HT August 2013

EDITORIAL

n the last issue, we discussed about seat- the human beings who are made God, modern day enterprises wouldthe power of a prayerful life. Equally in the image of God. Again, we begin also become exploitative). Further, theyIimportant is the beauty and the with the articles of the tabernacle and made good use of money for the

power of the Holy Bible. When we read exodus of Israelites – the altar of the betterment of the society and fightthe Holy Bible, at one level, it would burnt offering and the Passover, the oppression and slavery. Now, instead of impress our soul about the profound laver and the crossing of the red sea, the adducing proof from the past, we havemoral teachings and the mighty acts of table of showbread and manna, etc. We articles in this issue from accomplished God. But then our eyes also will be can repeat this many times. In the and eminent men and women of God of opened and we would be equally interest of the space, let me say with the our generation in India. amazed at how each of the events, sweet singer of Israel – “Even perfection

When Bro. James Varghese, IAS writesdetails, whether it is numbers, symbols, has its limits, but your commands havethat “somebody doing a so-called colours, names, every living being, etc no limit” (Psalms 119:96- NLT). The secular job, be it agriculture or tailoring mentioned in the Holy Bible are consistency of the Holy Bible, which we

beautifully intervened together to use as one of the evidence for its or hair dressing or medical practice or provide us the glimpse of the grandeur inspiration is not just the logical teaching is doing a job which wasand majesty of our Lord's glory (Luke coherence, but also the absolute unity advertised and recruited by God” and 24:27), and how these things are of its every texture and granular provides us an example of an enterprisewritten for our instruction (1 details- truly the mark of the Holy that believers started for the glory of Corinthians 10:11). Spirit. God and for the benefit of society, Bro.

Peter Christopher Raj writes about the For example, let us take the sequence of Further, the Word of God is also need and principles of running business the articles of the Tabernacle of powerful. It has converted sinners intoas God's calling. We also have an article Testimony. As we begin to walk from saints, murderers into martyrs and by Bro. Sanjay Macwan, Sis. Melissa the altar of the burnt offering, which extorters into charitable men and Walavalkar and Sis.Kristina Craven – represents the sacrificial vicarious women. It is evidenced acrosswriting from their own experience how death of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is centuries, across cultures and is known believers can fight against injustice and also the beginning of our Christian life, to all of us and in our lives that it oppression and restore the brokenwe come to the laver, representing the requires no further proof. Psalms 19: 7 hearted. Further, we have the testimonycleansing and separation from sin, the “the law of the LORD is perfect,

table of showbread- our fellowship with of Dr. Raj Kumar Songa on how he converting the soul; the testimony of God and fellow believers, the golden fought against the medical malpracticesthe LORD is sure, making wise the lamp stand- divine light of the Holy which cost him his job but that verysimple.” Moreover, when the Word of Spirit, the golden altar- the sweet same instance turned out to be a God became an open book, it worship, and the ark and the mercy blessing to him- he is now the chief transformed nations, broughtseat- the fullness of our Lord Jesus panel physician for US, UK, Australiareformation, alleviated poverty and Christ. While all the anointed things of and Canada Embassies' as they not onlytaught men and women to fight againstthe tabernacle is filled to the full wanted a highly competent person but a injustice and oppression. When men (fulfilled) in Messiah (THE Anointed) man of distinguished integrity. We haveand women were inspired to take their and finds its complete expression and more articles on the same line daily vocation as God's calling, the meaning, we also see its partial filling in displaying the power of the Word of practical outcome was their quality and the every work of our most blessed God in addition to the regulars.productivity increased. As a result, their saviour Lord Jesus Christ. Let us again

income increased. When they began to On a different note, this would be mybegin with the articles of the tabernacle use their increased income judiciouslyand creation. The fire at the altar of the last issue of the Harvest Times. I thank as stewards of God rather than burnt offering represents the light that all the readers for their support and irresponsibly spending it or wasting it was created on the first day, the laver hope that these few issues were a on the lust of this world, their surplus and the water- division of waters from blessing to all of you. I wish the Harvestand savings increased. This when theywaters on the second day, the table of Times and its readers all the very best invested in business which ran on showbread- the fruits of the third day, for future.innovation and integrity rather than the golden lamp stand – the two great

In Christmanipulation and craftiness, the lights of fourth day, the smoke that modern day enterprises began toascends from the golden altar- the birdsappear (of course, without the Word of of the fifth day, the ark and the mercy

3Harvest Times for Your Family August 2013/Volume 10 Issue 8

Jerry Thomas

The Power of the WORD

4 Harvest Times for Your Family August 2013/Volume 10 Issue 8

Harvest Times (HT): Welcome to in this alien land as strangers and permits believers to associate with Harvest Times. We have come across sojourners (Lev 25:23). immoral, worldly people (1 Cor.many believers who are dissatisfied 5:10). 'Associate' here means The Bible is equally emphatic on the with their secular jobs. They are intimate association as that betweenseparation to be kept by believersunhappy that they have to interact the ingredients of a perfume (The from the world. “Do not love thewith ungodly people in the same Greek word 'mignumi' is used world, nor the things in the world. If professional setting and as a result in Ex. 30:35 in the Septuagint toanyone loves the world, the love of thewant to separate and be in “full time.” denote the mixing of perfume). This Father is not in him”. (1 John 2:15, How do you address that? verse permits the believers toNASB). The scripture also commands

associate even with worldly immoralBro. James Varghese (JV): Excellent "Therefore, COME OUT FROM THEIR people!question. Let us look at the Holy MIDST AND BE SEPARATE," (2 Cor.

Bible. Jeremiah 29:7 says “And seek 6:17, NASB) Are these commandments the welfare of the city where I have contradictory? Again, the answer is What could be extent of relationshipsent you into exile, and pray to the no! Though these commandments permissible for the believers with LORD on its behalf; for in its welfare are apparently contradictory, theythis world and the people of this you will have welfare.”(NASB). This are complimentary in reality.world? Can we be of the world and was God's instruction to the Jews love the world? The answer is no. HT: Can you explain that a bit more?who were about to go to exile to The word of God is conclusive about If we are commanded to be both Babylon for 70 years. The Scripture these aspects. Should we alienate separate as well as associate, what is advised them to pray for the gentile from the world and live an ascetic the meaning of separation and nation in which they were going to life? Again, 'No' is the answer. The association?be exiled and also to share its Bible which explicitly forbids JV: Good that you asked it. Let me welfare. But this principle is also association with immoral believers, clarify. The 'separation described applicable to all of us who are living

FEATURE ARTICLE

- James Varghese

James Varghese, IAS, is the Principal Secretary, Fisheries &

Ports Department as well as Local Self Government

Department, Government of Kerala. He is also an apologist

who has defended the Gospel of Jesus Christ at different

places. He shares his thoughts on the Biblical perspective of

secular vocation exclusively to the Harvest Times.


here means an abstention from meet colleagues, clients, etc. there, is this taught by Christian teachers,imbibing and sharing what is there in who may be facing the whirlpool of but it's true. God wants us to feelthe world and 'association' is for problems and worries. Because of affirmed in this calling, and to knowenhancing the worth of the this, it is very important that we see that you have been anointed to do associates just like an ingredient our work as a calling. We are the very work you are doing in the does for its co- ingredients while probably the solution for the marketplace.maintaining its distinct identity. problems that many people face, Colossians 3:23, 24: says “And

because we have a direct contact A believer should associate with whatever you do, do it heartily, as towith the all-knowing and loving Lordpeople and systems of the world with the Lord and not to men, knowingand Saviour, Jesus Christ. We are the the sole aim of enriching them, that from the Lord you will receive thecatalyst or the “change agents” of the ultimately by bringing them to the reward of the inheritance; for youworld.Lord. This principle is demonstrated serve the Lord Christ.” Isn't it

in the case of the Good Samaritan Secondly, quite often, believers astonishing to know that there is and the man who was robbed. The regard everything in this world as reward for sincere secular work in a Levite and the priest demonstrated evil and try to keep their distance private enterprise as well, just likewrong separation and the Samaritan from it. They want believers to be Christian evangelistic work?demonstrated the right association. ascetics. This thought is rooted in We all play our roles in multiple

Gnosticism which saw every materialA question may arise: 'Is it prudent arenas like family, education, thing as evil. The Gnostics thereforefor God to allow any association government, media, arts and rejected the human nature of our between His people and this crooked entertainment, religion, or business. Lord saying that the son of God can'tworld'? God does nothing We should seek God for where He have an evil body. But Christ himself imprudently. But, it is His plan to win wants us to be, and be faithful in preferred to designate himself as the the worldly to his side through His what He has given us right now.Son of Man and He is God and Man committed saints who are the salt of We should do the work we are doing fully at the same time. He is God-man the earth. If we are saintly and with excellence. Our work has and that is central to His mission as committed to our Master, we would eternal value as service to our the Redeemer. Therefore, the Gnostic definitely fulfil this mission. The call Heavenly Father, our King. Ephesians view of the material world needs toto us is not to stay aloof from the 6:7commands us to “Work with be rejected by His people. Our world but to be holy within it. enthusiasm, as though you wereinteraction with the world is a part of

The two aspects show that a balance working for the Lord rather than forthe commission given by the is required for believers to be faithful people.” When we live out our faith in Almighty.to both these groups of the workplace, lives will be touched,

Thirdly, people often forget that their commandments which seem and communities and nations will be work is their calling. They seem tocontradictory but are complimentary transformed.think that secular and sacred arein reality. Paul exhorted believers in Titus 2:8-different and that the secular is

HT: Thanks for the explanation. 10 to literally adorn their lives with unholy and the sacred is holy. TheyHowever, believers in secular jobs the Word of God to express the are oblivious to the fact that evenalso feel that they are not spending nature of God to others even in believers doing so-called 'secular enough time for the mission. After difficult work environments.“Exhortworks' are actually called by God tospending over 70% of their active bondservants to be obedient to their do what they are doing in the time in work, they get frustrated that own masters, to be well pleasing in workplace. According to them, onlythey are not able to do enough all things, not answering back, not pastors, evangelists and churchoutreach. How would you address pilfering, but showing all good leaders have a calling from God. As a that? fidelity, that they may adorn the matter of fact, the earth and its

doctrine of God our Saviour in all systems are created by God and God JV: There are several reasons for this things.”wants to keep its socio economic wrong attitude. Let me correct some

system going and He appoints people of the misconceptions underlying HT: You have spoken about to man them. Somebody doing a so-this wrong attitude. individual believers (professionals)called secular job, be it agriculture or in secular settings. Is there anythingFirst, mission field does not just tailoring or hair dressing or medical that believers with a professionalbegin when you come out of your practice or teaching is doing a job calling can do together?office. The 9am to 5pm window of which was advertised and recruited

life is one of the most important by God. Therefore, the works theymission fields in the world today. We are doing is very important. Seldom 10


Pastoral Responsibility: A Desire to Serve and Not a Job

God's Ways are Mysterious

However, this troubled my family and I was sent to Mumbai in 1969 to staywith my sister hoping that I would be cut off from Christians. However, in a year I was baptized and an activemember of New Life Fellowshipwhich nurtured my early Christian life and bonded me with Christ forever.

Though I never desired to become a pastor, at the urging of some local elders, I studied B.D. But afterserving as a deacon, I decided tobecome a Christian wandering Sadhu like Sadhu Sunder Singh. After livinglike hermit for a few years, I appraised my life and rationallydecided to serve the people as a

wanted to be possessed again and pastor. I completed my M.Th and wasrebelled against my parents. In the made pastor of a Jammu church forFrom childhood, I had no contact night, I would go to the grave yard in 14 years and later in 2002, I was sent with Christians or Christian my home town, Jalandhar. After to Srinagar, Kashmir. Here, the Lordliterature. In fact, I only heard the spending two weeks in this manner, I prepared me for a different kind of names Jesus and Moses but had no expected an evil spirit to possess me. ministry which I did not understand idea who were they nor did I have

at the time. I was a part of the However, instead of being possessed, any idea about Christianity. Since reconciliation work among the I had an unexpected experience of childhood, I was in the company of a Kashmiri Pandit and Muslim unspeakable joy. I was amazed that I tantric guru who led me to deeper communities and was also a member could experience this even without experiences which often led me intoof the peace committee of Global my guru. This incident began a a trance. This permanently impactedGandhian Family. I was given the search which was fulfilled when I my mind and I would long for those Gandhian medal for twenty years of met the members of the Operationexperiences. However, my parentsservice in the Valley. Besides this, I Mobilisation team. From them, I soon forbid from having them and I also actively participated in the relieflearned about the Holy Spirit and was pushed to focus on my studies. work after the 2007 earthquake.realized that it was He who had After I graduated in Science, I, once These activities made me a familiartouched my life. This was the again, desired to return to my guru. figure in society.beginning of my Christian life.But my parents hindered me. I

MISSION

– Pastor Chander Mani Khanna

(Image courtesy : Boaz Eapen)


Persecution and Disappoint-ment

Attestation and Preparationfrom God

my house for proof related to the my inner life. I changed my attitude charges against me. towards them who abandoned me

and doubted me. I received the spirit Simultaneously, the Bar Association During the last ten years of my of forgiveness. I forgave all and of Srinagar notified that no lawyerministry in Srinagar, I was constantly stopped blaming them for their evilwould appear on behalf of Rev. C.M. approached by some Muslim youth actions. First, He made me Khanna for bail. But God intervenedwith an interest in Christianity. So in sympathetic to fellow sufferingmiraculously and I was bailed out 2010, in response to this need,,I believers but later the Lord taughtwith the help of Bar Association started teaching sessions every me to love my persecutors and President of Jammu and Delhi HighFriday. These classes continued for attempt to soften their hearts Court lawyer Jyoti Aggarwal. I wasmore than a year. A total of 45 through faith based reconciliation.bailed out on the condition that I seekers attended these sessions. Of This is my testimony; that my post would not leave the state of Jammu them many expressed a desire to be persecution life is more blessed and and Kashmir. Later, the Sharia court baptized and in August 2011, I enlightened when I take the new issued the verdict against me in baptized them in three groups during ministry by faith on daily basis. This January 2012 banning me from J&K Sunday worship services. There was made me to go to the people and for life. This led me to appear beforegreat excitement among them and in nations of Middle East and South the High Court in Jammu with a the congregation. However, someone Asia with the message of request to grant a stay on the F.I.R.in alliance with a Muslim reconciliation in the tradition of that I may be protected from anyfundamentalist group, pretending to Abraham. The heart of God is tountoward physical attack. The staybe a seeker recorded the baptism reconcile and to bring the moralwas granted in March 2012. and uploaded the video on YouTube. vision of reconciliation. It is indeed a

Though I was granted relief by the This led to commotion among the miracle that I could go by faith tojudiciary, society and even my ownMuslims in the valley. As a result, Iran and Iraq for reconciliation and people gave me the cold shoulder. So, thousand of Mullahs brought the will soon travel to the Syrian borderin this strange manner, I sensed that matter to the notice of the Islamic in Turkey for the reconciliationmy ministry here had come to an Sharia court and the local media. On among the Syrian Christians, Kurdsend. Soon after, I received a letterOctober 28, 2011, I was summoned and Nomadic Arabs who are looking from my institution with whom I to the Islamic Sharia court by the forward to live as a nation at Al worked sincerely for thirty five yearsGrand Mufti Bashirudin. My family Hassake region. I am experiencingasking me to hand over the charge towas placed under house arrest till the grace of God every day when I someone else. It was indeed an my appearing at the next date in launch by faith and He has been extremely unceremonial exit of myNovember 2011. I was falsely miraculously providing my ministry life. This incident caused much charged by the fundamentalists of needs on a daily basis. It is a great joyintrospection about my spiritual various Islamic groups in the Islamic to depend upon Him for everythinginsight. I was amazed to realize that Sharia Court. The deliberations went in life. Without passing through the it was God using the undesirable and on for four hours under the persecution experience, I would not unwarranted events for my good and protection of heavy police force. I have enjoyed this rich fellowshipto better His ministry.was pressurized and tricked into with God.

signing a document in Urdu. It statedLastly, I quote 2 Timothy 3:12,

that I used money to convert the Philippians 1:29 and Matthew 5:11-

youth. The court left the decision 12 which clearly point out that

pending. However, the next day, state This persecution and sufferingpersecution and suffering is the

and national newspapers published revealed to me the Lord's mind and hallmark of Christianity. It makes the

news reports about me based on the purpose. I started looking at horrible believer a shining diamond in the

above document which was leaked events and appreciating them same way as coal undergoes

out by the Sharia Court. Hence based because they revealed to me God's pressure and heat beneath the earth

on this, I was arrested by the police love and care for me. At this time, I to become a diamond. Please

on severe charges framed under the found the Lord teaching me tocontinue to pray for my strange and

Ranbir Penal Code. understand His love and care as a unique ministry. Amen

response to my faithfulness and I was under police (Special

obedience in ministry and mundane Investigating Team) custody for 13

affairs. I found that God wasdays. On the day of my arrest, my

preparing me for a greater ministry house was sealed. The next day, in

through the process of suffering and my presence, police officers searched

persecution. In fact He transformed

Pastor Khanna served the Lord in Jammu &Kashmir and is now an Itinerant preacher.


FINANCE

1. Personal Finance

(c) Responsibility as a recipient or Evangelist (Contd)

Continuing with the topic dealt with in the previous issue, let us consider some other issues on the accountability of an evangelist. Weconsidered the need to be transparent in financial matters; the importance of being impeccable in

– Koshy Zachariah

(PART- V)

the sight of the fellow-believers. Since the past few years, it has become a common practice for evangelists,particularly the known ones, to visit USA and the Gulf nations. Some moveheaven and earth, to get invited and once invited, the urge to visit againand again becomes an obsession.These visits abroad extend to forlonger periods, covering every Indian Assembly possible in the tourprogramme. The efforts behind such

visits are enormous, even at the cost of the local Assembly where an evangelist plays a crucial role.

Let me at this juncture, reproduceWilliam MacDonald's comments on Colossians 1:25; 'The Apostle (Paul)had a twofold ministry: first, he wascommissioned to preach the gospel (v.23); and secondly, he was sent forth to teach the marvelous mysteryof the Church (v.25). There is a real

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITYOF A CHRISTIAN


as foreign currency and converted There was an instance of an lesson in this for every true servantinto local currency apart from the evangelist indicted forof Christ. We are not expected simplylawful sources, it is a violation under mismanagement by a fellow brother.to lead men to Christ by the gospel Foreign Exchange Management Actand then abandon them to get along

He had been entrusted with (FEMA) of Reserve Bank of India. as best as they can. Rather, we aresubstantial funds for relief work and Another common violation is not expected to direct our evangelisticwound up going on a trip todeclaring taxable goods at the efforts to the formation of local NT Jerusalem at that juncture. This Customs counter on arrival. MoneyChurches where the converts can be raised many problems and caused that cannot be openly deposited intobuilt up in their most holy faith,much embarrassment to the Fundinga bank account is another financial including the truth of the Church.Agency as well as the differentviolation. Above all, whenThe Lord wants His babes to be contributing sources. When this wasunaccounted funds are brought intodirected to feeding stations wherepointed out to the evangelist in the country without filling taxes, it is question, he clarified matters bya clear violation of the Income Taxrevealing his uncle from overseas as Act. Moreover, bringing in moneythe sponsor of that trip. A point to be from foreign countries also needs the remembered is what Lord Gordonapproval of the Government under Hewart said “Not only must justice Foreign Contributions Regulation Actbe done; it must also be seen to be (FCRA).done”

An evangelist at peace and happiness Another issue of concern is the before his foreign trip may meet with frequent appeals for monetary aid in loss of face, sleep, honest means and hospitalization or medical expenses.what not. Even if the numerous legal Sometimes, a bank account may be conditions are fulfilled, the question set up specifically for the receipt of to be asked is, “Am I justified in gifts and support. In such situations, keeping for myself more than my fair it is important that all the gifts and

expenditures are properly accountedneeds? How eager or willing is one for. However, this kind of financial to gift away the excess moneyresponsibility is too often ignored. In available to fellow evangelists in some very rare cases, the excessneed or to a Funding Agency whose

they will be nourished and where amount is handed over to the financial affairs are transparent! It is they can grow'. funding agencies. I can clearlymy experience that funding agencies

recollect a situation where an like Gospel Fellowship Trust of India When a local Church is left evangelist faithfully handed over the (GFTI) which supports more than unattended for a long period, excess funds collected for the 925 evangelists at present and with jealously, back-biting, hatred gets medical expenses of his son hurt in which I am closely associated, has generated and the local Churchan accident.seldom received any communication becomes a scene of unspiritual

from an evangelist when he goes on a conduct and behaviour. Allegations Further, some people invest the foreign visit for long periods. Neither and counter-allegations abound. excess money either in a car, realare requests made to hold With its testimony now lost, the estate, or fixed deposits. While realcontributions while away on tour.Church is no longer a source for estate investments and fixedNor is a portion of the contributions bringing souls to the Lord. Here we deposits may not be noticed, a car shared with fellow needy evangelists.pointedly see the warning of the purchased will attract the attention

Apostle coming into full play “For the of all. As a steward, it is unbecoming Another prevailing trend is that of love of money is the root of all evil: and shows unfaithfulness to utilize visiting the Holy Land. If an which while some coveted after, they resources for purposes other than evangelist desires to the visit the have erred from the faith and pierced clearly specified. If an evangelist is in Holy Lands, it is only fair to expectthemselves through with many need of a car, such need shall stand him to consult and take intosorrows”. the scrutiny of a local Church or at confidence his local church or

least the commending Church. I am Wth this spiritual basis, the practical financial supporters. Since such a

not advocating against the use of a application of financial responsibility project involves money spent on

car by an evangelist but he should is simple. If the contributions personal affairs, it is vital that all is

ask a question to himself “What received is brought into the country above board.

would happen to the credibility of

If a projectinvolves

money spent on personal affairs, it is vital that all is above board.


my ministry?” In my experience, it about Christian activities. The good evangelist-parent. There is at least seldom happens that an evangelist, Christian testimony wins souls and one case where an evangelist has who is well off, authorizes a Funding when souls are saved, the testimony communicated to Gospel FellowshipAgency to disburse the allocation is apparent. There is a saying “The Trust of India (GFTI) with which I am meant for him to other needy proof of the pudding is in the eating”. closely associated, that the financial evangelists. In such a situation, the question may support could be discontinued as the

be asked, “Where are the large children's support is adequate and We hear of evangelists whose number of people saved as per the sufficient. But a large many, would be budgets for evangelism defies all reports published over a period of hesitant to do this.logic. It is now common to hold time?”seminars in big hotels. The question Money can become the root cause of that comes up regarding the kind of Another issue to be pointed out is: all problems in life when it is not message, such expenses give to the how many grown-up children handled discreetly and not accountedpeople of God and to the outside support their parent's ministry? I am properly. Instead of the person world. To maintain a lavish standard not suggesting that they should controlling the money, the moneyof operation, some evangelists follow the parent without a definite controls him.partner with nominal Christians and call. In many families, the children of

was formerly the Executive organizations to mobilize financial evangelists receive good education Director-Finance with MRF Ltd. He is currently

one of the elders of Bethesda Bible Chapel, support. All such human activities settle down well in life. Such Kilpauk, Chennai

mostly fizzle out or end up in bad children ought to bear the testimony conveying faulty notions responsibility to support the

Koshy Zachariah

JV: Yes, there are many things that the professionals can do together.One practical illustration is the GreatCommission Enterprise (GCE). GCE is a project undertaken by believers(professionals) by following ethical business practices. They come together and meet some need reasonably well. The input of the believers is free. The profit, if any,goes to mission work. The people working would derive eternal life as well as livelihood.

Attracted to this concept of GCE, some believers in Kerala venturedinto it. They got a trust registered. A believer magnanimously handed over a plot of land of about 23 cents on deferred payment basis. It is a very well developed area with all amenities. It is close to the Medical College on the Medical College Pattom road. The Airport is 6 km away and they Railway station is 3 km away. They secured all licenses for construction without bribing anybody and followed all building

contd. from Page No 5In the World but Not of the World

rules in letter and spirit. Theycompleted the construction of an apartment complex there called 'Tower Shalom'. The quality of construction is high and no commercial gimmicks were used in marketing. The units were sold exclusively to believers.

They set up lodging and boardingfacility for the patients and by-standees of the Medical College, Cancer Centre, Sree ChitrathirunalMedical Centre, Kims, UtradomThirunal Hospital, Cosmopolitan Hospital, etc. as a part of their ministry. The Gospel is shared along with the compassion of Christ. Manypeople have received physical and spiritual healing. It is looked upon as an Elim by many afflicted people without money and hope. It is hoped that the income from the rent for the commercial space will meet the expenses of the ministry.

They got two floors as profit whichhouses a meeting hall with capacity

to accommodate about 150 people and also some commercial space. Many Christian meetings and prayermeetings are held there. The 'Disha'exhibition which was witnessed byabout 17,000 people and the newspaper evangelistic messages which reached about 1.5 crorepeople were planned and prayed forin Tower Shalom. Eternity will definitely reveal the fruit of the labour. The building with 10 floors stands tall as a faithful witness to the goodness of God declaring the effectiveness of 'Great Commission Enterprises'.

HT: Thanks for your valuable time. It was a pleasure having you.

JV: Thanks for the opportunity toshare my thoughts as well.

IAS, is the Principal Secretary, Fisheries & Ports Department as well as Local Self Government Department, Government of Kerala.

James Varghese,


– Dr. Varghese John

– John Kurian

e have been looking at the Wimportance of choosing our marriage partner. A very important truth to be considered at this point is that a believer should marry onlya believer. Scripture admonishes strongly in 2 Cor. 6:14 “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowshiphas righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?” All

FAMILYbelievers are expected to abide bythis moral code of God. In 1 Cor.7:39, it is clearly stated that a believer should marry “only in the Lord”; that is- with one who has trusted the Lord.

There are several reasons why God gave us this instruction. Since oneness is the main purpose of marriage, spiritual oneness is possible only between two childrenof God. The living cannot be unitedwith the dead. In order to be unitedspiritually, they both must be born-again children of God. Only then can they both experience the depth and fullness of Christian marriage. Both possessing the life of God within is

the basis of spiritual compatibility which is an essential factor in Christian marriage.

Let us remember that a believer is a child of God and an unbelieverbelongs to the Devil. There can be no relation between them. Theycannot function together unless they are under the same head. God has instructed in Deut.22:10 “Youshall not plow with an ox and a donkey together” (as they are not of the same nature and character). A man and woman should be

-IV

If both husbandand wife arenot living

under the Lordshipof Christ, this will be impossible.


of evangelism. If it was so, the Lord relatives will arise, if we follow him would have commanded his wholeheartedly. We should be disciples in the great commission willing to face these difficulties and “go in to all the world and marry pay the price. The Lord will give us unbelievers.” the grace we need. He has honored

all those who have thus stood forIt has been noticed in some cases

Him. Ever so many examples fromthat the unbelieving partner has

real life situations can be quoted toalso come to know the Lord

prove this. If we yield to the eventually. That is just an

pressure from our relatives and expression of God's abundant grace.

make the wrong choice, then God They are to be treated as exceptions

cannot work on our behalf. We will Scripturally yoked to fulfill God's and not the rule. Such cases should suffer loss by missing the best God purposes in marriage. They both not be taken as a license to marry Has kept for us.need to have the same divine an unbeliever.

nature. We know of many who married Someone might raise a legitimate

unbelievers against the will of God. Christ must be the centre of all question here: What can be done in What about them? Can they come affections of a Christian family. If a situation where only one member back to the will of God again and both husband and wife are not in a family is saved and he is live a life pleasing to God? Marriage living under the Lordship of Christ, compelled to marry an unbeliever?has already taken place and nothing this will be impossible. Since the can be done about it now. The best The Word of God instructs us toBible is the rule book for Christian thing to do now is to go to God with obey our parents only in the Lord.marriage, problems arising in a genuine heart of repentance and In other words, if our parents ask us Christian families ought to be cry out for His mercy. As 1 John 1:9 to do something against the Word of handled Biblically. This again is says “If we confess our sins, He is God, we should refuse to obey. Wepossible only if both are believersfaithful and just to forgive us our should tell them gently but firmlysubmit to the authority of Scripture.sins and to cleanse us from all that we cannot act against God's A believer's goal in life is to please unrighteousness”. The Lord will principles. A clear, uncompromisingGod and glorify Him throughforgive and show mercy. Thoughstand has to be taken in that marriage; but an unbeliever has they may have to face the situation. If we stand faithful to the other goals in life. Their lives will be consequences of what they haveLord, He will work in such a wayfocused on two different directionsdone, He will give grace to face it that we can be married in and they can never be one. All and draw them closer to Him.accordance to the principles of His believers are under the greatWhen the believing partner lives an word. But we may have to pay a commission of the Lord as given in exemplary life of godliness showingprice for taking such a stand. It mayMat.28:18-20. Therefore, both love and care for his/her spouse, sometimes, result in an ill-feelinghusband and wife have to be the Lord will use that to save the and animosity with familycommitted to this cause.unbeliever as we read in 1 Pet.3:1, 2 members.

It is often said that if a believer “Even if some do not obey the word,In some cases it may createmarries an unbeliever, the unsaved they, without a word, may be wontroubles, because they are unable topartner also can be brought to the by the conduct of their wives, whenunderstand our position. However,Lord through this relationship. In they observe your chaste conduct we need to explain to them that wethe first place, we must remember accompanied by fear”. They have no are willing to obey our parents and that we are not to disobey any clear doubt, incurred some loss; but let respect their views except wherecommand in the Bible to bring them learn lessons from the past they clash with God's principles. Wesomeone to the Lord. Secondly, and live the remaining part of life in need to show our love and concern 'bringing someone to the Lord' or intimate fellowship with God, neverfor them in all other matters and 'saving' someone is not in our straying from His perfect will again.pray for them. If they still refuse topower to do. The Lord alone can understand us, we will have to leavesave people and there is no it to the Lord and keep quiet about is an evangelist, a widely guarantee that any one will be saved

acclaimed Bible Teacher and preacher based it. Our Lord Himself has forewarnedif we share the gospel with them. in Kerala.us that problems from parents and Moreover, marriage is not a means

John Kurian

Theirlives will be focused

on two differentdirections and they can never be one.


FAITH IN ACTION

under Him, and all the companies and board rooms areunder His authority. It is cognizable that He calls His

children to play specific roles on His wider kingdom – some within the church and mission settings, and others secular side – both being part of His kingdom. Both the full-time ministry role, and full-time secular professions are equally valid and inter-dependent in the kingdom of God, to work together for godlypurposes. He is the head over everypower and authority (Colossians 2:10)n Jeremiah 29:10, 11, we learn a calling. Our God is not a God of

that God has a 'plan' for His churches and religious organizations What matters are, the plan and people. He also has a 'purpose' alone, but is known as a 'God of I purpose of God for the life of each of

for each of their life, as the Psalmist heavens and earth' – to reiterate, the us, and what he has 'anointed' us for.sings in Psalm 138:8. God's plan and whole earth and everything in it. This clarifies that all those who areHis purposes are realities for all His not in mission-related roles are also If God is the 'King of kings', then all children, irrespective of whether equally responsible in His kingdom, kingdoms are under him. If he is the they do mission work or secular like those who are in. Each of us is 'Lord of lords', then all authority is business or on a professional career. responsible to influence in the under Him. Similarly, He will be the “Whether someone has a call for full- market place (that is, the secular 'CEO of all CEOs' the 'Super CEO'. All time mission” is a more popular non-mission setting) for His kingdoms are under Him, authority question, than the understanding purposes. No less responsibility than over all administrative bodies is that both mission and business need

Each of us is

responsible toinfluence the market place(that is, the secular non-mission setting) for His purposes.

our full-time brotherhood. conscious about his role in paved the way for Wal-mart'srelationship to God's calling for him tremendous growth.

We know the examples like Lydia,and anointment for his business /

Dorcas, and others who continued to (dedicated to godlyprofession, each of their workplace

play a role in God's kingdom while stewardship): Robert W. Lane can be influence, followed by city

still working on their businesses modeled Christian leadership as CEO after city, state after state, and

and/or professions. Paul, in many of of Deere & Company for a decade country after country. If a business is

His ministry trips, ran a profitable (2000 – 2010). Lane used 1 touched with kingdom values and

business and financed his ventures. Corinthians to regularly to challenge godly influences that bring God's

In Ephesus his for-profit operation his employees to be faithfulblessings, all those work in them,

was large enough to provide for him, stewards. Deere is considered as one their suppliers, customers, and

his team and even the needy (Acts of the most favored companies of business associates and all their

20:33-35). Fortune magazine for its families and friends can also be

commitment to integrity.influenced positively.In 1st Corinthians 7, the apostle Paul

urges us to 'remain in the vocation' (a legacy of fairness):Can we truly have business on the

to which God has called us. We James Cash Penney, a devoutBiblical principles and yet be

should 'bloom where we are planted' Christian, vowed to treat both his without fail. Each of is as much a employees and customers with minister as a pastor or an evangelist, dignity and fairness. He quicklyand surely not a 2nd class citizen in achieved partner status at the Golden the kingdom of God. Our life and our Rule store chain in 1902. Sam Waltonbusiness practices are our most was employed in J.C. Penney starting effective sermons. The church is in 1940 before establishing his ownGod's medium to influence the world retail store, Wal-mart. J.C. Penneywith his good-news and those among remains one of America's leading us in a business / profession have clothing retail brands, havingone more closer to the world and adapted to decades of marketplacealready have its acceptance for changes and consumer shopping influence. If more Christians realize habits.that they are 'anointed' for business

(Sharing the Gospel): The / profession like those in missions,

Seattle-based Airline distributesGod's kingdom would come much

Bible passages along with your in-faster to this earth. In Luke 19:13 we

flight breakfast. They are not read 'put this money to work until… I

apologetic the other way.come back', in which parable LordJesus Christ was drawing parallel to Interstate Batteries (Existing for the the kingdom work. From pulpits to Glory of God): Interstate Batteriescorporate boardrooms, we children speaks to its own religious identity in of God should impact our society its mission statement. According towith integrity, righteousness and the company's website, the mission

profitable? The answer is yes. I kingdom values. God needs His is "to glorify God as we supply our would like to cite a few examples.children 'at the top' of companies customers worldwide with topWhile these companies have their and non-profit organizations to be a quality, value-priced batteries,share of shortcomings, these blessed influence in the world and related electrical power-sourceexamples are provided to show that the scarcity of the same is one major products, and distribution services."the Biblical principles helped them toreason for the rot of values in this Former Company President Norm succeed rather than hindering their world. We need a paradigm shift in Miller was recognized by Dallas growth.our thinking and thereby actions. Baptist University for "his strong

Christian leadership at Interstate (the rewards of servantLord Jesus Christ designed the Batteries as well as in the leadership): Wal-mart founder Sam Church to be the counterculture in community."Walton subscribed to the Biblical this world rather than a subculture.

servant leadership model, His mission goes beyond people who Basic differences between Business incorporating it into the structure of frequent to churches. If each with a godly mission and Othershis company. Servant leadership has Christian in secular professions is

Let us see two basic characteristics

Deere

J.C. Penney

Alaska Air

Wal-mart


Frompulpits to

corporateboardrooms, wechildren of God should impact our society with integrity,righteousness and kingdom values.


Contd. from Pg. 3

2 Years 300.00 90.00

3 Years 400.00 120.00

5 Years 600.00 180.00

OverseasUS$

India`

Please note that our email

id has been changed from

[email protected] to

[email protected].

of kingdom businesses that are way organic growth. They are conscious We can remember Samsung storydifferent from secular ones. about and committed for employee which got God's promises more than

welfare, social responsibility, 30 years back that it would be the The founders of

accountability to consumers of their world leader in future, which we see kingdom businesses have clear

product and services, and absolute before our own eyes. Who can forgetrealization that they are called for

compliance to industry regulations. Colgate story of God's (only)their business, being part of God's

invitation to test him on tithing big plan for His universe. They know

(Malachi 3:10) and more. We knowthat they have to play their role to

as to what some business students, It is also imperative to note that bless the household of their business based on the challenges they faced,when a business is run in godly(suppliers, employees, customersdecided to start as a company tomanner, good profits, organicand business associates, and their provide real fruit juice without growth, successful sailing through all families) basically, and incidentallyadulteration and too much watereconomic lifecycle stages, become earning their profits. They are not content, at affordable prices, without just natural byproducts. The driven by their lust for profiteering.adding chemicals in the name of business will have multiple stories of They know well that God is the preservatives and artificial godly provisions of breakthroughultimate owner the business under sweeteners, the brand Tropicana wasbusiness opportunities, experiencingthem and they are only custodians toborn to be a world leader. Each of us miraculous survivals, outburst of run them, rather than thinking likecome across various such regionalgrowth potentials and providences of the 'foolish rich man' in Lord Jesus stories. On the other hand we wouldbusiness relationships. It is so Christ' parable. They realize that have also seen many businesses (or interesting that they get counseling they are not only responsible tobusiness leaders) that collapsed with of wisdom from 'management regulators for the manner of running sad ends, after they decided to makeconsultants' from heavenly sources,his business but more responsiblesome compromises. What matterslike that from godly advisors and before God. They are also conscious most is 'how we want to do' the prophets provided on time to kings about the manner of running the business. Are we ready to play our and leaders as we see in Old business, and know that running the part as a kingdom business in GodlyTestament. God's providentialbusiness in ungodly way is a sin. Forways?guidance won't be a miraculousthem, 'means' are more important

experience, rather part of regular life.than end results. They have a Like a town on the top of hill cannot compelling urge to seek God's is an Associatebe invisible, the business will surely Director with SS&C GlobeOp. approval for business decisions experience the shining glory beforerather than seeking God's blessings 1.Book written by John Freame- Scriptureother competitors and industry Instruction: Digested into Several Sections byfor the decisions already made.

Way of Questions & Answers in Order toparticipants, and live through the Promote Piety & Virtue, and Discourage Vice & In these businesses, the right history, and most often become a Immorality, with a Preface Relating to Educationmanner of running the business, great success story. The world is yet2.http://christiancompanies.org/five-fortune-fulfilling God's purpose for the to see fully what and all God can do 500-companies-founded-on-christian-

business, bringing glory to God to, and through, a business whose principles/#sthash.voyHLLqm.dpufthrough the business, and being a leaders are fully dedicated to run it 3. http://www.businessinsider.com/17-big-blessing to the 'household' members companies-that-are-intensely-religious-2012-absolutely in Godly manner, aiming

1?op=1#ixzz2ZLGMnQBr(as referred to in the last paragraph) His glory and being responsible in gets precedence to profiteering, self- 4.http://www.businessinsider.com/17-big-playing their role.

companies-that-are-intensely-religious-2012-reliant decisions and fast-track1?op=1#ixzz2ZLIaaRl2

Purposefulness:

Results

Values:

Peter Christopher Raj


“I have performed the commandment Thus the Chronicles of the kings of mighty revival had taken place in the

of the Lord,” boasted the first of Israel's Israel and Judah opened with the days of his father Josiah. During his kings. The prophet, heavy from tragedy of disobedience and its childhood he had doubtless heardgrieving and lack of sleep, was not consequences. many tales of the iconoclastic zeal of deceived. God had spoken to him the the young king, his father, which had

Many decades had passed, and the last night before: “It repenteth me that I purged Judah and Israel of the

of Judah's kings was languishing in a have set up Saul to be king; for he is abominations and idolatry which had

Babylonish prison. How many times turned back from following me, and defiled the land and had brought upon

down the months and years of hath noth performed my it the wrath of the God of Israel, whom

imprisonment had the king suddenlycommandments. And it grieved not even the zealous efforts of his

tensed in the quiet of his cell, his faceSamuel, and he cried unto the Lord all father had been able to placate. 2

contorted by agony, remorse and night.” 1 Sam: 15.11. Kings: 23.26.

hopelessness, while across his inwardNow, as he listened to the king's bold vision flashed that unforgettable sight Inseparable from his very earliest

claim, against a background of the upon which his eyes had last looked. memories, and prominent down the protesting of hungry cattle in His young and lovely boys in the hands whole story of the years, moved the unaccustomed surroundings, he asked of murderers, their terrified faces, the strange lonely figure of the prophetwith challenging implication: “What sudden scream as the avenging sword Jeremiah, by nature sensitive and meaneth then this bleating of sheep in slashed through tender flesh, the quick shrinking from publicity, but my ears, and the lowing of cattle which convulsive movement of violent death, compelled by the spirit of God to cry I hear?. . . .Wherefore then didst thou and then the sight of their bleeding the awful threatening of his propheticnot obey the voice of the Lord . . . ? And little corpses flung athwart the burden against the complacency of a Saul said: Yea, I have obeyed the voice mangled bodies of the princes and self deceived and wilfully disobedient of the Lord . . . but the people . . . ! And nobles of his kingdom. That was the people. He had stood outside the Samuel said: Hath the Lord as great last sight on earth upon which his eyes temple cleansed by the zealous youngdelight in burnt offerings and had looked before cruel revenge had king from its outwards defilement, and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the plunged him in a total and agonising declaimed against the inwardLord? Behold, to obey is better than darkness. hypocrisies that excused the grossestsacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of sins by blaming Fate and human frailtyHow often his thoughts must haverams... And Saul said: I have sinned... and pointed to the recentlygone back over all that had led to that because I feared the people, and redecorated temple and its revivedend of terror. He had been but an infantobeyed their voice.” 1 Sam: 15.20-24. ritual as sufficient atonement for their of about three years of age when the

– Christina Durham

(Republished from 'The Balance of Truth', November 1958.)

“Behold! to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than thefat of rams.” 1 Sam: 15.22.

misdeeds. How the people and young weakness of Saul and Zedekiah, but

Zedekiah himself had wearied of the how do our own lives measure up to

constant accent on obedience. “Obey God's standards of obedience?

my voice and I will be your God, and yeThe Lord's last and greatest

shall be my people, and walk in all the commandment is a simple one indeed:

ways that I have commanded you, that “A new commandment I give unto you,

it may be well with you.” Jer: 7.23. The that ye love one another; as I have

constant reiteration of this old-time loved you, that ye also love one

exhortation and promise was the another,” John: 13.34. In the last book

burden of the prophet's cry, varied byof the Bible, the Lord addresses the

many degrees of emphasis and churches He has gathered out to His

illustration, and often accompanied byname. He praises the church at

lamentations and tears.Ephesus for its labours, and

Zedekiah's nature was weak rather continuance, and intolerance of evil,

than aggressively evil. He had followed but warns them that their failure to

the line of least resistance. Spiritually obey His “new commandment”

lethargic, he could not take a stand exposed them to the danger of the

against popular opinion, yet in his extinction of their testimony. “Repent!”

heart he had a tender regard and His words burn with the longing with

respect for the harassed prophet. “Pray which He appealed to His people of

now unto the Lord our God for us”, he old. And again to the Laodiceans: “Be

had pleaded, without making any zealous, therefore and repent!” Today

attempt to change his own ways or He cries still to His churches, as well as

those of the nation. In various ways he to the individual: “Repent! And do the

had sought to soften the rigours of the first works. Remember from whenceunto you desolate.” Matt: 23.37-38. prophet's imprisonment, and had quite thou art fallen–—the first love!”After a scathing indictment of the sincerely sought his advice when Spiritual lethargy and the fear of man hypocrisies with which the spiritual defeat and ruin threatened the city. have as great hold on the people of God leaders of God's people pretended a The prophet's answer had been the as ever, and lives of disobedience areslavish fulfilment of the letter of the same: “Obey, I beseech thee, the voice the result. The remedy is simple as tolaw while rejecting the spirit, the Lordof the Lord, which I speak unto thee; so statement, but the implications onlyburst out in His impassioned cry,it shall be well with thee, and thy soul the individual can realize! “Hear mywhich prophetically closed the historyshall live.” Jer.: 38.20. But the appeal voice...open the door, I will come in”.of the nation itself with the accent on fell upon fear-deafened ears,—the fear Rev: 3.20. Christ enthroned in the that same tragedy of disobedience and of man,—the fear of popular opinion. “I heart and life is the only assurance of a rejection.am afraid of the Jews...” confessed the life of victory and obedience and

The history of the church begins with weak king (Jer.: 38.19.) “Let no man blessing. But what does it cost to give

the same tragic story of hypocrisy and know of these words...” (v.24.), and he Him that place?—and are we willing to

defective obedience to the inner continued in his disobedience and pay the cost?

promptings of the Holy Spirit in His wilful blindness, till the shock of “To him that overcometh will I grant toclaims upon the believer's life and physical blindness opened his spiritual sit with me in my throne”. Rev: 3.21.personal possessions. Acts 5.1-11. The eyes! But then it was too late!

Behold! I come quickly, and my rewardsin of Ananias and Sapphira is one of Thus the Chronicles of the Kings of is with me, to give every man that is repeated in a greater or lesser Israel and Judah closed also on the according as his work shall be”. Rev:degree in the life of every child of God. note of disobedience and its awful, but 22.12.It was simply this: they were afraid tocertain consequences! appear to fall short of the prevalent “Blessed are they that do His

standard of consecration. commandments, that they may have“O Jerusalem! Jerusalem! thou that right to the tree of life, and may enterkillest the prophets and stonest them Who among us is not guilty of in through the gates into the city.” Rev:that that are sent unto thee, how often withholding from God His due, and of 22.14would I have gathered thy children covering the defection with a fair

together, as a hen gathereth her outward shew that deceives men, but chickens under her wings, and ye not God? We are apt to look with would not. Behold, your house is left pitying scorn upon the failure and

The late was the co-founder of GLS. She was an avid writer and poet

Christina Durham


Spirituallethargyand the

fear of man haveas great hold on the people of God as ever, and livesof disobedienceare the result.

n her first day after into Rechal's neighborhood, However, Aradhna coldly

the summer vacation, was from a born again ignored her and stared out ORechal eagerly entered the Christian family, attended her the window. Rechal felt

school bus. As she looked church and now was in her embarrassed and sat on

around, she saw Aradhna and school! She was excited about another seat. As the day went happily waved out to her. having company in sharing on, she was more and more

Christ's love in school. confused about Aradhna's Aradhna had recently shifted

- Tabbsum Roy Paes


WWJD-What WouldJesus Do?


response. “Where is the bunk school, change clothes don't see what's wrong in

friendly girl who visited us at and head to the mall with her that.”

home?” she wondered. Every friends. This reminded Rechal After listening to this, Rechal

time she came across Rechal, of the parable of the lost asked her, “But Aradhna, can

she pretended not to see her. sheep. She thought on how we have a friend better than

Rechal could not understand keenly Jesus would want Jesus? Will these school

her behavior. So, she decided Aradhna back to His fold. friends remain in your life

to stay distant from Aradhna “What would Jesus do in forever? Jesus will.

for a while. Rechal's place? How would He

Think about God's love for help her?” She decided to be Meanwhile, she noticed that

you and His friendship. We persistent in approaching Aradhna behaved very

have to please Him and not Aradhna until she opened up differently in church. She

our friends. I would choose to to her. was a good Sunday school

be alone than be with people student, took notes of Pastor It was evening in the society

who make me do wrong things. Uncle's messages, sang park when Rechal saw

But anyway, how can I be enthusiastically, memorized Aradhna, gave her a friendly

alone when God is with me? I verses and participated in smile and tried to speak to

know it isn't as simple as it dramatics. her as always. Shaking her

sounds. Pastor Uncle always head, Aradhna smiled back However, in school, her way of

says, “Christian life is not and walked up to her. walking, dressing, vocabulary,

easy. It is not bed of roses.” and attitude was completely “Huh! You just won't give up,

But the question is if Jesus the opposite, like children will you?” She asked. “Do

died on a cross out of love for who did not fear the Lord. really want to know what's

you, what will you do for Him? Rechal observed all this with going on? Then listen, I

You are ready to change great concern for Aradhna. behave at school like that

yourself for your friends. because of the others.”So Rechal prayed for her and

What are you ready to do for one day approached casually They sat down and she went

Jesus?her. Before she could say on, “Don't you want to be like

In fact, His love makes me anything, Aradhna rudely everyone else? I was like you

special and so I enjoy it if I warned her, “Stay out of my but I would feel out of the

am different from others. way; I have no time for your place among my friends. We

And Aradhna, there are lecture. Am I loud and clear?” had nothing in common. They

people who like you as you are. Rechal was stunned. She had made fun of me and called me

Me for example. I hope we never met anyone like her. 'granny' for talking about

can be good friends with God. I was left out and lonely; Still, she decided not to give

Jesus and each other."I would eat my lunch by up on her. She continued to

myself. Then one day, I got pray for Aradhna and asked

fed up and decided to be like Tabbsum Roy Paes is a writer and lives in God to lead her so that she Gurgaon.them. I need friends. And I

could help her. She saw her


“Mummy, please! I want an Xbox formy birthday,” Dipak whined. “Vinod got one for his birthday, and it's just awesome!”

His mother sighed. “Dipak, you playvideo games on the computer. That's good enough. You don't need an Xbox.”

“You don't understand, Mummy,”Dipak screamed. “An Xbox is totallydifferent.”

– Cynthia John

“Talk softly, Dipak. The Xbox is tooexpensive. We would prefer to spend that money on something moreuseful.” His mother sorted a fewmagazines and left the room.

Dipak was very angry. He reallywanted the Xbox. He wished his mother and father would understand that. He sulked for the rest of the day,ignoring his homework and other chores.

EXPLORERS

Gizmos and Gadgets

In today'shomes,gizmos and

electronic devicesare a source of many fights and arguments.


keep them. Paul says, “I have the parents in the Lord, for this is right.”In today's homes, gizmos and right to do anything—but I will not Ephesians 6:1electronic devices are a source of be mastered by anything.” 1 many fights and arguments. Who will Corinthians 6:12handle the remote? Should we buy

the latest tablet or gaming device? You could be dreaming about a film There are many activities that mayHow long should one watch or sports star. Or you could be not be “wrong” but we must not let television or play computer games?

waiting for the next chance to playthem control our lives – we must not Parents, teens and kids fight over your favourite video game all the be addicted to them.such issues every day. Electronic time. Like many other things, using devices are very much a part of daily

electronic devices requires balance life, but they also create hundreds of and moderation. If we are spending arguments and fights in the home. The television and other media too much time on any of them, we

constantly tell us about the new need to re-examine our hearts. God What do you think? Do you also face features of the latest gadgets. New wants us to have the right focus in problems like these? Are you making gadgets hit the shelves every other life. Jesus. He wants our hearts to be the right choices in these matters?day and it's simply not possible to fully tuned towards loving Him and Here are some things to think about. keep up with them or what others others. That creates many needs – tohave. We could focus on using the spend time in prayer, Bible study,features of the devices we do have helping others, reaching out to(many of which we don't use) instead others, spending time with familyof chasing the next model. The Bible and friends, etc. When we want totells us, “Keep your lives free from please God, there's so much we need the love of money and be content to do. He gives us opportunities towith what you have...” Hebrews 13:5. serve others every day. If we areBeing grateful and content with what neglecting those to be with our we have is not easy, but it's the right gadgets, we need to think about attitude for a Christian. Thank God whether we are spending too much for your computer, even if it is not time entertaining ourselves.the latest model. Thank God that your family has a television or God is interested in what capturesmobile, instead of fretting that you our hearts, and what we think about.don't have a Smartphone. He wants us to focus on certain

things: “...Brothers and sisters,whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure,

When you honour and obey yourwhatever is lovely, whatever is

parents, you can be sure God will admirable - if anything is excellent or

bless you in a special way. Obedience praiseworthy - think about such

to parents is a command from God, things.” Philippians 4:8

and He uses it to shape your life. He also uses it to give you moreblessings. When you obey God's command, you are showing that you We can use our gadgets to glorify

Whether it is watching television, trust Him to do what's best for you. God in many ways. Playing Christian reading, facebooking or playing So, the next time your mother asks music on television, readingvideo games, watch your attitude. you to change a television Christian material on the internetAre you addicted to it, thinking about programme or stop playing 'Angry and sharing prayer requests on it all the time? Social media like Birds,' just obey. It's not easy to do it, Facebook are some ways. We can find Facebook and Twitter can take up a but you can do it because you love hundreds of other ways to use lot of time, letting you do less of God and want to obey Him. You can gadgets to glorify God. Let's do it.other things. They can be used as a also do it because you are thankful great communication tool, but we for your parents and love them. The is a children's writer and an

need to make sure we set limits and illustrator of Sunday school and VBS books.Bible says, “Children, obey your

Let your focus be God

Be content with what you have

Honour your parents

Don't be under the control of Gadgets that glorify Godanything

Cynthia John

There aremanyactivities

that may not be “wrong” but wemust not let them control our lives.


CHALLENGERS

Dr. Raj Kumar Songa (Dr. R.K.S): I r. R a j K u m a r S o n g a ,come from a family where we wereMBBS(AIIMS), MD (AIIMS),D taught strong ethics, integrity and currently the Chief Panelsocial justice, but were 'festival-Physician for USA, Australia, Canada,christians' at best. I met with theand UK Embassies as well as theLord Jesus Christ in 1998 and was in founder director of Centre fora large part due to the prayers of a Migration Medicine, shares hiswonderful believer classmate whoinspiring testimony of how he stoodhad prayed along with his prayerfor truth in his 'secular' job, and thepartners for 9 years! I thought I cost and consequence of that withfound Him after seeking in my ups Jerry Thomas.and downs of life, only to realise that

the Lord was calling all along. Jerry Thomas (JT): Welcome to

the Harvest Times. To begin, can JT: You had worked in a you tell us your family corporate hospital; you stoodbackground and how you met against the medical malpracticesand accepted Lord Jesus Christ? and suffered retaliation. For the

– Dr. Raj Kumar Songa

Standing for Truth:The Cost and Consequence

I was

convinced

that 'unjustified

silences' are as

sinful as

committing the

error itself.


benefit of the readers, can you JT: As I understand, the hospital consequence was that surely

briefly tell us about the issues, authorities never directed you to goodness and mercy followed me

the stand you took and the price do any wrong things and you (all the days of my life) - like a

you paid for it? could have remained honest and puppy!

continued without questioning Dr. R.K.S: I had noticed a certain J.T: You are now an employer.

others' malpractices. What drug brand not working in patients What are the Biblical principles

motivated you, both Biblicallydespite the antibiogram telling us that guide you in running the

and professionally, to question that it is supposed to be effective. On organization and what would

the malpractices?further investigation and study of you expect from an employee?

cases I quickly realised that the drug Dr. R.K.S: It was a sense of Dr. R.K.S: That work is a gift of God

was spurious or faulty and responsibility to the patient,and not a curse nor a burden even

commitment to professional ethicsas Adam was blessed with work

and the conviction of the overseeingbefore the fall.

Eternal God that prompted me. The

courage to follow through with my To do the work as unto God, but conscience at whatever cost, came being careful not to worship work in from my faith in God who is just and the process. The diligence and is watching and is the real Employer. integrity at work reflects the way weThe example of Jesus Christ who worship and honor God, and can be stood for truth at whatever cost was considered a part of worship but not something that I could fix my eyes worship itself.on. I was convinced that 'unjustified

That the Lord wants us to reflect His silences' are as sinful as committing

character as we care for the patients the error itself.

or clients at business. We must be JT: The Lord honored your the 'mask of God' in our workplaces.

requested for stopping it. As the truthfulness and commitment.To consider that the business is profit margins were high on this You were forthright even whenowned by God and that I am a drug brand the hospital pharmacy you went for interview in the US manager of His workplace and therefused to withdraw it and was Consulate. Can you tell us howresources generated.informed to stop writing that it was the Lord turned all these to be a

spurious. After objective proof was blessing now? That the Lord wants to use theprovided they said they would

business/work place as a place of Dr. R.K.S: I did not find it difficult towithdraw it but was not. Similarly,

provision and care for employeesmention that I was fired from mypoor dialysis practices were causing

and the clients, and the resources toprevious job and briefly mentioned longer stays of certain patients in

be used for the kingdom of God.that there were ethical issues. I ICU in view of new infections. When knew the Lord would reveal the JT: Many thanks for your valuableI had submitted my report on this,truth to them. When I was on the time and inspiring testimony. God the hospital had to spend a lot of road after being fired, I was still bless you.money on rectifying the systems and sure of the Lord as my employer. The were quite upset. After a few months

Dr. R.K.S: Thanks, it was a blessingLord can take us out of a workplaceI was given notice to leave the

for me to recount God's goodness in as an act of mercy, when we stick on hospital and was given false reasons

my life.in evil systems. We must rely on God for this. I only knew that I had done for strength to pass these 'integritymy duty as a responsible doctor forchecks'. Truly enough, doors opened my patients and that 'God is my real , MBBS(AIIMS), MD

(AIIMS) is currently the Chief Panel Physician in fulfillment of the prophetic wordemployer'. It is better to bear thefor USA, Australia, Canada, and UK in Psalm 23 - As I looked to the Lordcost than to be part of an evil Embassies.

as my Shepherd, the inevitablesystem.

Dr. Raj Kumar Songa

We must

be the

'mask of

God' in our

workplaces.


In any case of abuse, the process of exploitation, 1.2 million of which arehealing can only begin after the children. Across India, a woman is abuse ends. Abuse scars a victim, raped every 22 seconds and a child is damaging their being down to their raped every 76 minutes; only one in very soul, and while the abuse every four accused of this crime is cannot be reversed, healing can take ever convicted. Crime and injustice place. Sexual exploitation in the form against poor and vulnerable womenof trafficking and forced labour and children is rampant, destroyingslavery (bonded labour) are two society and preventing rule of lawmajor forms of abuse ravaging the and justice in this nation. sons and daughters of India. It is the

The law of India protects citizens goal of International Justice Mission,

against forced prostitution and a human rights agency, to bring bonded labour; however these healing and restoration to victims of

abuses still occur at a rampant and such abuse. Together with its

devastating rate. Perpetrators whopartners, IJM is committed to violate Indian laws and compel the bringing freedom and restoration to

labour of others infringe upon the victims and works to ensure office, in Delhi, specifically works toindividuals most fundamental rightsperpetrators are prosecuted for their improve government policies with of freedom and security.crimes. the government itself. The

International Justice Mission (IJM) intervention of IJM has resulted in It is estimated that there are 20 to 65

works to utilize laws, end abuse and freedom for more than 800 million bonded labourers in a variety

oppression, heal victims and hold individuals forced into the of industries across India; 16.5

perpetrators accountable. IJM has commercial sex trade and over 5,500 million are child labourers, 12.6

five offices in India: Delhi, Bangalore,bonded labourer in India.million of whom are engaged in

Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata; fourhazardous occupations. In 2009 the IJM uses a four-fold strategy toof which support governmentGovernment of India also estimated secure freedom and justice to victims authorities to combat sex traffickingthat 3 million individuals are being of abuse. IJM intervenes in cases of and forced labour slavery. The fifth forced into commercial sexual slavery and abuse and partners with

SOCIAL ISSUES

Thesesurvivorsprove

that restoration is possible, even for those that havebeen violentlyoppressed .

Restoring the BrokenSeeking Justice for the Poor

– Sanjay Macwan, Melissa Walavalkar and Kristina Craven


local authorities to release victims It takes a lot of courage for a survivor medical examinations. One of these from the locality in which they are to trust the social workers who are examinations is an age verificationheld. Victims of bonded labour are strangers to them, but time and time test, as most of the girls that IJM often held with their entire families; again girls stand in their boldness rescues do not have identification tothe entire family being enslaved and and walk into freedom. show how old they are; they are also abused under the oppression of a tested for HIV/AIDS. All of these testsAfter the girl exits the brothel and slave owner. Victims of sexual and procedures take place within the the labourer is removed from the exploitation face a similar situation, span of a few days.facility, the IJM legal team takes up a trapped within abuse from a brothel case to pursue perpetrator For a victim of trafficking, it is also keeper, trafficker, and malicious

accountability, ensuring that slave- necessary to determine her customer. IJM works to find and owners and brothel keepers are background and learn the events that remove girls trapped within the prosecuted with sentences led up to her abuse in the brothel. In darkness of a lodge. IJM combats the

commensurate with their crimes. order to do this, IJM Aftercare staff abuse of a slave owner or brothel The legal trial is a crucial part in the complete what is called a Home keeper, physically removing these aftercare process. Inquiry Study. The caseworkervictims, returning their entitled

travels to the home village of the In the immediate days following the freedom. survivor and inquires of the family torescue of a trafficking victim, several

Removing a victim of trafficking and determine if reintegration wouldprocesses and procedures must takesexual exploitation comes with many facilitate successful rehabilitation.place; this is often a hectic and challenges; aftercare for survivors Sometimes the Home Inquiry is a challenging time for both the begins on the night of the rescue. cross-border process, if the survivorsurvivor and the social worker.One might think a victim of sexual is from someplace like Nepal or Freedom itself is can be strange and exploitation would be ready to leave Bangladesh. The Home Inquiry takesscary for someone who has been the brothel, lodge, or bar several days and takes the

abused and oppressed, and toimmediately after the rescue team caseworker hundreds of kilometrescompound this, the survivor is arrives. While this is sometimes true, from the IJM office. Reintegration is required to go to court hearings and most of the time girls are hesitant to not always a possible or healthy

give testimony regarding their time follow rescuers and their promises of option for the survivor of sexin the brothel.freedom. Inside the brothel keepers trafficking. Sometimes, when the

During the process of the trial IJM confine the girl with the lies that she family learns of their long-lost ensures government support is will be arrested if the police come to daughter, they are overjoyed. Other utilized and benefits the survivor.know of her prostitution and that she times, they are ashamed of her,The benefits entitled to a survivorwill be rejected by her family if she which is heart-breaking for the girl.include the full spectrum of tries to return to them. The girls are The process of reintegration is government rehabilitation services, taught to lie about their age, their different for each girl and IJM worksincluding financial compensation. situation, and how they got into their hard to ensure the aftercare processFormer slaves and survivors of work; they are taught to hide the meets the specific needs of every girl.trafficking are provided with other truth of everything relating to their For a bonded labourer, the aftercareaftercare services such as abuse. Victims fear rejection, harm, process is a bit different. One mightcounselling, employment assistance and even imprisonment because of

think the life of freedom would come and educational programs and the lies they have been told, for this naturally to a former slave, but forschool registration, financial reason, victims sometimes find most of those rescued, this new lifeassistance, such as opening a bank trusting rescuers difficult. of freedom is their first opportunity account, and former slaves are

All of these lies and psychological in their entire life to act placed into a community groupabuse make the night of rescue a independently, live independentlywhich will act as further support.very challenging experience for the and think independently. While in

Immediately following the rescue of social workers. IJM social workers captivity a person's freedom is a trafficking victim, the girl is takencomfort the girls and tell them they crushed by abuse and torment; the into a loving and protective partner will be safe, assuring them that they victim essentially stops thinking. Aftercare home. IJM Mumbai will not be arrested. That night itself Thinking and feeling become toopartners with 12 Aftercare homes, girls receive counselling and are painful and the hope of a futurewhich are run by the government or encouraged to boldly step out of vanishes in a flash. Thoughts of the by private NGOs. Also during this abuse and into a new life of freedom. past are similarly painful. It is easier time, the girls undergo several


and less painful to stop thinking and support themselves. individuals who have been freed arebecause of this, slaves and those who great advocates in their community These relationships, counselling are sexual exploited, stop planning, and are empowered to live a life of efforts and skills training courses dreaming and making decisions and freedom.have proved to be quite successful start focusing on immediate survival.

and therapeutic. Since inception, IJM The success that these survivorsIt is only after a victim or a family is offices in India have assisted over exhibit proves that restoration is freed that they begin to start 3,000 former slaves and 1,500 possible, even for those that havethinking and feeling again. Teaching

trafficking survivors through been violently oppressed and brokena survivor to think and feel brings aftercare services. in ways that seem incomprehensible.them hope and opportunity. There is hope, and new life surfacesKumar and Amita* are two recipientsFor both victims of bonded labour after these girls are brought out of of IJM aftercare services. Kumar wasand victims of sexual exploitation, darkness.

first enslaved at the young age of IJM desires that survivors are seven at a brick kiln where he was At the end of the day, God's hand is rehabilitated and become self- sold to cancel a debt incurred by his visible throughout the work of IJM. sufficient. IJM maintains

family. He was worked and abused at The goodness of his character is relationships with various vocational the hand of a slave owner for two vibrantly displayed on the faces of and training programs to facilitate years. Amita* was similarly sold by a the girls that have been brought out the placement of survivors in malicious aunt and forced to of utter darkness and oppression and positions where they can generate

prostitute herself, daily receiving given a chance to embrace new life.their own income. Survivors are abuse and torture. They were The mercy, kindness and justice of taught tailoring and other skills in rescued by IJM, and their futures the creator is displayed whenthe homes, and some are employed

were returned; hope and freedom enslaved families are restored toin beauty salons, bakeries and secured. They now work with IJM to freedom and children no longer havegarment factories. IJM also supports combat abuse and oppression. Their to watch slave owners beat their a variety of counselling programs at

stories have proved that while mother, or watch their father wince Aftercare homes including trauma- rehabilitation has challenges, a life of from the weight of carrying endless focused counselling sessions, group freedom is possible and healing can bags of rice on his back. God is counselling and individual occur. pleased when his people join him in counselling sessions for the

the work of justice, fulfilling the Stories of hope and success shine survivors, and HIV/AIDS counselling. command given in Isaiah 1:17: amongst the thousands of individualsRecently, IJM Mumbai and Kolkata“Learn to do right; seek justice. who have been assisted by IJM. offices hosted a team from the UK Defend the oppressed. Take up the Recently, one survivor of traffickingwhich taught Arts therapies – cause of the fatherless; plead the graduated from a nursing school in including drama, dance and visual case of the widow.” (Isaiah 1:17 NIV). Bangalore, and two other survivorsarts – to counsellors and staff

are currently enrolled. In 2013 alone, members at various partner U.S. Department of State Bureau of two survivors completed their TenthAftercare homes.Democracy, Human Rights and Labor. (2009). Standard exams and many areHuman Rights Reports: India. Retrieved Church members also strive to assist thriving in tailoring and beautician January 21, 2010 from

rescued girls, especially during the http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2008/sca/11courses. In Bangalore, over 100 Christmas season. During the 9134.htmformer slaves celebrated the Christmas season, many churches "Children in India." . Comfort for the Nations. completion of a two-year

Web. 9 May 2013. partner with IJM to host Christmas reintegration program where they <http://comfortforthenations.org/india.html>.parties in the Aftercare homes. This

attended monthly meetings with http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/now-gives the girls a chance to hear the planning-commission-lowers-the-poverty-other released labourers. The

good news of the gospel, eat line/article3013870.ececompletion of this program is a delicious food and participate in fun "Activists divided over legalization of milestone for survivors; a celebration

prostitution." Times of India. 16 12 2009: n. games. The goal of all of these and recognition that freedom now page. Web. 17 Jul. 2013. programs is to achieve a holistic <http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/200exists in their lives. Those who

model of restoration. IJM aims to 9-12-16/india/28096631_1_trafficking-complete the program leave the prostitution-ngo-prerana>.help girls recover not just program capable of self-reliance and http://www.firstpost.com/india/a-rape-every-emotionally, but also physically and independent thinking. IJM has found 22-mins-what-makes-us-so-complacent-mentally, while providing them with 489080.htmlthat after completing this

viable options to develop and rehabilitation program, families and *Pseudonym

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