CHRISTEEN SECTION

THE TRIUMPHANT RIDE

Dear young readers, I pray that you all are doing fine both in your personal and spiritual life. Last week’s inspirational story, am sure, might have helped you to steer your time towards reading the Holy Bible; and it will surely cleanse you like the charcoal basket. Do share in your inputs and experiences!  Meanwhile my prayers go with you all!

With the Holy Week fast approaching it is vital to prepare ourselves and so this week we concentrate on the process to keep ourselves worthy to receive the Victorious Lord. Jesus Christ, the King of kings during His final week of public ministry on this earth, started on a procession to Jerusalem- a royal procession. In contrast to the kings and generals of that time who proudly rode on noble warhorses, our King Jesus chose but an ordinary colt for His journey.

When they drew near to Jerusalem and arrived at Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of His disciples with these instructions, “Go to the village on the other side and as you enter it, you will find there a colt tied up that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you why you are doing that tell him that the Master needs it and will sent it back at once.” The disciples went and brought the colt according to the instructions of Lord Jesus Christ.

The colt that had never been ridden would have been nicely adorned by the disciples for the Lord to get on to it. As the colt stood humbly bowing down eagerly for its first ride, awaiting the next events to unfold the Creator came forth to ride it. The procession began and soon some people spread their cloaks on the road while others reached out to spread leafy branches to overlay the rough patchy road. The multitude comprising of young, old and children raised joyful songs and chants. The entire city was filled with a jubilant uproar. The echoes of the joyful songs might have reached the ears of the Emperor Caesar. Our young colt, his head bowed down,  was filled with gladness for this larger than life event. It was a life fulfilling event to hear chants and shouts  of, ““Blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord!  Blessed is the coming kingdom of King David, our father!  Hosanna in the highest!”

As Lord Jesus was riding it; many compliments were being conferred on it by the people partaking the procession. Imagine how honoured and happy must the colt have felt?

Dear children, it is a great boon to become a little colt for Lord Jesus. Don’t you also desire to become the beloved one of the Lord without any display of power mingled in majestic splendour or a royal pride? Instead like the young colt resound the trumpet of love and be an example of humbleness and obedience.  An old saying indicates that even the stones lying close to the lily, acquire good scent. Similarly, the colt that carried Lord Jesus also would be recipient to special adulations and blessings. Though the path of journey was filled with stones and thorns but when the Lord got on to it, to ride it the path was overlaid with soft cloths. This indicates that He protects His disciples so much that not even their feet would touch the stones along this life’s path. The world had tied the colt; likewise today, you may be in some bondage, all tied up and unable to do any good. ‘Useless’ may be the word that defines you today . in this world of tough competition, you may not adhere to the fastness of those horses around you. May be at those times you are forced to call yourself unlucky to have missed the chances of survival with those of your status. You might be no different from the circumstances when Lord Jesus instructed the colt to be untied.

Worry not! Let your little hearts fret not! Remember that though everyone may abandon you, but your own dear Lord needs you. The Lord requires and uses those who are not wanted by this world. I pray that my young readers of the ‘Living Word’ become the vehicle of Lord Jesus.

So then let nothing stop you from preparing from today itself!

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favour and give you peace.

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ

CHRISTEN SECTION

A LESSON IN CHARCOAL BASKET

An old man lived with his young grandson on a beautifully landscaped farmhouse. From his childhood days, he would see his grandpa regularly wake up at dawn for morning prayers and regularly read his old worn out Holy Bible. The grandson admired his grandpa and would always imitate this. One fine morning during breakfast, the child asked him, “Grandpa, I try my best to read the Holy Bible, just like you, but I fail to understand it. Not only that it so happens that I forgot what I read as soon as I close the book. What then, is the use of reading it? Neither do I understand it nor do I remember it!”

Grandfather thought for some time. He then moved towards the stove and emptied the coal basket, saying, “My dear, would you mind taking this basket to the river and return with a basket of water.” “Sure, dada anything for you.” Saying this he ran off to the river. Grandpa waited at the courtyard, waiting and watching for him. By the time his grandson reached home, the water leaked off. The old man encouraged him saying, “Don’t worry, you have to move a bit more faster. You can do it! Come on! Rush now.”This time the child ran faster, as faster as his legs could take him; but the result was the same with the tiredness and breathlessness increasing. After trying repeatedly he told his grandpa, “Dada, it is impossible to bring water in a basket; let me get it in a bucket.” “But dear, basket of water is what I need; not a bucket of it. Try a bit harder. I know my boy can do it.”

By this though the boy knew it was impossible yet did not want to hurt grandpa and tried to prove his mettle. He tried harder; his heart saying it was impossible began to beat faster; yet he tried to cover the voice of his heart by the swiftness of his legs. However determination overcame tiredness, and as he sat near his grandpa with his wet empty basket saying, “O grandpa! Its useless!”

“Do you really think it’s useless? Look at the basket, my child!” He looked at the basket and was astonished. The coal basket had been spotlessly clean as new! The wise grandpa now took his grandson in his lap as he continued saying, “This is exactly what happens when you regularly read the Holy Bible. You might not understand a word; there would be days when you would not remember anything; yet when you regularly read the Holy Book; it will change you inside out.  That is God’s work in our lives that changes us and slowly transforms us into the image of His beloved Son.”

How wondrous is the deeds a Word of God can do in your life! It always delights us; so it is never a matter of boredom or feeling of waste of time. God’s Word can protect you from sinning; also clean your present sinful human nature. Presenting you with a new and fresh understanding about the love of God; it will reveal His awesome plans for your life. The more you read His Word, you will discover the wonderful things He has stored up for your life. How would you get to know a person thoroughly unless you take an effort to meet or communicate with that person? So is it with God! Many people know about God, but dear children, only few know God. More than a religion ‘Christianity’ is about a relation with God. To meet up a friend would you not take the effort to go and convene them personally? Similarly if you desire to be God’s friend-you need to work on your friendship; the bond will be stronger and tighter as per your effort in it. The time you dedicate with Him will be greatly rewarded. So shall we make Lord Jesus, our friend by reading a small portion of the Word of God daily? With your parent’s permission allot some time during this summer vacation to read the Holy Bible with your friends and yes, do share the Holy Book if any of friend requests you for it.

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favour and give you peace.

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ

CHRISTEEN SECTION

TRUE FRIEND

Timmy was the only child of her parents; studying in sixth standard she was a good athlete who was very much loved by her classmates.  A quality that separated her from other children was the swiftness of her brain that was faster than her sporty legs.  She loved the appreciation and love that was showered on her by her friends. In order to keep that intact she induced a cunning trick – distribution of sweets.  One day, as usual she ran to the nearest sweet shop on her way to school and brought an extra quantity than the regular packet. On getting extra sweets than usual her friends praised her and she was happy with the extra attention and admiration. When it was time to return home, her friends noticed that Timmy was not her usual self. A pinch of guilt crept into her. Her mother too noticed the change. Her daughter, who otherwise would be jumping and dancing  to be back, today pretended sick and covered herself to sleep.  By evening too she was aloof and it was time for daddy to return from work. On other days, she would eagerly wait for him but today was different. She did not have the courage to face her dad nor to rush to his lap to play or to tell how her day went by. She heard the doorbell ring; and as soon as dad came in he began to call her. Slowly gathering courage she walked up to the front room where both mom and dad stood facing her. “I had told you to take your allotted pocket money; why did you take extra amount?” asked daddy fumingly. There it was!! Finally the moment that Timmy feared!! But she stood there pretending innocence and unaware of what dad was talking. When she saw that he was very angry and would punish her she began to shed tears and agreed to her misdeed.  Mom added to the conversation, “Why did you do so? If you had asked your dad, would he not have given it to you?”    Timmy cried so bitterly that mother was convinced that she was sorry and regretful for her mistake. Dad continued sternly, “From tomorrow you shall be deprived from your pocket money.  Let me warn you do not repeat this again.”  She went back to her room; angry at her parents, thinking, “Why did they have to discontinue my pocket money? How will I face my friends without sweets? How will I find a way out?”  With such gush of thoughts  she slowly faded off to sleep.

The next day, Timmy accompanied Tessy, a neighbor and her classmate. When the entire group of friends gathered, they were busy discussing homework and projects. It was then Tessy realized that she had not yet completed a portion of the calculation her teacher had given her.  Opening her bag, she took out the notebook and asked some of her friend’s help. Meanwhile Timmy who was in her own world, all worrying about what had happened the previous day, was near  sitting near friend’s bag and her eyes immediately noticed some money. There was the solution to her problems. She cunningly looked around; lifted the note and ran off to the nearest shop and brought a handful of sweets to everyone including Tessy. Each one retreated to their classrooms, after deciding where to meet for lunch break. During the interval Tessy searched her bag restlessly for the note that mother had  given her to buy lunch from the canteen. She searched between the pages of her books to all the pouches in her bag; but it was empty. Asking pardon to the Lord for her carelessness; she prayed in her hunger.  The bell rang and class resumed. After some time Tessy fell down unconscious. When Timmy enquired, she was shocked to know that her friend was suffering from high fever .  Her heart ached to know that Tessy had to skip her lunch as she lost the money. Timmy realized that her bad deeds were wrecking others life; and it was time that she mended her ways. She took a firm decision never to repeat such cruel acts; and in her heart, prayed to Lord Jesus to comfort her dear friend. From the principal’s office she telephoned her mother who took Tessy home and cared for her. Meanwhile Timmy with a sincere repentant heart confessed her act to her mother, who attentively listened and reviewed her daughter’s conduct. Amidst her sobs, she hugged mother, promising her and self never again to indulge in any such acts.

Next day Timmy went to her friend to tell her about the previous day’s happenings. She was sure that Tessy would be disappointed with her and go about telling her misdeeds to all. Instead Tessy replied, “Our Lord Jesus, has taught us to forgive our enemies; you though are my best friend, I extend my forgiveness to you. Never mind! Past is past! Let us spend our time in prayer in the chapel and studies; rather than run to the nearest sweet shop.”

Then they joined in, asking forgiveness to Lord Jesus for the sins of self, and those among students. They were filled with great happiness, joy and tranquility. The love, compassion and patience of Lord Jesus, who was wounded and bruised for our transgression sprouted in them.  Dear children, your minds may lead you to bad habits and paths very quickly. Evaluate your daily deeds today itself and beg forgiveness to Lord Jesus, and strive to make a new path in truth.

A SHORT PRAYER

O Little Jesus who lived according to the will of the Father and who set an example for us, make my hearts like yours. It seeks pleasure in self glory, selfish motives, disobedience, and many things that is not worthy in Your eyes. Grant me the strength to obey faithfully your laws even in my little deeds; the grace to request forgiveness without hesitation; and to extend forgiveness wholeheartedly to those who require if from my end.   Loving Father, grant that I and all students may be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit to be sincere in all our actions. Pour out your Divine Mercy on all of us and help to wash ourselves clean from all our wrongdoing. Heavenly Mother, intercede for us to your Divine Son, our Lord Jesus. Amen.

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favour and give you peace.

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ

CHRISTEN SECTION

RESEMBLANCE TO HIM

The Holy Bible says, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven.  If anyone eats this bread, he will live for ever.”  (John 6 : 51)

A young boy approximately the age of six to seven years set off to hear stories from Jesus Christ. When he reached multitudes of people were present; He too found a place to sit and began to listen. The journey had made him hungry; but as Lord Jesus continued His teachings, the boy was so enchanted by what he heard that he decided to have his food later on. Meanwhile at the end of His teachings, Lord Jesus sensed his listeners were hungry and decided to feed them. Jesus called his disciples spoke something to them and they soon came closer to the boy who sat with a parcel his beloved mother prepared for him. At the elder’s request, he handed his food packet voluntarily with ultimate innocence that reflected in his eyes. As they moved further; the little boy felt a choke of sadness in his throat. “I should have eaten it earlier. My mother prepared it for me and it is only enough to feed my hungry stomach,” he thought and decided to slowly move further to see why his small parcel was asked for. Stretching himself, he saw his bread and fish were in the hands of Lord Jesus. While his little eyes stared onto the Lord, he saw that Jesus raised His hands that held the food, His eyes gazed onto the sky and His lips moving silently. A hope arose in the boy’s heart and a small smile widened on his lips as he thought Jesus would return His food after blessing it. It was then he witnessed a wonderwork of Loving Jesus, that he would never forget in his lifetime.

 Dear little buddies, when the five loaves of bread and two fish were in the Holy hands of Lord Jesus, it was multiplied enough to satisfy to the hunger of five thousand people; who in turn were filled and happy. Though initially the boy was sad as the packed food were the fruit of his dad’s hard work and symbol of his mother’s love but after witnessing the entire episode; overjoyed with a feeling of selflessness, he danced on his way back home; eager to narrate everything to his loving mother. His joy spread in their home as mother thanked God for blessing her handmade bread that fed a crowd of five thousand.  The mother held her son close to her heart, hugged and blessed him saying, “My dear, be always generous and kind to all.” The selfish thoughts of our little unnamed hero were totally abolished when Lord Jesus blessed the food. His small view and thoughts that screamed my hunger, my tiffin, my mother, father, my stomach etc abolished to a wider perspective to observe the hungry crowds. Our heavenly Father do not want anyone to die due to hunger.  He learned the valuable lesson of sharing all his personal treasures with the neediest ones. Lord Jesus blessed Him with a cheerful heart to surrender everything to Mighty Creator and His grace made him a historical hero even after two thousand years. Dear children in Christ, be merciful and kind in your approach to all especially whom you tend to overlook due to tiny jealousy, pride or fear. Lord Jesus can multiply your meals and feed many through you even today. Do you know how? Say the grace before meals and surely unseen Infant Jesus will send His angels out to various places to make a way to feed the hungry. Children, when you sip water, silently invoke Lord Jesus, “I sip for all thirsty children,” and repeat the same for the first portion of each of your meal. When you practice these deeds in faith, you can feed many unseen souls and also heal the stomach ailments of those who prepare food for you; and your dining table/space would be the most joyful and relish able place. As you grow with Lord Jesus hand in hand, His everlasting Love will overflow to your surroundings and attracting many to Jesus – you can march towards God. Take care never to do anything tit for tat. Utilize your leisure times to share these stories and prayers to your friends.

So join your hands, bow your head and pray in reverence.

GRACE BEFORE MEAL

Bless us O Lord and these Your gifts which we are about to receive from your bounty through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

AFTER MEAL

Thank you, Abba Father, for nourishing our body and soul.  Thank you for giving health to our parents to work sincerely with fear of God.  May Your will be done always in Jesus Name we pray.  Amen

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favour and give you peace.

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ

CHRISTEN SECTION

A GOLDSMITH’S DILEMMA

Dear children in Christ Jesus,

Among the Jews there is an old story which goes like this.  Once King David called his goldsmith and ordered him, “Within a span of two days, I want you to make a special ring for me. This is the attribute that I desire from the ring.  When I am sunk in sorrow it should comfort me, when I lose myself in times of joy, it should be able to put a check on me.”  If the ring fails in fulfilling these two demands, the goldsmith was warned that he would be beheaded; as this was the punishment in those days. The demand of His Majesty led the goldsmith to great sorrow and anguish; his thoughts led to brood over the ring; and he could neither see any way out. Meanwhile, the young prince Solomon was playing in the porch. On seeing the goldsmith worried, the prince went up you him enquire and after listening to the narration of the goldsmith the prince realized the anguish that flooded his heart. The countenance of the prince was a reflection of the brightness and wisdom of God’s glory. He suggested a clever idea and after comforting the goldsmith, Solomon retreated to his games. Finally the day came when the ring would be presented to King David.

The King adorned his finger with the ring and he was pleased with what he saw. “This too shall pass” were carved on the golden ring. Being contentment with the result, King David bestowed many gifts to the goldsmith. 

Dear children, alike prince Solomon, God has blessed each of you with wisdom, understanding, compassion to express your love and concern to your parents and others. When your guardians/ parents are anxious or worried about you, take note of it, do approach them and discuss with them. Their cause of concern would be your behavior, or your carefree attitude. Studies and self grooming are very essential at this stage of your life. What might be a minute, careless matter for you it; could be something that would be unacceptable to them. Respect their dreams and ambitions for you; value their concerns regarding you. Console them, promising to do the right thing and do your best to stick to it.  Respecting and obeying them equals to respecting your Creator. Regularly include them in your daily prayers, look for ways to please them; live up to their expectations and experience how Lord Jesus will comfort them. May the Lord shower his choicest favors over each of you.

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favour and give you peace.

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ

CHRISTEN SECTION

THE GREAT TAX COLLECTOR- ZACCHAEUS

Long time back in Jericho; Two thousand years ago

Lived a man whose Zacchaeus was name;

Who was rich had status and fame.

Still he lacked peace in his family;

Neither was there love nor joy or unity.

To see Jesus was his plan; but he was a short little man

So he ran ahead to see, and climbed a Sycamore tree.

To see Jesus was his desire;

Burning in him like a jungle fire.

When Jesus reached below the tree there;

He lifted his head and gave a loving stare;

And said to him, “Hurry down!”

For his house was chosen in that town.

For He should stay there that day

To show Zacchaeus the Salvation way.

The people around began to grumble,

But from Father’s will, Jesus did not stumble;

For Zacchaeus was proof for man;

To see God’s love for the sinner clan.

Zacchaeus stood and said to Christ:

“Sir, I’ll return the robbed rights;

To poor I’ll give half my belongings;

To pay back the ones I’m longing.”

Jesus smiled and stood up to say:

“Salvation has come to this house today.”

By giving everything when he did surrender;

Jesus gave peace and threw his sins never to remember;

For the Son of Man came to seek

To save the lost, the humble and the meek.

(Luke 19:1-9)

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favor and give you peace.

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ

CHRISTEN SECTION

DOMINIC SAVIO - A YOUNG SAINT

Dear young readers, I pray and hope that regular reading of the Word of God is crushing each thorn of negativity in your life and you are doing well as God’s young warrior.  As per requests from young readers, would like to mention an inspirational life of a young adolescent with a mature spirituality-a doting son, a true friend and a saint; and the same would be penned by a member of our team.

*************************************************************

Born on 2^nd April 1842 in Italy to poor, hardworking and pious parents Dominic Savio had a deep reverence and extraordinary love for God. Lessons to love God, never to displease or offend Him and to be aware of self actions were inculcated in him. By the age of four, he could pray on his own and would be regular in prayers.  Once at the age of four this young child when missing and his mother hastily went in search of Him. He was found in the woods, all knelt up with eyes closed reciting His prayers by heart.He was punctual in Christian duties towards attending the Holy Mass. Due to his dedication and habitual devotional he was eligible to accept the Sacrament of Holy Communion at the age of seven (twelve was the age considered fit during those days).  It is well recorded that Dominic Savio was well aware of the purity that belonged to Sacrament and he prepared days in advance in prayers and asking forgiveness to his parents for any failure towards his duties. From this day he made some firm resolutions:

1.      I will go to confessions and receive the Holy Communion as advised by the priest

2.     To observe Sundays and religious festivals in a special manner

3.     Lord Jesus and Mother Mary will be my friends

4.    I prefer death than sin

He studied hard and would walk for miles to reach school daily. If anyone would ask him, if he feared the dark and dusty road, He would reply, “I am never alone, my guardian angels walks and protects me.” Such was the remarkable faith this young man had. This long walks in the due course took a toll on health and for secondary education his parents decided to shift him to the nearby village to be closer to school.

There are various instances that indicate how Dominic Savio was a true friend and wanted his friends to be always in line with piety and awareness of God. As boys of his age he too would participate in games. When two boys had a severe argument they decided to settle it with a fight. When Dominic Savio heard about it he rushed to the spot with a Holy crucifix, to the place where the fight was to take place.standing between the groups with the Holy Crucifix, requesting that they throw the first stones at him. “Christ, who was innocent, died for us rather than seek revenge from those who hated him." Ashamed of their act, the two boys gave up their fight and our young saint persuaded them to go for the Sacrament of confession. Just as his name ‘Savio’ meaning wise- he was gifted with wisdom and control over his emotions from a tender age.

The meeting with his spiritual mentor, St. John Bosco was a turning point in his life. His school was situated in John Bosco’s native village and it was a custom that the priest would visit his hometown in the month of October. Dominic’s teacher at school had remarked in high regard about this young boy to John Bosco. A meeting was arranged. Now John Bosco was a Roman Catholic priest who had dedicated his life to the betterment and education of street children, juvenile delinquent and other disadvantaged youth. He developed teaching methods based on love rather than punishment,

After initial greetings and a series of conversation, Dominic Savio bluntly asked the priest, how he had found him to be? While the priest answered that to him Dominic Savio looked a good material. Savio then replied, “Then take me with you, Father. You can be the tailor, and I'll be the cloth. Make me into a beautiful garment for Our Lord." This meeting was the beginning of their relationship, the result of which was that John Bosco agreed to take Dominic to Turin with him.Arriving at Turin, Dominic Savio placed himself under his mentor’s guidance. He enthusiastically followed the rules, listened to sermons and was obedient to his teachers. He once happened to listen to a talk on sainthood and these three points impressed him:

1.      That it is God’s will that every one becomes a saint.

2.     That it is easy to become a saint.

3.     That there is a great reward waiting in heaven for those who try to become a saint.

When he learnt that ‘Dominic’ meant ‘belonging to God’, the flame to attain sainthood increased and he began to do intense penances. It was St. John Bosco who forbade him and instead told him that as a school boy the best penance would be to do all his responsibilities with perfection humility and obedience. Thus this formed the philosophy of his life, “I can't do big things but I want everything to be for the glory of God.".

His devotion to Mother Mary was ignited under His mentor’s guidance.

Steadily failing health and severe cough forced Savio to be sent home to recover for few days. Though Dominic insisted that he wanted to spend his last few days at the Oratory his mentor decided to follow the doctor’s recommendation. Despite his affection and his wish John Bosco sent Dominic home with his father to recuperate. Four days at his home and he knew his end was near. As tutored by his mentor, he received his last sacraments and asked his father to recite prayers for a happy death. Then he slept off and after a short while awoke bidding good bye to his dad, “"Goodbye, Dad, goodbye . . . . . Oh, what wonderful things I see ...".

To those around him initially appeared as though he was in a deep sleep but then the truth struck that Dominic Savio had passed away at a tender age of 14. To his father who was deeply distressed and wanted to know where his son was in the other world, he appeared to his father in a dream a month after he passed away in the midst of dazzling light. He spoke to his dad saying “I am in heaven.” His father requested him to pray for his family members. “Yes, I will pray” was the answer.

Let us pray:

Almighty and Heavenly Father we praise you through St. Dominic Savio. Fill our hearts with heavenly wisdom and fear of God. Grant us the strength to resist all temptations and impurities. Fill us with Holy love for you and all. Raise us to perfection to the state of life to which we have been called. Through your powerful intercession we surrender the entire youth.

Almighty God, may your kingdom come, may your holy will be done.

St. Dominic Savio, pray for us! Amen

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favor and give you peace.

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ

CHRISTEN SECTION

WORD OF GOD- THE SWORD OF A WARRIOR

After Lord Jesus was baptized, He went into the wilderness for forty days and nights. He did not eat anything during those days and by the end of the forty days He was hungry.  Here, Satan tried finding ways to test our Lord to disobey God. Since Jesus was hungry, satan said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, change these stones lying on the ground to turn into loaves of bread and you will have food to eat.” In spite of his appetite, Lord Jesus rebuked satan with the Word of God,  “The Scriptures say that it is more important to obey God than to feed yourself.”

 Lord Jesus came to this world to save us from our sinful state, to create a new and pure heart in us; satan knew this very well and he wanted God’s plan of Salvation to be brought to a standstill.

Satan tried his chance to persuade Lord Jesus again but our Lord defended Himself from its attack with the Word of God. Finally, as a last trick He tried to convince Lord Jesus to worship him and in return would give Him power over all the kingdoms of the earth. Again Lord Jesus shielded Himself from the devil with the Word of God, “Get out of here, Satan! It is written in the Scriptures, ‘You shall worship only God and serve Him alone.” Then Satan left the Lord; and angels came and cared for Lord Jesus. See the power of the Word of God.

From the beginning of the creation; time and again satan is out to test us. It is up to you to decide if you wish to attack the Satan like Lord Jesus or fall into its sin-coated desires like the first parents, Adam and Eve, who could not resist it boldly , thus creating generations of sinful mankind.

You must be wondering when you have encountered temptations. Let’s go through your routine? Every time when you disobey, create or indulge in a fight; snatching or grabbing other’s things, when you are rude and lazy, utter small and big lies; waste your food; when you fail to do your duties at its proper time; turn a blind eye to those in need of your help etc….

These are some of the crucial moments when you fall short to receive your blessings. So this week we insist that as young prayer warriors, you ready yourselves with ample Word of God. Make the Holy Bible a part of your life, give it a suitable holy place it deserves and read and memorize it.

So educate yourselves with appropriate Bible verses, so that you can shoo away Satan, win your daily temptations and testify us, your victories in the Lord.

LET US PRAY

Infant Jesus, incarnate Word of God, make me a servant of Your Word.

I love You Abba Father;

I trust in You, Lord Jesus;

I hope in You, Holy Spirit;

Mother Mary, pray for all children. Amen!

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favor and give you peace.

With love filled blessings, 

Your Sister in Christ

CHRISTEN SECTION

A BLOSSOM IN THE LORD’S VINEYARD

The Holy Bible says, “…… “Speak; your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:10)

Greeting to all my young readers!

Your enthusiastic self desire to blossom as an active bud in the Lord’s vineyard stirred immense joy within me!

Aditya’s zeal and great contentment made everyone cheerful. Thanks to you, child! May Lord inspire and bring many more like you to be blessed. Let’s sing praises in gratitude to our Abba Father who gifted you parents who have great reverence and fear of God.

I am sure there are many more who would love to share their suggestions but might be hesitant. Never mind! Do come forward without any apprehension. What truly matters is that we share the grace He merits us through our weakness.

In the course of Advent Activities, Lord Jesus gifted you with an urge to assist the needy; filled your tiny hearts with compassion that recited a prayer for them. It is indeed worth appreciating your good efforts.

It is always better to have a clear insight on why do we insist you to lend a helping hand to the genuinely sick and poor around you. When Lord Jesus was of your age, He would notice there were many who were rejected or pleading for help; and He made it a point to comfort them by offering small help and prayed to God for their well being.

When he grew up and engrossed in His Mission, as we read in the Holy Bible, He, moved with compassion, healed everyone who approached Him. He would show love and concern by restoring what they required. The Lord’s heart would be overjoyed with peace as He could wipe out their suffering.

Similarily, through the Advent activities, you too became God’s fellow workers. Inwardly and externally the joy continues to instigate you to do more and more for others through the Lord.

I would suggest you all to polish your behaviors and attitude as through your deeds you would be silently witnessing your Living God  who cares for everyone.  His name is Immanuel- God is with us!

Begin your day with a small prayer thanking Lord for the day and then offer everyone and every schedule to Him. Fulfill your daily responsibilities without your parents and  other’s compulsion. Be sure to have fun while playing. When the time to study ticks, invite the Lord to sit beside you and place all your worries in Him. His wisdom will assist your little fingers in your home-works and enlighten your brain to grasp all that is taught. Be helpful to those who are weak in their studies by doing so, your friends too will benefit the Lord’s blessings through you. Before you sleep, bow to the Lord in gratitude for a fulfilling day.

May your arising innocent prayers lead many to the truth.

Our team consists of many junior silent warriors and you too could be a part of it. Be sure to pray to the Infant Jesus, who would be registering your name too. We look forward to welcome many of you soon!

As a bird needs a pair of wings to fly, so is knowledge and wisdom to a prayer warrior.

May St. Maria Goretti and St. Dominic Savio- the representatives of our junior warriors intercede for you.  

PRAYER FOR STUDENTS

O child Jesus, my Lord and good teacher, I a student have come to your presence. I surrender to you my studies and all its burdens. Help me to study wholeheartedly. Bless those students who do not have the right ambience to do their studies. O! Good Jesus, who helps me, I offer millions of thanks to you. Praise you Jesus! I love you Jesus! Halleluia! Amen.

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favor and give you peace.

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ

CHRISTEN SECTION

PETER BRINGS TABITHA BACK TO LIFE

Peter, the Apostle went travelling to different cities preaching about Lord Jesus and healing the sick.

In the city of Joppa, there was a devout woman named Tabitha, who had the reputation of being kind and generous. One day she succumbs to her sickness and died. So the Christians of that city sent for Peter. On his arrival, they showed him where the dead body was laid. The people crowded in the room also showed Peter the various clothes Tabitha had made for the poor.

Peter, then, asked everyone to leave. Being alone in the room, he knelt down and began praying. Then he turned to the body and said, “Tabitha, get up!”

She opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up. Peter reached over and helped her get up. Then he called all the believers, including the widows, and presented her alive to them.

May the Lord bless you and take care of you. May He be kind and gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favor and give you peace.

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ 

CHRISTEEN SECTION

THE LITTLE MORNING STAR

Here is the Heavenly Father

all His angels He did gather

See He is instructing them

to fly down to earth from heavenly realm.

“Go to the world on Christmas eve

Grant them joy, love and peace.”

One little angel behind the door;

wanted to take the Lord’s blessings to the poor.

But Father would not allow the little fellow

To fly to the world down below

So the Little Angel to go on his mission

Again went to the Father to ask permission;

Seeing the Little Angel’s desire;

Father said, “Go, if you so aspire.”

The Little Angel in all his merry

Began to skip and make hurry!

But Father told the little one

“My dear, return before the sun is down.”

On Christmas Eve the little one flew

With the wind which loudly blew.

He kissed the lilies, played with the bees;

He caressed the ripples and swung on the trees.

Showered blessings on children around;

Tenderly touched a baby sleeping sound.

He wiped the tears and blossomed flowers;

Flew over huts, palaces and towers.

As the sun began to go down

He decided to return to heavenly town.

A house he found on the way;

Dark, sorrowful and from town far away.

Blessings were not remaining with him

For he had already given away everything.

He gazed at the sky and cheered up

As he saw shining stars high up;

Off he flew and plucked a star;

and placed it in the house so far.

Seeing the brightness he became happy

Was overjoyed truly truly !

Days later, the angel did hear

The sound of trumpets loud and clear;

Heavenly Dad was on an inspection round

To check and see if everything was sound.

The Angel saw a hole from where he had plucked the star;

And began to tremble and cry, while Father was still so far.

Mother Mary approached the little one,

And asked the angel the reason;

Our little friend narrated everything

And on conclusion began weeping.

She took the angel in Her arms;

Told him to be silent and calm.

She removed a star from Her gown;

And told him to fix it down.

In the meantime Father came;

Saw the star and realized the game.

He tapped the little Angel’s shoulder

told him, “Be happy, and don’t bother;

happy are you from today;

this star will lead and show the way.

It’s a sign of love in the sky so far;

In your memory, it will be called:

“The Little Morning Star”

With love filled blessings,

Your Sister in Christ