tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59113004799428024062024-03-08T06:14:14.005-08:00O.M.'s DiaryO.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-7634713165548458862020-12-15T09:21:00.000-08:002020-12-15T09:21:57.086-08:00<p> </p><p><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">It's shopping time for many ; Christmas in our culture and time normally centers around Santa, the Christmas trees, the colorful lights, gifts and exchange of gifts, fun and food, and family gatherings. For some it is a getaway time from normal life. There are yet those who are very lonely and depressed too; those without food, no gifts, no homes; and with none to practically pour out the love of God on them.</span></p><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">I would like to bring our thoughts to Mary (Luke 1:26 - 38) the mother of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. ( Read this portion of scripture to your kids and grandkids. In so doing, you are planting a seed in their hearts and minds.)</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Mary's background wasn't that great - poor, young, ordinary, a hard working peasant, not gone to college and probably not even to school; from a little known village called Nazareth in Galilee. She was engaged to be married at her young age. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Eastern cultures are different and I am sure that life couldn't have been the best for her. Life isn't comfortable; 'hardship' and 'neglect' could have been her closest companions (apart from her relationship with Yahweh).</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">But here are some noteworthy things about Mary:</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">1. She was brought up in the fear of Yahweh, and she knew the prophecies concerning the coming Messiah. She was taught from the Scriptures.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">2. She spent time at the synagogue and was a worshipper of God. </div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">3. She was a virgin; no flirting around, and kept her body as the 'Temple of Yahweh', pure and holy.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">4. She must have had simple pure faith in God. When the angel appeared to her, she submitted freely to the will of God. </div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Much more can be said but let me take us closer to some thoughts:</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Couldn't God have chosen a princess of royal blood for His eternal purpose ?</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Couldn't God have chosen someone from a wealthy affluent family of that time ?</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Couldn't God have chosen some lady who was so highly educated, and popular ? </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Couldn't God have given Mary a better place to birth her baby ? </div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">He could have ! But He chose the weak things, the things considered foolish/silly in human wisdom to unfold His plan for the redemption of mankind. </div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Wasn't it a silly idea to choose uneducated smelly fishermen to be the messengers of God to the world ? That's how the world thinks!</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"> And haven't these men made the wise to look stupid/foolish ? Have they not influenced the world in making it a better place; have they not influenced the character and destiny of humanity ? Haven't they been pointers to Eternal Life, salvation through Jesus Christ ? The wisdom of the wise couldn't do that, neither the strength of the mighty ! </div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Don't be disappointed because of your status, or lack of education or beauty, or power, or of your family or financial background. God has a plan for you and if you are obedient God will accomplish that which concerns you and your life. Don't give up. His ways are different and much higher than man's ways. God did have a plan for this young lady, Mary. God did have a plan for fishermen like Peter, John, Andrew, James and the others.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">In closing I would like to suggest; read 1 Corinthians 1: 27 -28. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">" Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important." (NLT)</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">God bless you all. Take care and be safe.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Pastor O.M. Panicker</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a class="oajrlxb2 g5ia77u1 qu0x051f esr5mh6w e9989ue4 r7d6kgcz rq0escxv nhd2j8a9 nc684nl6 p7hjln8o kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x jb3vyjys rz4wbd8a qt6c0cv9 a8nywdso i1ao9s8h esuyzwwr f1sip0of lzcic4wl py34i1dx gpro0wi8" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iccm1990.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2vVtLk3KFHpnpoWU4kR03HvLg019ysYpRCjl2Ye8jO6WP1zim5ZLJ2R-o&h=AT3EqVuWpW_ZsHCeSenTrWiokB6VbAI1uIND1K6Yc7DijvLGbUN7FQdUAUcKO_KvjjkaprcMJ4p0CaoFnTw5DgT_lpvRfc6OPwmGPes1rw1Mxt8_1C8g_oUwQxoflJTYkg&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT1s34DNckhAmOuUFj5407m5U0oT-DeVmhN3dVIGNgie6Hqy6fQotprpNbgKkhahZ_Fh-uRA00-19Be4uYMplYEAgsmGUEpCYlAcatV9HT3YAUKjt4VHO-h2F5enqHrP1vaf4gst4pE5oVP6hzMO" rel="nofollow" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-family: inherit; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0" target="_blank">www.iccm1990.org</a></span></div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">#hopeless</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></div></div>O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-36545387764811672732012-01-18T03:25:00.000-08:002012-01-18T03:25:13.984-08:00Still in India !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">The experience in Karnataka state is not easy to describe. All pastors at the conference were from different villages and I had a marathon conference, teaching seven hours per day for three continuous days. We did have beautiful moments of worship and prayers. God took me through from the inspiration of Scripture, to inner purity of the leader; and onwards to the prayer life of a leader; and to family life of the leader and so much more. The pastors and their wives were so grateful; and many came forwards and confessed that their lives were changed and a new vision had been birthed in them. Some confessed, "We have many pastors but not a spiritual father like you". I was so humbled and in the silence of my prayers I cried. I realized how big of a ministry God had placed in my hands. Fire burned through me when I thought of the great responsibility and trust God had placed in my hands.<br />
This time we stayed with Catholic nuns in clean, well maintained rooms(separate from the nuns) and we were so well cared, respected and loved. I personally do admire the sacrifices made by the Catholics in the most remote parts of the world and in India.<br />
The open-air crusade was held in the village of Mudalgi, about two hundred and fifty kilometers out of Bangalore city. <i>It was a long, very long, never-ending ride.</i> The driver was not sure of the road and we went through a lot of forest and very rough roads. We saw lots of 'rhesus' monkeys along the way. It was a joy when we finally arrived. The whole village had gathered to hear the Word. The crowd were a mix of Christians, many new converts , and many Hindus. Hindu political leaders were present on stage and one was at one time a great opponent of the Christian faith. The night was dark and cold with winds blowing, but the crowds stayed till the very end and it was about 10.30pm when the meeting finished. The Holy Spirit annointing was so great and many hundreds gave their lives to the Lord. Hands were lifted up all over the open field when I made the altar call. Many others came forwards for prayers; some in tears.<br />
The ride back was once more rough and hours later in bed I could feel the fatigue and all my muscles ache. But I was overwhelmed by the joy of the Lord and very thankful to minister in this remote village in India. My translator was overtaken by the power of the Word and he was caught up in total silence after the meeting.<br />
Right now I am in the city of Hyderabad after a twelve hour ride by train. Got up with a muscle cramp on my back and I have not been able to walk straight today. Hmmm - Isn't it awful !!! <br />
Pray much for me as I continue with the ministry here in India. <br />
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</div>O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-54199430711563259502012-01-11T06:55:00.000-08:002012-01-11T06:55:25.570-08:00In India - January 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I have been so busy with the meetings and it has not been easy to get to a cyber cafe. Sorry about that.<br />
My flight from Philadelphia was delayed by three hours(2nd January 2012). There was a a computer problem with the plane. In London we were delayed for ten hours and there were lines of people waiting to reschedule their flights.<br />
Finally I arrived in Delhi and there was another delay. After about an hour on the runway we were told that the flight was cancelled. The good Lord put some 'joy' and wisdom into my head and I did as the Lord directed me. After we came out of the plane and picked our luggage I approached a stranded traveller and said 'Could we hire a taxi to Chandigarh and share the costs'. He did agree but we needed four more to fill the taxi (a minivan sort of vehicle). I walked straight to a stranded group of Chinese travellers and they were exactly four. They did not understand English; finally with a little broken English and handsigns I convinced them to join us in the ride. It all worked out well and the six hour ride from Delhi to Chandigarh took us through very heavy rains. Thank God for the wisdom and for his guidance that I was in Chandigarh for the meetings that began on the 5th of January. This trip was probably the most interesting in terms of the delays. Oops I forgot - the delay began in Quarryville when we were just getting out of the house to go to the airport. The keys to our Honda mysteriously went missing and it took us over twenty minutes to finally trace it !!!!<br />
Sorry I have to cut short at this point. Will come back. The meetings in Punjab were really blessed and right now I am in a village in Karnataka. Not very accessible to computer services. <br />
Keep me in your prayers. Love you all.<br />
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</div>O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-19073520178369544022011-06-26T11:35:00.000-07:002011-06-26T11:35:39.769-07:00Back in Kenya !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div>This is the ninth day since my arrival in <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_0" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">Kenya</span></span> on the 18th of June 2011. Every day has been busy and I give honor and glory to the Lord. My flight from <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_1" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">Philadelphia</span></span> through <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_2" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">London</span></span> to <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_3" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">Nairobi</span></span> was good. There was a group of teenagers accompanied by their youth pastor and two other </div><div>men in the plane from a church in <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_4" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">Tennessee</span></span>. One of the young ladies sat beside me and we had a beautiful conversation. This group were on their way to a place in the south of Kenya and I did have the opportunity to teach this lady a few words in the Swahili language of Kenya. She has a great passion for souls and I am amazed by a new generation of young people emerging in the sharing of Christ's love to the nations.</div><div> </div><div>My coming to Kenya has turned out to be a big blessing to the ministry. I have had several meetings with the team in the past few days and I am impressed by the zeal and commitment of the ICCM team. I am also impressed by the respect all team members have for one another. The ministry is encouraged and so happy to have me back so soon. I have been involved in teaching at the School of Ministry and I spend a lot of my time in preparations for the lessons and in the classroom. At present I am teaching on Eastern Religions and focussed on Islam and Hinduism; and on evangelism to these groups of peoples.</div><div> </div><div>Tomorrow, Monday the 27th, we are hosting a meeting with the pastors of <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_5" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">Eldoret</span></span> town. I will talk more on pastoral roles and responsibilities; and impart more the spirit of unity and co-operative work within the body. We will also focus on our activities for 2012 and draw out plans for a 'Praise and worship celebration' with pastor Brett Rush and Dawn Rush in <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_6" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">January of 2012</span></span>. </div><div> </div><div>Our free medical camps in 2012 will be held in the month of February and the team is already in the process of praying.</div><div> </div><div>Its been raining heavily and on my way back from the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_7" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">Mercy Health center</span></span>, tons of hailstones, the size of marbles, hit the car with deafening noise. The roads were flooded and this time of the year rain and mud are part of the life in Eldoret. The temperatures have gone down to the thirties in Eldoret.</div><div> </div><div><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_8" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">On Tuesday</span></span> I will, together with the team visit the Little Roses Nursery School and we shall also be having a special meeting with the chairman of the ICCM board in Kenya.</div><div> </div><div><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_9" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">On Wednesday</span></span>, the 29th I will travel to Nairobi, fly out to <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_10" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">Dubai</span></span> and meet up with my wife Mercy on our way to <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_11" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">India</span></span>. I am in constant contact with my wife over the phone. Thank God for the communications system. Talking to Mercy and hearing her voice is a special joy to me. We shall be back in the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_12" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">USA</span></span> on the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_13" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">15th of July.</span></span> Please remember to pray for us.</div><div> </div><div><u>ICCM </u><u>Project</u></div><br />
The Mercy Health center needs to be expanded. We have lots of patients that need special care and we plan to put up wards for women, children, and men. It will be a heavy financial undertaking. In the past few days I have seen several people given intravenous quinine for severe malaria at our clinic. These patients need to be on bed as the treatment progresses. Women have come for childbirth and we need the facility for the poor people in the village. We have drawn the plan and marked out the land for the construction. We need an initial $20,000.00 to commence the work. Please join us in prayers in this great task.<br />
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We are very grateful for your prayers and love. Its been a joy having you with us in ministry to <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_15" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">Africa</span></span> and India. Thank you for loving us; thank you for loving ICCM.<br />
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In my meditations this day I have been looking at the 2nd chapter in the book of Revelations. Verse 7 talks of the reward for the overcomers : "to eat of the tree of Life which is in the midst of the paradise of God". Eating of the tree of life will enable us to live with God forever. Isn't it great ? God has given us the ability to overcome the temptations and the attacks of the devil by the blood of Jesus Christ. I want to eat of the Tree of Life; and we all want to eat of the Tree of Life and live with God forever. We want to continue loving Him with our first love; and serve Him with all our hearts.<br />
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God bless you very much.<br />
Lots of love from <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1309112842_16" style="border-bottom: #366388 2px dotted; cursor: hand;"><span style="color: #366388;">Eldoret, Kenya</span></span>.<br />
O.M./Pastor Panicker/Joy<br />
</div>O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-48852092383039495252011-04-22T16:04:00.000-07:002011-04-22T16:04:19.644-07:00Easter Greetings !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Every year at this time we see articles on the internet and on magazines/newspapers questioning the authenticity of Jesus' resurrection. Yesterday I was watching a science program - scientists were trying to explain away the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1303513187_0" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">ten plagues</span> in the days of Moses scientifically; as if those plagues could have happened naturally, not necessarily from God .<br />
Don't we live at a time when the world questions 'TRUTH' - truth that has historical and archeological evidence. Isn't it a time when more confusion and lies breed through the media. (Some day similar questions might arise, like, did <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1303513187_1" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; cursor: pointer;">Abraham Lincoln</span> really exist ? Hmmm, was <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1303513187_2">George Washington</span> real ??) <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1303513187_3" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; cursor: pointer;">Haters</span> of God and haters of 'good' seem to have an upper hand in every sphere of society. They seem to influence the thoughts of the common man, and steer the direction forwards.<br />
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This is the '<span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1303513187_4" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">Easter' season</span>. Lets get back to the REAL TRUTH. <span style="color: red;"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1303513187_5" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; cursor: pointer;">JESUS is the WAY</span>, the TRUTH, and the LIFE.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Jesus died on the cross, he was buried, and he resurrected on the third day according to the Scriptures. <span style="font-weight: bold;">This is the truth.</span> He ascended to heaven, and he continues to live on in the hearts</span> of those who believe in him as the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1303513187_6" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">Son of God</span>.<br />
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The <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1303513187_7" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">way of the cross</span> may not be an easy one. <span style="color: red;">But we have the assurance of our destination.</span> <br />
<span style="color: black;">On the road that leads to everlasting life</span> is Jesus himself - walking with you and holding you up in his marvelous love. He is with you every step along the way.<br />
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<span style="color: red;">Happy Resurrection Sunday.</span><br />
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We love you and we pray for you.</div>O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-24435664808930476982011-03-19T03:23:00.000-07:002011-03-19T03:32:06.233-07:00Back home to my family and friends !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Away from home for three months and the days flew by. I look back and God has favored me so much in this trip and He has remained faithful. I have been to the poorest and most unhygienic places and the blood of Jesus kept me safe from any sickness or disease. In places with problems of insecurity He watched over me. All glory to the Lord.<br />
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Yesterday, the 18th of March was a very interesting and fulfilling day in the city of Nairobi. One of my Hindu friends visited me and we spend about three hours together. He had so many questions - we sat at the lobby of the hotel. Interesting questions that needed attention and answers. <br />
1. My contract ends in April and I need to get another job. What can I do - should I get back to India ?<br />
2. I want to get married, but I have no girlfriends ? I don't know how to make friends ?( he is now 32years old).<br />
3. There were some people who hurt me years back - I want to take revenge on them. I am angry with them. Is that okay ? Is that a sin ?<br />
4. I have sexual feelings - Is it okay for me to get involved with a girl out there ?<br />
5. If I don't get married and I have those feelings, can I have sex with anybody to satisfy my feelings ?<br />
6. Is anything wrong - is it a sin to watch porn on the internet ?<br />
7. If I get married, is anything wrong for me to watch porn on the internet ? I am married then !! <br />
8. If I pray to Jesus will He hear me ? I have many needs and I don't have any peace.<br />
9. Have you seen Jesus in your life ?<br />
10. I want to pray to Krishna and to Jesus - I will give Krishna about 20 minutes and a few minutes to Jesus everyday. It is better for me to pray to more gods because somebody will hear me. What is wrong with that - ?<br />
11. Your friend in the wheelchair with the crippled legs - he is always so happy - is it because of Jesus ? How can that happen ?<br />
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He had a lot of questions ? <br />
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After I spoke with him and explained matters, he finally tells me - please pray for me. He was on his knees and with all sincerity he accepted the prayers and Jesus. He then told me that he felt a peace in his heart. He went away so happy and satisfied having heard all the answers. I did advice him to keep himself pure. Sex outside marriage was sin and God hated it. I told him that porn manipulated the mind and he would lack concentration in his work, and loose purpose in life. If he got married and got into the habit of watching porn, his marriage would be a disaster !<br />
You cannot pray to several gods because you CANNOT serve two masters. He stood amazed at the answers and suggestions I had given him. There was no way he could challenge the truths in the Bible.<br />
Yes I asked God to bring a woman into his life to be his wife; I also gave him suggestions on how to approach a lady and win her over and to be good friends; and on how to behave with the opposite sex. It was all an interesting talk and I enjoyed my time with him. All glory to the Lord.<br />
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In the evening I was invited by one of our Islamic converts for dinner. She had prepared an elaborate dinner with salads and there was ice-cream and cake. Before dinner I spend about two hours with her giving her counsel from the Word of God. She has been enriched in the presence of God. While at dinner I called up my wife Mercy to talk to her. It was such a joy.<br />
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Well, in the next few hours I will be at the Jomo Kenyatta International airport in Nairobi for my flight. I have missed my family and my friends for a long time. I have missed my church Shiloh. I will be communicating with you after my arrival and it may take about two weeks before I actually do anything. Just worn out - all my muscles aching - my eyes kind of sleepy - hot flashes (wonder if this is normal for a man !!) all over my body ! BUT I am very thankful to the Lord and I am so happy that God was glorified in all that was done in the past three months. I am coming home as a victorious soldier from the battleground. Thank you for praying, and thank you for loving me. Jesus is Lord indeed.</div>O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-43768182523816100402011-03-15T08:15:00.000-07:002011-03-15T08:15:25.962-07:00God's greatness !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">This is the last stretch of my journey which began in December of 2010. Two months in <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1300201180_0">Kenya</span>; the free medical camps; almost four weeks in <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1300201180_1">India</span>, and finally back in Kenya. India was fantastic; and so were the meetings in Kenya. <br style="text-decoration: underline;" />I was most blessed in that the Lord was holding my hands all the way and I did witness the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1300201180_2" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">glory of God</span>. In the state of Punjab in India, in a place called <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1300201180_3">Ludhiana</span> I prayed for a lot of people after the ministry of the Word. People were so hungry and many in the crowd were from Hindu families - non-Christians. Finally a special group came up in front for prayers - all women. Through my translator I heard of their problems. These were women who had problems in conceiving; some had blocked fallopian tubes; others were infertile; and there were those with feminine issues. The presence of the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1300201180_4" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; cursor: pointer;">Holy Spirit</span> was so mighty in our midst. I called up a young lady of 19yrs., a believer who lived a pure life to stand together with me as I prayed. She was a lady of great faith and had been following me in all my meetings in Punjab. Her face was radiant and she confessed that she had been blessed so much and had learned a lot in the meetings. She was a convert from the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1300201180_5">Sikh religion</span>.<br />
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I needed some help from her as I prayed for the women - I needed her to lay her hands, on my behalf, on the womb of each woman as I prayed for them. This she did with a lot of reverence. I prayed short specific prayers and in most cases breaking curses from the lives of these women in the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1300201180_6">name of Jesus</span>. I did sincerely ask the Lord to have mercy and to open the wombs of these women. Honestly I felt nothing supernatural except that the Lord's presence was so mightily felt in our midst.<br />
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At the end of the prayers, one lady who was a medical doctor, came up to me and said that she had felt a lot of warmth in her womb while I prayed. A special 'heat' filled her womb - <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1300201180_7" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; cursor: pointer;">something burning</span> but pleasant. Just then, the young lady who placed her hands said that she felt 'a kick' from the womb as I prayed. One after another all the other ladies gave the same testimony. A warmth - a heat - ; and the young lady felt that 'kick' from the womb of every woman in her hands. I stood amazed and I began to praise the Lord. <br />
This was a very special experience and I meditated about it in my heart giving glory to the Lord.<br />
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I am in Kenya now and the young lady has called me to say that many of the women had communicated with her to say that they are now pregnant. With God all things are possible. I long to get back to Punjab next year to see the wonderful miracles, the beautiful little babies. All glory and honor to the King of kings and the <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1300201180_8" style="border-bottom: 2px dotted rgb(54, 99, 136); cursor: pointer;">Lord of lords</span>.<br />
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I fly out of Kenya on the 19th and I arrive home in Quarryville on the 20th. Please keep me in your prayers. I will be sending you pictures after my arrival in the USA. Thank you so much for being with me in this journey.<br />
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Love you all.</div>O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-22629299009715774582011-02-24T04:33:00.000-08:002011-02-24T04:33:42.441-08:00Off to the state of Kerala, India.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">In about 4 hours I will be in a train travelling to the state of Kerala, and the journey will last about 15 hours from where I am, Bangalore. I will have meetings from Saturday to Monday and on Tuesday I fly out to Mumbai.<br />
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The flight into India was so good. Meetings started on the same day I arrived here in Karnataka. From Karnataka we moved on to the state of Andhra Pradesh. Very long journeys by road. The first two meetings were at Hindu strongholds controlled by the BJP, and the pastors kept reminding me of the security situation. Thank God we were protected and I had a lot of people from the 'backward' castes of India come forwards for prayers. There were tears of joy on many faces. Others cried because of the heavy problems they had in their lives with no one to help or go to. Believe me - the meeting which began about 8pm went till almost midnight the first day. I continued praying after ministering the Word till 12.20am the second day. God gave me the strength and so many people wanted to be personally prayed for. It was a great joy to lay hands on the sick and needy, and to lift them up before the throne of God. Then followed the two days of the pastors conference. Over 300 pastors from the states of Andhra and Karnataka participated at the conference. I spoke in all four sessions each day; never got tired and I was energized in the spirit. Pastors were challenged and motivated and so many personally thanked me for the teachings and inspiration. I have already been 'booked' for a major conference in 2012. All the glory to our Father in heaven.<br />
There were challenges : the village was so primitive. People looked like they were living in the 17th century. Most people were very illiterate. The only thing that bothered me were the hygienic conditions. Breakfast on the last day, yesterday, was in the most terrible place I could imagine. The man was serving food with his dirty hands to every person. I gulped in the food. But a look into the kitchen brought the food back to my mouth. While cooking, the man was also cleaning his teeth with his fingers. Then the inevitable happened. He spat on the floor - unbelievable and horrific. I gave myself over 15 minutes to see if my body reacted in any negative way. Thank God, so far - so good. Please do not forget to pray for me.<br />
Love you all.</div>O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-5074717247031605942011-02-12T13:13:00.000-08:002011-02-12T13:13:51.769-08:00Kenya - February 2011In our town of Eldoret it is hot, windy and dusty. My naturally tanned skin is tanned once more in the natural sunlight and heat. I normally have my nose covered when the dust blows like a whirlwind. Its not just the dust, but the exhaust fumes of motor vehicles cloud the atmosphere.<br />
We have been busy in the ministry and most of the places we have visited are hot and dry. We see little children and woman walk with empty plastic containers .walking for miles to fetch water from streams or rivers. In the Turkana region and the North Eastern part of Kenya people are starving - no food and no water.<br />
Lots of street children roaming the streets of Eldoret. I have never seen so many on the streets ever before. <br />
Prices of food and other commodities have risen sharply. Our greedy and ruthless politicians are engaged in a never-ending battle for power.<br />
The story of the church is not good either. Too many false prophets and self-proclaimed apostles misleading the illiterate, innocent and the ignorant. Scripture is misinterpreted for personal gain. There seems to be no spiritual authority in Kenya at this point of time. God, have mercy, is my prayer !<br />
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The pastors conferences we hosted is bearing fruit. ICCM is trying to unite the pastors and churches in our little town of Eldoret. The Word has convicted many pastors who live in sin and we are seeing a revival in personal lives.<br />
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We have also gotten involved with the street kids in a small way. Apart from sharing the love of Jesus we have also involved ourselves in feeding them on occasion. As they see us walk on the streets they wave and are happy. We wave back and wish we could do something more.<br />
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This evening, pastor Shem and I visited the Nyayo ward at the main hospital in town. Many mothers were seated on the beds with their sick children. One child, about 3 years old is in the fourth stage of cancer. As I lay my hands on the child to pray I felt the heat radiating from the child's body. She is on chemo, and an oxygen tube helps her in breathing. She is so weak. We prayed for God's mercy on this child. The next child was a few months old and had some severe form of pneumonia. She looked so pale and 'not so lively'. We looked up to heaven for this child, and we prayed for the others. The mothers looked weary and tired; and hopelessness radiated from the eyes of many. We thank God for the opportunity given to us to visit the sick children this day and to encourage the mothers. Interestingly the wards are cleaner and brighter.<br />
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Thank you for your prayers. Next week on the 18th (friday) I fly out to India for ministry. I will be in the states of Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra, Maharashtra, and Punjab. Training of pastors and speaking in evangelistic meetings will be my main objective. I will be ministering to many first generation converts. Please keep me in your prayers.<br />
Tomorrow, Sunday the 13th, pastor Christoper and I will be ministering at the ICCM church in the village of Soy. We have purchased some provision for the people. Almost all the people we minister in this area are very poor indeed.<br />
Hey -we appreciate your prayers and support. The Lord shine His face upon you and give you peace.<br />
Love you all.<br />
O.M.O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-91298558340388977712011-01-15T01:51:00.000-08:002011-01-15T01:51:38.265-08:00Free medical camps.<u>13th January</u>: Our guests - Dr.Schmitt, Randy Varain, and Erin arrived safe in Nairobi. Pastor Andrew and I were at the airport to receive them. It is a great joy to have them with us. Arrived at the guest house about 11.30pm from the airport. It must have been 1am when we went to bed.<br />
The ICCM team and the medical staff arrived in Mlolongo from Eldoret - a seven hour journey by road. <br />
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<u>14th January</u> : The medical camp at Mlolongo commenced. The area is extremely hot, dusty, and dirty. The river is completely dry. 269 people were treated; 150 committed themselves to Christ; 53 were counseled for HIV. There is a lot of excitement.<br />
Earlier in the morning we had a 'thought' from Psalms 23, and we all prayed. After the camp was done for the day we had meetings with the teams. Shared the Word from 1st John :3, and we prayed together. We were all very tired.<br />
At the guest house : Had a good dinner. Later in his room, when Dr. Schmitt put on the switch for hot water, the 'instant' heater 'exploded'. All the wires were burned and the doctor had to have a cold shower.<br />
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On my part I made sure that all three were safe and well. I had a fight with mosquitoes !!<br />
We are all in the same 'spirit'; and getting along so smoothly/happily. I thank God for the three from the USA - just wonderful people with humility, love, and a zeal to serve.O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-70128401753619018952011-01-08T06:36:00.000-08:002011-01-08T06:36:47.539-08:00The week !The week went by fast. I had many meetings with the ICCM team, and the program for the free medical camps are set. We have all the government permits. The team from the USA will arrive on the 13th and we have booked/reserved rooms in Nairobi at a very safe and clean guest house. (For safety reasons I will not mention names of guest houses or hotels).<br />
Yesterday, Friday, I walked long distances from town to seek help with medicines. The team traveled to confirm the program and to see pastors. Ravi, our administrator at the clinic, is busy packing medicines together with the medical staff.<br />
I have received a few very encouraging e-mails from friends in PA. Communication with family and friends provide extra joy and energy in my case. On Sunday I will minister the Word at the ICCM Fellowship in Eldoret town. Funds for the car is coming in and you can be a partner in blessing us here.<br />
Though windy and dusty, heavy clouds are building up over Eldoret. In my prayers I have been mentioning you before the Lord.O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-5669474137005862832011-01-04T13:29:00.000-08:002011-01-04T13:29:15.216-08:00Safe in Kenya !The flight was good. Arrived in Nairobi on the 30th of December 2010. 31st evening was interesting- the streets of Nairobi were filled with people. At about midnight the taxis hooted, people screamed, danced, and shouted with joy. Displays of fireworks filled the sky, and I was watching all these from my hotel window. Churches were overflowing with people; and there was a broadcast over the television networks of worship and praises in the open grounds and at the Kenyatta Conference Center. Most of the participants were young teenagers/adults. Very encouraging to see the thousands of young people coming to God in worship to welcome the New Year.<br />
On Sunday the 2nd of January 2011, I was privileged to share the Word at the Mlolongo ICCM church. Traveled by matatu (Kenyan Taxi) on Monday morning to Eldoret. The driver was "flying" on the good road. (The roads were repaired some months ago.) In Eldoret I was welcomed by the team. We have already had some meetings, and today, Tuesday, we had our first 'home-cell' in the year 2011.<br />
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Still trusting God to buy a car/van for use in the ministry. It is a necessity, something I had postponed for the last few years. Donations are welcome.<br />
Blessings and much love.O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-35644977232991342242010-12-27T08:54:00.000-08:002010-12-27T08:54:30.252-08:00Rescheduled !Yes I am finally flying out on the 29th, Wednesday, to Kenya. Keep me in your prayers please. Right now I am busy with work and preparations. The sun is shining brighter and the windspeed is slower. Have a good day.O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-30723784898407101832010-12-27T07:10:00.000-08:002010-12-27T07:10:53.523-08:00Flight cancelled!The weather conditions has caused British Air to cancel my flight to Kenya today, 27th December. Hoping to get a new schedule soon. At home watching the cold winds and snow.O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5911300479942802406.post-80002331879092426542010-12-18T09:32:00.000-08:002010-12-18T09:32:33.519-08:00Welcome to O.M.'s BlogHey - welcome all. Trying to upgrade myself and connect with the world.O.M.http://www.blogger.com/profile/10269260792215796675noreply@blogger.com0