Category Archives: Birai

Mid-term elections in USA: Any lessons here?

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from Absalom Birai

Today is the day that many have eargerly looked forward to with mixed feelings.It’s mid-term elections in the United states; a day that at the end of it, some will rejoice and thank family, friends,and supporters for contributing to their success and others will blame who knows who/ what for their failure.

For several days now as I have listened to the news and ads of politicians attacking each other,I have found myself thinking and wondering of how challenging/difficulty it’s to hold
a public office. It comes with a great price. No matter what you do, its hard to please all.The good news for whoever will loose is that they can come back two years later and win. In other words,its a question of time before there is another election which will give all an opportunity to try again.

Any spiritual lesson here? Yes,indeed. The Bible tells us that a day is coming when all will face the Lord of the universe who by then would have made a decision about which candidates will qualify for His heavenly kingdom.By the time,He descends to take His own,every case would have been decided. No campaigns or going to court will be of any help. The decision will not only be final but also fair. Here is what the Bible says:

” “Look, he is coming with the clouds,and “every eye will see him,even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.So shall it be! Amen.” (Revelation 1:8)

““When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”Mathew 25:31-36)

You and I have an opportunity now and not tomorrow to prepare for the final election day.Right now,it might seem to be that far,but is that not how we feel in most cases until we are caught unaware.

Pr Birai
www.pastorbirai.com

If you love someone

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From: Absalom Birai

We all at one time or the other claim to love someone(wife,husband,children,parents,friends,leaders,siblings,school/college mates,Jesus/God). While such claims might mean something else to different people,there are certain things that support such claims. Like what?

If you truly love someone and you mean it, then:

1.You must prove it
2.You must be careful in all that you say and do lest you hurt your friend or his/her reputation
3.You must be there for your friend in times of happiness and in times of sorrow
4.You must spend quality time with such a person
5.You must not steal from such a person or cheat him or her
6.You must be supportive and promise to be there when every one else runs away or goes hiding.

Do you love Jesus?God? If you do,here is what He expects of all those who make such claims:

1. Jesus said,”If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15)

2. John wrote”For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.
3. We must spent time with Him praying for ourselves and others
4. We must avoid the temptation of skipping church meetings and instead form a habit of joining fellow believers as we learn from them and encourage them. Here is how Paul puts it: “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25)
5.We must spent time not just reading but studying the word and willing to go by what it commands.Help is always available to those who need it:”If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5
6.We must do everything possible to promote His work on earth. Let it be our desire to support the Lord’s work near and far. Let us use the God given resources wisely and responsively

So,do you really love Jesus? Then let us walk the talk. I am willing to do that at whatever cost. I am sure that you too or am I just making an assumption?

Pr Birai
www.pastorbirai.com

Kenya: My take on Raila!

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From: Absalom Birai

Much has been written and said about Kenya’s prime minister,Honorable Raila Ondinga. Regardless of how you see/view him,the following is true:

1.Like any one else,he has his strengths and weaknesses.

2.He has for many years championed democracy in Kenya.

3.Like other politicians,he has gone through so much including spending time behind bars because of his love for his country.

4 More than once,he has given up his own personal interests for the sake of others/peace/Kenya

Is he capable of leading Kenya? I say yes without any reservations,and here is why!

1.No one has ever come into office in any country with 100 % support.

2.None of the former Kenyan Presidents was perfect.Each one of them did some good to the country and some things that some Kenyans and the world did not like.Notwithstanding they did what they thought was good for the country and we respect them for that

3.I believe that the PM has learned a great deal from the university of hard knocks.That aside,Kenya is not the same anymore. A lot has changed. If he fails to perform or say he becomes a dictator,he will sure be thrown out and another leader chosen.

So, my plea to those who do not like the PM is this:

1.Give credit to where credit deserves. Let us appreciate what the PM has done.

2.Let us stop preaching or spreading unfounded rumors about the PM

3.Let us follow the golden rule by treating the PM the same way we would have liked to be treated.

4.Let each politicians know that even they themselves have their own weaknesses.Weighed on the balances,they will be found wanting.

5.Let all understand that leadership is not all that easy.It’s easy when you are outside to think that you can,but once inside,things are quite different.

5.It’s about time that all Kenyans accept the fact that Kenya belongs to everybody and not just a few. Give everybody a chance to become a leader if he or she has what it takes to lead Kenya.

6.With the new constitution, all,including the leaders will be required to abide by it.

7.Like others,if Kenyans decide to chose him as their leader/president,he will serve his term and then leave it for the others.

What I am saying is that if we want to succeed as Kenyans,then our politicians and their followers need to do in my opinion the following:

1.Stop preaching hatred and rumors for their own benefits.

2.Tell/show Kenyans what they can do instead of spending all the time attacking others .

3.Start thinking and behaving like Kenyans instead of declaring themselves elders/chiefs of their tribes.

4.Remember that after all the fights,there will be just one leader at a time.Even among the best,one comes out as the best of all..

5.Treat the PM as a competitor and not an enemy.

Well,those are my views.

Pr Birai

Kenya: “Special tribute to my late Mum”, by Pastor Birai

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God willing and should funds become available,then on Friday,April 2nd,2010, I will join my siblings,relatives,friends,the community, and all well wishers to wish Mama fare well @ her home in Bonyunyu, Nyamira, Kenya.

Like in any other funeral service,Mama will be remembered for all kinds of things.But as for me I will remember her and pay special tribute for the following:

1.Mama was born in 1925 and got married as a 4th wife to my late father in 1943 @ the age of 18 years old. She spent most of her life in great pain and agony as she laid to rest 7 of her children who died at different ages for who knows what.

2.She was a very faithful,dedicated,committed, peace loving,generous and loyal Christian. She spent most of her life as a deaconess.She returned her tithe both faithfully and systematically.She had no quarrel with any one and avoided gossip in all its forms.

3. She was a woman of prayer who daily prayed for her children and even her enemies.She was the first one to assist her enemies,something that you rarely witness or hear about.She had this way of talking to Jesus that really touched me. Her prayers on behalf of us,her children were very rich. They are what has carried us this far. Will always cherish them.

4.She taught us to fear/respect God, to be faithful in returning to God what belongs to Him and to be always ready and willing to support all, including our enemies.Every time I called to speak with Mama,most of what she told me was other people’s problems. She rarely thought of her own needs. God bless her soul.

5.She was a very hard working woman who loved a clean environment.

6.Amidst many years of pain, torture and dire poverty,she lived to be 85 years old and has left behind 5 grown up children,36 grand children, 21 great grand children and 1 great great grand child. Both my father and my 3 step mothers are deceased.

Yes, on that day-her burial day-as she will be lowered to her resting place until the resurrection day, I will deep in my heart whisper these words,”Fare thee loving mother. We truly appreciate all your sacrifice on our behalf. There is no question that you will be missed, but we look forward to seeing you in the earth made new.If we,your children will remain faithful,then in a little while,we’ll be home.” Rest in peace from all the pain that you have gone through.” On that day,you will be able to see your children again! Hallelujah.

Is your mother still alive? Please let them know how much you appreciate them. If yours is already gone then know that my prayers and thoughts are with you.

Even so come Lord Jesus and take your children home. We are truly sick and tired of this world. Amen!

Pr Absalom Birai
612-386-4608
www.pastorbirai.com

Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

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Absalom Birai Nov 4 (1 day ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 8:35 AM
subject I miss Mama’s cooking!

Mama was and still is, even in her old age,a wonderful cook. Anything she cooked was delicious! She knew how to roast ground nuts and made the best Christ mas rice! She trained my sisters very well, who in Mama’s absence, cooked just like Mama.

Soon will be 29 years since my sweet heart came into my life and took over from where Mama left. Like Mama and my sisters, she has done a wonderful job in feeding the children and myself.I do not recall a day when I have gone to buy food in a restaurant because I did not like what my wife cooked. Have always enjoying her cooking.

Do I help in cooking? Yes, indeed,but apart from making soup and Mandazi, which I am good at,no one else likes anything that I cook! Surprisingly, not even me!

What am I driving at? I am of the opinion that women should always cook, not so much because men are superior, but rather because they do an excellent job in cooking. If women understood this fact,it will help ease too much fighting in many homes as to who should cook! There are certain things that are best done by women. Don’t you think so?

Cheers!

Pr Birai
www.pastorbirai.com

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catherine njiiri Nov 4 (1 day ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 8:48 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

hi uuuuuui! a pastor! what kind of pastors do we have in Kenya. Do u know who Kenyan men are to give such advise esp Agikuyu a Kabete na Muranga? Please withdraw the statement pasi. Uko juu !

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Kiptenengen arap Matiangigen Nov 4 (1 day ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 8:54 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Dear Pastor,

If your wife cooks as good as your Mama, why in the heavens would you miss Mama’s broth.

On the other hand, you argue well that women cook better than men. I’ve never disputed that fact. It’s African division of labor.

But let’s face the facts, the Bible, which you preach, is the greatest tool for the enslavement of humanity, particularly the female race. Ever heard that the place of the woman is in te kitchen, the Church and the bedroom?

Again, pastor, I ask you to start thinking before you post topics on non-Church fora.

Kipteenengen araap Matiaangigen.

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Kuria-Mwangi Nov 4 (22 hours ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 11:50 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Gichaba and Pastor Birai,

If women are better cooks, how come the best and top chefs are mostly males? This porojo of women being better cooks should not be used to force women spend more time in the kitchen under the pretext of being better cooks. It worked in those days because women mostly house wives and it was demanding too much to expect the bread winner (husband) to come home in the evening and cook for mama watoto who spent most of the time in the house.

My experience in USA and may be other western countries where Kenyans have migrated to is that in most two parent families, the woman is the main bread winner. She is putting in more hours than the man, working over nights while lazy heads (husbands) are contented with only one job. It is the women working heavier work, in health fields while most men work in jobs where they sit down (like in parking lots or group homes) while women spend time in nursing homes lifting over weight americans and pulling doubles and many times bringing home three times what males brings. It is women who are even investing more back home and sending more dollars and pounds compared to the lazy heads. And you want the woman working for 16 hours a day come home to cook for a lazy head who has been sitting and sleeping in a group home for 8 hours or even worse for lazy heads opting to be house boys? Get serious.

Kuria

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Kuria-Mwangi Nov 4 (21 hours ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 12:42 PM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Gichaba and Pastor Birai,

Now you can see what I was talking about. Women have started to
complain esp. because of the possibility of Kenyan men taking Pastor’s advise and demanding that only women can cook “good” food.

Catherine deliberately left out Nyeri men because she knows Nyeri women dont have problems with men from anywhere. You bring porojo about women being the best and only cooks to Nyeri women at your own risk.

I know a Murang’a man who married a Nyeri lady and before long he became a very good cook. Returning home earlier than mama watoto and waiting for her to come to cook. After she knocked off 7 of his teeth in three battles where she won with unanimous point decision and TKO, he knew better than assume that only mama watoto cook. That is why Cathrine didnt mention Nyeri or Kirinyaga men because they know better. In that Nyeri woman case, she one day came home and on being asked by husband what they will eat she replied, “tukuria nyukwa” (we will eat your mother). Nobody expect his mother to be on menu for dinner and so he quietly went to kitchen and cooked something else.

I agree with Cathrine that we need to avoid sending messages which can be misinterpreted. As Gichaba eloquently said, the Bible has been used by males to subjugate women, selectively employing verses which relegates women to servants for their male husbands and limiting their work to the kitchen and other places where men could be served without question. Instead of the woman becoming a partner with equal rights, she becomes a serf. You have heard of cases where the Biblical verse talking of husband being the head of the family being misused even in cases where women demand that they are necks, without which the head would be useless. It is at the pulpit where this subjugation has been perpetuated most, in most cases, arising out of poor and ill advised misinterpretation of the good book.

Kuria

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Ernest OYUGI Nov 4 (1 day ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 9:45 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

That is a peculiar believe you got in your head…..any woman can cook well…….it is natural in them

those who eat in restaurants under such pretex have their own issues….

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Absalom Birai Nov 4 (18 hours ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 3:40 PM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

@ Kuria,

Every single day,I spend time reading almost all the write ups in Bidii-Africa and YPS. Long time ago, I learned and accepted the fact that we are all different. What that means is that no two people will see,,view,or like the same things. There are things that you write that I don’t agree with,but there are people out there including yourself who like it and I have no problem with that.

As a pastor,my calling is different. I am here to encourage many by approaching what I write from different angles. I just don’t write for the sake of writing. I think, rethink, reflect,and consider all the consequences before I post anything. I tend to be careful lest I offend any one. Whenever I close the line, I always regret and try a different approach.

In all my write ups, I hardly insult anybody,question what people write,take myself as a standard or even act as a police telling people what do write and what not. I am good at using a delete key. Unlike many,I hardly call any one names.

Every single day,I come through so many complicated cases dealing with family issues. And so whenever I write, I do so with hopes that it will bring comfort to someone.And I thank the good Lord that it never goes in vain. Humility is all that I cry for daily. Don’t want to look down upon any of God’s children.

I wish to appeal to all of us to learn to respect one another. Let us stop calling others names and respect people for who they are.

Blessings and best of luck in all that you do.

Pr Birai

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“s.p.mwangi@ . . . ” Nov 4 (21 hours ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 12:42 PM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Some men are very good cooks. Should we lock them out of the kitchen because they are men.

The jams on our roads also keep many women from the kitchen. We get home so late that by the time you are home you are not even hungry and despite having someone to cook you just drop off to sleep.

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone from Zain Kenya

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maurice oduor Nov 4 (21 hours ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 1:00 PM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

I hate to brag but I am a very good cook. I can cook Luo food, Digo and Duruma food, Chinese food, Indian food and of course Canadian food (if there is such a thing as Canadian food)

In fact none of my exes could match my cooking. The Chinese one came close though.

I started cokking at a very tender age of 8. I remember I would be looking after the cooking while my mom was busy conducting the refreshment business i.e. biashara machozi ya simba. There was this Kisii neighbour named Richard ( my mom referred to him as Lichat) whose wife worked terrible hours as a nurse so he would do most of the cooking for his family. Lichat would give me pointers every now and then and even introduced me to hot peppers. If I didn’t want my old man to eat, I would use liberal ampont of pepper in the food.

I miss those simpler times.

Courage,
Maurice

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Anthony Chege Nov 4 (12 hours ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 10:34 PM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

This is a open forum with members of different religions and the good Pastor was just expressing his opinion. He is entitled to that without being bashed from left right and center for being a Pastor and having an opinion.

You either agree or disagree but dont bring the issue of the bible here because he did not quote from it either. Also by saying that the bible is the greatest tool for human enslavement..you error but thats your own opinion!!!

I believe that the word of God sets you free not enslaving you so please take time to read it and then you can make an informed comment or statement in regards. The good Pastor had a point. Let him be heard.

Regards,

Anthony

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David Kilonzi 11:46 pm (10 hours ago)
date Nov 4, 2009 11:46 PM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Most chefs are men because men tend to be cleaner than women – biologically!

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Terry Shiundu 1:27 am (9 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 1:27 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

I love cooking, and though my husband would be willing to help, i would rather do it myself. He tried when we just got married but i found it difficult. I don’t consider it slavery or inferiority when i do it. I love it and i enjoy the days i have opportunity to do so and try different recipes too. Why should anybody fight over who should cook or not cook. If your wife has a problem cooking because she’s not good at it, try taking her to a cookery (not sure if this is the right word) class, especially if she’s willing, otherwise, employ a cook,. It should not be a big deal!….though it is……

And if one’s husband enjoys cooking (as some do, because its there profession or they grew up loving it as a hobby) , let it be, there’s no problem in a man cooking for the wife and/or the children. It is a blessing to serve.

Terry

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DAVID mburu 1:58 am (8 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 1:58 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Pastor,

I personally like your articles because they are balanced and yes I have not read any insults. May the Lord encourage you to continue.

David

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jimmie kamau 12:26 am (10 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 12:26 AM
subject [YP_Ke] Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

True in deed BUT for NYAMA its me who cooks in my house

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Aggrey Mmbaya 2:21 am (8 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 2:21 AM
subject RE: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Pastor we should all be treated like equal colleagues. Name calling is part
of life and we must accept it.

Peris Kabiru 2:41 am (8 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 2:41 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Well said Chege.

Pst. Birai just expresses his opinions for us to reflect on & doesn’t impose them on anyone.

Guys we need to be more tolerant of one another. Everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion & If for sure you don’t agree with an opinion put acrosss & you feel you must point it out, please do it in a respectable way. Bashing and name calling doesn’t augur well at all.

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Faith Nkatha 2:51 am (8 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 2:51 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Amen Pastor.

We’ve been given different abilities by God and I believe He had good intentions for us all when He did this. Unfortunately we’ve allowed the devil to lie to us to the extent that society has no idea of what the roles in a family mean… so much that we’ve allowed for wo/men to even get married to each other…. it’s a sad thing.

Nkatha Makeba

There is no poverty that can overcome diligence

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Peris Kabiru 3:22 am (7 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 3:22 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Pst. Birai,

Please do not feel discouraged & continue posting your articles for those of us who read them & get to reflect on ourselves & other matters.

Peris

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Judy Miriga 3:34 am (6 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 3:34 AM
subject Reality Check

Judy Miriga
Diaspora Spokesperson
Executive Director
Confederation Council Foundation for Africa Inc.,
USA
http://socioeconomicforum50.blogspot.com
—–Original Message—–
From: mrbob_k []
Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2009 1:48 PM
Subject: Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

WIFE

A married woman. In Hebrew, ‘ish·shah? means “woman” (literally, a female man) or “wife”; the wife was referred to as one “owned by a husband.” (Isa 62:4, ftn) In Greek, gy·ne? can mean “wife,” or it can mean “woman,” whether married or not. Jehovah God provided the first man Adam with a wife by taking a rib from him and building it into the woman. She thereby became bone of his bones and flesh of his flesh. She was the counterpart of Adam and was created as a helper for him. (Ge 2:18, 20-23) God dealt directly with Adam, and in turn, Adam passed on God’s commandments to his wife. By reason of his prior creation and his being created in God’s image, he had the priority as head and was the spokesman for God to her. His headship was to be exercised in love, and the woman as a helper was to cooperate in the procreative mandate issued to the pair.-Ge 1:28; see WOMAN.

After the sin, first of Eve, who instead of being a helper to her husband proved to be a temptress, and then of her husband Adam, who followed her in transgression, God pronounced judgment on the woman, saying: “I shall greatly increase the pain of your pregnancy; in birth pangs you will bring forth children, and your craving will be for your husband, and he will dominate you.” (Ge 3:16) Since that time, among many peoples of the earth the woman has indeed been dominated, often in a very harsh way, by her husband, and instead of being a companion and helper, she has in many cases been treated more like a servant.

Among the Ancient Hebrews. Among the ancient Hebrews the man was the head of the house and was his wife’s owner (Hebrew, ba?? al), and the woman was the one owned (be?u·lah& #8242;). Among servants of God the wife occupied a dignified and honorable place. Godly women of spirit and ability, while subject to their husbandly head, had much latitude and freedom of action and were happy in their place; they were blessed in being used by Jehovah God to perform special services for him. Examples among the many faithful wives of the Bible are Sarah, Rebekah, Deborah, Ruth, Esther, and Mary the mother of Jesus.

Wife protected under the Law. While the husband occupied the superior position in the marriage arrangement, God’s requirements were that he was to provide for and care for the family in a material and spiritual way. Also, any wrongdoings of the family reflected on him; consequently he had a heavy responsibility. And while he had greater privileges than the wife, God’s law protected the wife and gave her certain unique privileges, so that she was able to live a happy, productive life.
A few examples of the Law’s provisions involving the wife were: Either husband or wife could be put to death for adultery. If the husband was suspicious of secret infidelity on the part of his wife, he could bring her to the priest, for Jehovah God to judge the matter, and if the woman was guilty, her reproductive organs would atrophy; on the other hand, if she was not guilty, the husband was required to make her pregnant, thereby publicly acknowledging her innocence. (Nu 5:12-31) A husband could divorce his wife if he found something indecent on her part. This would likely include such things as showing him gross disrespect or bringing reproach upon the household or that of his father. But the wife was protected by the requirement that he must write out for her a certificate of divorce. She was then free to marry another man. (De 24:1, 2) If the wife made a vow that her husband thought unwise or detrimental to the family’s welfare, he could nullify it. (Nu 30:10-15) This, however, was a safeguard for the wife, keeping her from any hasty action that might bring her into difficulty.

Polygamy was allowed under the Mosaic Law but was regulated so that the wife was protected. The husband could not transfer the right of the firstborn from the son of a less-loved wife to the son of his favorite wife. (De 21:15-17) If an Israelite daughter was sold by her father as a servant and the master took her as a concubine, her owner could allow her to be redeemed if she did not please him, but he could not sell her to a foreign people. (Ex 21:7, 8) If either he or his son had taken her as a concubine and then married another wife, she was to be provided with food, clothing, and shelter, as well as the marriage due.-Ex 21:9-11.

If a husband maliciously charged his wife with having falsely claimed to be a virgin at the time of marriage and his charge was proved false, he was punished and had to pay her father twice the marriage rate for virgins and could never divorce her all his days. (De 22:13-19) If a man seduced an unengaged virgin, he was required to pay the marriage price to her father and, if the father permitted, to marry her, after which he could never divorce her all his days.-De 22:28, 29; Ex 22:16, 17.
While the position of the wife in Hebrew society was somewhat different from a wife’s status in Western society today, the faithful Hebrew wife enjoyed her position and her work. She helped her husband, raised the family, managed the household, and found many things of satisfaction and delight, being able to express her womanly nature and talents to the full.

Description of a Good Wife. The happy state and activities of the faithful wife are described at Proverbs 31. She is said to be of more value to her husband than corals. He is able to put trust in her. She is industrious-weaving, making clothing for her family, attending to the buying of household needs, working in the vineyard, managing a household with the servants, aiding others who need help, clothing her family attractively, even bringing in some income by her handiwork, equipping her family against future emergencies, expressing herself in wisdom and loving-kindness, and, through fear of Jehovah and good works, receiving praise from her husband and from her sons, thereby honoring her husband and her family in the land. Truly he who has found a good wife has found a good thing and gets goodwill from Jehovah.-Pr 18:22.

In the Christian Congregation. The standard in the Christian congregation is that a husband should have only one living wife. (1Co 7:2; 1Ti 3:2) Wives are commanded to be in subjection to their husbands, whether these husbands are Christian believers or not. (Eph 5:22-24) Wives are not to withhold the marital due, for as with the husband, so with the wife, she does not “exercise authority over her own body.” (1Co 7:3, 4) Wives are instructed to let their primary adornment be that of the secret person of the heart, producing the fruitage of the spirit, that perhaps through their conduct alone the unbelieving husband may be won over to Christianity.- 1Pe 3:1-6.
Figurative Use. In a figurative sense Jehovah spoke of Israel as his wife by reason of his covenant with the nation. (Isa 54:6) The apostle Paul speaks of Jehovah as the Father of spirit-begotten Christians, and he speaks of “the Jerusalem above” as their mother, as though Jehovah were married to her for the purpose of bringing forth spirit-begotten Christians. (Ga 4:6, 7, 26) The Christian congregation is spoken of as the bride, or wife, of Jesus Christ.-Eph 5:23, 25; Re 19:7; 21:2, 9.

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Aggrey Mmbaya 6:05 am (4 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 6:05 AM
subject RE: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Yes David well played, However they all come from one region in Kenya

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Kuria-Mwangi 8:54 am (2 hours ago)
date Nov 5, 2009 8:54 AM
subject Re: I miss Mama’s cooking!

Pastor Birai,

I have read each and every piece you have written, even before Bidii was conceived when you posted in Jambo. And yes, I cant remember any time you attacked or insulted anybody. Yours have been thought provoking pieces and this one was no exception. I guess your intention was/is to teach as well as provoke thoughts and discussions but of course devoid insults. I can only wish that I can be as tolerant as you are but with time I have also learned to ignore postings which may make me reply in anger. Your style was encouraged by my Prof. in KU called Ted Gronwegen. He wanted us to employ the devil advocate method in order to elicit varied and exciting responses in teaching. This implies that some people will give opinions which are “off-side” or going against your position. It is a learning process and I have learned alot in these fora even in postings which some people may dismiss as worthless.

If we can avoid attacks, the forum would be better. However, this may be better said than done and so the use of delete key is sometimes the best approach. But I am sure you also get discouraged if nobody responds to your postings as I do sometimes. I can only add that there are hundreds of silent readers and listeners out there who look forward to reading your pieces and responses even though they say nothing and i am one. I will probably respond in “controversial” ones in good faith and out of excitement.

Keep on writing Pastor and hope that one day we will meet. Have beeen to your neck of the woods but the place is too cold for me:)

Kuria

Un-called for attcks!

Leave a reply

From: Absalom Birai
Date: Sun, Oct 25, 2009 at 7:58 AM

Not that any leader should not be questioned for that which they say,write,stand for or their policies;but I find the daily attacks on president Obama un-called for. It’s unfair for others to dictate to him on things they want to see done, and done immediately.

When President Obama was elected President,He had his own vision on where he wanted this country to be in the period of four years.He shared this vision during the campaign trails, which some people bought and made up their mind to vote for him. Then,as in now,he has his own unique way of doing things,that is in some ways quite different from all others. All that people need to do, is make some suggestions, pray for him, and give him time to pursue his agenda.

People need to be reminded that we are all different. Even when we have undergone the same training,we have different ways of viewing and doing stuff.There are people who need to stop seeing themselves at the standard. If for some reason we don’t like the way others do things,let us wait for our time when we can have an opportunity to do better. We are all different! Don’t you think so?

Have a wonderful day free from the desire to criticize others even when there is no need to.

Pr Birai
612-386-4608
www.pastorbirai.com

– – –
Subject: Un-called for attcks!

The costly price of stealing!

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From: Absalom Birai
Date: Fri, Oct 23, 2009 at 2:19 PM

The sixth commandment is very clear and needs no explanation. It reads,”You shall not steal.” (Exodus 20:15).

I am yet to find anyone who likes a thief;no,not even family members. As soon as people know that you are a thief,they shun you and don’t want anything to do with you. No company can hire you if they know that you are a thief.

If caught,the price is huge-Many years behind bars,huge fine, and more often than not,depending on the crowd, people have been beaten until they died. That is how much people hate stealing.

I met someone just recently who spent 10 years behind bars for stealing with violent. I am sure that you are aware of people who have spent more years behind bars for stealing. But are people learning anything? I am afraid,not. Both young and old are involved in several forms of stealing that will finally catch up with them. Below are some of the ways in which people steal:

-People walk into the store with the plan of changing price tags or leave their old clothes and put on new ones.
-Employees stealing from their place of work, student stealing from their fellow students,people fueling their cars and taking off without paying for it.
-Spouses stealing from each other and parents/children stealing from each other.
-Employees asking fellow employees to punch in for them whenever they are late.

So,what’s the solution? If you are involved in any kind of stealing,then please stop from now hence.Purpose in your heart never to go back. If that seems too much for you,then know for sure that a thief has got but 40 days. One day, you will look back and regret. But then,it will be forever too late.

Have a good weekend filled with the presence of God in your heart. Will you?

Just a thought!

Pr Birai
612-386-4608
www.pastorbirai.com
– – –
Subject: The costly price of stealing!

When laws/policies hurt.

1 Reply

From: Absalom Birai date Mon, Oct 19, 2009 at 1:05 PM

I have no problem with laws/policies whatsoever;for I believe that when they were first enacted,they were enacted so as to meet a need, and make life better for some,if not all.The problem I have, though, with some laws/policies is that more often than not,no one goes back to check of their effectiveness and relevancy to the people it was meant to help or safeguard. And because of this,some people suffer a great deal under the law/policy that was meant for nothing, but good. I have concerns regarding some of the laws.

This last weekend wasn’t the best for me. I am still recovering after driving a total of 3000 miles between Friday and Sunday.What happened?

I got word on Friday at around 1:00 PM that our daughter @ a university in another state had fallen sick and rushed into the University hospital,emergency ward. I immediately called the university trying to get as much information as I would on the status of our daughter.They refused to release any information because the law does not allow them.Nothing I said,no,not even the distance between us would compel them to release any information. She is over 18 years and therefore protected by the law.

I had no choice but to travel some 20 hours accompanied by other family members! Just think about this. A total of 40 hours on the road and spending some $ 600.00 because no one was willing to tell me what my daughter was suffering from. Thank God she is well and back to life as usual.

One other law that is nothing but headache to many parents is getting access to their children’s academic grades. Even after they turn 18 years old, some children depend on their parents for financial assistance towards their university education. If say,your son/daughter is not doing well,and you need to know,such information as I understand will not be available to you. They will need permission from your son/daughter to release such information. How can a child who is the problem allow such information to be released? And so I wonder,”How does this law help the parents?

Last, but not the least, is laws that make it so hard to help those in need. I have heard cases where a good Samaritan stopped to help, only to be sued for who knows what! I also recently read a story of a father who went to a nearby store with his son’s friend only to be sued. I don’t know how the case ended. You are always afraid of having someone eat at your place for fear that you might be sued if say that food makes them sick.Hard to help those with special needs even if they are your neighbors. You never know when someone will sue you.

Apart from these three,there are many laws/rules/policies that enacted many years ago. With time,a lot has changed which then calls for routine reviews to determine their relevancy! A failure to do so,will only go to frustrate the very people that we are trying to serve/help. The only exception is God’s laws that will never change and therefore need to be treated with awe! Is there anyone out there who has been affected in one way or the other? Do you care to share?

Pr Birai
612-386-4608

Re: Questions about God!

1 Reply

From: Absalom Birai
Date: Wed, Sep 16, 2009 at 6:21 PM
Subject: Re: Questions about God!

Throughout the centuries,many have raised questions about God;some either out of curiosity or a sincere desire to understand/know God, and others out of malice or with the aim of proving that there is no God!

In the process,some have arrived at their own conclusions and thus misled many,while others are still searching?

Which leads me to this taunting question,”Can any one understand all about God?” No,not even one.

So,how do we go about understanding God? Just go by what the Bible says! Here is how the Bible deals with some of the questions:

Moses said to God,”suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them,’The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’and they ask me,’What is his name? Then what shall I tell them? God said to Moses,”I AM WHO I AM! This is what you are to say to the Israelites:’I AM has sent me to you.'” (Exodus 3:13-14.

“The secret things belong to the Lord our God,but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever,that we may follow all the words of this law.” (Deuteronomy 29:29.)

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God,”who is,and who was,and who is to come,the Almighty.” (Revelation 1:8.)

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8.)

“Philip said,”Lord,show us the Father and that will be enough for us,” Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me,Philip,even after I have been among you such a long time? anyone who has seen me,has seen the Father.” (John 14:8-9.)

“I and the Father are one.” (John 10:30.)

So, the best way to deal with controversial issues, is to thread carefully;yea, to recall what God Himself told His servant Moses,

“Do not come any closer,” God said,Take off your sandals,for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” (Exodus 3:5.)

Have a wonderful and blessed day.

Pr Birai
612-386-4608
www.pastorbirai.com

Re: Sex before marriage: The wisdom of waiting!

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Sex is one subject that many of us would rather not talk about, and yet it has been a root cause of pain,stomach ulcers,torture and misunderstanding to many . Its effects has led to some,especially un married women, opting to take off their own lives!

The Lord of the universe,who knows the end from the beginning,allowed sex, but within certain perimeters! According to the Bible,sex is reserved for married people.

Some,deferring God’s word and conventional wisdom,have over the years,decided not to wait and instead have taken things into their own hands and went for it without any apologies,regrets,or any concern whatsoever!

What has been the outcome?

-A lot of children born outside wed lock. Some of those children have suffered emotional abuse as they found themselves here without their permission. To survive,they have had to move from one relative to another. Thanks to grand parents, and mostly grand mothers, who have always stepped in.

-Many young girls have been abandoned and left to struggle alone bringing up kids, that they did not plan for. Many have been forced to quit school.

-Many young girls have lost their lives in an attempt to abort!

-Many have lost their lives due to all kinds of diseases. Many have come to realize and admit the truth that there is no such thing like safe sex! Even when all think that everything is safe, lo and behold,they have been taken by surprise for the occurrence of the un-thinkable!

-Many young ladies have found it a huge mountain to be married with
a child/children! There are very few men who are willing to marry a woman with a child

How does it affect the men/boys?

-Their actions has led to many women/girls quiting school to take care of the kids.
-The un-fairness of abandoning the ones they once claimed to love.
-Child support for 18 years.
-The possibility of sickness and dead.
-The possibility of quiting school to work and take care of the child/children
-Pain,torture and too much conflict involving your wife and the child/children from outside wed lock!

When you consider all the above and many more,the only wise thing is for the un-married/boys to wait for the right! Will you?

Is there anyone out there who would like to chip in and help us see some more light? Any experience/practical examples?

Blessings.

Pr Birai
612-386-4608
www.pastorbirai.com

– – –
From: Absalom Birai
Date: Tue, Aug 18, 2009 at 6:26 PM
Subject: Re: Sex before marriage: The wisdom of waiting!

Re: 2nd fundraiser for Duncan Nyanaro Osoro!

Leave a reply

The committee for Duncan’s fundraiser met today @ the chairman’s house-7500 Fairfielf
Road, Brooklyn Park,MN 55444!

After length discussion, the committee voted to do the following:

-Voted to request the committee members to go everywhere soliciting for funds. The
chairman-Mr Joash Omandhi- will make cards that can be used by the committee members to
solicit for funds.Give him a call during the week to collect yours.
-The next fundraiser was scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 20th, 2009 @ Mr Joash
Omandhi’s home-7500 Fairfield Road,Brooklyn Park, MN 55444 from 7:00 PM.

We hope, pray and look forward to this would be the last fundraiser for our brother.
Please know that we truly appreciate all that you have done to this brother, a son of a
single mother, who has already been in jail for the period of one year.

If you want, you can make a contribution by use of credit card, debit card, and check
card. Simply sign in into www.themaranathasdachurch.org.
While there, please make your contribution through pay pal. This system allows even those
out of town to make a contribution hassle free.

Please do something instead of ignoring this issue over an over again.
Help as if this is your own little brother.

Pr Birai
612-386-4608
www.pastorbirai.com

– – –
Date: Sat, 23 May 2009 20:29:49 -0700 (PDT)
From: Absalom Birai
Subject: Re: 2nd fundraiser for Duncan Nyanaro Osoro!

Re: Will Kenya ever learn!

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My devotion this evening took me to two portions of Scriptures! Here they are:

Judges 17:6, “In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit.”

Proverbs 29:18, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”

On finishing reading, I found myself asking this million dollar question, “Will Kenya ever learn? Why such a question! Here is why!

-It wasn’t long ago since Kenya went on fire with unthinkable loss of lives and property.
-It seems as if all leaders are on holiday. People are suffering with very little to eat, no jobs,poverty is on the rise and yet nothing seems to bother the leaders of our nation.
-It seems as if so many want to be president at the same time and by force.
-It looks as if the Government does not care about her employer-the people of Kenya.
-It seems as if the system has failed to appoint that everyone is doing what they think is fit.
-For how long shall we depend on International countries to help us sort out our differences!
-Has any of the leaders ever thought of sacrificing for the sake of the people?
-What will it take the leaders to realize that things are falling apart?

Just disappointed with the bickering of the Kenyan leaders!

Pr Birai

– – –
Date: Sun, 26 Apr 2009 22:46:21 -0700 [04/27/2009 12:46:21 AM CDT]
From: Absalom Birai
Subject: Re: Will Kenya ever learn!

Re: I wish I knew!

Leave a reply

If there is one sad expression of regret and disappointment that I have so often heard, then it must be this: “I wish I knew!”

Chances are that by then, its too late!

The two areas where such regrets are often heard is in marriage and traveling to a new location, far away from home! Such an expression would signal two things:

-Either the person was told but decided to ignore, or
-The person was denied some basic but crucial and essential information!

If I were to chose, I would have chosen to know something and decide otherwise than to do something for lack of information.

Perhaps the greatest regret will be when Jesus finally returns and you find your name missing? I don’t want to even think about it! But is that for real?

According to Mathew 7:21-23, some of those who have over the years been actively involved in preaching the good news will be left out by the Lord himself. It’s indeed sad to note that the Lord will deny having
a knowledge of such! Why? “Because they did their own things and not what God expected of them.

But it will even be worse to those who passed the information. The word of God says that such will be condemned. If you have time, read Mathew 5:17-19 and see what the good Lord told His disciples while on earth.

So, for those of us who share this word, there are several points that we need to recall.

-You and I must continue learning at the feet of the cross
-You and I must preach and teach what the Bible says. If you and I don’t believe what the Bible teaches how then can we teach others?
-We must stay away from the traditions. If any doctrine is not supported by the sure word, then we should re-examine it
-You and I must stay away from condemning anyone.
-If you and I believe that we are on the right path, then we should go
a head while leaving everything to the good Lord

What about the hearers?

-They should be careful not to believe anything.
-It becomes each ones responsibility to examine himself/herself daily to see if they are in the faith. You must be willing to put all things into test
-Ignorance will never be an excuse for entry into the kingdom
-Spend time with the word and plead with the good Lord to help you understand Him better
-When it comes to our salvation, its an individual thing. We are saved as individuals and not as a family, community, etc

As we near the end of time, let us pray for one another so as not to be found wanting. Let us take all precautions now than regretting at the last minute! Shall we?

Just a thought.

Pr Birai
612-386-4608
www.themaranathasdachurch.org
– – –
Date: Mon, 30 Mar 2009 04:08:12 -0700 [03/30/2009 06:08:12 AM CDT]
From: Absalom Birai
Subject: Re: I wish I knew!

Re: Touching the wrong buttons!

Leave a reply

If we are humble enough, we can learn something valuable from our own inventions, or better still, from the machines that we have made to serve us! Some examples will be in order.

-When you are using a computer, you must learn to stay away from the delete key! Many have deleted information that they so much needed by just touching the key by mistake.

-Just think of the damage a pilot may cause by touching a wrong button while up in the air

-There are other numerous machines that if you touch the wrong button, they will cause serious damages

The same might be said of our God! How so? History reveals that although our God is a loving, compassionate, and caring God, a time comes when by touching a wrong key, we cause our own destruction. Any examples? Sure. Here they are:

Genesis 6:5-7 And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him in his heart. And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth…

Genesis 19:13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the Lord; and the Lord had sent us to destroy it

Daniel 5:30 In that night was Beltshazzar the king of the Chaldeans slain

Mark 11:15-17 Jesus drove them out of the temple for making it a den of thieves

Acts 12:20-24 The angel of the Lord killed Herode for lifting himself above God?

So, what lesson, if any, do we learn from all these?

-In our life of disobedience, stubbornness, and continuous sin, both
in private and public, let us remember that a time comes when God says: Enough, is enough! Let us therefore thread very carefully! Remember that while you and I can hide things from each other, our God sees all that we do in secret, reads our hearts and motives, and knows our dwellings.

-In dealing with each other, let us learn and be careful what buttons we touch. Even the meek and polite ones have buttons that are out of bound. Let us therefore learn to respect others and avoid by all means touching wrong buttons that can generate heated debate, anger, name calling and sometimes uncalled for fight of words and what have you. If you do that, you will be in the position to dwell peacefully with all people.

But the question is: Are you willing to avoid touching the wrongs buttons of your family members, friends, community, enemies, and in fact all God’s children? As for me, I am willing! How about you?

Just a thought.

Pr Birai

– – –
Date: Sun, 22 Mar 2009 07:01:20 -0700 [09:01:20 AM CDT]
From: Absalom Birai
Subject: Re: Touching the wrong buttons!

Re: A disease called competition!

Leave a reply

No one is saying that competition is wrong! What I am suggesting, though, is that in an attempt to get that which others have attained/acquired, we more often than not, ignore some basic facts of life. Like which ones?

-We forget to remind ourselves that we will by no means be like so and so in every aspect
-We’ll never be the same
-Each one of us is good at something that usually is so different from others
-We usually lack information on how so and so arrived at where he/she is.
-Unfortunately, some of us use wrong methods in trying to catch up with others

But wait a minute, is there such a thing as competition? Absolutely! Take a look at the
following:

-Every time I am driving at a posted speed, I have witnessed some drivers who seem to be
out there trying to compete with everyone else.
-There are individuals/families that are struggling so hard to be like other families
-There are friends who are ever in stiff competition with their friends
-There are spouses who are ever in competition with each other; competition on who drives
what car, who makes how much, who gives orders/commands, who washes dishes, who does
laundry, who makes the bed, who goes to buy grocery and the list goes on.
-Is it safe at the houses that are called by the name of God? What do you think? There
too there is always competition on who should occupy what position even though the truth
of the matter is that there is no pay
-How about places of work? There too there is always competition and should I add inner
wrangles as to who should occupy what position.

I can go on and on, but allow me to sum up by pointing out the end result of any ill
motivated competition.

-It almost always ends up in creating jealousy,enmity/ hatred/animosity
-Occasionally, it ends up in killing
-It has been the cause of divorce in some circles

So then what’s the solution? This is my take on it:

-To be like the apostle Paul,”Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in
whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” (Philippians 4:11
-To allow the mind of Christ to be in us-Philippians 2:15
-To be like John, the baptist, who was will willing to decrease for Jesus to
increase-John 3:30
-To be like the prophet Daniel, who gave all the credit to His God-Daniel 2:30

Its OK to “let the sky be the limit!” As a matter of fact, the good Lord wants His
children to be the head and not the tail! The key here, though, is to let the good Lord
be the focus of all that we think, plan, and do! “How best will this glorify my Lord?, “
ought to be the constant challenge to anyone who loves He who gave it all for our sake!
Hallelujah!

Indeed, I am willing to take that challenge as I do all in my power to get rid of this
dreadful disease! How about you?

Just a thought!

Pr Birai

– – –
Date: Sun, 15 Mar 2009 16:25:58 -0700 [03/15/2009 06:25:58 PM CDT]
From: Absalom Birai
Subject: Re: A disease called competition!

Re: “Because, Mum bought me a T-shirt!”

Leave a reply

I was just trying to be friendly to my 10 year old customer when lo and behold, he said
something that pierced through my heart and truly humbled me! Wow, I said to my inner
person! “Where in the world did he learn that?” I wondered in quietness! Here is what
happened!

A mother and her three children came through my register. A son-10 years old and his two
younger sisters! Each of the sisters bought a candy! To apply my sense of humor, I asked
the 10 year old boy who didn’t seem to mind about the candies. “How about you? How come
you did not buy a candy?” I inquired, as I continued to scan their merchandise.

“Because Mum bought me a T-shirt!” the boy answered! “Well, that is very kind and
considerate of you!” I said to the little boy! “Thank you sir!” he answered!

After they left, I took a long time to reflect on what my little customer had said and
the deeper implication of the statement! Here is what ran through my mind.

-There aren’t that many people out there who think of others! It’s always about us. It
reminds me of this man who used to pray, “Lord, please bless me, my dear wife, our son
Jim, and no one else!
-There are some rich people out there who exploit the poor and the very needy. God have
mercy please!
-Think of the many politicians who exploit those that voted for them
-If there is any promotion at our place of work, our thoughts are always about us getting
it.

This incident reminded me of a very touching story that I once read. It was a story about
these two young men who worked for a certain company. One of them was hard working while
the other one was not.

One day, the boss informed the hard working young man that he was due
a raise! The next day, the hard working young man came with a very interesting request.
“Sir,” he said to the boss, “I want to thank you for considering to give me a raise, but
I think that my friend needs money more than I do. I therefore request you to please give
him a raise instead of me.” Talk about a surprise and bizarre request! What a spirit of
sacrifice!

The boss would not believe it! Here was someone who was so mindful of others! The boss,
however, did something very mature and commendable. He decided to give both of them a
raise! Thank God!

Well, what else can I say? The young boy ministered unto me in ways he did not even think
about.

It reminded me of another one who gave it all for the sake of those that did not deserve
it-the man of Galilee, the poor Nazarene, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior! He died a
shameful death so that you and I will have an opportunity to be called His sons and
daughters! Wow! Thank you Jesus!

Oh! how I cry daily to become more like Him! How about you?

Just a thought.

Pr Birai

– – –
Date: Sun, 15 Mar 2009 18:11:19 -0700 [03/15/2009 08:11:19 PM CDT]
From: Absalom Birai Subject: Re: “Because, Mum bought me a T-shirt!”

Re: Keeping Mr Hubby in check!

Leave a reply

I was so busy scanning their merchandise, when another customer squeezed herself through making her way to another register! The husband said something to the other customer that I did not hear!

“Were you mean to her also?,” asked the wife with great concern! As if she knew that I wanted to know more, she added, “my hubby is usually so mean to people, and so, I must keep him in check!” I was indeed touched by what she said and wondered about its implications!

It used to be that parents kept their children in check, but as things stand, there are both wives and husbands that need to be monitored on what they say and do! Why so?

You see, things like relationships take along time to form but only seconds to destroy for sometime, if not for ever!

Besides, if one is not careful about what they say or do, they will alienate many and thus find themselves alone and isolated!

So it really boils down to this! Since you know what kind of material your husband/wife is made of, and that which he or she is capable of doing to cause drama, you may as this lady, do everything possible, but in love and patience to keep your hubby or wife in check! Will you please?

Just a thought!

Pr Birai

– – –
Date: Sat, 14 Mar 2009 05:07:11 -0700 [03/14/2009 07:07:11 AM CDT]
From: Absalom Birai
Subject: Re: Keeping Mr Hubby in check!

Re: Hi Doc!

Leave a reply

While on earth, the man of Galilee, was daily asked to explain/expound on certain subjects! While some of them were politically motivated, others were genuine questions.

So busy as He was, He took time to answer the questions in ways that I have always admired! It’s interesting that the gospel writers sometimes ends with this clause “After that…no one dared to ask any more questions!

Even though I have over the years studied the gospels in great humility, I don’t seem to have had enough! Indeed, I will continue the search!

The Pauline epistles, give us information on another great man-the apostle Paul- who was ever busy. That said, he spent some of his time answering questions or trying to clear some misunderstandings.

From time to time, I find myself called upon to answer some questions! Much as some of this questions are sensitive, they need to be answered!

I received a call from another state whereby this friend who had bought my autobiography,”Except for the Lord,” and was calling to order for the next one,”my midnight hour,”wanted to know why I prefer to use one title-Pr Birai- over the other title-Dr Birai.

Since I have been asked that question several times, let me attempt to answer it in great humility!

In all that I do-preach, write articles, write books, and help others-I want the man of Galilee and not me to be seen! Why!

-I have come along way! No one knew that I would be alive today, be where I am, and do that which I am doing!
-The good Lord, has brought me a long way. He and I have come a long way! So much that the Psalmist cry, “What can I render unto my lord for all His goodness unto me,”(Psalms116:12,) has been the cry of my heart for many years!
-During my many years of suffering, I prayed to God to help me attain the highest education possible and yet remain as humble as the man Moses; yea, more than Moses, the man of Galilee, Himself!
-And because of this,all that I care for is the world to know me as a humble servant of God! So that I don’t confuse you, I have no quarrels whatsoever with those who have worked so hard to use their titles! I have very great respect to all and use titles that apply to each one!
-I have told my wife and children that the day I go the way of my fore fathers, all I want people to remember of me is that I loved the Lord of the vineyard and all His children without partiality!

And so dear friends that is why I love it when one calls me-Hi pastor! rather than Hi Doc!

Oh! each day I am pleading and crying to become like Him in all that I do! How about you!

Blessings.

Pr Birai
– – –
Date: Thu, 12 Mar 2009 14:08:24 -0700 [04:08:24 PM CDT]
From: Absalom Birai

Subject: Re: Hi Doc!

Re: Quiting Walmart!

1 Reply

I have been with Walmart as a cashier since September 30th, 2008! Since then, I have learned several lessons in great humility,some of which I have shared with you!

That said, yesterday, I tendered my resignation with effect from March 24th, 2009! Their reaction, was a humbling experience to me. I truly thank the good Lord for using me to be a witness for Him. They were unwilling to let me go. They went to an extend of requesting me to work even if it means once a week.

Much as I love cashier work, it has become hard working 30-40 hours a week and 40 plus hours as a pastor. Home visitation and hospital visitation that I love so much have suffered greatly!

Besides, I need to grow Maranatha, help raise funds so as to buy our God a house of worship, and even help plant more churches in Minnesota and other States.

The Lord has therefore impressed upon me to quit Walmart at this very challenging economic turn down times and concentrate on preaching the word.

As always, my thoughts and prayers are with all those that I love like you! That’s why I spent a good portion of my time to put down thoughts and send them your way.

It’s in view of this that I wish to solicit for your prayers once more on my ministry. Pray that I may be able to decrease so that the man of Galilee will increase; Yea, more than that, pray that I may continue to learn in great humility at the feet of the cross.

Also pray that I may be able to reach many through visitation, e-mails, and my books! Will you promise to pray for me?

Thanks a million.

Pr Birai

– – –
Date: Wed, 11 Mar 2009 07:33:47 -0700 [09:33:47 AM CDT]
From: Absalom Birai
Subject: Re: Quiting Walmart!

Re: Ever failed in anything?

Leave a reply

Have you ever failed in anything? Such as what?

-Examination/quiz
-Work related interview
-Getting a visa/scholarship
-Marriage/relationship
-Diver’s license
-Christian life
-Business

If not, then you have no idea what life is all about and indeed need that kind of experience! What’s are you talking about? Allow me to explain.

You see,I have serious problem with people who tend to think that life is all about passing or success! When such people are finally confronted with the reality of life, they just break down or do something silly to hurt themselves and others! Let me give you several examples.

-I heard a story over the radio of this girl who wanted to commit suicide for getting a B grade instead of all A’s. When interviewed, she said that she ward so smart for any kind of grade other than straight A
-Ever noted that usually A students have some issues in life?
-I know of this lady who divorced because her husband became a pagan by
eating meat.
-There are those who are so much consumed by the perfection disease that they find it extremely hard to communicate with sinners who do not measure up with their high moral standards
-There are people who are so serious about Christianity that they consider any sense of humor as sin!
-People who have not failed at any time in their life time , have hard time dealing with failures. They just can’t understand why some people are not smart like them

I am not saying that we should plan to fail or go looking for it.
What I am saying, though, is that as long as we are in this world, we need certain experiences in life to help us wake up or change course.

By the way, do you know that our God at times allows failure to come our way so as to teach us?

So, any time failure comes your way, thank God for it, pick yourself up, learn something from it and move on! Will you?

Just a thought.

Pr Birai
Minnesota, USA

– – –
Date: Mon, 9 Mar 2009 06:44:03 -0700 [08:44:03 AM CDT]
From: Absalom Birai
Subject: Re: Ever failed in anything?