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Who Is My Neighbour? Living Out the Parable of the Good Samaritan

Who Is My Neighbour? Living Out the Parable of the Good Samaritan One of the most powerful and convicting teachings of Jesus Christ is found in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, recorded in Luke 10:25–37 .  It begins with a lawyer asking Jesus, "Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus replies with a question: "What is written in the law?" The man responds correctly, citing the two great commandments: love God and love your neighbour. But seeking to justify himself, he then asks, "And who is my neighbour?" To answer, Jesus tells this story: A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell among thieves, who stripped him, wounded him , and left him half dead.   A priest came by and saw him but passed on the other side. Likewise, a Levite came, looked on him, and also passed by.   But a certain Samaritan, when he saw the man, had compassion. He went to him, bound up his wounds, poured in oil and wine, set him on his own beas...

Being Anchors in a Shifting Culture

Anchored in hope, even in life's shifting tides.  In a world that feels like it’s changing faster than ever, one thing remains true: people — especially young people — are desperately searching for something steady. As technology reshapes communication, culture redefines values, and uncertainties dominate the headlines, many find themselves adrift in a sea of confusion and fear. Today’s young generation faces unique challenges: Truth often feels relative. Identity can seem fragile. Loneliness and mental health struggles are at an all-time high. Faith is sometimes met with suspicion rather than curiosity. In the midst of these shifts, the need for anchors has never been more critical. Our True Anchor The book of Hebrews gives us a beautiful promise: “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” — Hebrews 6:19 (NIV) Jesus Christ is the ultimate anchor — unchanging, reliable, steadfast. When everything else feels unstable, Christ remains th...

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: A Visionary for Social Justice, Religious Freedom, and Equality

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, often celebrated as the Father of the Indian Constitution , was a multifaceted leader whose contributions spanned social reform, lawmaking, and advocacy for religious freedom. His work not only uplifted marginalized communities but also laid the foundation for an inclusive and egalitarian India. Champion of Religious Freedom Ambedkar’s commitment to religious liberty was central to his vision of a democratic India. As Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution, he ensured that Article 25 guaranteed every citizen the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate their religion. He believed that religion should be a personal choice, free from coercion or state interference. Ambedkar also openly criticized religious practices that perpetuated inequality. His public burning of the Manusmriti in 1927 was a historic protest against caste-based discrimination sanctioned by Hindu scriptures. This act symbolized his rejection of any religion th...

Celebrating Pana Sankranti: An Odia Christian Reflection on New Beginnings

As the vibrant state of Odisha ushers in the Odia New Year, known as Pana Sankranti or Maha Bishuba Sankranti, it brings with it a spirit of renewal, gratitude, and community. For Odia Christians, this day offers a unique opportunity to embrace cultural traditions while reflecting on the values of faith, hope, and love that resonate deeply with our beliefs. A Time for Renewal and Gratitude Pana Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun into Mesha Rashi (Aries) and the beginning of the Odia solar calendar. Traditionally, it is a time to celebrate the changing seasons, the onset of summer, and the promise of a fruitful harvest. As Christians, we can view this transition as a reminder of God's creation and His provision for us. The changing seasons reflect His faithfulness and the beauty of His design. The Symbolism of Pana    Central to the celebrations is the preparation and sharing of Pana , a traditional drink made from jaggery, water, curd, and fruits. This simple yet meanin...