Jonathan picture

just few minutes after he was born

It has been a month since our first son Jonathan was born. He has been a true delight to both of us. Everybody wants to carry him. He has been such  a blessing to us. He cries only if he is hungry or need a diaper change.

Here are some pictures of him

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The year of 2008 - Part II

It has been six months since we have come back from India. My parents want me to come back to India for good. But, we are still not sure what exactly God’s will is.

But, meanwhile God was at work… Our son Jonathan was born on June, 19th, 2008. It was a great experience being with your wife to see her give birth. It is a miraculous experience. J asmine started having contractions on the night of June 18th at 6:30 p.m. Adjusting with in-laws in the house during this time was a challenge.

They want to give the best for their child and I want the best for my wife. That is why I asked them to stay at house when we went to the hospital and to the delivery room.

We waited until 2:30 a.m. before the contractions became 5-1-1. Then we called the doctor to analyze the situation. Few months ago, we took delivery class that helped us to get through this difficult time and tense situation. By the time we went to the delivery room, she was 5 cm dilated. She got admitted into the hospital and by 11:30 a.m. next day, she came out of anesthesia. She pushed for two and half hours and then had Jonathan out. It was one of most emotional time in my life. Jasmine cried in pain and I had back pain help her push.

Anyway, God was with us. Jonathan was born at 2:42 p.m. at Magee Women’s. Jasmine and I thought it will be a girl with so much confidence. God gave us a boy. Irrespective of whether it is a boy or girl, we are so thankful to God for this baby. He has already been blessing. Many nights are interrupted. Hey, but that is definitely not a problem.

Our in-laws are here and initial rough times are gone. I have learned a lot and have become a better person. They are my Christian parents and in-laws love my parents. We had a tough time selecting our son’s name. My in-laws wanted to name him Joel. We wanted to name him Jonathan. I still get tensed when to draw the line. In our Indian culture parents take privilege in naming children. Not that they want to exert control but thats wants it finally turns out.

Having been here for eight years, I started dreading out giving “freedom” and always want to change them to all the things I want them to become. Anyway, God has taught me in the recent days that I cannot change anybody but it is important that He changes things that He wants to change.

Back home, my parents wants us to come back to India for good. My Dad wants to send money to us to clear all our debts so we could come home. It has been six months and he is going through such a difficult time. I am just torn between helping my parents and being with my family here. What shall we do? Only time will tell what God wants us to do.

I have started reading the Bible little bit more but still need to read more. I have decided to spend time with God in a more disciplined way. I want to do more for God but I am still dragging a lot of things that does not allow me run.

Work has been very hectic but it will help if Jasmine could support financially next year with our new addition to our family.

Niagara Falls

Finally, We are in Niagara Falls, ON, Canada after a long time of planning before our first baby comes. Jasmine and I had a great time walking near the falls and having delicious foods the whole day. This stay also has become a spiritual retreat for me. I felt I have “lost” some spiritual vitality and could not spend time reading or praying because of increase load at work and at home.

God has spoken to me again and again in this trip, especially on being a house built for God and not to give place for the devil. What type of house shall we build for God to dwell? Have we forgotten that his dwelling is in our midst. Some Hindus believe that they have God (they do not know who) dwells among them. Some believe (incorrectly) that they themselves are a part of God and therefore will not search for a God who is the creator of the Universe.

Such people should think twice about this. People should recognize that God was there before they were born. So, there is a God who saw their forming in the womb and their birth. What stops us from then going after the true God? Our pride and Satan.

Though invisible, the only true and eternal God is willing to reveal himself. Bible says in Romans that his “invisible attributes” are clearly to be seen by “all” people and admired and God be praised. Niagara Falls is such a great example for God’s glory. We go and see its beauty and majesty and even afraid of its roaring. We don’t become Niagara Falls! We will not become Niagara Falls and we were not Niagara Falls (NF) before. NF was there even before I was born. I will be offended if somebody

calls be NF for I am not NF and I am a human being.

If we cannot even compare ourselves with a creation, how much more we should tremble before we compare ourselves to “THE” creator of the Universe who fills the heavens and the earth!!

Thank you - Our First Wedding Anniversary

Dear friend,
This Sunday, February 17th, 2008, we will be celebrating our first wedding anniversary. We don’t think anything is more important than remembering and thanking you for blessing our lives when we began our lives together. Without you and your prayers, our life in Pittsburgh would have been very difficult, especially facing our parents and reconciling with them which was also our first priority.
You gave us comfort, helped us financially, and cared for us just like our own relatives in this foreign land. You poured your lives on our wedding and our reception working night and day while we enjoyed our lives without having to worry about various needs. This reminds of us of Paul who said “So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us (I Thessalonians 2:8)”.
We went to India this December and by God’s grace, we were able to continue to stand for Christ and give a reason for our commitment and decision to get married in Baton Rouge, LA. Still, many of Manoj’s relatives are against our decision to honor God who given His own life so that we will be separated from the world and live for him. Wherever we went, we did not fail to mention about you who has set us such an example for our lives and by your sacrifice encouraged us to face the world. In Pittsburgh, God did not let us pass this year without seeing his faithfulness. Manoj switched jobs that helped us financially, lot of his relatives showed much concern and love towards both of us, and above all, we are able to continue in Pittsburgh so that we will have time to lay a strong foundation which is Christ himself.
We are also excited to let you know that we are also expecting our first child this June. Jasmine’s parents might come here to help us out during this time. Please continue to lift us up in your prayers. For those who would like to take a second look at our wedding pictures, please click the following link to get to our wedding web album.

http://picasaweb.google.com/manoj.christian/Wedding
Thank you for being there.

Yours lovingly in Christ,
Manoj & Jasmine

The year of 2008 - Part I

It has been to a good start. Our trip to India in December 2007 was very eventful. We had got married in February 2007 without my parent’s permission. Now that we had gone to India, it will be be so disrespectful for them if we didn’t went to see them. I hadn’t talked to my Dad for nearly ten months. On the day, we left to India we were fortunate to talk to my mom. She was in Vallioor attending my cousin Sudhir’s wedding. Unfortunately, she had to stay in Vallioor because my another cousin, Raju, who was on his bed for thirty some years passed away. (His parents took care of him till he died. He could not speak as well as cannot move out of his. His brain did not develop after some time.)

My mom was kind enough to speak to me as well as to Jasmine. We were really encouraged. Jasmine, myself and Pearl went to Atlantic City, NJ to visit my friend Rajesh and leave my car there. He and his wife Melissa were so kind to take us to the airport. We dropped off Pearl at her uncle’s place.

Rajesh, myself and Jasmine went to see Melissa (Rajesh’s wife) . We then headed to the airport. After complicated booking issues and standby, we proceeded to boarding. After knowing that she is pregnant,Jasmine and I were shuffled into different seats and then finally arrived in Chennai.

Tears flowed from Jasmine’s mom when she saw us. Uncle and Aunty were just wonderful and they are so kind and loving.  We had a wonderful time there with a lot of attention. It is so sweet to have Christian families around. I just called my father’s side aunt and uncle but they turned out to be very cold since they did not like me coming with Jasmine to their house. I did not mind. We have to fight for the truth and take a stand no matter what. We will not be ashamed and we are not ashamed for taking the stand for the gospel.

The main focus stayed in going to Madurai and making reconciliation with my parents. After staying in Madras for five days, we went to Madurai. My uncle (father’s brother) came and picked us up. My father would not want to see both of us together. So, he wanted to talk to me first before even thinking of accepting Jasmine. Anyway, after taking some rest and food at my uncle’s house, we came to know that I was going first and then Jasmine is coming on second.

Chittappa, Chitti, and myself went to see my mom. My mom nodded to say to come in. She cried almost instantly when she saw me. I was thinking about all the pain that I had caused them. But, I don’t have any choice.  I love Christ and I love my parents dearly. My father wasn’t there when I came home. My mom cried silently but she could not say anything. She became comforted after I gave her a hug and rubbed her tensed and tired fingers.

My father came in and I was not sure how to face him. I was looking into the cross to give me grace. And, He did. My father came in, shook his head, went inside his room and wept uncontrollably. I went and gave him a hug and I also let out my heart understanding their full pain and anxiety that all my steps have caused. Anyways, I never was and never will be sorry for the calling of Christ in my life. It is better to cry now than in hell.

My father poured out his heart and after two hours, he calmed down. He said he will accept Jasmine only if I accept and willing to help him in business. I told him that I also have the same desire but my current loans have prohibited from coming back. He said he will help to get rid of my debts very soon. I just committed both of our lives into Christ’s hands. My wife got nervous and I comforted by reminding her of precious God’s promises.

After I made the commitment, I was asked to stay back since my father believed he could pay all my debts off within a month. I told I cannot make any false promises. Meanwhile, I went and called Jasmine home. She came nervously. She became very emotional and cried when she saw my mother. My mom took her upstairs when my father came in. She was talking with Jasmine about faith since she said was confused over Christianity that I haven’t changed my name and seemed to be normal than before!

I was thinking about what Christianity is all about. Is it all about not watching TV, movies, and so on. Or is it about the beautiful love story between God and humankind and about the love that is stronger than death.

Trip Back to India (2007 December)

Jasmine and I are planning to go to India this December. I think we are going to stay with her parents. I still haven’t spoken to my parents. I tried talking to them but couldn’t do it. My father finds it very difficult to open up. My mom is so longing to talk to me. I am just uncomfortable to talk to them but I still love them very much.

Let us see. I am planning to go to Bangalore for getting the trust started. And, then I need to go to Trichy and meet friends in Chennai to strengthen the prayer cell group. I feel that is my ministry and I just can’t simply get out of REC prayer cell. I have been praying for starting a trust to help poor Christian Children studying in REC. And, this week, I received a bonus for referring my friend to work in the same company I am working. I am so thankful to God.

Jasmine is three months pregnant. We are getting anxious and excited about it. Our dear family in Tennessee won’t speak to us anymore. That is all right. All for Christ. People in India are yet to know about it. We just got our Canon Powershot S5 camer. I am happy and thankful to God for it.

Lately, there has been so much sexual temptations. My spirit wants to be pure and faithful to God and my wife but my flesh is so carnal. Thankfully, God grace is sufficient.

Today, just as I was walking back from Devonshire to Benedum Hall while my wife is at Tea party in the chuch, I was praying and praising God and my eyes were filled with tears because I got too tired of myself and because of continuous temptations. Also, if we need a good perspective, we can think that it is the time where we can build our character. But, the temptation and trial comes every single time I am given opportunity to preach.

Billy Graham has always been a great example and here is one favorite video of his. I want to preach like him and live like him.

As Jasmine and I had our Chinese buffet this afternoon, my spirit was restless since I wanted to fly like an eagle while my own flesh is pulling me down and sin makes it very heavy to lift off. We had a good time at lunch and talked about our calling (we prayed and sang before we left home) and talked about what God wants us to do in Pittsburgh. Even at our church and our small prayer group that we have in Hyland Hills every Frday, we discussed about the burden that God has placed in our lives to reach out. I sincerely believe God is going to do great things through us in Pittsburgh and this is such a difficult time that we have got to be prepared for the high calling.

When we are doing great, there are so many things happening in India. My hearts is over the orphans living in India and prostitution happening with such audacity in India. Can they who cry for conversion cannot see the depraved and exploited lives of women and children back in Bombay red light area?

Anyways, this year, I wanted to dedicate to God and be prepared. I was distracted by movies, things to do, business but we are getting there. I want to take more leadership role in our home to have a godly home than anything. We are not sure when God will take us back to India (Jasmine wants to settle down here) but my heart is go back. Not ours but let his will be done.

My work has kept me pretty busy and with no time for ministry. The first five months in www.aires.com has been very smooth and very encouraging. They are processing our Green card and giving us more compensation to live by. The increased compensation also helps us pay the bills including our car, rent, pay back the money I received for Anitha’s wedding. Hopefully, By November, we will be more free in terms of financial freedom. Finance is a also an area of struggle and make me very uneasy when I see my back balances on red. But, we have started giving something to the church and hoping to get it solid rock on it.

I am really looking forward to meeting my friends back home. Nobody other than my chittappa has called and talked to me. Nobody else did. I am not sure I will be able to go to Madurai. People in Madurai wants me to help in family business. Not sure I can be for all things for everybody. But, I am really confused or overwhelmed by my responsibilities. To be a good husband, a father, a child to my parents and to reconcile with them and to love them all.

But, I think more than anything, to be a child of God while loving fellow human beings is the first priority. But, my God, the biggest question I have in my heart are

a. Did I please you in every way?

b. What will you want me to do in this life?

Help me do and finish them both before I breath my last.

My Back hurts again..again..again

I should have listened to my wife to not lift heavy weights …not the Gym stuff. I have been in back pain for more than two weeks now. I am not sure what happened but I think this time something else happened than just the pain. I had to come back from work in the afternoon because of the pain. I thought I am going to become unconscious. Neverthless, God is with me and He has promised in the Bible never to leave me alone.

My wonderful wife took care of me. I had to rely upon her help to even get up and go to the restroom. I was not able to get on the left side and even after two weeks I am not able to get up fast. I just need to be careful. Pastor Dave advised me that it is my responsibility that I take care of my body.

Becoming an uncle

It has been a crazy week. After our Friday bible study at Anish’s place, I had to go drop off Ratnakar. After I got home, I had to run to my work to fax documents to make appointments at U.S. Embassy in Chennai. When I was returning home my wife called me and said Anand’s wife Christy is in Labor!

In the bible study, we were teasing Anand and Christy about their due date for the delivery which was next week. We had to take them at 1:30 a.m. and stayed till 5:00 a.m. Had to run few errands that afternoon. Heard from Anand that they have to do C-Section on Christy because of three complications. Joshua Stephen Anand was born that afternoon at 2:00 p.m. and he is such a blessing already to many. We went to ICF at 6:00 p.m. Heard from Divya that She going to join my company on the 24th.

Sunday Morning at the church, I couldn’t stay awake. I had got up at 6:00 a.m. to go to work to redeploy a web service and came home at 9:00 .am. Pastor Dave spoke from Jude. Came home..had a good lunch ..slept till six and then went to see Gerold and Anand.

This week I need to finish up papers for Green Card processing. Struggling to pray and read the Bible while taking care of all other things.

Engagement in Chicago

Shelley and his family, Gifta (my wife) and I came to chicago to attend my wife’s brother’s engagement.  It was a tiring ride for 9 hours after having slept only for few hours. We checked ourself into Days Inn

I haven’t called anybody yet. I am just too tired to do anything right now. Work is catching upon me. I just want to spend hours and hours reading the bible and prayer but I am not able to do it. Today, I just spent some time seeing a movie. I could have spent it just reading the Bible. We have our morning breakfast in IHop and then we went to engagement party at 5:00 p.m.

The party went great. Jasmine and I shared a lot of things about Ranjith. Ranjith and Jane seem to be very content and just so thankful to God.  We had a lot of worship and a very nice message followed by a very good dinner. Then, David and Amy asked us to do some dance on the computer game. And, then by 12:15 a.m, we prayed and left their house.

We are planning to go to The Moody Church and then go to have some Pizza. It has been very interesting so far. I am planning to use the rest of the long weekend to enjoy reading the Bible. I am just in thirst for him.

Manoj

Back again…

It is official. I am married. I am married to a wonderful woman “Gifta”. We are married on Feb, 17th, 2007. So many things have happened this past year. My parents couldn’t believe that I would go ahead and get married to this Christian woman without their permission. We are hoping that our India trip this December would make everything fall back in place. You can take a look at our wedding pictures right in our Picasa collection.

I have left University of Pittsburgh and joined AIReS, Inc as a Systems Programmer. It was a blessing and gives us additonal compensation to carry on married life. Our God is faithful.

I am glad that my testimony is on YeshuSamaj, the organization filled with burdened for souls in Chicago. Btw, we are going to Chicago this Labor Day weekend to attend Jasmine’s brother’s engagement. I am back to writing to pour my heart.

 Till then…May God’s peace be with you.

 Love,

Manoj