Independence is a popular word. But what is true independence? Let us look at some examples.
First of all, let us look at a child flying a kite.The kite flies with great freedom as it rises up high. We get joy watching it. But its flight is not independent. It is controlled and guided by the hand of the child with the string attatched to the kite. What if the kite snaps the thread and breaks free? Its independence ends in misery.
Secondly, let us look at games like football, basketball, cricket, tennis, hockey, and the like. All these games have boundaries, rules, and umpires or referees. The game goes on because it is played within boundaries and according to predefined rules. When played according to them, there is freedom for all players. If violated, then for example, a red or yellow card will be shown in the case of a football match. So freedom is experienced within boundaries and rules.
Thirdly, let us look at children disobeying parents, teachers, and sometimes the law of the land. This is not independence. This is rebellion. And it does not give freedom but puts children into bondage to bad habits and attitudes. Therefore freedom and independence comes through love,respect, and obedience.
Let me end my reminding the words from Rabindranath Tagore’s words:
“The fire restrained in the tree
Fashions flowers;
Released from bonds it dies in ashes.”
We all know the story of the greedy fox. Therefore, today, let me tell you something about greed.[Click this link to listen to the BPPS Podcast of this speech on YouTube.]
First of all, greed makes you blind to true love. When greed takes over; people become willing to tear apart blood relationships. Remember this is just for some material gain, wealth, money or inherited property. What a sad situation it is!
Secondly, greed makes us worship money and wealth. Dear friends, only God alone is worthy of our adoration, praise, and worship. But greed makes us forget that. And we start to bow down in front of greed.
Thirdly, greed can make you grab all you want; but at the end of the day you’ll be left with nothing. Remember, how Alexander the Great had the wisdom to ask his friends to put two holes in his coffin through which his empty hands could be put outside of it for all to see and think. He had conquered a large part of the world. But he was taking absolutely nothing with him when he died.
Finally, greed can make you a monster. Many angels at heart have become ruthless when they had allowed greed to take control of their lives. Values like love, compassion, mercy, and kindess disappear from the lives of those who are greedy.
Therefore my friends, stay away from greed. Let the story of the greedy fox remind you to stay away from greed. Let me conclude with the words of Jesus Christ: “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”1
Thank you.
1Luke 12:15 Bible NIV 1984.
Featured image courtesy: Amanda Frank (Unsplash)
There is no success, no movement forward, no progress, no growth, and no development if you don’t try. So it is popularly said, “Try again and again until you succeed.” But the question is how should you try. Here are a few ways in which you can and should try.
First of all, you should try again and again with enthusiasm. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” Don’t let anything discourage you. Interestingly, the word “enthusiasm” comes from the Greek words “en” and “theos”; and it means “in God.” So when you are full of enthusiasm it will be like you are energized with the joy of God.
Secondly, you should try again and again with persistence. It simply means to keep on doing and keep on moving. Many give up after they try a few times. A last final try is built upon many earlier attempts; and all of them go into the making of success. As Former U.S. President Calvin Coolidge said: “Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence.” He added that talent nor genius nor education can take the place of persistence. So persist.
Finally, you should try again and again with hope. There is much in this world that can cause despair. But as R. L. Stevenson said, “To travel hopefully is better thing than to arrive.” You should never give up hope. You should hope for a better tomorrow, always. You should hope that there will be light at the end of the tunnel. You should hope that love and truth will win over hate and lies. You should hope that your attempts will end in success. So journey in hope.
To conclude, think of what the motivational speaker Nick Vujicic said:
“I am gonna try again and again, because the moment I give up, is the moment I fail.”
Therefore try again and again with enthusiasm, persistence, and hope. Victory is near!
It is time once again for the flowers to bloom and the song of the birds to make music in our ears. Our hearts are again in spring time and we look forward to yet another year of friendship and laughter and healthy fun. As leader of the school, I wish to present before you a few thoughts on how to build healthy relationships.
At a time when relationships are crumbling everywhere; when relationships are characterized by what one can get and grab; when relationships are based more on money power and social status than on values like honesty, integrity and faithfulness; there is much to be said about building healthy relationships especially in our schools where boys and girls study together.
First and foremost, all healthy relationships are built on trust and mutual respect. Trust does not happen overnight. It is a sacred responsibility that is an outflow of good character. Trust once lost; it almost impossible to regain it. Therefore, guard it carefully. Respect each other and give each other the private space needed; not only physically but also emotionally too. Trust never crosses boundaries and does not trespass on the other’s personal space.
Secondly, all healthy relationships are built on encouragement and mutual support. When you encourage your friend to be his or her best; when you give a listening ear when your friend would like to share life’s burdens with you; when you rejoice at the academic and co-curricular achievements of your friend; and when you correct with honest intent so that your friend does not end up a loser by taking the wrong path; you are building a healthy relationship.
Finally, all healthy relationships have to be maintained. At a time when mobile phones and social media are relied upon to maintain relationships; do not mistake them for the reality of keeping in touch in flesh and blood. Lending a helping hand when needed; encouraging to hold on and not give in to life’s troubles; connecting and networking with others and speaking a good and timely word for your friend; all will go a long way in maintaining healthy relationships.
We do not live in isolation. And none of us can afford to be lonely. We have families; but we also need healthy relationships with our friends; with both boys and girls. When greed and selfishness and cut-throat competition have become the dominant and aggressive mindset of the 21st century; let us strive to be unselfish and pray for the best for our friends. In that way we can truly be the salt of the earth by building relationships that abound with life and joy.
What comes first to your mind when you think of God? This is no chicken first or egg first question. If you do an opinion poll, the results would surprise you. For what should come first might not be listed at all.
Probably the first answer would be God is love. True. The next could be that God is to be feared, held in awe. Right again. Then might come the thought that God is a judge. Of course many people fear God’s judgement but most people now live as if judgement will never come. Next one might say, God is good. So on the list will go on.
But what people neglect or do not know is that God’s primary attribute is that God is holy, holy, holy. He is light and in him is no darkness at all. He lives in unapproachable light and no one can see him and live. Whether it is chicken or egg first; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
Then you might ask, how ever can we know God? Good question. God himself has answered that question. A holy God became human in Jesus Christ. There is God’s fullest image, imprint, or representation of God’s character in him. Those who have seen him and know him has seen and known God.
In Jesus, God’s holiness came to be with us in great compassion, in mercy, and in love. Therefore sinners found in him a Friend. With our own good deeds we cannot approach God. Therefore God came down to us in Jesus. He is the only bridge that connects us sinners to God who alone is holy and worthy of our highest praise, adoration, and worship!
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Featured image: Emiel Maters (Unsplash)
“All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players”; so wrote Shakespeare. And he further added about the school boy thus: “And then the whining school-boy, with his satchel And shining morning face, creeping like snail Unwillingly to school.” Let me start right with school boys and girls; that stage where the drama of life enacts itself through the humourous fun, fight, and flight that happens when getting children ready for school.
Even when there is great fun at school and life is cool with friends, children don’t like to get up in the morning. They love to tuck themselves in the bed and say, “2 minutes,” “1 more minute,” “Please Mummy,” and so on. If that doesn’t work then there are fireworks. The only exception is when there is a picnic and they are ready even before parents are up!
As you look at what happens every morning, you simply say life is beautiful. Why? I don’t know. But memories of this fun and fight every morning are precious. No doubt the fights look terrible at times and can turn into screaming and physical fighting; there is a great relief when you catch the bus after a last minute olympic sprint defying and records-breaking run to the bus stop.
I wonder if there is any home that is free of this fun, fight, and flight I was talking about. It is only when parents talk freely with other parents that they discover this struggle is a common experience and it happens in every home in some way or the other.
Maybe that is when they realise something about the opening lines of Leo Tolstoy’s 1877 novel Anna Karenina, which begins: “All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way,” whatever that means!
It is also said that a family that prays together stays together. But I would also like to add that families that experience the fun, fight, and flight of sending children to school also bond in ways that defy logic. It is the heart that wins at the end. And sometimes chocolates too which are offered or demanded as means of compromise. Life is beautiful in the fun, fight, and fight mode; without doubt.
The James Webb Space Telescope, no doubt an engineering marvel in itself, opened our eyes to the exciting world of stars and galaxies billions of light years away. So let me speak on what the stars tell.
First of all, the stars tell us that how wise and creative and Almighty God is! He simply created it all with his word.1 Moreover the Bible says he calls each of them by name 2 and because of his great power and mighty strength not one of them is missing.3
Secondly, stars tell us how small we are in the vast expanse of space. It also reminds us of our ignorance rather than our knowledge. Each new discovery is claimed to be giant leap. Yes, it surely is. But it also shows how small we truly are.
Thirdly, stars tell us that they obey the laws of heaven.4 They are under authority. Imagine if the gravitational forces started rebelling. What chaos would result! So each one of us should stand in awe at the majesty of God. The Bible says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”5
Finally, what is the meaning of shining like stars. Does not life offer us numerous examples of people using adversity to scale heights in life? Taking responsibility for your decisions and mistakes and failures in life requires moral courage and that will bring star-studded success in your life.
You need not be a millionaire to make people happy. You can simply make a difference by saying a timely word.
Let your timely word come straight from the heart. In other words, let it be sincere. The words “Children are enjoying your class,” are simple and down to earth. But the happiness it can bring to a teacher’s heart is immense.
To say a timely word, you should learn to appreciate others. It is simply an expression of your genuine wish to see others do well and succeed. “You sounded very confident when you gave your speech today,” will boost the speaker’s confidence and esteem still further. Without doubt it will make him or her happy. And you need not be a millionaire to do so.
Finally, saying a timely word can be that ray of hope which can illumine the darkness in a person’s life. Often God uses people to say a few words that might give others much needed wisdom and guidance at that point in time. “Don’t get discouraged. Your failure today can turn out to a blessing in disguise,” is an example of your timely word becoming a blazing torch of hope to someone ready to give up.
Let me conclude. You can live a life of purpose by speaking a timely word. Speak straight from your heart, appreciate with sincere words, and be a tool in God’s hands to light up the hearts of others with happiness. And let me remind you once again that you need not be a millionaire to spread happiness all around, wherever you are!
Have you ever closely watched a baby learn to walk? Now you got it before I even said it. The baby gets up each time it falls down. This simple act of getting up is what life is all about.
There are a few things we need to remember about getting up:
The first thought is that falling down is natural if you wish to learn to walk. There is nothing to be ashamed about mistakes and failures that happen when you try to master something. What you need to do is get up every time you fall having learned the lesson it was meant to teach you.
The second thought is that what keeps you moving and able to get up time after time again and again is a burning desire to learn to walk. There is no time to despair over falling down, there is no time to spend on regrets, and there is no time at all to weep over lost opportunities. Just get up and start walking again.
The third one and the final thought is that God encourages us when we try to get up and walk. Often he sends people to us, very unexpectedly at times, to help us find strength in God. They come like angels, lift up our spirits, remind us that God has not given up on us and he will still bring his promises to fulfilment in our lives in his time.
So let me conclude reminding you that falling down is a natural thing that happens when you learn to walk. You need to have a burning desire to move forward and you can look forward to God encourage you to get up and walk.
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“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their laboUr: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” — Ecclesiastes 4:10, 11 Bible NIV
Usain Bolt, one of the greatest sprinters the world has seen, wrote in his autobiography1: “Distraction for one hundredth of a second might be enough to lose a race.” In this modern world of gadgets when most of us spend too much time on our mobiles, distractions, especially caused by time spent on social media can drug you to lose in life.
Why do I use the word drug? Because drugs cause addiction. And who will disagree that social media is so addictive that you simply cannot control the urge to check and recheck and scroll through the reels and trolls and status updates.
Now the impact of distractions can be felt in a few areas: Losing focus, losing a sense of priorities, and losing the sense of responsibility are some of those.
Secondly, let me talk about losing a sense of priorities. Time is limited. So not one of us can accomplish anything worthwhile in life without establishing priorities. That tells us what is urgent, important, can wait, and not needed. But distractions often make us spend valuable time on minor things, things that don’t matter, and what is frivolous.
Thirdly, let me talk about losing the sense of responsibility. Take the example of a mother of school kids and also a professional. If the mother spends long hours with her mobile, she is not doing justice to her prime responsibility of caring for her children. And one cannot find fault if her kids too just snug her and watch all that she is watching.
Let me conclude. My dear friends, life is short. And today, distractions are stealing away much time from your life. You are losing focus, losing a sense of priorities and also the sense of responsibility. So say no to distractions and avoid being drugged to lose in life. The decision is yours. Take it now! Clip on Distraction from Malayalam Sermon on the Blood of Jesus
1Usain Bolt | Faster Than Lightning | My Story | Published by Harper Collins
The Bible says: “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119 verse 11.
We live in a world where we face a lot of temptations. Our hearts and minds are not strong enough to resist them. We need God’s help. At the same time, we need to store up and hide God’s Word in our hearts. Why?
Because God’s Word is living and active. It is sharper than any double-edged sword. God’s Word is like fire and a hammer that breaks a rock into pieces. Therefore, storing it within our hearts gives us a fighting chance and resisting power against sin. God will bring to our minds the right word at our time of need.
Therefore, let us try to memorize God’s Word and hide it in our hearts. Yes, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119 verse 11. Amen.
Air, water, soil, and noise pollution are commonly talked about. The advancement in technology and the giant leaps made in development has caused harm to our environment and to ourselves. But today I would like to speak about the pollution of our minds which nobody talks about much. This pollution is immersive and no one can easily escape the web it weaves.
Pollution of our minds is a reality. There are several ways in which it can happen. Pollution of the mind happens when the gateways of the mind like the eyes and ears are open to pollutants.
We live in a highly visually stimulated world. Technology has brought lot of distractions too right in front of our eyes along with all the educational, informational and entertainment possibilities it offers. The question is, “Are children taught to filter all that they see?” Does our educational system teach them how to discern whether what they consume on the internet is polluting material or not?
As there are non-biodegradable waste, so also there are pollutants of the mind that are non-erasable. Some kinds of conversations we listen to which fall into the category of slander and gossip remain in the minds with permanence. So also certain kinds of literature we read, movies or videos we watch, or sensational news we consume that glorify evil; all put their roots deep down in our minds.
So here are three simple steps to avoid pollution of the mind:
One, avoid and run away from places, situations, and entertainment, which you know can poison your mind.
Three, involve in creative activities and cultivate good friendships in life.
To conclude, let me remind you that in this age of Space travel and tourism, we have created a huge quantity of debris in Space already, thus polluting what was majestic, glorious, and reflecting God’s incomparable wisdom and power. We’ve polluted everything possible, filling it with junk. Therefore, let me plead with you not to let your minds become a garbage graveyard from where nauseating smell emanates and the smoke of burning never stops.
Positive thinking is much talked about because most of us think negatively all the time; isn’t it? We worry too much and get stressed when we face problems. And therefore it is not surprising that so many motivational books on positive thinking have been and still are best sellers.
Let me try to say a few thoughts on positive thinking:
First of all, positive thinking is a deliberate act of the mind. It doesn’t happen naturally as most of us seem to be wired to be negative thinkers. Thinking positively is like switching on the lights so that the darkness of negative thoughts cannot stand before the light.
Secondly, positive thinking is about choices. It is about choosing to keep your mind focused on good things. For there are lot of negative suggestions that bombard your mind from external sources all the time—even as you walk the streets, listen to conversations, or watch something on television or YouTube. So choose life instead of death, dreaming instead of defeat, hope instead of despair, and light instead of darkness.
So my friends, life can throw a lot of changes especially as the world is nearing its end. The moment I say this, negative thoughts might have clouded your minds. That is why positive thinking is needed even when the world is about to end.
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“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Another important element about sports and games is that it helps children to have a healthy competitive spirit. They learn to succeed as well as fail without losing heart; thus learning sportsmanship.
Then there is the benefit of developing teamwork. In a world where team playing abilities play a crucial role in determining success in one’s career, having a background of sports and games will be an asset.
Perhaps a lesser known benefit of playing sports and games is that children learn discipline. They learn to play according to the rules. Also, they learn that all sports and games have a playing field where the game happens within predefined boundaries.
Again, playing sports and games enable children to respect authority. Each of the sports and games has a referee or umpire who decide on all the important matters related to the play. No matter how great a player is individually, he or she has to obey those decisions.
To conclude, every child should explore the possibilities of sports and games. They are fun and they are healthy. They make one’s childhood and teen years colourful and memorable.
Thank you School Leader Elect for proposing the toast and wishing all of us outgoing students the very best. Those words really touched our hearts and as you said, we will keep it our motto to excel in our pursuits and make the name of our school even more glorious. And I am indeed honoured to be given the chance to reply to the toast.
On behalf of all the outgoing students I wish to place on record the extraordinary influence the teachers and the ambience of this school has been in our lives the past ten years. The growing up phase was challenging but looking back it was eventful, and now it is part of our nostalgia.
I never thought I will ever get a chance to reply to the toast in this last year of mine at school. I was always a backbencher, a loser, a failure and the naughtiest kid in school.
I was always having homework to be finished, wrote impositions more times than all of you ever did, and received from teachers punishment in various forms. I leave the school with the thought that in this one thing at least I was first.
Let me now open my heart to you. I find that in today’s mad rush for success and becoming first, all that people think are of themselves. I is first and I is all that matters to most. We, unfortunately, live in a self-first and self-last and self-is-all world.
But there are people like me who long for love and acceptance. My rebellion, my naughtiness, my practical pranks were all my failed attempts to connect with you all.
I am not slow to study; I do believe I have a gifted mind. But i decided early on that I simply want to fail. You ask me, “Why?’
My dear friends, do know that all homes are not the same. There are broken homes where it is unrest always. Happiness is unreal to children like us who come from there.
There is no one to ask why you behave like this. All demand performance. There is no space for compassion, understanding or love in this scheme of things.
As I look back, it was a procession of negative labelling on all fronts: from relatives, schoolmates, and sadly some teachers too. It was like mud and slimy dirt thrown to stick on my white shirt: “You’re good for nothing,” “Bad boy,” “A shame to parents,” “Introvert,” “Loser,” and “A born failure,” were some of them. They still hurt. And I don’t know whether ever there will come a time when its shame will be washed away or its sting removed.
But I learned some time ago that holding a grudge will make all those labels come true. Therefore with great struggle I try to brush self-defeating thoughts aside each day.
I stand here today to say thank you for the opportunity given to one who did not rise up to your expectations. I stand here to thank my physical education teacher who one day after having made me run eight times around the ground asked, “My boy, tell me, what do you fear most?”
It was the first time someone was seeing me as a person—an individual with hopes and dreams, with fears and doubts like anyone else.
He, with that one question, broke my defense. I had a tough look and an unfriendly behaviour. Yet my teacher showed the guts to peel off that mask. But I am grateful he did it one on one and not in front of the crowd.
I broke down and cried that day. My fear of my parents separating, and losing one of them perhaps to death, finally came out.
Travelling is a passion for many. It is a hobby for others. Millions follow travel vloggers and enjoy the experience they present. Some like to travel alone. Others like to go with friends and family. The benefits of travel are many. In this short speech let me highlight a few of them.
First benefit of all is that travelling is a way to relax one’s mind. It brings a refreshing change from one’s daily routines at home or office. The anticipation of going places is huge with children. And the sense of togetherness is great when traveling with loved ones.
Secondly, travelling gives you a chance to experience new cultures, food, languages, manners and customs. In that sense it expands your mind to think beyond the limited perspectives you have in life. This is a great benefit as it helps you to go beyond mere textbook knowledge of people and places.
Thirdly, travelling teaches you to be resourceful. When traveling, one of the principles to follow is to travel light. You learn to adapt and adjust to new situations and environments. You learn to manage with limited resources available. The benefits include learning to plan and coordinate; learning to manage with a limited budget and learn to cope with surprises that can come your way.
Finally, travel reminds us to have the attitude of a pilgrim. It reminds us that all of us are on the journey of life and one day we have to depart and travel alone to face or meet God and carry nothing with us.
To conclude, perhaps one of things you never forget is the experience you have with people you would have never met otherwise. I think that it is one of the richest experiences anyone can have in life. So get ready for your next travel. Exciting moments ahead.
A world in which people are becoming more self-centred and busy, kindness holds a miracle-working power. Possibly kindness is a kind of tender-hearted and compassionate love in action. The Bible calls kindness a fruit of the Spirit; meaning that God makes that quality grow in us as we increasingly connect with him like a branch in a tree.
Regarding kindness, I wish to share with you four quick thoughts:
One, kindness begins with an attitude. It begins with you and me having open eyes and ears to see and listen to others. Most people are hurting in one way or other. They need a listening ear. They needed someone to tell them that there is hope ahead so as to help them find strength in God.
Two, kindness is also action-oriented. It can be the gift of a smile, a loving and understanding touch, a phone call or a message to cheer up a heart. Some need help in material ways like money for education or hospital expenses. Seeing someone in need and then not helping when it is in your power to act is quite the opposite of kindness.
Three, kindness has to be cultivated. As said earlier, it is a fruit. When we show kindness we reflect that quality in God who is compassionate and showed tender-hearted kindness to us when he gifted Jesus his Son to come to this earth and bleed to death on a cross. So kindness is about showing love in action to those who might not even deserve it. It is not easy. It requires a spirit of sacrifice and often a forgiving spirit too.
Four, kindness is often shown outside but absent within our homes. It has been often pointed out that we show kindness to everyone but often forget to show it those who are our loved ones at home. This is a serious neglect we need to address. Home becomes a light of joy when kindness is shown to each other. For example, not shouting at your loved one when a mistake is made is an act of love and kindness.
So my dear friends, let me conclude saying that kindness is a much needed virtue in today’s world that is increasingly busy, driven by artificial intelligence, and powered by selfish attitudes. Kindness can be that one thing which will bring a miracle of love, affection, friendship, and joy being restored in your homes too. May God give you the strength and courage to exhibit kindness to all; especially to those who are close to your heart.
It is said that “Punctuality is the politeness of kings.” No one expects those in authority who exercise power over others to be on time. But if they are punctual, it is one of the ways in which they show respect for others.
Lack of punctuality can be due to lack of attitude, lack of discipline, and lack of preparedness.
First of all, lack of attitude. Those who don’t care for others are not punctual. They don’t think it is a problem to keep others waiting. But think about how many hours are wasted when hundreds of people are kept waiting. So esteem others and value others’ time.
Secondly, lack of discipline. Getting up early can make a whole lot of difference to one’s day. But many neglect this. Also, spending time on distractions especially on social media makes people lose sense of priorities. So important things are left undone. Therefore promised delivery of services and products and assignments get delayed.
Thirdly, lack of preparedness. Tardiness, the opposite of being punctual, is often a result of not being fully and thoroughly prepared. It is clearly seen that those who try to gather together the needed resources, equipment, or accessories at the last minute often keep others waiting. A day or event begun with full preparedness has a ring of confidence to it.
To conclude, just imagine a busy airport. Think about the huge delays that can occur if planes were kept waiting for all those who are delayed. When it comes to serious things like catching a plane, people show attitude, discipline, and preparedness to be on time. So it is possible to be punctual if you will it with your full heart and mind.
When angels compere, first and foremost, they compere only according to script. For angels deliver God’s message given them.
So also when you compere, your confidence will be high if you have scripted all that you plan to say.
II. Smile from your heart.
When angels compere, they communicate joy. I don’t know whether angels smile; but Jesus said about the little ones that “their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” So when children smile; it should be making angels smile too as there is always joy in heaven.
And when you compere, the best thing you can bring on stage is your smile. If you smile from your heart; it creates a joyous mood and anticipation in the audience.
III. Vary your voice and style.
When angels compere, they vary their style to suit their message. When they warn; they have a solemn tone communicating urgency. When they sound hope; their voice is one of comfort and strength.
The lesson is that you have to match your voice and style to suit the mood and occasion. You might invite, celebrate, thank, or simply communicate information. You cannot use the same style for all.
IV. Build rapport with the audience and put them at ease.
When angels compere, they put the audience at ease. Often they are seen and heard saying, “Do not be afraid.”
As a compere you should be able to build a rapport with the audience. Some insightful remark or a timely word that can address the dominant mood of the audience can be a great move.
V. Focus spotlight on others and highlight them.
When angels compere, they simply do whatever duties they have been assigned to. They are flames of fire and servants of God worshipping him. They do not call attention to themselves but to the message and to God who sent them.
As a compere, your role is not to be in the limelight but help the audience to focus on the person being celebrated. You are to be like a voice drawing attention to others.
VI. Create memories; not just compere speeches.
When angels compere, there is a flash of heaven meeting the earth for a brief moment in time. As a compere if you can create some precious memories; that will remain in hearts and minds for long.
In that sense, the world has ever since found hope in these words of the angel on Bethlehem’s first Christmas carolling night: “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord.”
So, with angels, let us also respond saying, “Gloria in Excelsis Deo.”
VII. Be committed to excellence.
When angels compere, they do it with excellence. When they worship God saying “Holy, Holy, Holy,” or while responding to the summons of God their words and actions are enthusiastic. In other words, you’ll never see an angel perform below his best.
So being an emcee or compere is a commitment to excellence. It is an art that is mastered over time. Attention to detail and a burning desire to perform well will help you excel as a compere.
My kindergarten class is where I meet my friends. I often feel that my class teacher is my best friend.
She smiles a lot and gives me sweets too. I love her way of asking, “Dear Emma sweetie, how are you?” That makes it a beautiful beginning to a new day.
Our classroom is all dreamy stuff: The cartoons on the walls, the small chairs painted yellow and purple on which we sit and chat, the teddy bears and dolls we hug a lot, and of course all the toys that are scattered around and we play with. Those make life with friends in our classroom so colourful.
Oh, how we chat. It is like the chirping of birds. There is no end to our talk. Some of us talk about the animation movies we watched; others talk about relatives they visited; yet many talk about tours they had gone for; and most of us talk about the games we played. But talk goes on and on, and round and round like a merry-go-round.
Ah, we do fight often. It’s for silly things: pencils, erasers, stickers, and things like that. But we love it. And just between us, we sometimes scribble on others’ notebooks too. You might tell it’s wrong. I know it is; but that’s sometimes our idea of fun. We don’t mean to harm, you know!
Some of us go back home in the school bus. But not all. Most of our parents come to pick us and take us home. It is such a lovely end to a day, waving goodbyes and promising to meet again the next day. Those who cried in the morning while coming to school are all smiles when they go back. What a change that is; isn’t it?
I do hope that all of us friends will be together the rest of our lives. But my Dad says, “There are lots more people you’ll meet; but there will be a few who will be your friends for life.” My mother nods in agreement. I don’t understand; but maybe I’ll grow up one day to know who my true friends really are.
This is your 7 minute guide to effective public speaking. These are tips that will inspire you to speak without fear. You might not be able to master all these tips at once; but they will guide you one step at a time to craft and present speeches that will remain in the hearts and minds of your audience for a long time to come. If you prefer, you can read this on LinkedIn too.
Believe you can.
There is no way you can move ahead without this.
Believe in the power of mistakes.
You will certainly make a few.
Believe in people.
Do not worry on what they will think about you.
Believe in the value of criticism.
They hurt; but they make you better.
Look at people in the eye.
That will give your message a personal touch.
Start strong. Capture attention.
For it will set the tone for the entire speech.
Speak with confidence.
That will get reflected back to you.
Use gestures to make your words come alive.
They add to the meaning of what you say.
Use transitions. First, second, third are the simplest of them.
Even huge doors move on small hinges.
Pause when needed.
They impact. They also give you enough breathing space.
Vary your voice. They call it modulation.
It helps the audience listen to you without getting bored.
Bring in homely examples.
They stick because it’s each person’s experience.
A blue ball among a lot of yellow ones catches attention.
The contrast cannot be missed.
It was like ice cream melting in my mouth.
It makes people feel what you say.
Tell stories from your life or from elsewhere.
For there is not one who fails to listen to a well-told story.
Ask questions when you want to be persuasive.
“Why do you hide when you feel guilty?” Engages the listener immediately.
“Yesterday, when I was going home . . .” awakens curiosity.
Then the audience want to know more.
Beginning with, “My topic is,” kills.
Be creative with introductions.
Always respect people’s time.
If they look at their watches, you have lost them.
Do not just give speeches.
Instead create memories.
Enjoy speaking. There is no substitute for this.
It’s like a kid running out to play.
Use images: “Look at the birds of the air;”
“They do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.”
Effectively communicates “Do not worry,” Jesus commanded.
Know where you are going to.
People do not follow when the speaker is not clear about where he or she is leading them to.
Ask yourself whether you are going to inform, persuade, or entertain.
Then start preparing your speech.
Make use of animated dialogues. It will make your speech lively.
The Lion said: “You disturbed my sleep. I’m going to kill you.”
“No. Please don’t kill me. I might be able to help you someday,” said the trembling mouse.
“Ha, ha, ha. You little mouse; you’re going to help me!” the Lion laughed out loud.
Children and adults alike will love that verbal drama!
Don’t be predictable. Vary your approaches to speeches.
You cannot speak on Artificial Intelligence the same way you talk about Love.
Do not be apologetic like “I don’t have much knowledge on this subject.”
It will surely backfire.
Do not read from a slide if you’re presenting.
The audience can do that for themselves!
A sincere compliment to the audience is always welcome.
If you can refer to a few people in the audience by name; it truly connects you to them.
If you’re talking to children, be lively. Be on the move.
Be excited. Keep interacting. Never be on a teaching mode with them.
Go for short sentences most of the time.
Long sentences are difficult to manage.
Organize your speech content.
Your audience should get it like gift packets.
People should feel a design emerge when you speak.
So, build on a skeletal framework; put in flesh and then give it life.
It is solely God’s work; but with speeches you too can.
Making people laugh is a tricky business. If you have to tell them,
“That was a joke I told you now;” it is going to be a tragedy.
Think about your audience always.
Let your desire be to help them understand.
Without doubt; there will come days when your speech might not be good.
Do not get upset. Life is like that.
Always try to finish strong.
There is nothing more desirable than a memorable conclusion.
Remember to focus on one main thought; a takeaway
That will remain in their minds like a headline.
A preacher’s focus is on that cleansing fountain;
The blood of Jesus that washes away the sins of all who trust in him and believe.
Speeches that only address the intellect;
Are like dead logs piled one upon another.
Speeches that only touch the emotions;
Are like paper burning; it’ll flare up and die out quickly.
Some speakers focus on big sounding words;
But simple words that touch the heart make it home.
Sound bites are good; but style alone without substance
Will sound like a brass pot clanging as it falls down the stairs.
If you can make people see pictures in their minds, you win.
“Imagine, a traffic jam in the skies,” is one simple example.
Create a triad of points. It is seen to be effective.
“Books inform, inspire, and entertain,” is one way to state what you’ve got to say.
Asking a question which is in everyone’s mind and answering it is good.
“Why are most people in any group spectators than participants?” is one such.
Be alert for feedback. It need not always be verbal.
Even a slight movement of the eye can tell you what the audience is thinking.
Be fresh in your presentations. Do not rely on what succeeded last time.
Add new material. Bring in ideas of current relevance.
Never get discouraged. You might never know how your words inspire.
One word of hope from you might draw a man or woman from the pit of despair back to life.
This, I believe, is the highest calling of any speaker:
To present through words the gift of hope, light, and life!
Respected Principal, Beloved Teachers, and my Dear Students,
This is our very special day. On Children’s day, I as the school leader, take this opportunity to remind you that we are like roses in a garden—we bloom with a variety of colours and spread fragrance and joy all around.
Today, we remember Chacha Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, on his birthday. He truly loved children and believed in the promise that we hold for tomorrow and a better future.
On Children’s Day today, we come together from a variety of backgrounds. We come together without any barrier of our differences coming in between us. We celebrate our friendship and dream of our future together.
We have hope that in spite of all that is gone wrong in this world today, we will be able to build a better future together—a future that will be safe for the children of tomorrow. To this end, we pledge ourselves to work together hand in hand and standing shoulder to shoulder.
On Children’s Day today, we look forward with marvel at the tremendous change that the world of technology brings to us. Nearly everything unfolds at the tip of our fingers on our mobiles. Even classroom experience has changed with online classes. But let us remember that the virtual world too needs to be approached with caution even as we leverage the benefits of the same.
On Children’s Day today, let us look around us. Let us listen not with our ears but with our hearts as well. There is a world of children out there who do not enjoy the privileges that we do. Education is a dream to many. Many children, while we study, roam the streets to find some work that will bring them something to eat. Some less fortunate children have to labour hard each day at their homes or places of work even though child labour is prohibited by law.
While we celebrate Children’s day, let us make an effort to reach out to such children. Let us dream of making a future for them too. I know it is not within our power to do much. But that shall not prevent us from appealing to our parents and well wishers to lend a helping hand. We cannot and should not forget those children who also so rightly deserve a good education, a bright future and dignified living.
I cannot conclude without saying a word of thanks to all our beloved parents and teachers. Without you being part of our lives there is no meaning to our Children’s Day celebrations. We love you and respect you with all our hearts. Seeking your best wishes and blessings to each one of us. And dear children of our school, may this Children’s Day Celebrations inspire you to be the best you can be.
Creation versus Evolution debate has been raging for many decades now. The world is still divided. In this speech, let me argue for Creation.
First of all, every country has a currency. It is with that currency all transactions and trading is done. Now the interesting thing is that the currency as far as Creation is concerned is faith. It believes in God who created the world and the universe and all living beings. But more interesting is the fact that it requires greater faith to believe in Evolution which is a theory propagated as science.
Secondly, everything has a beginning. Creation says that “In the beginning God created.”1 So, the beginning was God-initiated. On the other hand, there is no cause for beginnings as far as Evolution is concerned. It was all chance that brought everything together from simple to complex. Is that true? You need to suspend logic and reason to believe it; don’t you?
Thirdly, look at the order and design and harmony everywhere. Just look at the innumerable stars, and galaxies in the vast unexplored space and universe. Look at the way in which one tiny unseen cell becomes a complex human being—a system of systems; truly “fearfully and wonderfully made!” 2 Look at the atomic and the sub-atomic and the microscopic. Do you think the order and design and harmony came by chance?
Fourthly, what about purpose? Life exists only on Planet Earth. The Planet Earth has just the right environment, the right distance from the sun, atmosphere, water, and all other elements needed to support life. So the earth was created to be inhabited.3 Now man is going to the moon, and sending people to space as part of space tourism, and even sending missions to Mars and other planets. But nowhere is man going to find life. Because earth was the only planet where human life has been created with a purpose to know God, love him, praise him and live in friendship with him.
That brings us to our next point. Creation as we see today is marred. Something had gone wrong. We find that in spite of literacy and education, modern civilizations; advancement in technology and artificial intelligence; there is hatred and war, crime and lack of love. Why? Who is to be blamed? Did God get things wrong? God did not want to create robots. So the first man and woman had the ability to choose. And they chose to disobey God. What it meant was they wanted to run things independent of God. In plain terms, it was rebellion against God. The Bible calls it sin. And rebellion had to be punished by death. So decay and death entered the world as a result of man’s sin against God. Now let me ask you, how does evolution explain death?
Again, where did man get his intelligence from? From where comes his ability to smile, to have friendship, to communicate, and above all to love? You might agree with me, that men and women in all cultures have that bent of mind to worship something? Why is that so? What about languages? Did they evolve? What about the dress we wear? Why is that only men and women wear dresses and no other creature has the need to do so?
Finally, where is life headed to? Does Evolution throw any light on where human history is headed to? Creation story tells us that the whole creation is groaning in bondage until God creates a new heaven and a new earth.4 The old will be gone; and God will create everything new.5 The basis of this transformation will be God’s intervention in human history when his Son, Jesus, hung on the cross on a hill outside the city of Jerusalem and bled to death for the forgiveness of the sin of all mankind. Someday soon there will come a final judgement before the renewal and refreshing of all things. Those who refuse to believe can hold on to evolution.
Who created me?
Why am I here?
Where am I headed to?
Does it matter how I live my life on earth?
Is there life beyond death?
Can I find God? Does God love me?
Oh, yes, such big questions of life are answered in Creation. So my friends, consider. On what are you basing your confidence? Would you like to believe in something simple even a child can believe in? Or do you want to place your trust in Evolution which has a shaky beginning, has a lot of missing links, degrades the dignity of man created in the image and likeness of God6 to that of animals, and cannot account for the moral depravity in mankind and the reality of death? Think about it. Your destiny will rest on your decision.
“For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” — Colossians 1:17, 18 Bible NIV 1984.
Sermons come in short and long versions. It can move the hearts of people if delivered well. Many have written scholarly books and articles on homiletics—the art and craft of sermons and preaching. This, in contrast, is an attempt to give an overview to the art and craft of sermons and preaching.
Some sermons bloom like a bud opening into a flower. Others develop like compartments being added to a train-like structure. A few sermons are like thunder and lightning. Some others are like embers glowing in a fire; some like the gentle rain falling on green grass. Certain sermons grow up like building blocks being stacked one upon the other while the most common ones are like a tripod resting on three points.
Anyone can attempt to preach. But God calls certain men and women to preach. If someone recognizes that call, he or she should try to fan into flame the gift that God has given him or her. That requires diligent study and adequate preparation.
When God calls you, the first instinct is to rush ahead and preach. Good. But at the same time do not neglect to spend time with God alone. Read and meditate on God’s Word much; not with a view to gain knowledge or prepare for a sermon. But just to keep unhurried company with Jesus, get to know him close, and allowing him to search your heart and mind.
This is what Jesus meant when he asked you to abide in him. It is a life-long process. When this happens, your sermons will become channels of God’s life flowing through you to people.
Preparation in Prayer
A preacher is a messenger of God. He (when I write he, it includes both men and women preachers) is under authority of God to preach. And the Word of God he is trying to preach is living and active; a two-edged sword, a fire, and a hammer that breaks rock into pieces.
Therefore he has to handle it with care. So he has to listen to God while he is preparing a sermon. He has to spend long hours in prayer before he dares to enter the pulpit to preach.
This is the most neglected aspect in preparation of a sermon. The first instinct is to read some other sermons on the internet, refer books, and try to prepare the skeletal framework of the sermon. That is all good.
But the first thing to do is to pray. Seek God’s face. Ask him to purify your motives in preaching. It can easily be pride; it can be the desire to be famous; it can be to show off your knowledge.
You therefore need to ask God to purify your motives, that the delivery of the sermon be holy to the Lord and all glory be to God alone. Again you need to ask God to cleanse your heart by the precious blood of Jesus, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide the meditations of your heart and prepare the hearts of the audience to receive God’s Word.
When you are focused on preaching God’s Word there can be conflicts at home or other distractions that can easily discourage you. So pray for God to keep you safe in his arms. But when you pray you may not feel any emotional high. You might feel that your prayer is hitting a thick wall and not getting through to heaven. But do not count your prayers as lost.
God is ever listening. And when you pray much, there will come an assurance at some moment—before the sermon, at the time of entering the pulpit or when you are speaking—that God has heard. It is this preparation in prayer that gives your sermon the power needed to touch hearts and minds with the proclamation of God’s Word.
Seeking the Help of the Spirit of God
Even when God employed men across centuries to write the Bible, the real author of the Bible is the Spirit of God. He can bring to life what is written and impart that life to the listeners of the sermon. So seek his help when preaching for wisdom, for authority, and for empowerment to preach.
The Spirit of God cannot operate through an unclean vessel. So seek his help to purify your heart and mind by the blood of Jesus. The Spirit of God will not bless your sermon if you have not done the hard work of diligent study and preparation because you cannot expect to approach God’s Word casually and expect results. The Spirit of God will not operate when the preacher is more interested in airing his own opinions, discussing current events, and using the sermon for political purposes.
The interesting fact is that a preacher might feel totally inadequate, feel lack of courage in his heart, and maybe not physically at his best. The preacher might feel that he will not be able to preach at all. Yet in these moments of weakness, the Spirit of God moves mightily. And when you think that the sermon did not come out well, the Spirit of God would have used it to bring God’s purposes to be fulfilled.
Understanding the Focus
The Bible deals with history, poetry, preaching, prophecy, prayer, promises, commands, instructions, and so on. But the purpose of the Bible is to help us understand God’s intervention in human history through Jesus Christ. And the focus of the Bible is the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and his shed blood there for the forgiveness of sins. A preacher has to keep this in mind always whatever topic he is called to preach.
The apostles had nothing else to preach. They preached Christ and him crucified. They preached the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is the gospel. Everything else is secondary.
But know one thing. Preaching Jesus is not popular today. Yet, Jesus himself said that the Law and the Prophets and the Psalms testify about him. So as a preacher you might be talking sacrifices in the Old Testament. You can tell your audience how sacrifices in the Old Testament were a shadow of the cross. You might be talking about Old Testament laws and regulations. You can tell your audience how Jesus came to fulfill the Law and the predictions of the Prophets. You might be preaching on promises in the Old Testament. You can tell your audience that these promises are made real to us through Jesus as we approach God in his name.
So when you prepare a sermon, one question you have to ask yourself is, how can I relate it to Jesus and how can I bring the attention of the audience to the blood of Jesus through this sermon? For whatever a sermon does; whether it inspires, it persuades, it influences, it informs, it entertains; nothing saves but the blood of Jesus. When you have an intent to speak on the blood of Jesus, God will give the wisdom and the communication skill needed to integrate it into the sermon.
Communicating Truth
A preacher is not called to be popular. Instead he is called to preach the truth faithfully. Therefore he cannot please men. Often he becomes a fool for Christ while preaching. He is called to present the truth about sin, unbelief, the wrath of God, the reality of hell, the second coming of Jesus and final judgement. At the same time he is called to preach God’s love, mercy, compassion, and to communicate hope and the certainty of life after death to all who believe and trust in Jesus.
We are called to speak the truth in love. That means we should not preach with a self-righteous attitude—that is with a holier-than-you-all attitude.
Then, there are truths in the Bible which go against popular vote today. It can be in areas of personal holiness, relationships, money management, communication and many other areas. For example, the New Testament teaches that a believer is not to seek to marry an unbeliever. We have an Old Testament example of Wise King Solomon led astray by ungodly wives he married. You have to preach this truth.
Another example is that of mocking, scoffing, gossip, or slander. You have to tell your audience that engaging in all these kind of talk is sin. And according to what Jesus warned there is going to come a time we have to give account for all these.
Now is preaching the truth easy? Absolutely not. As a preacher the first instinct will be that of self-preservation. The second instinct is to please the crowd. The third instinct is to exhibit our knowledge. The next instinct might be to show off our communication skills. And so on. But when preaching the truth takes priority expect people to criticize you or even hate you or speak against you. Great popularity is no indicator of being faithful to preaching the truth.
Communicating Using Stories
Jesus made his teaching memorable by simple stories he used. They are called parables. Many preachers, in an attempt to display their scholarship, forget this powerful tool in their hands. Often relevant stories used to illustrate a truth preached stays in the minds of audiences even when they forget the rest of the sermon. So choose simple stories from your own life, from literature, from what you read on the internet or watched in a movie. The art of storytelling is mastered over time. You need to have a passion for storytelling to succeed.
There are some simple principles that will help you. Keep stories short and simple. Let it highlight one truth or point in your story. If you are using a story in your intro, make sure that it is connected to the main thought of your sermon. It should lead into the body of the sermon.
Too many stories can be an overkill. But using one story or illustration to highlight a point can be really helpful. Stories from the life of missionaries can be really encouraging.
A story that is often told in sermons is that of a small wooden boat a boy made and which was lost when he floated it in running waters. Later he sees that in a shop and buys that. Then he says to the boat, ”Now you’re twice mine: first, I made you, and now I bought you.” This story has been told time and again, but still tells us about how Jesus redeemed us. So try to communicate truths using stories.
Compassion for People
One of the main highlights of Jesus’ life was that he was moved with compassion for people. A preacher is not someone who looks down on people but recognizes that he himself is a sinner saved by grace. When he recognizes that God has shown him great mercy and has forgiven him much, he will display the same compassion to people whom he is preaching to. Such sermons help people to experience the love of God.
But when people preach prosperity, there is no compassion because they are employing deception to mislead the crowd to a gospel which neither Jesus nor his disciples preached. When people preach doctrinal issues more than Christ, they have no compassion because they are ignoring the heart-cry of the audience to experience God. Instead of helping them drink from God’s Word; they muddy the waters so that it becomes impossible to experience God.
Now, compassion for people will not come automatically. It is a burden even Moses found hard to bear. Paul too was burdened by his concern for the churches. Compassion can come only to a shepherd-heart. There is great breaking of heart when you have compassion for God’s people. God moves and touches people through broken and contrite hearts.
Jesus often was burdened when he saw that the people were like a flock without a shepherd. He is looking today for people who will stand in the gap and plead for God’s people like how Abraham did for Lot. Today God’s people are being destroyed because of lack of knowledge, because of the worries of daily living, because of divisions in the church, and because of lack of teaching of God’s word in the church. So speak to people with God’s compassion that in their brokenness, they might find the healing touch of God.
Understanding a Passage
Read a passage thoroughly before you start preparing a sermon. It doesn’t matter if your sermon is based on a text, a topic, or whether it is inductive or deductive or expository or whatever technical term is used to describe your sermon. Read a passage or passages thoroughly before you start preparing. Understand the historical context in which it was written.
There will be literary or grammatical or semantic highlights of the passage you might need to explore (use appropriate hermeneutical/exegetical resources to do so).
For example, Jesus’ sixth word on the cross, “It is finished,’ is one word in the Greek, “Tetelestai.” It means paid in full and was a kind of seal used in transactions of the day when payment was done in full. These kind of details can help the audience better appreciate the truth.
Use the information you gather to supplement the truth you are preaching and not make it the chief focus in your sermon. For example, there is great debate about when Jesus is coming back. Is it pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation, or post tribulation? It is easy to go around explaining all the points and taking your stand on it. But what is the main point? The main point is that it is certain that Jesus is coming soon and we have to be ready looking forward to his coming whenever that might happen; isn’t it?
Try to Have a Grip of the Timeless Message
An example can make it clear. Jonah’s story is one of disobedience. It is as clear as daylight. But in that story is a greater message of God’s compassion and mercy shown to a merciless people (the Ninevites). And God’s great desire to reach out to people who live in ignorance and sin and darkness and bondage with his love and mercy; giving them a chance to repent.
It was the reason why God created the storm and made a big fish to swallow Jonah and to vomit him onto dry land after three days and nights and brought him back to preach a message of repentance. Jonah being in the belly of the fish three days and three nights is referred to by Jesus as a sign of his own resurrection from the dead thus proving him to be Messiah. These are the timeless message here.
Again, when people preach on the parable of the Prodigal Son or the parable of the Good Samaritan, there is a modern trend to read into the story current psychological research and findings. All this is good intellectual exercise. But the bottom line in these stories is the joy of finding someone who was lost and his restoration to fellowship; and showing mercy to a total stranger as an illustration of the teaching of love your neighbour as yourself. Do not miss these timeless messages while dissecting a passage for your sermon.
Help People to Know What Action to Take
“Repent,” is a consistent message of the Bible. It is not just being sorry for your sins. There should be a change in one’s life. Help people understand what action they have to take to make the message real in their lives.
There has to be action if the message has to be effective. If the message does not deal with practical things that has to do with attitudes of your heart, words of your mouth and actions that you take; then it is just an academic exercise.
For example, one of the areas people struggle with is time spent on their mobiles engaging with social media. Telling them to spent time with God might not help. Instead ask them specifically not to touch their mobiles in the morning without having spent an hour reading God’s Word. Well, people might be shocked. But at least they will have an idea about giving God first priority in the morning.
Again, when you teach about maintaining purity, you may need to spell out action that need to be taken. For that, you might need to tell people that they have to run away from sources of temptation like how Joseph did. And how to use Scripture to defeat the devil like how Jesus did saying, “It is written.” And again, how they can claim victory over the devil and overcome him by the blood of the Lamb of God (see Revelation 12:11). And again, how they can use the shield of faith to put out all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Be Willing to Be Rejected
When you speak God’s Word truthfully, the chances are that you will face rejection. Like how God said to Ezekiel: “You are nothing more than one who sings love songs with a beautiful voice and plays an instrument well, for they hear your words but do not put them into practice (Ezekiel 33:32 NIV 1984).”
The first thing to remember is that people are very much impatient these days. They want to be entertained. They want showmanship on stage. But that is not possible when you preach the Word of God truthfully. So they will complain if it goes a little longer than they expected. Then there will be people who come to advise you about how to tone down your message so that it will suit the congregation.
The greatest offense comes when you preach on sin, the cross, the blood of Jesus, the second coming of Jesus, the wrath of God, coming judgment, and hell. The point is that you cannot be a preacher of God’s Word and at the same time please men. Is it easy? The answer is a big NO.
The Introduction
Preaching is challenging because the audience comprises young and old, men and women and children too. There can be people with all kinds of attitudes and needs in the audience. There will be some who are bored and find listening to sermons a chance to sleep. There will be people who are ready to criticize and find fault with every word you say. Children can be distracted as they may not make much sense of what you say (unless you start with an engaging story they can follow). And there will be those who are playing with their mobiles.
But certainly there will be many who are facing difficulties in life and coming to listen to the sermon to hear an encouraging word from God that can give them hope and courage. So the introduction becomes important as that unveils before them what is coming later in the sermon, and what they can expect to take home from their sermon.
Whatever it be, the introduction should capture attention. It is said that you get around 3 seconds to engage someone as far as a web page is concerned. In speech it could be a little longer. But there should be something in your opening remarks that would hook audiences. There is no universally true method, but you can experiment. Some will succeed; some will fail. It’s all a learning experience.
This is an intro to a sermon I attempted years ago in my youthful enthusiasm:
April 20, 1814 Paris, France.
Napoleon bids farewell to his old guards.
Soldiers of my Old Guard: I bid you farewell. For twenty years I have constantly accompanied you on the road to honor and glory.
February 11, 1861.
President-Elect Abraham Lincoln bids farewell at Springfield, Illinois.
My friends: No one, not in my situation, can appreciate my feeling of sadness at this parting. To this place, and the kindness of these people, I owe every thing. Here I have lived a quarter of a century, and have passed from a young to an old man. Here my children have been born, and one is buried. I now leave, not knowing when, or whether ever, I may return . . . .
11 December 1936
King Edward VIII gave this farewell address after having abdicated the throne of England to marry the lady he loved. This is what he said:
At long last I am able to say a few words of my own. I have never wanted to withhold anything, but until now it has not been constitutionally possible for me to speak.
A few hours ago I discharged my last duty as King and Emperor, and now that I have been succeeded by my brother, the Duke of York, my first words must be to declare my allegiance to him. This I do with all my heart.
[By this time the audience in the church were visibly disturbed thinking that I totally missed the fact this is sermon in a church and not a speech to a secular audience. Then I said:]
2000 years ago,
another man gave a farewell address. And he was no ordinary man. He said:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am (John 14:1–3 NIV 1984).”
If you ask me, I might not attempt this introduction these days; because it is a bit long. But it has one redeeming aspect; that is it succeeded in building the mood of a farewell address. In fact, we shouldn’t forget that Jesus spoke these words to his disciples who were unsettled at heart by the news that Jesus was soon to be betrayed and that he will leave them.
Perhaps this introduction that I attempted was a failure because it violated audience expectation about a sermon introduction too much. Or it might have done its purpose of making the audience listen intently because they thought the preacher had mistaken the sermon to be a speech to a secular audience.
But my point is that, you should try to experiment with new approaches to introductions rather than fit into stereotyped moulds which makes people lose interest at the beginning of your sermon itself. Without any doubt, the worst beginning is: “Today the topic given to me is . . .” They will switch off active hearing and tune out immediately.
Here’s an example of beginning a sermon with a simple illustration or story: Speech on Gratitude.
The Conclusion
Many preachers summarize the points they had said. Others focus on the call for action. Some end with a brief story that crystallizes the main emphasis of their sermon in the minds of the audience. Whatever it be, the conclusion is perhaps the most important part of the sermon and the time when perhaps the audience interest will be very high. So be ready to go for a strong conclusion and do not leave it to chance. Be thoroughly prepared with a conclusion.
The following conclusion was planned but the question at the end came at that particular moment. I would say it was God-given. “The Bible is a book of invitations. Jesus called disciples to himself saying, “Come, follow me.” In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened.” At the last day of the Feast of tabernanacles Jesus cried out saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink.” The Book of Revelation ends with a picture of the River of the Water of Life flowing. And the Spirit of God and the bride say, “Come!” Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.” Are you thirsty? Amen.
Sometimes preachers make the mistake of taking too much time with one point and then finding that they have to rush through other points. This gives the false impression that one point was more important than all the others. Or in a much worse judgement; the audience will think of the sermon as poorly constructed. Don’t worry too much if this has happened to you. That is how it is in the beginning days of preaching. It is only with experience that this sense of balance to be maintained will become part of your strength in preaching.
The lack of balance happens for several reasons. One point is more dear to you and you spend much more time on it. But what can be more true is that you fail to think-through the other points. See, borrowed ideas has to be made your own. You should take time to prayerfully think-through those ideas in the light of God’s Word. You have to develop that thought. It takes time. Failure to do so is what often results in lack of balance.
Or it can be because you have too many points. For example, if you find that Point #1 and Point #2 have been well-developed in a 3-point sermon; and there is not full maturity of thought with Point #3; it is better that you leave out Point #3 and then develop the first two points to their fullest strength and impact.
Transitions
When you travel on the road signposts help you to navigate. It helps you know where you have reached and how much more you have to travel to reach destination. Similarly a preacher has to employ transitions to help the audience travel along with them. First, second, third is a simple way to help audience understand the main points. At the same time, it is important that you use creative transitions from the intro to the body of the speech.
After giving a quick intro about the story of Eric Liddell, you can use a statement like: So the story of Eric Liddell is a great motivation for us to remain faithful to God’s call in our lives. Or, Eric Liddell and his passion for running should remind us that we too are called to run the race of faith and to finish strong.
Equally important is how you end each segment. When you do so; you should attempt to close that segment before moving forward. Say something like, we have now had a look at how God provides for the needs of his children. Now let us take a look at how God protects his children. Such transitions help the audience to easily have a position check as to exactly where they are at the moment, where they are headed to and how long it might take to reach there.
Audience Focus
A preacher has to be in touch with people. Jesus was always in touch with people. A preacher has to be like that. He has to know what people think, fear, dream about, and struggle with. A preacher’s role is to help people understand that they have a God whom they can approach with freedom, boldness and confidence calling him, “Abba Father.”
A preacher’s role is to help people understand that God cares about them. A preacher’s role is to decrease while God grows big in the minds of the audience. A preacher’s role is not to report what the newspapers discuss about current events or discuss theological jargon but to shine the spotlight on Jesus.
The comment, “It was a good sermon”; though it is pleasing to the preacher’s ears, falls short of, “I was able to experience God through your sermon.”
The Preacher
The preacher is called to preach the foolishness of the cross. He is called to walk close with God. A preacher therefore has to avoid and remove from his life anything that hinders the message of the cross.
A humble heart which is sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit and trembles at God’s Word and cleasned and sanctified by the blood of Jesus is what a preacher should be. In every sense, all this is not accomplished in a day or two but is a lifelong process as God chisels away at the preacher shaping him to declare his message with humility as well as Spirit-filled boldness.
After-Sermon Analysis
There is nothing to be surprised if you face depression after a sermon. The classic case of Elijah is enough to understand this. After the mighty demonstration of God’s power on Mount Carmel, he is discouraged.
In a similar way, after a sermon, it is quite natural to be discouraged. It can simply be a case of physical fatigue. Or it can be because you didn’t see God’s fireworks happening. The simplest thing you can do is to thank God that he gave you grace to preach. And leave the results with God. The messenger has only one duty: deliver the message faithfully. People might accept or reject it.
But there is one thing you can do and should do. Revisit your notes a few days later and try to find out where you can improve the presentation. Maybe the sermon might have been better if you had edited out a few sections. Might be you could have quoted a more appropriate verse. You could have improved your conclusion.
Such an evaluation is an attempt to improve on the best you did. Yes, being dissatisfied with your best is one sure way to improve. Learn from the past; but always look forward.
Today is different from yesterday because each one of us is growing up. I am fascinated by the change that is happening. And as you might have guessed by now I am going to talk to you about growing up.
First of all, growing up is an essential part of life. Not one of us can choose to remain a baby or a toddler. Our parents found joy in each stage of our growing up. When we turned over the first time, the first baby steps, the first words, our first day at school and so on.
But our joy came in a different sense. It came as new discoveries about ourselves and the world around us. It is this sense of awareness that makes growing up a joy.
Secondly, growing up is about freedom and responsibility. When we were young, we had to depend on our parents for everything. Slowly but surely as we started growing up, each one of us became independent in varying degrees. There is a tendency in our teens to rebel and look down on others as we exult in our new-found freedom.
But that is being short-sighted because there is a long journey ahead of each one of us and in a short time we will learn that we have to depend a lot on others to succeed in life.
So freedom is to be used with restraint and caution and also with a sense of responsibility. Let us remind us ourselves of Nehru’s words in his Tryst with Destiny speech that rang out in that midnight hour of freedom where he said: “Freedom and power bring responsibility.”
Thirdly, growing up is about leaving things behind. No one else said it more poetically than St. Paul who said, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.”1
Yes, there is a lot of emotional and childish habits, reactions, and behaviour that we need to leave behind. That is a sure sign of growing up and becoming a man or woman in a true sense of what that means.
Fourthly, growing up is about coping with and adapting to changes. There are changes that affect our physical appearance, emotional make up and thinking patterns. These are needed to make us ready for our life ahead. Some of us might find these changes delightful, others may find it a bit uncomfortable especially when it comes to becoming self conscious in front of others.
Some of us shy away from the limelight; others are daring in their adventures. Yet the fun of it is learning to cope with change.
Finally, growing up is about looking ahead with hope. The future is uncertain. In spite of careful planning, things can go wrong. But even when darkness falls; you can trust God with your future. I cannot stress that thought enough: the antidote to fear of the future in an ever changing world is trust in an unchanging God.
Let me conclude. Growing up is an exciting part of life. Along with new discoveries can come new interests, hobbies, peer pressure, and new temptations. There can be the pressure of expectations of parents, teachers, and friends. There can be the challenge of making mistakes and facing criticism for our failures too. But none of these things need to discourage us.
For as the poet Robert Browning in his poem Rabbi Ben Ezra says,
Grow old along with me!
The best is yet to be,
The last of life, for which the first was made:
Our times are in His hand
Who saith “A whole I planned,
Youth shows but half; trust God: see all, nor be afraid!”
Therefore this is my call to you today my friends. Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be!
Techniques and tips might help but those don’t bring success to you in interviews. You have to choose to have what it takes to succeed. Failures in interviews happen not by chance, but because you did not care enough to choose what helps you succeed. So what helps you succeed in interviews? Of course, the choices you make. Come on, let’s take a look at them:
One, have a grip of fundamentals. Brush up your knowledge of the basics of your subject before you attend interviews. It is the simple questions that are likely to trip you rather than questions that probe deep into the subject.
Two, if you have passion for what you do and what you have applied for it will show. So be genuinely interested in the profile and the organisation you are seeking an entry to. Make them know your skills set match what they are looking for.
Three, interviews are not decided only by the correct answers you give. It is more or less decided by the confidence about you you are able to inspire in the interview board. You can inspire confidence by your knowledge, your attitude, your past performances, your passion, the clarity of your answers, and the intensity or burning desire with which you are focused on getting through.
Four, past experiences can be assets if you can tell them convincingly to prove your leadership, communication, organising, or other skills. Be prepared with stories of how you exhibited your skills in the past. Even if it was a project or assignement which was done by a group make sure you highlight your role in the effort.
Five, good communication skills do help a lot. When combined with a positive attitude it is a winning duo. A little bit of being persuasive in communication is good; no need to be aggressive. Attending some training program just before the interview can help; but it cannot match with long-term preparation in developing communication skills. The least you can do is to listen to good English on a regular basis.
Six, you can only be who you are. The interview board will easily pick out whether you have fear, whether you are biased, whether your real ambition lies somewhere else, whether you harbour resentment or you have gratitude, whether you are responsible or someone who plays the blame game, whether you pursue excellence or chase wishful thinking and so on. So be yourself and build character right from school days; though it is never late to begin.
Finally, it is a personal thought. Sometimes you don’t make it in spite of your best effort. That doesn’t make you a failure. If you trust God, then know that he opens and closes doors. In the end a closed door can be the best thing to have happened. For failure in an interview is not the final word, if you can still believe, hope and trust for better days ahead.
“What is it, Peter?” I said, “Nothing Sir.” But Prof. James M. Stewart persisted with the question. He had earlier asked our class, “Where have you heard of Venus before?” I had then whispered to my friends, “Circus.” And it had not escaped to catch his attention.
And as Prof. J. M. Stewart quizzed my friends, they blurted out, “Circus! Venus Circus!” (referring to the famous touring circus company). And then, breaking eye contact with me, and turning to the whole class, he made this classic remark: “See, how different people have different tastes according to their profession!” His ability to improvise on all occasions with his silver tongue was profoundly amazing.
Later when I started my public speaking training program in the year 1996–a year after I passed out from Mar Ivanios College–I vividly remember that I took the first copy of my program’s brochure to our beloved teacher, Prof. James M. Stewart, so lovingly known as “Stewart Sir.” With the kind of respect he has in my heart, I couldn’t think of anyone else to share about my venture first. I write this with a great sense of loss at his passing away yesterday on 21st May 2021. He had exhibited great affection, love and care towards me as he had a close-knit brotherly bonding with my late Daddy.
When I first told Stewart Sir of my interest to pursue English Literature, he encouraged me a lot to do so. And my life was scripted through a road that was less travelled by in later years, through the study of English Literature and various leadership and performance opportunities I got at Mar Ivanios College to excel in public speaking. Stewart Sir was always there to encourage me in my efforts in this direction.
JMS was how his name was written in short form. Those three letters together struck a note of respect always. There are so many varied aspects of his character that made his personality stand out. I would like to highlight just three of them.
First of all, he was a gifted orator. He spoke with great command in both English and Malayalam. His speeches are remembered by all who heard them. There was no thundering rhetoric but logic working its way through with gentle persuasion. There are two moments I recall. One, after one of his sermons at our church (we both attended the same church), I went and asked him, “Sir, when will I be able to deliver a speech like the one you just did?” I was fascinated by his ability to hold a twenty-minute sermon on one single point, having all of the listeners engaged in his oration.
On another occasion, after I had given a sermon on Jesus the Good Shepherd, I just walked up to him to listen to his invaluable feedback. He put an arm around my shoulder and said, “My son, you could have left out the second and third points.” I learned the value of ruthless editing from him. When he mercilessly struck off many of my creative writing efforts with his turquoise blue ink, I realised how his thoughtful editing made my writing powerful. Further, no one can forget the kind of stage presence he had; how he could grace an occasion with dignity; and the felicity of words with which he could make even an ordinary occasion look grand.
Secondly, he was a gifted teacher par excellence. He took his time to get through a passage, be it poem, prose, or drama. He brought to life each word, scene, and character with his ability to dramatize without making us conscious of him doing so. Perhaps his greatest ability as a teacher was how he could connect the text being taught with real life examples, to people, and to life’s varied situations. He once quoted, “Experience is the comb you get when your head becomes bald.” and it took a lot of time for us to value its wisdom.
Life had taught him many lessons, he used to say, and he took them in his stride even when they took him through grief and loss. One of the things he took pride in was that he was teaching Literature. He used to say, “In Science, you learn about life; in Literature you learn life.” I have heard a professor (who is now no more; also, a former student of Stewart Sir) who stood with us in front of a class room and said, “Stewart Sir is yet to complete a few lessons for us.” He said that with a touch of humour; but it also says how much his students loved his sessions. Perhaps it is true, “Heard melodies are sweet, but those unheard are sweeter.”
Thirdly, he commanded awesome love, respect, and admiration from all his students. He was strict and there was no doubt about it. And even his firm look was sufficient enough to make students who were simply wasting their time scurry away from in front of the Department of English. His voice carried the command of a War General.
At the same time, he could understand students like no one else usually did. Even with the most violent guys in the college, he had a way to soothe them by putting his hand around their shoulders and asking gently, “What’s troubling you?” He alone would walk into the midst of a brawl and simply with his words would push two warring factions of students away from each other. I’ve witnessed this myself with great disbelief at times. Students would walk up to him and pour out their hearts to him, vent their troubles in family or life. And in him they found someone who genuinely cared. We have heard many life lessons that he had to share from such conversations.
Some time ago, I was able to visit him at his home and spent some time with him conversing. Even when he had difficulty remembering everything; still he was able to recall many moments and asked questions about them. Unable to see when I met him last, he said he was spending much time listening.
Maybe I cannot close without mentioning one fact: in the early days of my blogging, he used to send me encouraging comments after reading some of the posts. A man of his stature finding time to read and comment on one of his students’ writing tells volumes of the mettle of his character; doesn’t it?
Department of English, Mar Ivanios College. Photo courtesy: englishmic.com/about
And now leaving aside all else I could say of him, like the relationship he maintained with Bishops and clergy across Christian denominations, politicians, administrators, and former students; his tremendous gift of organizing mega events, his skill with the written word, his contributions as an Editor and many things more; I would like to close by saying that as a teacher he inspired, motivated, and set standards of excellence that is difficult to emulate. But the light he was able to ignite in the hearts of many, the love he had for all of us students, the great aspirations he had for us; will always be cherished.
Joy getting the better of fear is what public speaking can be to you. A right perspective about you the messenger, about the message, and about the audience will help you to get rid of stage fright and speak with joy.
One, joy is about the messenger. That is you. You might have thoughts of unworthiness and insignificance. Others might remind you of your smallness and that you are good for nothing. Let them do so. But when God values you as an individual and loves you;you can rise above the negative evaluation others make about you and deliver your speech with conviction, clarity, confidence, and impact.
Two, joy is about the message. You cannot speak well without a solid message. There is no style without substance and style can never compensate for lack of substance. So go for an all out preparation and get ready material for your speech. Let it be interesting, informative, and inspiring. In certain situations it has to be persuasive or entertaining. Unless you are convinced about what you speak, you cannot expect the audience to be moved by what you say.
Three, joy is about the audience. Many fear to look at the audience, be it big or small. Others worry about, “What will the audience think about me? You have to believe that the audience is for you and eager to listen to you. There will always be a few in any audience who are bored. Do not focus on that minority. And do not fear criticism. If you do anything worthwhile it will come. Remember, without the audience, there is no public speaking.
The messenger, the message, and the audience make public speaking happen. It can easily be, in the words of John Keats, a thing of beauty and joy for ever.
A postal stamp is a small piece of paper but having great worth. It has created one of the most popular hobbies in the world—the art of stamp collection which falls under the term philately.
Of course its nearest relative is the hobby of coin collection—numismatics.
Philatelists are there among the young and the old. Through this hobby history can come alive, one can learn about countries of the world, national leaders, monuments, tourist spots, animals, birds, and flowers specific to certain regions and countries.
Special commemorative stamps are a collector’s delight. One learns to organize stamps as his collection grows.
Stamps have the great quality of stickiness to purpose. It goes along with the envelope until it is delivered. So a collector of stamps is actually treasuring the journey the stamp had had.
Philately is a serious hobby. It can lead you to a world of knowledge that informs, educates, entertains and inspires at the same time.
Widely known as the “King of hobbies,” stamp collection can be a thing of beauty and joy for all.
