பியூரோசியா பிறந்தநாள் வாழ்த்து.
முத்து போல் பேசுவதில்
நீ முத்து
பாசமாக பழகுவதில்
நீ பவழம்
ஒளியாய் மின்னுவதில்
நீ வைரம்
வைராக்கிய வாழ்வில்
நீ வைடூரியம்
மனித நேசிப்பில்
நீ மாணிக்கம்
புதுமை படைப்பதில்
நீ புஷ்பராகம்
நீளமான பக்தியில்
நீ நீலம்
இறை கோட்பாட்டில்
நீ கோமேதகம்
மாண்பு டன் கல்வியில்
நீ மரகதம்
உன்னை வாழ்த்துகிறேன்
வாழியவே பல்லாண்டு💐💐💐
Puzhavar Ravi
*உடலின் மொழி..!*
*நமக்கு நாமே மருத்துவர்..!*
கிடைத்தற்கரிய கொடையான நமது உடல் ஒரு முறை கெட்டுவிட்டால் சீர்செய்யவே இயலாது. உடலை கெடாமல் பாதுகாப்பது ஒன்றே மிகவும் எளிய வழியாகும்.
1. The *STOMACH*
is injured when
you do not have
breakfast in the
morning.
காலைச் சிற்றுண்டி உண்ணாவிட்டால் நமது இரைப்பை பாதிப்புறும்.
2. The *KIDNEYS*
are injured when
you do not even
drink 10 glasses
of water in 24
hours.
தினசரி 2 லிட்டர் தண்ணீர் பருகாவிட்டால் நமது சிறுநீரகங்கள் பாதிக்கப்படும்.
3. *GALLBLADDR*
is injured when
you do not even
sleep until 11
o'clock and do not
wake up to the
sunrise.
இரவு 11 மணிக்குமேல் விழித்திருந்தாலும் காலை சூரிய உதயத்திற்குள் விழிக்காவிட்டாலும் நமது பித்தப்பை பாதிப்புறும்.
4. The *SMALL*
*INTESTINE* is
injured when you
eat cold and stale
food.
மிகவும் குளிர்ந்த மற்றும் பழைய கெட்டுப்போகும் தருவாயில் இருக்கும் உணவை உண்பது நமது சிறுகுடலுக்குத் தீங்கு.
5. The *LARGE*
*INTESTINES* are
injured when you
eat more fried
and spicy food.
அதிக அளவில் பொரித்த உணவு மற்றும் அதிக காரம் நமது பெருங்குடலுக்குக் கேடு.
6. The *LUNGS* are
injured when you
breathe in smoke
and stay in
polluted
environment of
cigarettes.
புகை மற்றும் சிகரெட் புகை சூழ்ந்துள்ள இடத்தில் சுவாசிப்பது நமது நுரையீரல்களைக் கெடுக்கும்.
7. The *LIVER* is
injured when you
eat heavy fried
food, junk, and
fast food.
துரித உணவு, அதிகநேரம் எண்ணெயில் வறுக்கப்பட்ட உணவு முதலியன நமது கல்லீரலுக்குக் கேடு.
8. The *HEART* is
injured when you
eat your meal with
more salt and
cholesterol.
அதிக உப்பும் அதிக கொழுப்பும் இதயத்தை வெகுவாகப் பாதிக்கும்.
9. The *PANCREAS*
is injured when
you eat sweet
things because
they are tasty and
freely available.
அதிக இனிப்பு நமது கணையத்தைச் சேதப்படுத்தும்.
10. The *Eyes* are
injured when you
work in the light
of mobile phone
and computer
screen in the
dark.
இருளில் செல்போன் மற்றும் கணிணியில் வேலை செய்வது கண்களுக்குக் கெடுதல் விளைவிக்கும்.
11. The *Brain* is
injured when you
start thinking
negative
thoughts.
எதிர்மறை எண்ணங்கள் நமது மூளையைப் பாதிக்கும்.
12. The *SOUL* gets
injured when you
don't have family
and friends to
care and share
with you in life
their love,
affection,
happiness,
sorrow and joy.
நமது குடும்பம், நட்பு, உற்றார், உறவினர்களின் அன்பும் அனுசரணையும், பராமரிப்பும் இல்லையெனில் நமது உயிருக்கு நன்றன்று.
*All these body parts are NOT available in the market.*
*நமது எந்த உள்ளுறுப்பும் சந்தையில் கிடைக்காது.*
So take good care and keep your body parts healthy. எனவே நல்ல கவனத்துடன் உடற்பயிற்சியையும் நாள்தோறும் தவறாது செய்து நமது உள்ளுறுப்புகளைப் பாதுகாப்போம்.
EFFECTS OF WATER
தண்ணீரின் அவசியம்.
💐 We Know Water is
important but never
knew about the
Special Times one
has to drink it.. !!
தண்ணீரின் முக்கியத்துவம் நமக்குத் தெரிந்திருப்பினும் எப்போது எவ்வளவு தண்ணீர் அருந்த வேண்டும் என்ற விபரங்கள் தெரியாமல்தான் இருக்கின்றோம்.
Did you??? உங்களுக்குத் தெரியுமா???
💦 Drinking Water at the
Right Time ⏰
Maximizes its
effectiveness on the
Human Body;
சரியான நேரத்தில் தண்ணீர் அருந்துவது நமது உடலின் பல பாகங்களையும் செவ்வனே செயல்பட வைக்கிறது.
1⃣ 1 Glass of Water
after waking up -
🕕⛅ helps to
activate internal
organs..
காலை எழுந்தவுடன் 350 மிலி தண்ணீர் அருந்துவது நமது உள்ளுறுப்புகள் அனைத்தையும் ஊக்குவிக்கும்.
2⃣ 1 Glass of Water
30 Minutes 🕧
before a Meal -
helps digestion..
உணவுக்கு 30 நிமிடம் முன்பு 300 மிலி தண்ணீர் பருகுவது செரிமானத்துக்கு நல்லது.
3⃣ 1 Glass of Water
before taking a
Bath 🚿 - helps
lower your blood
pressure.
குளிப்பதற்கு முன்னர் ஒரு டம்ளர் தண்ணீர் குடிப்பது இரத்த அழுத்தத்தைக் குறைக்கும்.
4⃣ 1 Glass of Water
before going to
Bed - 🕙 avoids
Stroke or Heart
Attack.
இரவு படுக்கும் முன்னர் ஒரு டம்ளர் தண்ணீர் பருகுவது மாரடைப்பு, பக்கவாதம் இவற்றிலிருந்து பாதுகாக்கும்.
'When someone
shares something of
value with you and
you benefit from it,
You have a moral
obligation to share it
with others too.'
So..., DO yours!..
*யாராவது நமக்கு ஏதாவது நன்மை தரும் செய்தியை பகிர்ந்து, அதனால் நாம் பலனடைந்தால் அத் தகவலை மற்றவர்களுக்கும் பகிருவது நமது தார்மீகப் பொறுப்பாகும். எனவே தாங்களும் உங்களது பங்கினை செய்யுமாறு கேட்டுக்கொள்கிறேன்.*
*ஆரோக்ய வாழ்வுக்கு பாரம்பரிய வாழ்க்கை முறை அவசியம் என்பதை அனைவருக்கும் தெரியப்படுத்தி ஆரோக்ய பாரதத்தை உறுவாக்குவோம்*
From the book Rich DAD Poor DAD, by Robert Kiyosaki
1. Don’t work for money:
Rich don’t work for money. If you work for money, your mind will start thinking like an employee. If you start thinking differently like a rich man, you will see things differently. Rich works on their asset column, every dollar in their asset column is their hard-working employee.
2. Don’t be controlled by emotions:
Some people’s lives are always controlled by the two emotions of fear and greed. Fear keeps people in this trap of working hard, earning money, working hard, earning money, and hoping that it will reduce their fear. Secondly, most of us have the greed to get rich quickly. Yes, many people become rich overnight, but they have no financial education. So educate yourself and don’t be greedy or fearful.
3. Acquire assets:
Don’t buy liabilities on your way to financial freedom. People buy liabilities and think these are assets, but they are not. Many people buy luxuries first, like big cars, heavy bikes, or big houses to live in. But the rich buy assets and their assets buy luxuries. The rich buy houses and rent them, and they pay them for their Lamborghinis. The poor or middle class buy luxuries first, and the rich buy luxuries last.
4. Remember the KISS principle:
KISS stands for keeping it simple, and stupid. Don’t be too overloaded your mind when you are going to start your way to financial freedom. Things are simple and keep them simple. The simple thing to remember is assets put money in pocket and liabilities take money out of pocket. Always buy assets so they put money into your pocket.
5. Know the difference between assets and liabilities:
Assets are anything that puts money in your pocket, like stocks, bonds, real estate, mutual funds, rental properties, etc. Liabilities are anything that pulls money out of your pocket, like your house, your car, debt, etc. People think their home is their biggest asset, but it is not. A house is an asset when it generates money like when you rent a house, it generates money, and when your life in that house becomes a liability.
6. Don’t be a financial illiterate:
A person can be highly educated and become successful in their profession, but financially illiterate. Financial education is very important for any individual. Our schools and colleges did not teach us financial education. Many financial problems arise as a result of a lack of financial education. Start learning financial education and I suggest you read the book "Rich Dad, Poor Dad".
7. Increase your Wealth:
Wealth is defined as a person's ability to survive for a certain number of days in the future, or how long they could survive if they stopped working today. Consider your wealth and whether you would survive if you stopped working today for a year.
8. Mind your own business:
If you have a job, keep your job and start a part-time business and work it. Use the time that you spend on your iPhone, parties, or any other activity, to build your business. Never leave your job until you build your own business. Don’t struggle all of your life for someone else. Start your own business and grow your business.
9. Train your mind:
Your biggest asset is your mind. Many individuals watch opportunities with their eyes, but if you train your mind, you can see opportunities with your mind. If you train your mind well, it can create enormous wealth.
10. Learn technical skills:
Your financial IQ will be raised by learning these four technical skills:
Accounting is defined as the ability to read numbers. If you want to build an empire, then this is an essential skill. By learning this skill, you will be able to understand the strengths and weaknesses of a business.
Investing: It is the science of making money.
Understanding markets: It is the science of supply and demand.
The Law: A person who knows the law of tax advantages and corporations can get rich faster than others.
11. Find opportunities that everyone else missed:
"Great opportunities are not seen with your eyes. They are seen with your mind. "
You can see many more opportunities with your mind than many people miss with their eyes. It is not rocket science, you just need to train your mind.
12. Learn to manage risk:
Investment is not risky, not knowing the investment is risky. If you want to reduce the risk, then increase your knowledge. This knowledge will not come by going to college, it will come by reading books or sitting with people who know the investment.
13. Learn management:
The main management skills are:
Management of cash flow
Management of system
Management of people
Sales and marketing are the most essential skills. The ability to sell and the ability to communicate with another human being, be it a customer, employee, fiancé, friend, or child, is a basic skill of personal success.
14. Manage fear:
“Failure inspires winners. Failure defeats losers.”
Everyone has a fear of losing money.
#CashFlow #finance #richdad #assets #liabilities #successmindset
These Beautiful lines by Robert Drake are worth many a repeat…
*Sometimes,*
I feel I want to go back in time...
_Not to change Things_, but to feel a couple of things twice..
*Sometimes,*
I wish I was a Baby for a while...
_Not to be walked in the pram_ but to see my Mother's smile
*Sometimes,*
I wish I could go back to school...
_Not to become a Child_ but to spend more time with those friends, I never met after school..
*Sometimes,*
I wish I could be back in college...
_Not to be a Rebel_ but to really understand what I studied
*Sometimes,*
I wish I was a Fresher at my work...
_Not to do less Work_ but to recall the joy of the first pay cheque.
*Sometimes,*
I wish my kids were younger....
_Not because they grew Fast_ but to play with them a bit more.
*Sometimes,*
I feel I still had some more time to live...
_Not to have a longer Life_ but to know what I could give to others.
*Since the times*
that are gone can never come back, let's enjoy the moments as we live them from now on, to the fullest..
Ratan Tata is one of India’s most influential Industrialists and philanthropists born on 28 December 1937.
Ratan Tata Quotes and thoughts have been inspiring many entrepreneurs to start their business. Ratan Tata has become a role model for the youth of the new generation around the world.
Here are the 20 best quotes by Ratan Tata that lead you to success
1. “I don’t believe in taking right decisions. I take decisions and then make them right.”
2. “Ups and downs in life are very important to keep us going because a straight line even in an ECG means we are not alive.”
3. “None can destroy iron, but its own rust can. Likewise, none can destroy a person but his own mindset can.”
4. “There are many things that, if I have to relive, maybe I will do it another way. But I would not like to look back and think what I have not been able to do.”
5. “If you want to walk fast, walk alone. But if you want to walk far, walk together.”
6. “Take the stones people throw at you. And use them to build a monument.”
7. “Power and wealth are not two of my main stakes.”
8. “I may have hurt some people along the way, but I would like to be seen as somebody who has done his best to do the right thing for any situation and not compromised.”
9. “The day I am not able to fly will be a sad day for me.”
10. “A person who is trying to copy others will be a successful person for a while, but he won’t be able to succeed further in life.”
11. “Don’t be serious, enjoy life as it comes.”
12. “I admire people who are very successful. But if that success has been achieved through too much ruthlessness, then I may admire that person, but I can’t respect him.”
13. “Business need to go beyond the interest of their companies to the communities they serve.”
14. "I don't believe in work-life balance. I believe in work-life integration. Make your work and life meaningful and fulfilling, and they will complement each other."
15. “Leadership is about taking responsibility, not making excuses."
16. “Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you, create your own opportunities."
17. “One day you will realise that material things mean nothing. All that matters is the well-being of the people you love."
18. “The best leaders are those most interested in surrounding themselves with assistants and associates smarter than they are."
19. “I don't believe in work-life balance. I believe in work-life integration. Make your work and life meaningful and fulfilling, and they will complement each other."
20. “Never underestimate the power of kindness, empathy, and compassion in your interactions with others."
கர்த்தருடைய மகிமை ஆலயத்தை நிரப்பிற்று
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1 இராஜாக்கள் 8ம் அதிகாரம்.
1. சாலொமோன் கட்டின ஆலயத்தில் ஆசாரியரும், லேவியரும் உடன்படிக்கை பெட்டியையும், ஆசரிப்பு கூடாரத்தையும் சுமந்து கொண்டு வந்தார்கள். 8:4
பெட்டிக்கு முன் சாலொமோனும், சபையாரும் எண்ணிக்கையும், கணக்குமில்லாத ஆடுகளையும், மாடுகளையும் பலியிட்டார்கள்.
பெட்டியை மகா பரிசுத்த ஸ்தலத்திலே கேரூபீன்களின் செட்டைகளின் கீழ் வைத்தார்கள். அந்த பெட்டியிலே கர்த்தர் ஓரேபிலே எழுதி கொடுத்த இரண்டு கற்பலகைகள் இருந்தன.
அப்பொழுது மேகம், மகிமை ஆலயத்தை நிரப்பிற்று.
ஆம், நம்முடைய சரீரமாகிய ஆலயத்தில் நாமும் வேத வசனமாகிய பெட்டியை சுமந்து, நம்மையே ஜீவ பலியாக செலுத்தி, ஸ்தோத்திர பலிகளை ஏறெடுத்து நம் வாழ்க்கையின் முதலிடத்தில் வைத்து ஒவ்வொரு வசனத்திற்கும் கீழ்ப்படியும் போது தேவ மகிமை நமக்குள் இறங்கும்.
2. ஆலயத்திலிருந்து சாலொமோன் சபையாரை ஆசீர்வதிக்கிறான். 8:14. ஆம், நாம் அவருடைய ஆலயமாக மாறும் போது, பிறரை ஆசீர்வதிக்க வேண்டும்.
3. சாலொமோன் கர்த்தரிடம் நன்றி செலுத்தி, அவரை போற்றி, புகழ்ந்து விண்ணப்பம் பண்ணுகிறான். தேவரீர் என் தகப்பனுக்கு வாக்கினால் சொன்னதை கரத்தினால் நிறைவேற்றினீர் என்றான்.
ஆம், கர்த்தர் நம் கடந்த கால வாழ்க்கையில் செய்தவற்றை நினைவு கூர்ந்து நன்றி சொல்வோமாக.
4. பலிபீடத்தின் முன், சபையார் முன்னிலையில் சாலொமோன் வானத்திற்கு நேராய் தன் கைகளை விரித்து விண்ணப்பம் பண்ணுகிறான். வானம் கர்த்தருடைய சிங்காசனம். அப்படியானால், சிங்காசனத்தில் வீற்றிருக்கும் பிதாவை நோக்கி, நான் ஒன்றுமில்லை, என்னால் ஒன்றும் இயலாது என கரங்களை விரித்து விண்ணப்பம் பண்ணுகிறான்.
நாமும் கூட நம் பிதாவை நோக்கி, நம்மை தாழ்த்தி, என்னால் ஒன்றும் இயலாது, உம் சித்தம் போல் என்னை நடத்தும் என ஒப்புக் கொடுத்து ஜெபிப்போம்.
5. வானாதி வானங்களும் உம்மை கொள்ளாதே ! என கர்த்தரை புகழுகிறான். இந்த ஆலயத்திலே செய்யும் விண்ணப்பங்களுக்கெல்லாம் உம்முடைய கண்கள் இரவும் பகலும் திறந்திருப்பதாக என ஜெபிக்கிறான்.
ஆலயமாகிய நம்மிலிருந்து கர்த்தரை புகழ்ந்து , இவ்விதமாய் ஜெபங்கள் ஏறெடுக்கப்படுவதாக.
6. இப்போது தன் விண்ணப்பங்களை எல்லாம் ஒவ்வொன்றாக ஒழுங்கு படுத்தி சாலொமோன் ஜெபிக்கிறான்.
கர்த்தருடைய ஆலயமாகிய நாமும் கூட இவ்விதமாக வசனத்திற்கு முதலிடம் கொடுத்து, கீழ்ப்படிந்து, பலி செலுத்தி, அவரை போற்றி, புகழ்ந்து, ஒவ்வொன்றாக ஜெபிக்கும் போது கர்த்தருடைய மகிமை நமக்குள் இறங்குவது மட்டுமல்ல, நம் விண்ணப்ங்களுக்கு நிச்சயமாகவே பதில் கிடைக்கும்.
7. நம் பிள்ளைகள் நம் வார்த்தைகளுக்கெல்லாம் கீழ்ப்படிந்து, அப்பா, அம்மா உங்களை எனக்கு ரொம்ப பிடிக்கும், நீங்கள் ரொம்ப நல்லவர்கள் என புகழ்ந்து விட்டு, எனக்கு இது வேண்டும் என கேட்டால், அது நம் பிள்ளைகளுக்கு தேவையானதென்றால் நிச்சயமாக கொடுப்போம் அல்லவா? ஆம், அவர் நம் பரம தகப்பன். நாம் அவர் பிள்ளைகள். ஆகவே அவர் வார்த்தைகளுக்கு, வசனங்களுக்கு நாம் முதலிடம் கொடுப்போம். பதிலை பெற்றுக் கொள்வோம். ஆமென். அல்லேலூயா.
📖 *Bible in 400 Days* 📖
Day 110, 1-Sep-2024, 1Ki 4-6
🔆 *Solomon Builds the Temple*
🌿 Solomon undertook the monumental task of building a house for the name of the LORD (1 Kings 5:5). His intent wasn’t to construct a residence for God, but rather a temple dedicated to His name, aligning with the promise God made to David in 2 Samuel 7:12-13.
🌿 Solomon spared no expense in creating a structure of such magnificence that it defies comprehension. The NKJV Study Bible summarizes the mind-boggling grandeur of this construction:
⚡ The temple was made from the most precious materials, many imported: cedar (5:6), quarried stone (5:15-18), gold (6:20-22), olive wood (6:23-28, 31-33), cypress (6:34), and bronze (7:13-47).
⚡ The project employed 30,000 laborers (5:13), 150,000 stonemasons and haulers (5:15), and 3,300 supervisors (5:16).
⚡ The temple was paneled with cedar, some of which was ornately carved (6:9, 15-18).
⚡ Its floors and walls were overlaid with gold (6:20-22).
⚡ The furnishings were crafted from fine wood and gold (6:23-35; 7:48-50).
⚡ So much bronze was used that its weight was beyond measure (7:45-47).
⚡ The construction work continued nonstop for seven years (6:37-38).
🌿 While Solomon was building the temple, the LORD spoke to him concerning this temple he was building (6:12). What did the LORD say?
❗ First, let’s note what the LORD *did not* say: He didn’t mention the gold, the silver, the bronze, the cedar, or the olive wood used in the temple’s construction. Isn’t that remarkable? Not a single comment on the splendor of the building! Yet, the LORD had much to say about the two copper coins (mites) the widow offered (Luke 21:1-4). Clearly, no amount of gold or silver can impress the Creator of heaven and earth!
❗ Now, let’s focus on what the LORD did say: _"Concerning this house you are building, if you will *walk* in My statutes, *obey* My rules, and *keep* all My commandments, then I will establish My word with you, which I spoke to your father David."_
❗ The LORD’s primary concern was this: Solomon must honour the name of the LORD by obeying God and keeping all His commandments. Nothing more, nothing less.
🎯 *Application*
🪶 To the LORD, the most important aspect of the temple's architecture was obedience. It’s as if God was telling Solomon, “Grand construction! But don’t forget the one thing that matters most to Me: I want you to obey Me with all your heart. Your destiny—what I will fulfill through you (6:12)—depends not on the splendor of your construction but on the wholeness of your obedience.”
🪶 This truth applies to us as well. Let the one thing that matters most to the LORD be the one thing that matters most to us.
*David Chellappa* ✍
*💝WISDOM IS DIVINE GIFT🎁*
[DAY - 109] 1 Kings - Chapters 2-3
1️⃣ *1 KINGS - CHAPTER 2: THE SUCCESSION OF SOLOMON*
🔹In 1 Kings 2, we witness the transition of power from King David to his son Solomon. 🔹David, on his deathbed, gives Solomon, crucial advice on leadership and righteousness.
🔹He urges Solomon to remain faithful to God, walk in His ways, and uphold justice.
🔹This chapter highlights the importance of wisdom in governance and the need for strong moral foundations in leadership.
🔹The counsel we provide can shape the future. David’s guidance to Solomon illustrates the importance of parents imparting wisdom to the next generation.
🔹Upholding integrity and justice is essential for effective leadership.
🔹Solomon’s reign begins with the promise to follow God’s commandments.
2️⃣ *1 KINGS CHAPTER 3: SOLOMON’S DIVINE REQUEST*
🔸Chapter 3 focuses on Solomon’s remarkable encounter with God.
🔸After establishing his reign, Solomon offers sacrifices at Gibeon, where God appears to him in a dream.
🔸God grants Solomon one wish, and instead of asking for wealth or power, he humbly requests wisdom to govern the people.
🔸Pleased with Solomon’s choice, God not only grants him wisdom but also blesses him with riches and honor.
🔸Solomon’s desire for wisdom over material wealth teaches us to prioritize spiritual understanding and discernment in our lives.
🔸Solomon’s wise decision regarding the true mother reverberates throughout the land, filling his subjects with awe and deep respect.
🔸True leadership stems from humility and a willingness to serve others.
🔸Solomon’s request reflects a servant’s heart, seeking to benefit his people rather than himself.
🔸Just as Solomon sought divine wisdom, we are called to seek God's guidance in our lives.
🔸Jesus emphasizes the importance of wisdom in Matthew 7:24-25, where He speaks of building our lives on a solid foundation.
♥️ *LIFE LESSONS*
💥Solomon's reign foreshadows Christ's ultimate kingship, where true wisdom and righteousness are fully realized.
💥The succession of Solomon and his request for wisdom encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God, embody humility, and seek His wisdom and guidance in all aspects of life.
*‼️LET US DESIRE FOR WISDOM AND TRUST IN GOD’S PLAN FOR OUR LIVES‼️*
Princess Hudson
*WHAT DOES IT COST?*
_And the king said unto Araunah, Nay; but I will surely buy it of thee at a price: neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God of that which doth cost me nothing..._ 2 Samuel 24:24a
Today's sacrifice will be a future reference point.
*Points*
1. Willingness to Pay: David was willing to pay a price for the threshing floor, demonstrating his commitment.
2. No Free Offerings: David refused to offer sacrifices to God without cost, recognizing the value of sacrifice.
3. Personal Investment: David invested personally in his worship, demonstrating his devotion.
4. Honoring God: David honored God by offering his best, not just what was convenient.
5. Sacrificial Giving: David's actions demonstrated sacrificial giving, putting God's desires above his own.
6. Heartfelt Worship: David's worship was heartfelt, not just going through the motions.
7. Valuing God's Presence: David valued God's presence and blessing, seeking to honor Him.
8. Leadership by Example: David led by example, showing his people the importance of sacrificial worship.
9. Prioritizing God: David prioritized God's desires above his own, demonstrating his faith.
10. Authentic Faith: David's actions demonstrated authentic faith, not just superficial religiosity.
11. Investing in the Future: David invested in the future of his people, building a legacy of faith.
12. Pleasing God: David sought to please God, not just men, in his worship and offerings.
Let us follow the good example of David by offering our best unto the LORD.
*Dr. Tayo Olorunlana,*
_Africa_
*GREAT ESTABLISHMENT*
_Then sat Solomon upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was established greatly._ 1 Kings 2:12
Solomon throne was established because he was given the platform.
*Points*
1. Rightful Succession: Solomon's succession to the throne was a fulfillment of God's plan, ensuring continuity and stability.
2. Established Kingdom: The kingdom was firmly established, with a strong foundation for growth and prosperity.
3. God's Promise: The fulfillment of God's promise to David demonstrated His faithfulness and commitment to His people.
4. Wise Leadership: Solomon's leadership was marked by wisdom, discernment, and a deep understanding of God's ways.
5. Stability and Peace: The kingdom experienced a season of stability and peace, allowing for growth and development.
6. God's Guidance: Solomon sought God's guidance and wisdom, recognizing his dependence on Him.
7. Obedience and Faithfulness: Solomon's obedience to God's commands and faithfulness to His ways ensured a strong spiritual foundation.
8. Prosperity and Abundance: The kingdom prospered under Solomon's leadership, experiencing abundance and blessing.
9. Legacy and Heritage: David's legacy lived on through Solomon, who built upon his father's foundation.
10. Continuity and Unity: The transition from David to Solomon ensured continuity and unity, preventing division and strife.
11. Strong Foundation for Growth: Solomon's leadership provided a strong foundation for growth, expansion, and development.
12. Lasting Impact: The solid foundation laid by David handing over to Solomon had a lasting impact on the kingdom.
To have a great establishment and lasting legacy after us like David, we must have a successor plan.
*Dr. Tayo Olorunlana,*
_Africa_
WISE WOMEN IN DAVID’S LIFE
MICHAL WIFE OF DAVID
When Saul was searching for David to kill him ,she saved him by letting him through the window and kept an image and kept covered with clothes in place of David on his bed .(1 Samuel 19:11-17)When the messengers came, they found the image and Saul got angry but David was saved.
ABIGAIL- A WISE WOMAN
When Saul was chasing David ,he and his followers wanted help from Nabal,a rich man .But he refused and ridiculed David .He got angry and wanted to destroy him and his household .
But his wife ,Abigail,a wise woman ,went to see David,pleaded for mercy for her husband’s sake .She knew very well that David is God’s chosen one and he would be the next king .
She pointed out the goodness in him and said “ You are seeking God’s righteousness.He is fighting your battles.He will take revenge for you.Do not sin by taking matters into your own hands.”(1 Samuel 25:28)
David accepted her advice and withdrew from his thoughts . David told her “Blessed be your advice and you are blessed because you have kept me away from shedding blood.”(1 Samuel 25:33)
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver”.( proverbs 25:11)
WISE WOMAN OF ABEL OF
BETH-MAACAH
Then a wise woman called from city please tell Joab,come here I may speak with you,I am one of those who are peaceable and faithful in Israel (2Samuel 20:19))After the revolt of Absalom David faced another led by Sheba .David’s army wanted to attack him under the leadership of Joab.Sheba took refuge in a city Abel Beth - maacah.The city was surrounded by army .The unknown wise woman understood the root cause and that was Sheba .She proposed a solution that if they delivered Sheba,the war should be over.Joab agreed with her condition.She convinced the people about this and they killed Sheba and problem was solved .
Some times we should not be silent.If necessary,we have to involve ourselves in the matter and try to find a solution.
“Withhold not good from them to whom it is due,when it is in the power of your hand to do it.”(Proverbs 3:27)
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver”.( proverbs 25:11)
UN NAMED WOMAN OF BAHURIM
When David’s son Absalom was plotting a plan against David with Ahithophel,his plans were overturned by the plans of Hushai.. It was the decision of the Lord.His plans were to be informed to David in proper time.The informers were Ahimaz and Jonathan .Absalom came to know about it He sent people in search of them.On their way to David,they were hidden in a well by an unnamed woman and she took a spread covering over the well’s mouth and spread ground corn on it .The messengers could not find them and were saved .They could pass the information in proper time (2Samuel 17:19)and David was saved.
RIZPAH-A DEDICATED MOTHER
She was not a wife,only a concubine with no legal rights.Amasa also exploited her (2Samuel 3:6-8)became a widow without any support .Her only support was her two sons Armoni and Mephibosheth, but were hanged and killed (2 Samuel 21:8)Everyone in the Israel were accusing them for the drought and famine for three years continuously.No one was on her side , really helpless.Her love for her children made her to watch the bodies carefully so that the bodies should not be mutilated by birds or wild animals for almost 6 months until David buried the bones of the seven people including her sons .
If you are in place of Rizpah ,don’t give up.Pray for justice to God .He will answer your prayers.
God always has got a purpose about every one.He will fulfill His purpose in His PROPER TIME.
May our good God bless us all.
Dr Annamma George
*I WILL CRUSH AND SCATTER MY ENEMIES*
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2 Samuel 22: 35-43.
1. This is a portion of the song, David was singing when God delivered him from all his enemies. *Here we can find out how he fought and overcome his enemies*
2. He said that *God was teaching his arms to break a bow of steel*. Today we even have to learn from God, to fight with our enemies. *He teaches my hands to war and my fingers to fight*.Psalm 144:1.
3. *He gives us the shield of His Salvation. He enlarges the steps under us so that we won't slip.*
4. *I will pursue my enemies and destroy them . I will not turn back till l consume them. Yes, God gave him this sought of decision, courage and faith*. David confessed this faith with his mouth.
5. *My enemies fell down under my feet. I have consumed and wounded them and they could not arise. He has girded me with strength to fight and subdued them. You have given me the necks of my enemies. Thus David said his witness and glorified God.*
6. David said, *I will beat them as small as the dust of the earth and stamp and crush them as the mire of the street under my feet and scatter them abroad*. What sought of courage David had!
We too should fight against our enemies and should overcome them. If so , *we should learn from God and from His words. We should fight with courage and boldness, confessing our faith and magnifying God. Thus we should break, stamp and scatter his works*
*For who is God other than our God ? When He is with us, why should we get afraid? Yes, our Lord is mighty in battle. He is the Lord of Hosts. He is Jehovah Nissi*. Amen Hallelujah.
*Dr. Padmini Selvyn.*
BOOK OF 2 SAMUEL.
2 Samuel 23:13-17.
WATER FROM BETHLEHEM.
This passage speaks volumes about the devotion and bravery of David's mighty men.
David and his men were lodged in the cave of Adullam, a place of refuge while fleeing from Saul.
The Philistines were encamped in and around Bethlehem, the hometown of David.
The water in the caves and cisterns of Adullam would have turned brackish, in the dry season.
David longed for fresh, cool water from the well near the gate of his hometown.
Three of his mighty men broke through the camp of the Philistines and drew water from the well in Bethlehem and brought it back for David.
David's men loved him enough to risk their lives to serve him and get him something he longed for.
David was equally devoted to his mighty men as he instinctively grasped that water brought at such risk could not be treated as an ordinary thirst quencher.
2 Samuel 23:16-17........
Nevertheless, he would not drink it, but poured it out to the Lord.
And he said, "Far be it from me, O Lord, that I should do this!
Is this not the blood of the men who went in jeopardy of their lives?"
Therefore he would not drink it.......
When David poured out the water, it was more like an offering to God, equivalent to the blood of his warriors, so valuable, that it can be poured out to God, in gratitude.
Henry Francis Lyte, the man who wrote the hymn, 'Abide with me', ended another poem this way:
There is a well in Bethlehem still,
A fountain at whose brink,
The weary soul may rest at will,
The thirsty stoop and drink,
And unrepelled by foe or fence,
Draw living waters freely thence.
Oh, did we thirst as David then,
For this divine spring!
Had we the zeal of David's men,
To please a higher King!
What precious draughts we thence might drain,
What holy triumphs daily gain!
Happy are those whose soul thirsts for God!
John 4:14;
But whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst.
But the water that I shall give him, will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.
Revelation 21:6;
And He said to me,
" It is done!
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.
I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts".
Compiled by Shanti Jayanth, Madurai.
*UNKNOWN, UNNAMED..BUT WISE*
_(2 Samuel 20:16-22)_
An unknown, ordinary woman rose up in the nick of time for her city's defence.
1. BOLD-She *boldly* called for Joab without even consulting the men of the city. She knew every delayed second meant imminent disaster. Because Joab and his men were already hammering away at their city wall.
2. HUMBLE- Notice how she humbly addresses herself to Joab as "your servant".
3. LOYAL- She defended her beloved city. Why should they destroy them who have been *the* "faithful and peaceful" in Israel, the Lord's inheritance? People used to once look to Abel, their city for answers to their questions. They were like a mother in Israel.
4. DECISIVE-And when she came to know it was rebellious Sheba they sought after, she immediately agreed to have him killed and handed over.
5. PERSUSASIVE-She persuaded her people to have wicked Sheba killed and his head handed over to Joab to appease him. She thus prevented a great calamity from coming over to the city.
This heroic woman, had tremendous leadership qualities. She was unknown, unnamed before. And she remained unnamed, unknown after. She saved her city with sheer guts and a wise head over her shoulders.
Her name is not known.
She is only known as the wise woman.
She joins the list of ordinary women in the Bible who did great heroic deeds for the Lord.
1.Jael, who killed enemy Sisera.
2.The woman who killed Abimelek in Judges with a millstone.
3.The widow, prophetess Anna, in Luke 2, who dedicated her life to God in the temple and was ultimately rewarded with seeing baby Jesus being blessed by Simeon.
4.Zipporah, Moses' wife, who saved him from the Lord's anger in exodus 4.
5.Abigail, in 1 Samuel 25, who saved her husband and David himself from attacking foolish Nabal.
6.Midwives Shiprah and Puah, who protected Jewish firstborns from being destroyed on the Pharaoh's instruction.
The list goes on...
The gist is this..God uses simple, humble, ordinary, godly women, totally surrendered to the Lord, full of His wisdom, faith and courage to rise above adverse circumstances, willing to be unknown and unnamed.. and they bring tremendous deliverance to their people!
Will you be one of them?
SJ
Pune, India
*Rizpah* - _a mother's cry for justice_
🪶She was nothing but a possession, never a wife but a concubine with no legal rights. Amasa too exploited her for his own benefits (2 Sam 3:6-8).
🌿She became a widow, with no one to support her.
The only comfort she had was in her two sons - Armoni and Mephibosheth but, they were cruelly taken away (2 Sam 21:8) because of their father's sin.
🔅There was no one to argue for her, for *who can stand against the king and a society blaming her children for a drought?*
🪶People blame God for this injustice, but did God order the hanging of the 7 descendants of Saul? *NO!*
🌿David consulted God, after the three-year famine (2 Sam 21:1) but when it came to solving the problem, David consulted the Gibeonites (pagans) and not God (2 Sam 21:5-6). Killing 7 innocent men and not allowing their bodies to be buried was an evil pagan act. David could not interfere because he had rashly told them that he would do whatever they wanted (2 Sam 21:4).
🪶Knowing she would not get justice at human hands; this broken woman took up a vigil at the foot of the stakes on which the 7 men had been displayed. She was determined that the birds and animals would not eat the bodies as this was the ultimate disgrace (Deut 28:26b).
🌿She lived there for nearly 6 months (2 Sam 21:10 states that this took place from the beginning of harvest until the start of the late rains, which is a 6-month period).
🔅It was not easy for she was driving away predators, constantly alert, not even able to sleep or rest in her duty. It was not a pleasant job, for the bodies would have been decaying in front of her eyes.
🪶 *She persevered until the rains came, signalling the end of the drought.* It was only at this moment that David moved; feeling remorse for his callousness, he *buried the bones of the 7 men, along with Saul and his sons in the tomb of his father, Kish* (2 Sam 21:14).
🌿Notice that vs 14 tells us that it was _only after this act of compassion, that God answered the prayers of the people, for the land !_
🔅Some people go through such situations, where those who should protect them betray them. They have nothing with which to fight back like Rizpah – no money, no power, no influence… The only comfort they have is that God is watching. At the right time, He will make a move filled with compassion, to mete out true justice.
✨ *If you are in a Rizpah-like situation, don’t give up. Do what you can. Keep praying for justice. God will answer your prayers. It may take 6 long months or years for no one knows His timing. But get up each day, knowing that His justice will come.*
✨ _Let us pray for such Rizpahs today. Let us pray that the God of Justice moves to right the wrongs that are perpetuated daily on this earth_. Stay blessed.
Adeline Albert
*THE GIANTS OF PHILISTINES*
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2 Samuel 21:18- 22.
1. Philistines were occupying the land of Canaan. Among them there were 5 giants. *David killed Goliath. The other 4 were killed by the servants of David.*
2. If we have to inherit the blessings of Canaan, *the spirit of Philistines should be driven away from us.*
3. *We should know the charecters of Philistines and then only we can drive them out from us.*
1. *The Philistines envied on lsaac. So , they closed the wells which were dug by his father Abraham and filled them with earth.* Genesis 26: 14,18.
In our life too, *we should not give a place to envy. We should drive away the works of the enemy. The word of God is the living water, which springs out of the well of the Holy Spirit.*
2. *Philistines bored out Samson's eyes and bound him with 2 bronze fetters. They destroyed Samsons life and so, he could not work for the Lord*. Therefore we should overcome the Spirit of Philistines and drive them out from us. Judges 16:21.
3. *Philistines caught the Ark of the Covenant and kept it with them for 7 months.* 1 Samuel 7:1. That means they will take away the precious word of God from us. But God made the Philistines to understand the power of His words. Their God dagon fell on his face on the ground and broke his head. His both palms were lying cut off on the threshold. 1 Samuel 5:4.
Yes, *when the word of God is within us , the works of the devil will break and scatter.*
4. *The giant Goliath fell down on his face with a small stone in the sling of David. God helped David to overcome the giant with a small stone and by the name of God which was despised by Goliath*. I Samuel 17:45,52.
May the Holy Spirit help us to overcome our enemy , who despise the name of our Lord.
5. *Philistines killed the blacksmiths, so that they can't make their weapons of war.* Even today, our enemy will destroy our weapons of war, so that we will not have the swords and other weapons of war to fight the battle. Therefore we should be very careful.
6. *Philistines are uncircumcised people. They are soothsayers* . They strike hands and make pledges and agreements with the aliens. They worship the work of their own hands and their own fingers. Isaiah 2: 6,8. We should be cautious about them.
*May the Holy Spirit help us to overcome and drive away these spirit of Philistines so that we can inherit the eternal Canaan*. Amen. Hallelujah.
*Dr. Padmini Selvyn*
*WISDOM IN ACTION*
_Then the woman went unto all the people in her wisdom. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and cast it out to Joab. And he blew a trumpet, and they retired from the city, every man to his tent. And Joab returned to Jerusalem unto the king._ 2 Samuel 20:22
Peace is possible if we follow the path of conflict resolution to war and battle.
*Points*
1. Wisdom's Power: Wisdom has the power to diffuse tense situations and bring peace.
2. Courageous Action: The people took courageous action to save their city from destruction.
3. Wise Leadership: The woman demonstrated wise leadership by guiding the people.
4. Community Involvement: The community worked together to resolve the conflict.
5. Effective Communication: Effective communication led to a peaceful resolution.
6. Conflict Resolution: The conflict was resolved peacefully, avoiding bloodshed and destruction.
7. Respect and Admiration: The woman earned respect and admiration for her wisdom.
8. Godly Wisdom: The woman demonstrated godly wisdom in her actions.
9. Selfless Motive: The motive was selfless, seeking the good of the community.
10. Quick Thinking: Quick thinking and wise action led to a peaceful resolution.
11. Prevention of Bloodshed: Bloodshed and destruction were prevented.
12. Heroic Act: The act was heroic, saving the city from destruction.
Let us follow the pathway of wisdom and peace in conflict resolution.
*Dr. Tayo Olorunlana,*
_Africa_
*BEWARE OF DECEPTION*
_And he answered, My lord, O king, my servant deceived me: for thy servant said, I will saddle me an ass, that I may ride thereon, and go to the king; because thy servant is lame._ 2 Samuel 19:26
Leaders are prone to having deceptive people around them, who are seeking for personal gain and favor.
*Points*
1. Deception's Presence: Deception can be present even in unexpected places more especially among persons closer to privileged people.
2. Misinformation's Danger: Misinformation can lead to false assumptions and wrong decisions, as David transfer to Ziba, properties belonging to Mephibosheth in Chapter 16.
3. Importance of Accountability: Mephibosheth took responsibility for his servant's actions and accept in good faith David's decision.
4. Physical Limitations: Physical limitations impacted Mephibosheth decisions to follow David, but he made it up in his actions by being in a sorry situation until the king returned back.
5. Reliance on Others: Let us be warn on total reliance on others, once they see your limitations it can lead to deception if not properly managed.
6. Communication Breakdown: Communication breakdowns do lead to deception and misinformation, more especially when leaders don't double check before taking action.
7. Trust Issues: Deception raises questions about trust and loyalty. As Christian we trust too easily and too quickly. Let us test before we trust.
8. Leadership Lessons: Leaders must verify information and hear from all sides. Otherwise people will use us to fulfill their personal agenda.
9. Personal Responsibility: Mephibosheth demonstrated personal responsibility and accountability.
10. Humility's Role: Humility is necessary for restoration and healing. Mephibosheth came to David in humility not minding David error in decision making.
11. Redemption's Possibility: Redemption and restoration are possible through humility and justice. That was how David reverted himself to say okay _both Ziba and Mephibosheth can share the property_.
12. Justice's Necessity: Justice must be served to ensure fairness and equality. If we feel cheated on any matter we can seek redress instead of dying in silence.
Let us seek the truth, avoid acting one sided testimony before passing judgment.
*Dr. Tayo Olorunlana,*
_Africa_
COUNSELOR TURNING TO TRAITOR- AHITHOPHEL
Ahithophel was originally the counselor of King David but he later betrayed David, aiding Absalom in his rebellion to overthrow David’s kingship. Ahithophel was well-known for his advice, so much so that “Absalom followed Ahithophel’s advice, just as David had done. For every word Ahithophel spoke seemed as wise as though it had come directly from the mouth of God” Now in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who inquires of God. That was how both David and Absalom regarded all of Ahithophel’s advice”(2 Samuel 16:23 ) Ahithophel had the gift of wisdom.
After Absalom captured Jerusalem, Ahithophel’s first piece of advice to him was that he sleep with all his father’s concubines—in a public manner—so as to become a “stench in your father’s nostrils,” and to strengthen his following (2 Samuel 16:21–22). In those days, taking possession of a king’s concubines was a declaration of one’s right to the throne. This fulfilled God’s word to David after his adultery with Bathsheba: “This is what the Lord says: ‘Out of your own household I am going to bring calamity on you. Before your very eyes I will take your wives and give them to one who is close to you, and he will sleep with your wives in broad daylight. You did it in secret, but I will do this thing in broad daylight before all Israel’” (2 Samuel 12:11–12). Absalom followed the advice of Ahithophel and performed this wicked act on the top of the palace roof for all Israel to see (2 Samuel 16:22).
When Absalom began his rebellion, King David knew that Ahithophel’s advice would be dangerous in the hands of his son. During his escape up the Mount of Olives, David prayed to the Lord that Ahithophel’s counsel would be turned into foolishness (2 Samuel 15:31).
In answer to David’s prayer, when David reached the summit of the Mount of Olives, he met Hushai the Arkite. David sent Hushai back to Absalom in Jerusalem as a secret agent to frustrate the advice of Ahithophel (2 Samuel 15:32–37). In Jerusalem Hushai pledged his loyalty to Absalom but began to give advice to work to David’s benefit (2 Samuel 17:14).
Absalom asked his counsellors what next step he should take. Ahithophel said to pursue David immediately with an army of twelve thousand men and “attack him while he is weary and weak”
(2 Samuel 17:1). Hushai, however, counselled Absalom to delay the attack, form a larger force, and totally annihilate David and his men (verses 7–13). Absalom chose to follow the advice of Hushai and reject Ahithophel’s counsel. This was of God, since “the Lord had determined to frustrate the good advice of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom” (verse 14).
When Absalom rejected his advice, Ahithophel’s pride was injured, and “he put his house in order and then hanged himself” (2 Samuel 17:23). In following Hushai’s advice, Absalom was defeated and received the punishment due his rebellion (2 Samuel 18:6–15).
Ahithophel is the grandfather of Bathsheba! The daughter of his son had a tragic end to her marriage because of David. Uriah, Bathsheba’s husband, was killed through the cunning plan of David in his desperate attempt to hide the fact that he was the father of the child that Bathsheba was carrying.
As a result of these observations, it seems very possible that Ahithophel never got over this betrayal by David and he was waiting for his opportunity to get revenge because he had harmed his family. What a tragic story!
Because of Ahithophel’s betrayal of David, many scholars see him as a type of Judas Iscariot. Just as David’s counselor betrayed him, so also did Jesus’ disciple Judas betray Him. Similarities between Ahithophel and Judas include the following:
*They both were trusted friends who betrayed their friend
(2 Samuel 15:31; Matthew 26:14–16).
*They both sided with the enemy to plot their king’s death
(2 Samuel 17:1–4; Luke 22:2–6).
*They both hanged themselves once the betrayal was complete
(2 Samuel 17:23; Matthew 27:5).
In Psalm 41:9 David laments, “Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.” This is, most immediately, a reference to the treachery of Ahithophel. But it is also a prophetic reference to Judas, as Jesus points out in John 13:18, where He quotes Psalm 41:9. Like Judas, Ahithophel will forever be remembered as a traitor.
“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”“Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:44&48)
May our good God bless us all.
Dr Annamma George
BOOK OF 2 SAMUEL.
JOAB/ JEHOVAH IS FATHER.
Joab was the second son of the three sons of Zeruiah, the sister of David, the other two being Abishai and Asahel.
Joab was captain of David's army when Abner, Saul's cousin and army commander led the army of Saul's son Ishbosheth.
Asahel was killed when he pursued Abner.
When Abner transferred his allegiance to David, Joab treacherously killed him for killing Asahel, although Abner had done so in self defense.
Later, Joab was made commander of the armies of David, as a reward for gaining entry into the stronghold of Mount Zion which was controlled by the Jebusites.
He achieved victory over the Ammonites.
He obeyed David in getting Uriah killed at the forefront of battle and called for David to storm Rabbah, so that David could get credit for victory over the Ammonites.
Joab helped Absalom to be restored to royal favour after banishment due to the murder of Amnon.
Joab remained loyal to David during Absalom's revolt and was responsible for killing Absalom.
When David gave vent to extravagant grief at the death of Absalom, his son, Joab rebuked him.
2 Samuel 19:7;
"Now therefore, arise, go out and speak comfort to your servants.
For I swear by the Lord, if you do not go out, no one will stay with you this night.
And that will be worse for you than all the evil that has befallen you from your youth till now".
David pulled himself out of his sorrow of losing Absalom and was restored to kingship by the priests and the people.
David made Amasa another nephew and cousin of Joab, who had been loyal to Absalom, as commander of his army and gave him the responsibility of summoning the men of Judah.
Joab felt threatened by Amasa and stabbed him while pursuing Sheba the Benjamite.
Much later, Joab was killed by Benaiah, the chief of the bodyguard of Solomon, as he supported Adonijah's claim to the throne of David.
Joab for all his faults was a capable man of war and a valiant soldier on the battlefield.
He has to be given credit for his loyalty to David for almost four decades.
Some of his rash decisions and vengeful murders resulted in his sad end with no hope of finding clemency.
Compiled by Shanti Jayanth, Madurai.
*MODERN DAY ABSALOMS*
_(2 Samuel :15:1-7)_
1.AMBITIOUS
Young, charismatic and handsome Absalom wanted to be king. He was in a hurry. He was disgruntled with his father, David, and the way he had handled certain issues, especially regarding his sister, Tamar. And Absalom was convinced he was the right man for the job. A better choice.
2.CULTIVATES AN IMAGE
Absalom got chariots, horses and footmen for himself to create for himself the grand image of the next better king.
3.HARDWORKING
Absalom woke up early and went to meet people at the city gate.
4. PEOPLE PERSON
Absalom tried to create an impression in people's minds that he was really interested in their personal affairs. But actually he was only aiming at carrying out his devious, cunning schemes.
5.DECEPTIVE
The people got easily swayed by Absalom’s false narrative. A youthful dynamic leader would always be better for them in the long run. David was getting old. And Absalom said he would be a better man to judge their affairs, because the king now had no one to hear them out.
6.PEACE BREAKER
Absalom, in accusing the king indirectly of providing them no help, destroyed whatever peace they had. They became more troubled.
7.INDIRECT
Absalom never said anything against his father directly. He tried to swerve people's opinions against David indirectly. He was cunning and very subtle in his ways. And so he stole the people's hearts.
There are so many ambitious, charismatic *modern day Absaloms* in our churches and homes, who are hurt and disgruntled sons or spiritual sons. They want prominence at any cost. So like Absalom, they create an imposing persona of themselves and try to woo church and family away from reigning boring ”oldies” and draw them after themselves. They happen to be divisive, work hard at achieving their nefarious schemes and win over people's hearts through flattery and deception. Satan uses them to bring in trouble wherever they go.
But their end will be as deadly as Absalom’s.
Credits :SJ, Pune, India
*"Bracing ourselves up for the _challenging, yet exciting ride with the Lord,_ as His disciple!"*
*(Based on Nah 2:1, 3; 3:1-3, 6-7 and Mt 16:24-28 - _Friday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)_*
Some of us have been to amusement parks...
... filled with many jolly and amazing rides.
One of the common yet interesting rides in these parks are the Roller Coaster rides....
>>The ones, which are constructed at dizzying heights
>> The ones possessing several dangerous and heart-wrenching ups and dips
>> The sight of which fills many a weak-at-heart persons, to have giddy feelings!
To those, however, who take up this challenge...
... it's a sheer ecstatic and thrilling experience!
Welcome to Christianity....a Real-Time Roller Coaster Ride!
The ride is not easy...
>> But the Thrill of the Ride...
... is truly a genuine experience of Remarkable Joy and Peace and Happiness!
Chapter 16 of St Matthew's Gospel continues the Theme of True Discipleship.
After having revealed Himself as being the Heroic, Awesome and Suffering God-Man, Jesus spells out clearly the demands of being His True Disciple:
>> To deny oneself...to take up one's cross..to follow Him! (Mt 16: 24)
To follow Christ, we need to follow His terms!
We need to...
>> Lay down something...
>> Lift up something...
>> And then Follow the Lord
We need to...
>> Lay down our personal pleasures and comforts...
>> Lift up our daily duties...
>> And then Follow the Lord
The Lord demands.
>> The Lord expects.
Am I ready?
Am I a Christian who is zealous and devout and religious on a Sunday...
... but tepid and listless and impractical through the weekdays?
Am I a Christian who loves to wear religious articles around my body...
... but fail to adorn my actions and deeds with charitable and sanctifying works?
Am I a Christian who enjoys rattling off prayers and reciting many devout ejaculations...
... but fall short of translating those good words into a life of honesty and gentleness and humility?
Am I a Christian who takes the pleasure and benefit of being a member of the Church...
... but come to a sticky end in standing by the Church in Her moments of crisis and scandals?
Am I a Christian who relishes listening to Gospel Music, decorating houses with devout pictures and even spreading devotions to many saints...
... but not make the grade when it comes to living the Gospel values and morals?
Very often, our activities and works are centered only on acquiring the things of this world.
>> Surely, we have our own daily needs and wants
But beyond all these, a Christian ought to realize, that we are "pilgrims on this earth"
>> As St Paul says, "Our citizenship is in heaven" (Phil 3: 20)
>> As St Peter says, "... As aliens and sojourners... keep away from worldly desires" (1 Pet 2: 11)
Jesus says, "What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?" (Mt 16:26)
>> Sometimes we hoard up only material wealth and riches...
... failing to seek for the God who blesses us with the needs of our life!
>> Sometimes our prayers become only petitions for transient things...
... failing to raise a word of thanks to the Lord Who always sustains us!
The Lord invites us to take up the challenges of being a Christian.
As a Christian, our lives have to be qualitatively different from others!
>> Let those who see us - be it in our workplaces or in our friend's circle or any other place - make remarks such as...
... "Ah! Here is a person who displays a lot of trust and hope in a living God!"
... "Here is somebody who remains firm even in difficulties, because he/she knows there is a Loving Father caring and protecting always"
Yes, Christianity is indeed a Real-Time Roller Coaster Ride
>> To those who take up this challenge...
... it's a sheer ecstatic and thrilling experience!
At Baptism, we have signed a document...
... which entitles us to the Great Privilege of being the Child of God
But by Baptism, we also have agreed to many terms....
... which obliges us the Great Duties of being a Soldier of God!
Being a disciple and soldier of Christ is a demanding affair.
>> Let us brace ourselves up for this challenging, yet exciting ride with the Lord.
*God Bless! _Live Jesus!_*
*-- Fr Jijo Jose Manjackal MSFS*
*(Based on Ezek 16:1-15, 60, 63 and Mt 19:3-12 - _Friday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)_*
Henry Ford is the founder of the Ford Motor Company.
>> He manufactured the first automobile that was affordable even to the middle class - an object of expensive curiosity turned into a practical conveyance.
Ford had a happy married life with Clara Jane Bryant.
On their golden wedding anniversary, a reporter asked them:
"To what do you attribute your fifty years of successful married life?”
“The formula,” said Mr. Ford, “is the same formula I have always used in making cars - just stick to one model!”
Being faithful and loyal is undoubtedly the hallmarks of a successful relationship.
>> But we live in a world, where divorce is becoming an increasingly common term and phenomenon.
The Gospel of the Day presents Jesus engaged in a conversation with the Pharisees...
... and clarifying and shedding light on the concept of faithfulness and fidelity in relationships.
When we hear the word Divorce, we primarily associate it…
…. with a man and woman, in marriage, seeking divorce.
But Divorce is not merely limited to spousal relations.
>> In fact, divorce is on the increase everywhere....
There is divorce…
… between the parents and the children
… between siblings and family relations
… among the members of a religious community and congregation
… among the members of the Church
… within the society itself
There is also a great divorce within one's spiritual life...
… One is separated and torn apart between serving God and serving the World!
In all these cases of Divorce…
… the one basic factor that is lacking is that of Commitment and Faithfulness.
When there is a decrease in commitment and faithfulness, the gravity of divorce and separation, increases!
It could be…
… in the spousal relation
… in the family relation
… in the community relations
… in the societal relations
... or even in our personal spiritual relationship with God!
When we fail in faithfulness, we succeed in separation...
>> When we are complacent in commitment, we are in danger of divorce...!
Today, let us look into our personal spiritual relationship with God...and examine...
>> Are we separating ourselves from God?
>> Are we being divorced from God?
Apparently, we may feel that these questions are not for us...
>> But let’s go a little deeper into ourselves...
… Are we really serving God as our master? … as the Only Master?
… Or are there times, when we fail in our faithfulness, and become complacent in our commitment...?
We need to give the first place to God…
… in our personal lives , our family lives/ our religious and priestly consecration.
But are there occasions, when for some time at least, we keep God away…
… to satisfy our sinful pleasures?
… to answer our egoistic tendencies?
… to fulfill our worldly sinful desires?
… to gratify our evil personal agenda?
If the answer is yes...
… then we are not on God's side!
The Lord demands a total commitment and dedication to Him.
>> God hates divorce!
In Baptism, we have entered into a covenant with Him.
>> Am I in danger of being divorced or separated from our Beloved Covenant Partner?
Little acts of unfaithfulness & infidelity are the ones that slowly shreds a relationship into pieces.
>> Lets tighten up our spiritual lives, and re-dedicate our commitment and faithfulness and consecration to the Lord.
He is a God who cares deeply for us
>> He is Loving parent who sees to all our needs
>> He is a Lover who is intensely passionate about us
Shall we not remain in His loving affection by being more faithful and committed to Him and Him alone?!
Let faithfulness and loyalty be the hallmarks of our successful relationship with the Lord.
Let's say…
>> Yeah to Jesus and His Kingdom...
… and Nay to Satan and the World!
*God Bless! _Live Jesus!_*
*-- Fr Jijo Jose Manjackal MSFS*
*One Story, Two Perspectives*
A famous book writer sat in his study. He took out his pen and began to write:
“Last year, I had surgery to remove gallstones. I was bedridden for a long time.
In the same year, I turned 60 and was retired … quitting a company that I loved so much. I had to leave the job I've been doing for 35 years.
That same year I was abandoned by my beloved mother who passed away.
Then, still in the same year, my son failed his final medical exam because of a car accident. Repair costs from the car damage marked the peak of bad luck last year.”
At the end he wrote:
“What, what a bad year!"
The writer's wife entered the room and found her husband who was sad and pensive. From behind, the wife saw the husband's writing. Slowly she backed away and left the room.
15 minutes later she came back in and put down a piece of paper with the following words:
“Last year, my husband finally managed to get rid of his gallbladder which had been making his stomach hurt for years.
That same year, I am grateful that my husband was able to retire in a healthy and happy state of mind & body. I thank God he was given the opportunity to work and earn for 35 years to support our family.
Now, my husband can spend more of his time writing, which has always been his hobby.
In the same year, my 95 year old mother-in-law, without any pain, returned to God in peace.
And still in the same year, God protected our son from harm in a terrible car accident. Our car was seriously damaged by the accident, but my son survived without any serious injuries.”
In the last sentence his wife wrote:
“Last year was a year full of extraordinary blessings from God, and we spent it full of wonder and gratitude.”
The writer smiled with emotion, and warm tears flowed down his cheeks. He was grateful for a different point of view for every event he had gone through the past year. A different perspective of the same events now made him joyful.
Friends, in this life we must understand that it is not happiness or joy that makes us grateful. It is *gratitude that makes us happy/joyful*! Let’s practise seeing events from a positive point of view and keep envy away from our hearts.
_”We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.”_
*Abraham Lincoln*
**12 Reasons Why Reading Books Should Be a Part of Your Life 📚**
1. **Knowledge Highway 🛣️**: Books are a treasure trove of information on any topic you can think of! Whether it’s history, science, or new hobbies, there's something for everyone to explore. 🌍
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3. **Memory Boost 🧠**: Keep your mind sharp! Reading has been linked to improved memory and cognitive function, keeping your brain active and engaged. 💡
4. **Stress Reduction 🌿**: Need a mental escape? Curling up with a good book is the perfect way to unwind and relieve daily stresses.
5. **Improved Focus and Concentration 🎯**: In our distraction-filled world, reading strengthens your ability to focus and concentrate for longer periods.
6. **Empathy and Perspective 🌎**: Stepping into the shoes of fictional characters helps you develop empathy and understand different viewpoints.
7. **Enhanced Creativity 🎨**: Books are a playground for your imagination! Exposure to new ideas can inspire your own creativity and problem-solving skills.
8. **Stronger Writing Skills ✍️**: By reading well-crafted prose, you can improve your writing style, sentence structure, and overall communication clarity.
9. **Improved Sleep Quality 😴**: Ditch the screens before bed and pick up a book instead. Reading can help you relax, making it easier to drift off into a peaceful sleep.
---
**#ReadingBenefits #BookLovers #KnowledgeIsPower #StressRelief #BoostYourBrain #ImproveFocus #CreativeThinking #BetterSleep #ReadMoreBooks**
So many butthurt posts about blasphemy in the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, so here's the real score: The tableau in the ceremony is not a reference to Da Vinci's Last Supper but to Jan Harkens van Bijlert's The Feast of the Gods (1635), with Apollo crowned at the center of the table (no, that isn't Jesus Christ) and Dionysus the god of wine and pleasure in the foreground. Why this reference? Because Apollo and Dionysus are Greek gods, and the Olympics are a Greek invention, a tribute to Zeus.
And, yes, there was a decapitated woman cradling her own head. That's a reference to Marie Antoinette, whose beheading (along with the rest of French royalty in 1793) was a turning point for France moving away from a Catholic monarchy into a republic.
When your only point of reference is your Christianity, anything resembling a tableau or anything including performers in drag or anything with even a hint of impropriety will scandalize you. Read mythology, read history, look at art, do a simple Google search. Don't let your intellectual horizons begin and end with the Bible. (Which, by the way, has scores of children being massacred not once, but twice! So I don't know why, as avowed Bible lovers, violence should bother you.)
Not everything is about your faith. Especially in France, which is a multicultural and increasingly immigrant society. And because so many of my Catholic friends here on Facebook can afford to travel, please stop with the intellectual laziness and replace it with intellectual curiosity. The French will be French. They will do their thing. France has the grand trappings of its Catholic past, but if you display even a hint of your insular lack of exposure to the immigrant experience or your Catholicism-is-under-attack viewpoint, you will embarrass not only yourself, but the country.
ஒருமுறை ஒரு மனிதன் கடவுளை நோக்கி கடும் தவம் இருந்து வந்தான். ஒருநாள் கடவுள் அவனுக்கு காட்சி அளித்து வழக்கம்போல என்ன வரம் வேண்டுமென அவர் கேட்க, பரிசுச்சீட்டில் 1 கோடி ரூபாய் வரவேண்டுமென்று தன் வரத்தை அவன் கடவுளிடம் முன்வைத்தான். அப்படியே ஆகட்டும் என்று கடவுள் அவன் கேட்ட வரத்தை அளித்துவிட்டு மறைந்து விட்டார். இவனுக்கு மகா மகிழ்ச்சி. ஊரெங்கும் சென்று 1 கோடி கிடைத்து விட்டது என்று தம்பட்டம் அடித்துக் கொண்டு திரிந்தான். ஏகப்பட்ட சொத்துக்களை தவணை முறையில் வாங்கி குவித்து ஏகபோகமாக இருந்தான். வரம் கொடுத்தவர் கடவுளாயிற்றே, நம்பாமல் இருக்க முடியுமா என்ன? சில நாட்கள் சென்றன. பரிசுச்சீட்டு முடிவுகளும் வெளிவந்தன.
ஆனால் இவன் பெயர் அதில் இல்லவேயில்லை. நாளிதழை நாலாபுறங்களிலும் திருப்பித்திருப்பி பார்த்தான், நிச்சயமாக இல்லவேயில்லை. அவன் இதயம் சுக்குநூறாய் உடைந்து போனது. அனைத்து சொத்துக்களும் இவனிடமிருந்து பறிக்கப்பட்டுவிட்டன. கடன் தொல்லை வேறு மிக அதிகமாகிவிட்டது. ஊருக்குள் தலைகாட்ட முடியாமல், அவமானம் தாங்காது தற்கொலை அவன் செய்துகொண்டான்.
இறந்துபோன அவனின் ஆன்மா மேலோகம் சென்றது. அங்கே கடவுள் இருக்கும் இடத்தை தேடி சென்று அவரைக்கண்டு கேள்விகளை வீசினான். "நான் என்னயா தப்பு பண்ணேன்? நீ வரம் கொடுத்தத நம்பினேன், அது தப்பா? உனக்கு சொல் சுத்தம் இல்லையா?", என்று ஏகவசனங்கள் பேசினான். கடவுள் அவர் இருக்கையில் இருந்து இறங்கிவந்து, இவன் கன்னத்தில் 'பொளேர்' என்று ஒரு அறை விட்டார். “நான் வரம் அளித்தது உண்மை தான். நீ ஊருக்குள்ள சென்று தம்பட்டம் அடித்தாய், சொத்துக்களை வாங்கி குவித்தாய், ஆனால் கடைக்கு சென்று பரிசுச்சீட்டு வாங்கினாயா மடையா? நீ பரிசுச்சீட்டை வாங்கினால் தானே, என்னால் உன் பெயரை குலுக்கலில் இருந்து தேர்ந்தெடுக்க முடியும்", என்று பதிலளித்தார் கடவுள்.
கடவுள் பார்த்துக் கொள்வார் என்ற நம்பிக்கையில் வாழ்வது சரிதான். ஆனால் அந்த நம்பிக்கை செயலாக்கம் பெறவேண்டும். செயலாக்கம் இல்லாத நம்பிக்கை செத்ததுக்கு சமமாகும். இதைத்தான் மத்தேயு 7 : 21 ல் “என்னை நோக்கி, 'ஆண்டவரே, ஆண்டவரே' எனச் சொல்பவரெல்லாம் விண்ணரசுக்குள் செல்வதில்லை. மாறாக, விண்ணுலகிலுள்ள என் தந்தையின் திருவுளத்தின்படி செயல்படுபவரே செல்வர்” என்றார்.
Being a Pastor is listed among the four most difficult professions in the United States
because a Pastor must be:
•Preacher
•Example
•Father
•Husband
•Counselor
•Conference caller
•Planner
•Minister
•Visionary
•Director
•Mentor
•Friend
•Reconciliator
•Marriage counselor
•Youth Counselor
•Leader's trainer
•Bible teacher
•Intercessor etc etc
Besides being:
•Keeper of the temple
•Cleaning staff
Every Pastor constantly confronts many different things, such as:
The Pastor doesn't visit me
Sermon was too long.
The music was too loud.
The building is too cold.
Etc....
One of the most difficult things in the life of a Pastor is to know that at some point the people they love will abandon or even betray them.
The Pastor is often the loneliest person in the congregation.
You may see a Pastor be surrounded by people, but very rarely people who are interested in their problems, needs or even in their lives.
If you have a Pastor as a friend take care of them, pray for them, connect with vision that God gave them, support them, but above all love them. Remember they are human and in the same way they go through the same needs as you.
Even if you don’t believe it, many of them have sacrificed comforts, rest, personal plans and so many things including some of their own family’s needs to attend God’s call.
Value the time a Pastor puts into work, the prayers he makes for everyone, the burden he voluntarily carries for ministry. You don't know how much he'd appreciate knowing you do.
Jeremiah 3:15
And I will give you shepherds according to my own heart, who shall lead them with knowledge and understanding.
... For all pastors 🙏
Thank you for all that you do !
Retirement age for men:
🇦🇺 Australia: 67
🇩🇰 Denmark: 67
🇬🇷 Greece: 67
🇮🇸 Iceland: 67
🇮🇱 Israel: 67
🇮🇹 Italy: 67
🇳🇱 Netherlands: 67
🇺🇸 USA: 66.67
🇪🇸 Spain: 66.5
🇬🇧 UK: 66
🇩🇪 Germany: 66
🇦🇹 Austria: 65
🇧🇷 Brazil: 65
🇨🇦 Canada: 65
🇲🇽 Mexico: 65
🇷🇺 Russia: 63
🇫🇷 France: 62.25
🇨🇳 China: 60
🇮🇳 India: 60
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia: 60
🇿🇦 South Africa: 60
🇰🇷 South Korea: 60
🇹🇷 Turkey: 60
🇧🇩 Bangladesh: 59
🇮🇩 Indonesia: 58
According to Trading Economics
பின்வரும் தகவல்கள் ஆக்ஸ்போர்ட் பல்கலைக்கழகத்தின் ஆராய்ச்சி அறிஞர்களால் வெளியிடப்பட்டுள்ளன:
*இயேசுவின் துன்பங்கள் மற்றும் சிலுவையைக் குறித்த அரிய தகவல்கள்*
1. சிலுவை:
எடை = 150 கிலோ
நீளம் = 15 அடி
அகலம் = 8 அடி
2. ஆணிகள்:
தடிமன் = 3/4 அங்குலம்
நீளம் = 8 அங்குலம்
3. இயேசு:
உயரம் = 5 அடி 11 அங்குலம்
எடை = 85 கிலோ
இயேசுவின் துன்பங்கள் பற்றிய தகவல்கள்:
அ) இயேசு சிலுவையை கொல்கொதாவிற்கு எடுத்துச் செல்லும் போது தடுமாறி 3 முறை தரையில் விழுந்தார்.
b) இயேசு மிகவும் தாகமாக இருந்தார், அவர் தண்ணீருக்காக ஏங்கி 17 மணிநேரம் துன்பப்பட்டார்.
c) இயேசுவின் உடலில் 5480 காயங்கள் இருந்தன.
ஈ) அவரது முதுகில் மட்டும் 150 ஆழமான காயங்கள் இருந்தன.
இ) இயேசுவின் தலையில் 17 முட்கள் குத்தப்பட்டன.
f) இயேசு 6.5 லிட்டர் இரத்தம் சிந்தினார்.
g) 350 வீரர்களும் 50 குதிரை வீரர்களும் எருசலேமின் தெருக்களில் அடித்து, அடித்து இயேசுவை இழுத்துச் சென்றனர்.
h) யூத நாட்காட்டியின் படி, இயேசு அக் அபூர்வே கொஞ்சீதா 785, நிசான் 15 இல் மரித்தார்.
i) நமது நாட்காட்டியின்படி இயேசு கிமு 7 ஏப்ரல் 30 அன்று மரித்தார்.
j) சிலுவையில் எழுதப்பட்ட லத்தீன் வார்த்தை INRI யின் பொருள்:
நான் - இயேசு
என் - நசரேயன்
ஆர் - ரெக்ஸோ
நான் - ஐடோனியஸ்
கே) INRI என்ற வார்த்தையின் அர்த்தம் இயேசு நசரேயன், யூதர்களின் ராஜா.
l) லூக்கா ஒரு மருத்துவர் (உடல்நோய் மருத்துவர்), இயேசுவின் மரணத்தைக்குறித்து சான்றளித்தார்.
இயேசு கிறிஸ்துவின் வேதனையை நீங்கள் உணர்ந்தால், இதை உங்கள் உறவுகளுடனும் நண்பர்களுடனும் பகிர்ந்து கொள்ளலாம்.
கர்த்தர் உங்களை அபரிமிதமாக ஆசீர்வதிப்பார்.
மிக்க நன்றி.
ஹென்றி வான் டிகே (Henry Van Dyke) என்ற எழுத்தாளர் எழுதியிருக்கக்கூடிய ஒரு கற்பனைக் கதைதான் நான்காவது ஞானி என்பதாகும்.
விண்ணில் ஒரு மிகப்பெரிய அடையாளம் தோன்றியதைப் பார்த்த கீழ்த்திசை ஞானிகளான கஸ்பார், மெல்கியோர், பல்தசார் போன்றோர் அரசர் ஒருவர் பிறந்திருக்கின்றார் என்று உறுதி செய்துகொண்டு, புதிதாகப் பிறந்திருக்கின்ற அரசரைக் காண யூதேயாவை நோக்கிப் புறப்பட்டுச் சென்றார்கள். அவர்களோடு அர்த்தபான் என்ற நான்காவது ஞானியும் புறப்படுவதாய் இருந்தது. அவர் அவர்களோடு சேர்ந்து போகவதற்காக எல்லா ஏற்பாடுகளையும் செய்துகொண்டு, பிறந்திருக்கும் குழந்தைக்குப் பரிசளிக்க முத்துகளையும் எடுத்துக்கொண்டு கிளம்பியபோது வழியில் பெண் ஒருவர் குற்றுயிராய்க் கிடந்தார். எனவே, அர்த்தபான் அவருக்கு பணிவிடை புரிந்து, அவரைக் குணப்படுத்திவிட்டு, தன்னிடம் இருந்த முத்துகளில் ஒன்றை அவருக்குக் கொடுத்துவிட்டுக் கிளம்பினார்.
இதற்கிடையில் அர்த்தபான் வருவார் என்று நீண்ட நேரமாகக் காத்திருந்த மற்ற மூன்று ஞானிகளும், அவர் வரக் காலம் தாழ்த்தியதால், அவரை விட்டுவிட்டுக் கிளம்பிப் போய்விட்டார்கள். அவர்கள் போனபின்பு அர்த்தபான் விண்மீனின் வழிகாட்டுதலில் கொஞ்சம் தாமதமாகவே யூதேயாவிற்குச் சென்றார்.
இந்த நேரத்தில் ஏரோது மன்னன், பெத்லகேமையும் அதனைச் சுற்றிலும் உள்ள ஊர்களிலும் இருந்த இரண்டு வயதுக்கும் அதற்கு உட்பட்ட குழந்தைகளையும் கொல்வதற்கு ஆணை பிறப்பித்திருந்தான். அவனுடைய ஆணைக்கிணங்க படைவீரர்கள் இரண்டு வயதுக்கும் உட்பட்ட குழந்தைகளை கொலை செய்கின்ற வேலையில் இருந்தபோது அர்த்தபான் ஒரு வீட்டின் அருகே இருந்தார். அந்த வீட்டின் உள்ளே இரண்டு வயதுக்கும் குறைவான வயதில் குழந்தை ஒன்று இருந்தது. படைவீரன் ஒருவன் அந்த வீட்டில் இருந்த குழந்தையைக் கொல்வதற்கு முயன்றபோது அர்த்தபான் படைவீரனுக்கு தன்னிடத்தில் இருந்த முத்துகளில் ஒன்றை கொடுத்து, இந்த முட்டை வாங்கிக் கொண்டு அந்த குழந்தையை விட்டு விடு என்று அந்தக் குழந்தையைக் காப்பாற்றினார். இவ்வாறு அவர் ஒவ்வொரு முறையும் மேசியாவைக் காண முயன்றபோது எதாவது ஒரு தடங்கல் ஏற்பட்டு அவரைக் காணமுடியாமலே போய்க்கொண்டிருந்தது.
மேசியாவை எப்படியாவது பார்த்து, அவருக்கு தன்னிடம் இருக்கும் முத்தைப் பரிசாகக் கொடுத்துவிட வேண்டும் என்று அர்த்தபான் பல ஆண்டுகளாக எருசலேம் வீதிகளில் எப்படியும் பார்த்து விட வேண்டும் என்ற உணர்வோடு அலைந்துகொண்டிருந்தார். இப்படி அவர் அலைந்துகொண்டிருந்தபொது தேவைப்படுவோருக்கு எல்லாம் தன்னிடம் இருந்த முத்தைக் கொடுத்து அவர் உதவிசெய்து வந்தார். இதனால் அவரிடமிருந்த முத்துக்கள் குறைந்துகொண்டே போயின.
ஒருநாள் அவர் எருசலேம் வீதிகளில் அலைந்துகொண்டிருந்தபோது மேசியா போகிறார் என்று கேள்விப்பட்டு, அர்த்தபான் அவரைப் பார்க்க விரைந்து சென்றார். அங்கோ மேசியா எனப்படும் இயேசு ஒரு குற்றவாளியைப் போன்று சிலுவையை சுமந்துகொண்டு போய்க்கொண்டிருந்தார். அவருக்குப் பரிசு கொடுக்க தன்னுடைய ஆடைக்குள் கைவிட்டுப் பார்த்தபோது, அவரிடமிருந்த முத்துக்கள் ஏற்கனவே தீர்ந்துபோயிருந்தது தெரிய வந்தது. மேசியாவிற்கு தன்னால் பரிசு ஒன்றும் கொடுக்க முடியவில்லையே என்று அவர் கதறி அழுதார். அப்போது மேசியா என்னும் இயேசு அவரிடம், "மிகச் சிறியோராகிய இவர்களுக்குச் செய்ததெல்லாம் எனக்கே செய்தாய்" என்று சொல்லிவிட்டு, அங்கிருந்து நகர்ந்து சென்றார்.
மேசியாவைக் காணவேண்டும், அவருக்குத் தன்னிடம் இருக்கின்ற பரிசினைத் தரவேண்டும் என்ற ஒரே சிந்தனையோடு செயல்பட்ட அர்த்தபான் என்ற அந்த நான்காவது ஞானி, நாமும் நம்மிடம் இருப்பவற்றை ஆண்டவர் இயேசுவுக்குத் தரவேண்டும் என்ற சிந்தனையை நம்முடைய உள்ளத்தில் விதைக்கின்றார். நாம் இயேசுவுக்கு என்ன பரிசினைத் தரப்போகின்றோம் என்று சிந்திப்போம்.
