AFFECTION IN ACTION

Princess Alice of Britain (1843-1878), Grand Duchess of Hesse, was the daughter of Queen Victoria. Alice had an untimely death at the age of 35 on 14^th December, 1878, following an attack of diphtheria. Announcing her death in the British Parliament, W.E.Gladstone declared, “Princess Alice is dead…and love did it.”

She had seven children. One son, Fredrich, a hemophiliac, died early, following a fall. The others were Victoria, Elisabeth (Elizabeth), Irene, Ernest (Ernie), Alix and Marie(May). The children, except Elisabeth, and their father, Grand Duke Louis IV, contracted diphtheria in an epidemic in 1878. Devastating epidemics of this deadly disease with high rates of mortality were common before modern methods of routine immunization of children by toxoid vaccines and treatment of victims by antitoxin and antibiotics became available. Alice spent sleepless nights nursing her husband and children. They were treated in isolation as diphtheria is easily transmitted from patients by close contact.

Her youngest child, Marie (May) had a painful death in spite of her tender care. She concealed the sad news from the other children to prevent a severe mental shock. Later, she had to reveal it to Ernest (Ernie) who was intimately devoted to his little sister. Ernie was overcome with grief and broke down in tears. In an affectionate attempt to console and comfort her grieving son, she clasped him in her arms and kissed him, ignoring the doctor’s warning.

Alice was very weak with heavy work and severe strain and she easily caught the infection. Within a week after the kiss of love, Alice fell severely ill and she breathed her last in the morning of 14 December, 1878.

Benjamin Disraeli, the Prime Minister of Britain, described her kiss of love as the kiss of death. It was a life-long agonizing memory for Ernie, who survived the disease.

Actions are more eloquent and speak louder than words. Insincere words and pretentious shows of fake love are common today. St. John advises, “My children, our love should not be just words and talk; it must be true love, which shows itself in action” {1 John 3:18}.

Jesus taught us, “My commandment is this: love one another, just as I love you. The greatest love that a person can have for his friends is to give his life for them” {John 15: 12, 13}.

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By: Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.100 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE SILENCED BELL

The poem, ‘Curfew Must not Ring Tonight’ by Rose Hartwick Thorpe written in 1867 is based on an incident during the reign of Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658) as ‘Lord Protector’ of England. It describes the deep love of Bessie, a young and beautiful girl, with the young soldier, Basil Underwood. The soldier was charged with a crime and imprisoned. He was tried, found guilty and condemned to be shot dead at the moment when the bell rings to signal the evening curfew.

The executioners were waiting to hear the curfew bell to carry out the execution. Exactly at the prescribed moment, the bell-ringer grabbed the large rope and pulled it with full force to sound the huge bell. The bell moved but there was no sound. He pulled several times but the bell was silent. Cromwell sent soldiers to investigate why the bell did not sound. They found that Bessie, the soldier’s fiancée had climbed to the top of the bell tower and tied herself to the huge clapper hanging in the heavy bell to prevent its striking against the bell. She was knocked back and forth and smashed between the bell and the clapper with every pull of the rope. Her head, hands and ribs were crushed. She was produced before Cromwell with a bruised and bleeding body. Cromwell was deeply impressed by her willingness to suffer for love. He appreciated her heroic and courageous action and immediately pardoned the prisoner. He said to the lady, “Your lover shall live because of your sacrifice. Curfew shall not ring tonight.”

True love enables one to bear any injury or insult. St. Paul writes “I may be able to speak the languages of men and even of angels, but if I have no love, my speech is no more than a noisy gong or a clanging bell {1Corinthians 13: 1}. He adds, “Love never gives up; and its faith, hope and patience never fail” {1 Corinthians, 13: 7}.

Jesus demonstrated God’s infinite love by suffering public humiliation, agonizing pain and death on the Cross at Calvary to save humanity from the clutches of sin.

Jesus taught “And now I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that you are my disciples” {John 13: 34, 35}.

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By: Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.99 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

CEASELESS SEARCH

An old man was reclining on an easy-chair. His grandson brought the news paper to him. Eager to read the news, he started to search for his spectacles. After a while the child asked what he was searching for. He replied that it was to find his spectacles. Laughing aloud, the child pointed to his face and said, “Grandpa, it is there-right on your face.”

The old man realized that he was searching for his spectacles wearing them on his face.

On a dark night, a man was found to search for some article under the bright light of a street-lamp. Passers-by enquired about it. He replied that he was searching to find a lost needle. They gladly joined him in the search. After sometime they gave up the search as they could not find it. The man told them, “I was sure that you would not find them.” They asked, “Why?” He replied, “That is because I lost the needle on the other side of the road.” “But why did you search here, instead of searching on the other side?” they asked him. He replied calmly, “Simple. There is no light there. But here we have plenty of light.” The people left the place cursing the crazy man.

Man is in continual search for many things-God, peace and joy. But he forgets to find them within him. Jesus taught, “The Kingdom of God is within you” {Luke 17: 21}.

Peace and joy are the results and reflections of a pure and innocent heart. “Happy are the pure in heart, they will see God!” {Matthew 5: 8}. Let us learn to listen to the whisper of our conscience. That is the word of God from within us.

By: Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.98 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE PERFECT PAIR OF SANDALS

A fashionable lady entered a footwear store in search of a new pair of sandals for her use. She tried every sample available in the store but none of them seemed to suit her feet. Disappointed, she was about to leave the store, when she noticed a pair lying near the entrance. She put them on and was delighted to find that the pair suited her perfectly. She inquired about its price.

The manager told her, “It is free. You can use them.”

The lady was surprised and asked, “Why?”

The manager said, “That was the pair you had on your feet when you came in. You removed them to try the new sandals.”

We may be in a similar situation when we worry about our present predicament on seeing better options elsewhere. We may feel that we should have received a more rewarding job, a more comfortable house, a more beautiful spouse etc. Let us realize that God has given each of us the best gifts that suit us the most. Let us thank God for the blessings received.

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By: Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.97 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

HONESTY AS A POLICY

In his youth, Abraham Lincoln had worked as a postmaster. One day a man gave him seventeen dollars with a request to keep the money in safe custody. He returned to Lincoln after several years. At that time, Abraham Lincoln was the President of the United States of America. Lincoln recognized the man and immediately returned to him the same dollar notes, which he had honestly preserved for several years.

“Honesty is the best policy.” It is an old but golden advice. It is relevant and valid even today. We may find several people around us who are selfish. They care little for honesty and truth. But the lives of great men always remind us that an honest man is the noblest work of God.

Let us learn to listen to the whisper of our conscience. We must be honest and truthful in every action.

“If you are good, you are guided by honesty. People who can’t be trusted are destroyed by their own dishonesty” {Proverbs 11: 3}.

Jesus said to those who believed in him, “If you obey my teaching, you are really my disciples, you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” {John 8: 31, 32}.

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By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.96 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

SIX BLIND MEN

Six blind men were good friends. They used to stay and move together. They heard that an elephant was being brought to the temple nearby. They wanted to understand the appearance of the elephant. So they went to the temple and with the permission of the mahout, approached the elephant from different sides. One caught hold of its leg and declared that the elephant resembles a pillar. The second man felt the tail and said that the elephant was like a broom. The third reached its ear and told that it was like a wide sheet. The fourth caught the trunk and declared that it was like the bark of a tree. The fifth friend studied the horn and stated that the elephant was like a spear. The sixth man touched the elephant’s belly and explained that the animal was like a rock.

The friends quarrelled with each other as each had a different opinion about the form of an elephant. Seeing this, the mahout consoled them. He said, “All of you are correct. The elephant has all these parts. None of you could see it in full. That was the trouble.”

When we make comments without learning all aspects of a situation, we are likely to go wrong. We must reach a conclusion only after detailed study. We should not blame others on seeing minor faults.Their experience and vision may be limited. God is the best judge.

The Holy Bible teaches, “Do not judge others, and God will not judge you; do not condemn others, and God will not condemn you; forgive others, and God will forgive you.”{Luke 6:37}.

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By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.95 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

LOVE AND LIFE

This is a version of a popular children's story of India that teaches the nature of true love.

A dry leaf fell down from a tree and lay near a lump of clay. The leaf and the lump became good friends. The leaf told the lump that it was afraid of being carried by a storm into the river flowing nearby. There were signs of a severe storm. The lump of clay moved slightly and sat on the leaf and saved it from the storm. The weather became calm and they remained close. One day, they heard the sound of rain. The lump of clay was afraid of getting wet and being washed away in the water. The leaf saved the lump by covering it like an umbrella. The rain stopped and they were happy. Later, one night, a severe storm and a heavy rain arrived together. The dry leaf was flown far away and destroyed. The lump of clay was washed away. Their loving friendship continued till their end.

Our Lord Jesus Christ loves us infinitely. He suffered the Passion and sacrificed His life to save us from sin and lead us to salvation. He taught us, “My commandment is this: love one another, just as I love you. The greatest love a person can have for his friends is to give his life for them" {John 15: 12, 13}.
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Dr. Resmy Susan Babu, M.D, Senior Resident in Medicine, Govt. Medical College, Kottayam, Kerala, India & Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.94 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE PRODIGAL SON

The parable of the prodigal son {Luke 15:11-32} exemplifies the infinite love of our Heavenly Father and His deep concern for the transformation of a sinner. An evangelist commended that the parable does not mention about the mother of the prodigal son. She may have died in his infancy and that gap might have caused his ill-fate.

The younger son may be considered to have attended three retreats. The first two were ineffective but the last was really remarkable and transformed him totally.

His loving father led the first retreat. His loving words and affectionate actions could not change the ways of the son. The second attempt was by the elder son. His timely directions and exemplary obedience to their father could not influence the younger son. The prodigal son proceeded along the disastrous path.

The third retreat was by a TEAM OF PIGS in the sty. The pigs did not utter any meaningful sound but they silently conveyed a strong message that instilled the spirit of repentance in him.

The parable teaches us that it is not the scholarship or eloquence of the preacher or the musical talents of his team that transforms a person during a retreat. Transformation and the atmosphere suitable for it are the generous Gifts of God. One's response in the new situation decides his fate. St. Peter denied Jesus while Judas Iscariot betrayed Him. Both were in comparable situations after Christ was captured. St. Peter, with real repentance, was transformed and became the foundation of the Church but the desperate Judas, haunted by feelings of guilt, denied God's Grace and killed himself.

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By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.93 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE PERILS OF A PUFF

Dr. Samuel Johnson described the word 'cigarette' in his dictionary as "a white cylindrical object, which has fire at one end and the fool's mouth at the other." It was a humorous description of a great truth - it is foolish to smoke, as it is injurious to health. A brainstorming session was held in a seminar for youth to identify possible advantages of smoking. The conclusion was that a habitual smoker is saved from three things: old age, insects and thieves. [He will die young and so will not reach old age. Insects biting him perish, as his blood is too toxic for them. His persistent cough may interrupt a thief's operations].

It is estimated that smoking a single cigarette causes the loss of ELEVEN minutes from one's life span. The total loss in the life span of a habitual smoker can be up to TEN years unless he quits smoking earlier.

The Bible teaches that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit {1 Corinthians 6:19,20}. So if anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him {1 Corinthians 3:16,17}.

St. Peter appeals to us not to give in to bodily passions, which are always at war against the soul {1 Peter 2:11}. Those who obey their human nature cannot please God {Romans 8:5-8}.

Smoking is highly injurious to the health of not only the smoker but also the innocent people who involuntarily get exposed to the smoke of the smoker. These 'passive smokers' become prone to a variety of deadly diseases. Hence active smoking is both a suicide and a homicide. It is thus against God's commandment, "Do not commit murder"{Exodus 20:13}. Let us lead a crusade against unhealthy and sinful habits. Let us pray for God's grace to sanctify our hearts, heads, hands and habits.

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By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.92 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE FIRST COMMANDMENT

We often begin our prayers with the words, "Glory be to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit." In the Indian language,Malayalam, it is recited as "Pithavinum Puthranum ParisudhaRoohaykum Sthuthi." During a prayer meeting, by a slip of tongue, the leader said, "Parisudha Roopaykum" using the word 'Roopa' ( which means the Rupee, the currency of India) instead of 'Rooha' (which means the Holy Spirit).

That was just an accidental error but there are many who praise money and adore it in place of God, a blatant violation of the First Commandment of God. Many others adore prestige, position, profession, power, popularity, beauty, education, fame, health etc. instead of God. Today, man has framed a new commandment: "Thou shall not be caught" meaning that any secret sin is fine. Practical Christians often outnumber practising Christians.

"I repeat: it is much harder for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God than for a camel to go through the eye of a needle" {Matthew 19:24}.

By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.91 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE DOOR WITHOUT A HANDLE

A famous painter painted a beautiful picture of Jesus knocking at a closed door. He showed it to his friends. They pointed out a defect in the painting. The door in the picture had no visible handle or latch to open it. The painter said, " The door has no handle outside. It can be opened only from the inside. It represents our heart." It was a portrayal of the verse 3:20 from the Book of Revelation, "Listen! I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come to his house and eat with him, and he will eat with me."
This message teaches us that Jesus is knocking at the door of our heart, awaiting our invitation to enter and be with us. It is said that though God is omnipotent and omnipresent, the human mind is a special place where He enters only with our consent. He has granted us the freedom to frame our attitude to Him.

Let us open the doors of our heart and greet our Lord with pleasure. Let us seek His blessings and request Him to purify our heads, hearts, hands and habits.

By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.90 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

HEAVEN AND HELL

There is an illustrated story depicting feasts in heaven and hell. The same delicious pudding is served in both the places. It is stored in large tanks and each person has spoons with long handles tightly tied to their hands. Their hands cannot be bent.
The inmates of hell were trying to feed themselves but could not bring the spoons to their mouths, as the handles of the spoons were very long. They tried again and again but were left hungry and angry forever.
In heaven, the arrangement for dinner was similar but the inmates could eat easily as each one used his spoon to feed the nearest neighbour. Spirit of love and willingness to share are heavenly virtues. The story shows that selfishness was preventing the souls in hell from having a share of the pudding.
There is a story about a selfish person who used to recite the following prayer:
"God, bless me and my wife;
My son John and his wife;
US FOUR—AND NO MORE!"

Jesus taught us, "My commandment is this: love one another, just as I love you. The greatest love a person can have for his friends is to give his life for them." {John 15:12,13}.

By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.89 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE LAST LESSON

Alexander the Great, of Macedonia, was one of the greatest conquerors in human history. He established a vast empire spread over Asia and Africa and reached even the borders of India during his final conquest. At his deathbed, he instructed his close associates to leave his hands hanging free on either side of the coffin during his royal funeral procession. That was to teach the world that he could carry nothing with him on his final journey.

We fail to realize this truth till we reach the last moments in life. We waste a major share of our time, health and energy to amass fame, wealth and glory.

Money may fetch us a bed, but not sleep; a car, but not safety; food, but not appetite; education, but not wisdom; medicines, but not health, a house but not a home; a violin, but not music.

“Provide for yourselves purses that don’t wear out, and save your riches in heaven, where they will never decrease, because no thief can get to them and no moth can destroy them {Luke 12:33}.

By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.88 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE SANCTITY OF POVERTY

Once there was a heavy flood. The river, flowing violently through a heavy forest carried several articles from a residential area on its way. Some men were watching the flow when they observed a huge black bundle being carried along the flooding river. Hoping that it may contain some valuable articles from some toppled house, they swam across the river to fetch it. One of them reached it earlier. The others soon realized that it was a huge bear on a floating log and cried aloud to dissuade their friend, “Leave it, dear, it is a bear.” But the helpless man moaned, “I know and I have left it, but it is not leaving me!”

That is the trouble with riches. It holds you tightly in its mighty arms. Persons, who lead a pompous life and prefer to stay in palatial buildings, enjoy costly clothing and royal food and travel in luxurious vehicles, are victims of the sinful temptation to amass and adore worldly wealth. It requires intense efforts and Divine grace to escape from the grip of this temptation. Let us be concerned about the millions around us, toiling for survival but destined to suffer persistent poverty and frequent starvation.

“Do not store up riches for yourselves here on earth, where moths and rust destroy, and robbers break in and steal. Instead, store up riches for yourselves in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and robbers cannot break in and steal. {Matthew 6: 19, 20}

By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.87 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

CHRISTIAN LOVE

A rich lady was badly bitten by a rabid dog. It was long before Louis Pasteur developed the anti-rabies treatment. She summoned her lawyer and dictated a long list of names. The lawyer thought that she was preparing her will, to transfer her wealth to her close associates in case of an accidental death by rabies. He enquired about it. She replied that the list was of her enemies whom she should bite and kill, in case she developed active rabies.

An old man was celebrating his 105^th birthday. In an interview, he was asked, “What is the reason for your long and happy life?” He replied, “That is because I have no enemies.” “Wonderful!” exclaimed the journalist. He continued, “Please tell us how you could achieve this unique distinction of having no enemies at all.” The old man replied, “It is very simple. I had a lot of enemies. All of them died earlier.”

The Christian concept of unconditional love is sublime. Jesus taught us, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may become the sons of your Father in heaven” {Matthew 5: 44, 45}. Lying on the cross, He prayed for those who crucified Him, “Forgive them, Father! They don’t know what they are doing” {Luke 23: 34}.

By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.86 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

HEAVENLY FAMILY

After every stage of creation, God was pleased with what he saw (Genesis 1). The only thing God found to be “not good” was the solitude of Adam (Genesis 2: 18). Hence He made a suitable human companion and established the first family on earth. He made man in His own likeness (Genesis 1: 26, 27). He designed family in the likeness of Heaven.

During an interview with a couple celebrating the golden jubilee of their married life, the husband was asked, “What is the secret of your successful married life?”

He said, “In our family, we follow a division of labour. I take the decision in all the important matters. My wife takes decision in all silly matters. So there is no confusion and we are happy.” The next question was, “How do you classify matters into important and silly?”

“That is my discretion”, asserted the dominating wife.

That is how several families maintain peace - by surrendering to the dominance of the stronger partner. Real happiness results only when there is close co-operation and mutual respect between partners. Otherwise the better half becomes the bitter half. In several oriental Christian churches, during the sacrament of matrimony, the priest adorns both the husband and the wife with the matrimonial ring. It symbolizes that the spouse is received from God. Matrimony is thus a union of three- the husband, wife and God. Marriages are conceived in heaven and celebrated on earth. The ideal family is an image of heaven.

By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.85 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

WONDERFUL WATER

A lady complained to the vicar that she was forced to quarrel frequently with her annoying mother-in-law. The vicar analysed the problem and gave her a bottle of water saying, “It is water from a holy land. Whenever your mother-in-law makes an irritating comment, fill your mouth with this holy water and keep it in your mouth for two minutes. Be careful not to spill it or swallow it till the end of two minutes. Then you can drink it and continue the conversation. Your problem will be solved.” The lady thankfully went home with the bottle. The next week, she returned and gladly reported that the water was working wonderfully. She wanted another bottle of it as the stock was over. The priest refilled the bottle and this exercise continued successfully. After a month, he told her, “Now you need not come to me for the water. You can refill it at home from your own well”. Later the lady learned how the trick worked. The water had prevented her from quickly reacting to the old lady’s comments impulsively. She practised the principle of patience and led a peaceful life thereafter.

Let us learn to be patient. Impulsive reactions to other’s comments create unnecessary quarrel.

“Happy are those who work for peace; God will call them His children” {Matthew 5: 9}.

By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No84 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

PARABLE OF THE INNKEEPER

Jesus portrays different possible attitudes towards the wounded person in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke: 10, 25-37). The robbers wanted to acquire others’ property, the priest and Levite did not care for others, the Good Samaritan was ready to sacrifice his time, money and other assets to save and serve the man in need. Jesus wanted his followers to follow the Samaritan’s selfless love. There is another character in the parable - the innkeeper. His attitude was to offer all possible services, provided some one was ready to bear all the expenses involved in the service. This attitude is not explained in many commentaries but a close examination of the activities of several social organizations reveals that this attitude is quite common. Service for a price is the motto of many institutions. Unfortunately some of the hospitals and centres of education operate only for the wealthy that can afford to pay for the services received. Some institutions run by the Church also follow this attitude of the innkeeper. Let us pray that all Christian institutions become centres of Christian charity, offering dedicated services to the poor and underprivileged brothers and sisters, making Christianity a reality.

True Christian life demands

Love without condition,

service without compulsion,

sacrifice without calculation and

suffering without complaint.

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By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.83 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

A HYMN FROM THE HEART

Christians of Kerala in India are familiar with several meaningful and powerful hymns composed by a great evangelist, the late Sadhu Kochu kunju Upadesi (M. I. Varghese). He had to face severe ordeals, poverty, ridicule and loneliness in his life.

Once , when he was away on his regular missionary work, his loving son (Samuel kutty) died unexpectedly. Returning home, he was shocked to see the sad scene. With tears flowing from his eyes, he sang aloud a hearty hymn, spontaneously. It is frequently sung with devotion in all churches of Kerala even today.

It starts with the words “ Dukhathinte paanapaathram- Karthavente kayyil thannaal, …” in Malayalam. The first lines may be translated thus and sung in the traditional tune:

“ If my Lord offers a chalice

Full of worries into my hands,

I will accept it with pleasure

And sing 'Hallelujah' with thanks.

My father will never offer

Anything that is harmful I'm sure.

He may give me moments of pain;

Still He loves me beyond measure!”

The spontaneous words of the great evangelist continue to instil faith and consolation into millions of believers during moments of pain and grief.

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By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India

This is story No.82 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

A TALE OF TWO PARROTS

An old lady was tired of her daughter-in-law’s frequent attacks using abusive words. The young lady had a pet parrot, which repeated these foul words whenever the old woman came near. This intensified her agony.

The worried old woman sought the help of the parish priest. He gave her his own pet parrot, trained to recite only prayers and holy words. He asked her to keep his parrot in a cage, close to the parrot at home. He hoped that the lady’s parrot would learn some good words from his pet and would forget the words of curse forever. Overjoyed, the old woman followed the vicar’s instructions.

The next morning, when the old woman approached the cages for feeding the pets, the domestic parrot repeated the usual words of curse, “Let the old fool go to hell.” Then the priest’s parrot added, “God, hear this prayer.”

We cannot transform a fallen friend by our passive presence alone. But God can work wonders with His grace and our earnest efforts in His name.

Dr. Resmy Susan Babu,M.D, Senior Resident in Medicine, Govt. Medical College, Kottayam, Kerala & Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts venue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.81 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

EAGLETS' SCHOOL

The eagle is used as a model in the Bible to teach God's loving care for man. The eagle is a symbol of authority, beauty, care and strength. It has several unique features and practices. The female eagle chooses her mate only after he succeeds in a test of skill to recover the stick she drops down from different altitudes. This skill is essential in teaching the eaglets to fly. Eagles are completely committed to their mates and remain together till death.

After marriage, the eagle-couple work together and build a nest at a high altitude, inaccessible to other birds. The eggs are laid on soft and warm bedding. She pulls out soft fur from her own breast to adorn the bed. The baby eaglets enjoy the fine rest in the nice nest. When the eaglets reach a suitable age, the mother, with her wings as a broom sweeps out the soft things from the nest to make it hard. Later the eaglet is carried out of the nest, resting on her wide wings, into the open air. Without a notice, she flips over and drops the eaglet free in the air. The eaglet tries its best to fly and stay in the air. The father watches the training with deep concern. If an eaglet falls down tired, the father will quickly fly down and support it on its wings before it hits the ground. Gradually the training succeeds and the eaglets learn to fly and live independently.

God, like the eagle, may stir our nest and remove the comforts. He may drop us so that we may learn to survive. We need not fear as He is always near, ready to support us in every fall. The parable of the eagle teaches us to face the trials of life with firm faith in God's infinite love and mercy {Hebrews 12:6-11}, {Proverbs 3:11,12}, {Job 5:17,18}.

In the song of Moses recited to the Israelites {Deuteronomy 32:11}, we read, "Like an eagle teaching its young to fly, catching them safely on its spreading wings, the Lord kept Israel from falling."

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By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.80 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE DARING DISCIPLE

St. Thomas, the Apostle of India, is often misunderstood as a doubting disciple. This false notion is based on the incident after the resurrection of Jesus. He insisted that he must meet Jesus in person not due to disbelief but by his intense desire to meet his master and because he believed that it was his right to meet Jesus who appeared to his fellow disciples when he was absent. Further analysis shows that St. Thomas was the bravest of the disciples as the earlier appearance of Jesus to His disciples occurred when they were shut inside a locked room, fearing the enemies of Jesus {John 20:19}. Only St. Thomas had the courage to be outside the room {John 20:24}. He demonstrated his courage even earlier, when he told his fellow disciples, "Let us all go with the Teacher so that we may die with Him"{John 11: 16}. It was when Jesus started His journey to Bethany to raise Lazarus from the dead, at a time when the Jews were planning to kill Jesus.

During His appearance in presence of St. Thomas, Jesus touched his heart before St. Thomas touched His wounds. Thus his doubts gave way to surrender. With firm faith, he exclaimed, "My Lord and My God!" {John 20: 28}. This sincere statement about the Divinity of Jesus has been enlightening Christians of all ages. Christians of India were fortunate to receive the Good News directly from this Apostle, when many of the present developed countries were still in the dark. Let us follow his example and be ready to die for Jesus and His teachings.

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By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.79 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

WINE FROM WATER

A pilgrim returned from a tour of the Holy Lands. At the airport, the officials asked him if he had any liquor with him. He denied. They inspected his baggage and seized a bottle. "What is in it?" they asked. "It is a bottle of holy water from Cana, where Jesus did his first miracle", he replied. The officials examined it and questioned, "But it is wine. Why did you lie?" The pilgrim shouted, "Oh, Jesus, You have done it again! What a wonder! Praise the Lord!"

Alcoholism is prevalent even among Christians. Sacraments of baptism, First Holy Communion and matrimony are often celebrated with alcohol.

The Jews of Jesus' times used wine as a custom in moderation. They never drank it to the level of intoxication. At low levels alcohol may be a drug or a food but at higher levels it is definitely a poison, which distorts the personality, destroys domestic life and initiates sinful anti-social activities. Alcohol appears to dissolve problems and worries for a while, but they later reappear in bulk. Since alcohol promotes addiction it should be avoided.

Alcoholics have successfully recovered from the habit by medical treatment, psychological counselling and prayerful participation in retreats and meditation. But many have returned to alcoholism when they 'celebrate' their victory in the company of their former 'companions'! Hence former contacts and tempting situations should be avoided after anti-addiction treatment. Seeking God's grace to withstand temptations, many have left this sinful habit and led a successful life.

Drunkards will not possess God's Kingdom {1 Corinthians 6:10, Galatians 5:19-21}. It is stupid to get drunk {Proverbs 20:1, 23:20, 23:29-35}. Wine has been the ruin of many {Sirach 31:25-31}.

By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.78 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE BEAUTY OF TEARDROPS

There is a story of a competition held in heaven. God offered a
grand prize for the angel who collected the most beautiful object in the universe. The angels searched everywhere and returned with several beautiful articles such as flowers, feathers, butterflies, coral fishes and dewdrops.

God was not fully satisfied with these collections. Finally, an angel returned with a small bottle containing the tears of a repenting sinner. This angel was given the first prize.

We often neglect minor sins as silly. But the trouble with little sins is that they do not stay little. Sin is like a river which begins in a quiet spring but ends in a stormy sea. When we commit a sin, we wound God, our loving father. By sincere repentance, we can seek and obtain pardon from the merciful God.

A teacher once asked her students, “What do you mean by repentance?” One student said, “It is being sorry for our sins.” Then another student added, “Miss, it is being so sorry that we decide to quit that sin forever and resolve not to repeat it.”

Jesus Christ said that there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety nine respectable people who do not need to repent.

The sacrament of penance and reconciliation is instituted in the church
so that those who approach the sacrament may obtain pardon from God's mercy for the offense committed against Him, and are, at the same time, reconciled with the Church which they have wounded by their sins (and which by charity, by example, and by prayer labours for their conversion).[Ref:-Catechism of the Catholic Church, Part-2, Section-2, Chapter-2, Article-4, No.1422]

. Jesus said, "I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine respectable people who do not need to repent" {Luke 15:7}. David sings in the Psalms, "You know how troubled I am; you have kept a record of my tears. Aren't they listed in your book?" {Psalms 56:8}.

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By Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No.77 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

A LESSON FROM MEDICINE

Every doctor uses the stethoscope to analyze the sounds made 

in the living body. At the end of a course in medicine, the Professor
asked the medical students, "What is the most important part of a
stethoscope?" 

The students gave a variety of answers - the diaphragm, tube,
earpieces, etc. 

Then he gave the correct answer -     

"The crucial part of a stethoscope is the space in between the two

 ear-pieces - that is, the brain of the Doctor!"

             The sharpness of the doctor's brain determines the accuracy
of the analysis and the reliability of the diagnosis.

             We may use different tools for our sanctification- the churches,
retreat centres, pilgrimages, conventions etc.
 But the most important component in my transformation is
-  MYSELF.

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Dr. Resmy Susan Babu, M.D, Senior Resident in Medicine, Govt. Medical College, Kottayam & Dr.
Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016,
Kerala, India.

This is story No.76 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories.

THE LAST COACH

Railways were introduced for the first time in a developing country. The authorities were worried about the frequent accidents in the railways. They appointed an expert committee to inquire about the accidents. The committee reported that in most of the accidents it was the last coach in trains that suffered the maximum damage. Based on the report an order was issued by the authorities that the last coaches of all trains should be removed with immediate effect.

This fictitious story illustrates the futility of attempts to solve our problems without an accurate analysis of the basic defect in us, which has to be corrected for a lasting solution to the basic problem.

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Dr. Resmy Susan Babu, M.D, Senior Resident in Medicine, Govt. Medical College, Kottayam & Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.
This is Story No. 75 in this site. Please click 'older posts' at bottom of page to read previous posts.

A MISERABLE MISER

A miser amassed a lot of jewellery. He refused to spend even for the basic needs of his family. He was afraid to keep the ornaments in his house. He dug a pit near a tall tree, placed the ornaments in the pit and covered it with soil. Every night after everyone slept, he would silently reach the spot, dig out his treasure and enjoy fondling it.

One day, a very poor man, finding no means to live, decided to commit suicide. He carried a rope with him and reached the spot where the treasure was concealed, with the intention of hanging himself from the tree nearby. He made a noose in the rope and got ready to hang himself from the tree. Suddenly he felt the softness of the fresh soil under his feet. Surprised, he dug out the mud and was delighted to find the treasure. Abandoning the rope there, he happily walked away with the treasure.

That night, as usual, the miser reached the place and searched for his treasure. Finding that it was lost, he was terribly shocked. With a broken heart he turned around and saw the rope left by the poor man. Using that rope, he hanged himself from the tree and ended his life; unable to use the wealth he had amassed.

Lord Jesus taught us the correct attitude to wealth during his meeting with the rich, young man who was reluctant to sacrifice his wealth to follow Jesus. We find it in Matthew19: 16-30, Mark 10: 17-31 and Luke-18: 18-30. Let us follow the Christian principles of love without condition, service without compulsion, sacrifice without calculation and suffering without complaint. Like the early Christians we must be DARING, CARING and SHARING – daring to faithfully follow the teachings of Jesus, caring for the poor and ready to share our resources with the needy.

Dr. Resmy Susan Babu, M.D, Senior Resident in Medicine, Govt.Medical College, Kottayam, Kerala & Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.
This is story No. 74 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories in this site.

THE IDIOTIC DONKEY

There is a story about the young donkey that got the unique opportunity to carry Jesus Christ on its back, during the Lord's triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
The donkey was overjoyed and proud during that journey because he thought that all the praises, 'Hosanas 'and excitement of the crowd were directed towards him.
The donkey could not sleep that night thinking of the grand reception he got.

Next day morning, the donkey went 'alone' through the same streets expecting
a similar royal reception.
But the children who waved palm leaves the day before made fun of the donkey .He was beaten up and dumped into a ditch. Lying there with broken legs, he
might have thought about the reason for this difference in reception.

"Without GOD, we are mere ZEROES
With GOD, we are real HEROES"

Let us work with Jesus. Then our mission will be a grand success. If we work without Jesus, proud of our own capabilities, with the intention of gaining fame, power or money, our works will fail and we will be left in a lamentable state like the idiotic donkey that marched alone and landed in a ditch.

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Dr. Resmy Susan Babu, M.D, Senior resident in Medicine, Govt. Medical College, Kottayam, Kerala & Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.This is story No. 73 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories in this site.

A LOVING LIFT

A man was driving his car to the town. On the way he saw a poor old man carrying a heavy load on his head. The sympathetic driver offered the old man a lift in his car to the town. The old man was very happy and thankfully entered the car and occupied the back seat. Turning back the driver was surprised to see him still carrying the load on his head. When asked the old man replied," What you did to me is enough and more. I don't want to trouble you further by adding the load also to your car."

Many of us travel with God like that old man still carrying our sins on our head.

Let us unload our sins before His Grace and feel free.

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Dr. Resmy Susan Babu, M.D, Senior Resident in Medicine, Medical College, Kottayam, Kerala & Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.This is story No. 72 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories in this site.

HOLY VIRGIN MARY

The Catholic Church venerates St. Mary as the most glorious of God’s creations, entirely sin-less and ever virgin. The references in the Gospels about the “brothers of Jesus” have been misinterpreted by a few as evidence against her virginity. But it is well documented in the Holy Scriptures and the Sacred Traditions that the brothers cited there were the cousins and other close relatives of Jesus, called colloquially as brothers.

Jesus, the Divine Word made flesh, assumed human nature in the womb of St. Mary. From womb to tomb, she followed Jesus in His life. The Church has accepted her ever-spotless virginity as a sacred truth in all ages. Mary remained a virgin when she conceived, gave birth to Jesus and even after His birth. The poet, William Wordsworth praised her as “our tainted nature’s solitary boast”. Her womb, which carried her Holy Son, was the “first Tabernacle” in the New Testament. God’s Divinity recognized her purity, virginity and humility and thus the redemption of humanity became a reality.

In the Holy Mass of the Malankara rite of the Catholic Church, the virginity of St. Mary is remembered in the image of the miraculous flaming bush which was not devoured by fire, described in Exodus 3:1-5. The hymn, “Mulmaram eriyatheruthee than naduvil….” can be translated and sung in the same tune as:

“Flaming bush was not ignited by surrounding fire.

Thus, Almighty dwelt in Mary in human image.

Hence her vow of virginity-

Did not suffer any damage.”

By: N. G. Philip, Bethel, Nalamchira, Thiruvananthapuram-695015, Kerala & Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No. 71 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories in this site.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

On 8^th December 1854, Pope Pius IX officially declared the Doctrine of Immaculate Conception of St. Mary in the Constitution, Ineffabilis Deus. The Church celebrates this truth on the 8^th of December every year.

Immaculate Conception of St. Mary means that she was conceived in the womb of her mother, St. Anne, without ‘original sin’ or its stain. Original sin refers to the deprivation of sanctifying grace and the inclination to sin shown by every person as a result of the sin committed by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. The Sacrament of Baptism removes original sin from us; but St. Mary, by an exceptional grace granted by God, was exempted and preserved from all stain of original sin from the moment of the creation of her soul and its infusion into her body- that is, from the first moment of her existence, conception or animation. Hippolytus calls her the Tabernacle exempt from defilement and corruption. St. Ephraem said she was as innocent as Eve before her fall.

Sanctifying grace was granted to her before sin could influence her soul. She earned this exemption from the universal law through the merits of Jesus Christ, which cleanse others from sin during baptism. Thus St. Mary did not require a removal of the essence of original sin from her soul as her immaculate soul was immune from it and was excluded from it by the special grace of God. This quality of her purity, the supernatural state of her soul and the divine grace Mary enjoyed right from her conception, are reflected in the salutation of Gabriel during the Annunciation, “Hail, Full of Grace, the Lord is with you”{Luke 1: 28}. She was the perfect abode for the incarnation of God.

By: N.G.Philip, Bethel, Nalamchira, Thiruvananthapuram-15, India & Dr. Babu Philip, Professor, Cochin University of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala, India.

This is story No. 70 in this site. Please click ‘older posts’ at bottom of page to read previous stories in this site.