we walk in faith, we find solace in His promises and assurance that He will never forsake us.

So, dear friend, remember Zachaeus’ encounter with the Savior. Embrace God’s perfect plan with an open heart, knowing that when we seek Him, we shall find Him. In the moments of waiting and anticipation, let us find peace in the knowledge that God is working all things together for our good. May we commit our plans to Him and rejoice in His unfailing love as we embark on this journey of faith, hand in hand with the One who knows us best and loves us most.

Daily Devotions from the Bible!