DREAMS AS A CATALYST FOR TRANSFORMATION
“Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Mathew 1:19-21
In the realm of human existence, dreams have always held a mysterious and captivating allure. From the surreal landscape of slumber to the corridors of our subconscious minds, dreams serve as a gateway to the extraordinary. In the Bible, dreams are not merely figments of the imagination; they are potent messengers, often serving as the divine blueprint for significant outcomes. Sigmund Freud’s theory of dreams suggests that dreams represent unconscious desires, thoughts, wishes, fulfillments, and motivations. Our thoughts and dreams are closely connected, which help in fulfilling the visions we have in life. Nevertheless, dreams that we have in our sleep are not mere dreams that fades away like the morning dew. By following some of the biblical narratives, dreams can be powerful tools for warnings to be ready for an imminent disaster or to shape our vision into reality and a catalyst for transformation of a person or certain situation for the good of that person or the society.
Consider Joseph, who was happy being in love with Mary, dreaming of being happily married. While Joseph was happily dreaming about his future life together with Mary rumour had its way that was so disturbing. He surely must have wished that the rumour was a hoax. In this moment of confusion, God sent an Angel to talk to him through a dream. Joseph understood that the truth was revealed to him by God through his dream. His confusion was resolved because he believed in his dream. If we apply this narrative to ourselves today, I wonder how many of us would have brushed this dream aside and preferred to chart our own course never knowing how we might thwart the plan of God in our lives.
God sending clear messages through dreams is a mystery. Pilate’s wife had a dream where God tells her to tell her husband to have nothing to do with that righteous man Jesus, something Pilate should have paid attention to when Jesus was on trial. Scientific research has its way of explaining the association between real life and dreams while we sleep. They refer to it as the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep that plays a role in memory consolidation, emotional processing, brain development, and dreaming. The Bible has many stories about powerful dreams. Dreams can be interpreted in many ways synonymous with divine communications, visions of the future, source of inspiration, transformation, call to action, etc. Science also does not negate the connection between daydreaming and dreams in our sleep in such a way that there are general relationships between elements of nocturnal dreams and daydreaming style within individuals. For example, a daydreaming style characterized by anxiety and distractibility is correlated with bedtime dreams that are highly bizarre, emotional and nightmarish. Our social reality can determine what we see or experience in our dreams when we sleep. Therefore, when we are weary and confused, not knowing what to do, if we fall back on God, often, God speaks to us through dreams. The Christmas story that began with the Angel appearing to Mary and subsequently to Joseph through a dream, confirms my faith that God intervenes in human lives in many mysterious ways. Often, God’s ways are beyond our human rational understanding so was the birth of Jesus for our redemption and transformation of the world.
Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi, A/D CPRRMD
A Brief Report of the United Bible Societies – World Assembly 2023, Egmond, the Netherlands by Rev. Brajendra Kumar Kauri, Auxiliary Secretary, Odisha Auxiliary
By God’s grace, amidst confusion and numerous challenges, it was truly an honour and privilege for me to represent the Bible Society of India as an Emerging Leader at the World Assembly 2023 in the Netherlands. I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to our General Secretary, the Board and the Leadership at the Central Office in Bangalore for their unwavering support and for ensuring all the necessary arrangements were made for me to attend the prestigious event. Furthermore, my sincere thanks to the Leadership of the United Bible Societies for selecting me to be a part of this Assembly.
About 390 attendees, including representatives from 147 Bible Societies around the world, met for the World Assembly held in the Egmond aan Zee, the Netherlands, between 12 – 18 October 2023. The theme for the Assembly was “God’s Word: Reconciliation for the World”.
I would like to share some of the key insights that I have gained from the World Assembly 2023 as follows:
- Most individuals lack an understanding of the distinction between the terms “unreached” and “unengaged unreached”. It is surprising how many churches and ministries, despite being capable and mission oriented, are unaware of the significant number of people in the world who still cannot access the Word of God in a language and format they can comprehend. Our mission is a timeless one, but it must be carried forward in a sustainable manner, both in terms of resources and adaptability. I observed and learned that sustainability is about more than just financial stability; it is about the ability to evolve and respond to ever-changing needs. We leave here today determined to deepen relationships with our partners, donors, well-wishers, and other important stakeholders, inspired by the dedication of the United Bible Societies to adapt and thrive in this dynamic world of Bible mission. This shows us where we are and where we will be.
- The strategies and engagement with churches depends on the context. Involving with the family and young people and about content creation. How can Bible Society partner with churches and organizations to create meaningful content that can grow into Bible engagement. We need to present a new image. It is not so much as what we do but how we do it that matters. Through various programs that align with our mission and vision, we strive to ensure that the translated Bible reaches its intended audience and fosters meaningful connections. From creative storytelling to digital platforms, we have been inspired by these approaches and how impactful they have been to the intended audiences. We are inspired and determined to implement them in our work back home.
- In a world marked by migration and displacement, the Assembly has emphasized the importance of addressing the spiritual needs of migrants and refugees. We have been deeply moved by the discussions on this topic, and the significant role of the Bible Societies in providing comfort and guidance to those who are in search of hope and a sense of belonging. The Assembly has instilled in us a renewed sense of purpose in supporting these marginalized communities. We appreciate and congratulate the UBS for the launch of the Migration Bible, an important resource in Bible engagement and ministry to the marginalized.
- The power of collaboration has been a resounding theme throughout the Assembly. We work together as a Fellowship because we firmly believe that this collaboration is founded on biblical principles. We will consider the reallocation of resources for Bible Engagement in so far as this helps us in our mission sustainability and distribution. It is through Bible Engagement that churches are revitalized and individual lives, communities and nations are transformed. We have witnessed the strength that comes from working together, surpassing boundaries, cultures, and denominations and para church organizations. The insights we have gained affirm that united action can address global challenges and multiply our impact.
- In terms of Mission resilience, the purpose of change management is to implement strategies for effecting change, controlling change, and helping people to adapt to change. It gives a clear direction, communicating regularly in a spirit of transparency and coordination with the spirit of togetherness as a team. That is where the collaboration started with Bible translation, publishing, distribution, and engagements of the Scripture with advocacy.
I intend to carry forward these lessons and the statements that we have made with unwavering commitment. I understand that our mission goes beyond the pages of Scripture, reaching into the depths of people’s hearts and the fabric of communities the world over. Together, let us ensure mission sustainability to further the cause of Bible translation, engage diverse audiences, support migrants, and foster collaborations that transcend all boundaries. I have experienced the richness of God and His glory by being willing to learn. To have a fruitful result we need the Lord’s companionship every day in our personal responsibility and community life.
The Big Conversation Statement on the topics such as Bible engagement, Bible translations, Mission resilience, Digital transformation, Creation care, serving diaspora communities, along with the printed Bible distribution had an immense effect on the UBS fellowship.
I had the amazing opportunity to meet with the Leadership of UBS Global Mission Team, General Secretaries, and the Boards, as well as the Emerging Leaders from various Bible Societies. I am truly grateful for this exceptional opportunity, and I hope that our collective dedication to the mission of the United Bible Societies through the Bible Society of India will continue to shine with the message of hope, love and faith bringing reconciliation to our nation and world through God’s Word.
The Uncomfortable Normal: Love – Disturbing Conventions
by the Students of the United Theological College
Here is the story of the students of United Theological College, as part of their Intensive Field Education under the Bible Society of India:
It was our first venture into the unfamiliar campus known as the Home of Hope. With no idea of what to anticipate, we were greeted by the gatekeeper, who happened to be an inmate and a volunteer. As we were guided into the shed to meet the supervisor, a strong odor enveloped us. Inside, we encountered individuals in a state of utter helplessness, both physically and mentally. The supervisor was seen applying medicines to the wounded bodies, while volunteers assisted in bathing and drying the inmates, and applying ointments on their wounds. They were given their daily tablets for the wounds to heal. Our eyes, noses, and ears could not avoid witnessing the agony of the people who were suffering in pain.
We felt disturbed and even prayed to God asking, “God, protect us and fill us with your Holy Spirit to bear these scenes and stand as a true witness to your love without murmuring and protect us not to fall sick!” Such was our condition. We were disturbed to know that this uncomfortable life is the ‘normal’ for those involved in this home. A little later we served food to them. The next day, after we gathered courage through prayer we were able to get involved physically by helping them in cutting their nails. It was a blessing for us that we could have one-on-one conversations with them which made us feel more confident to serve such people. We truly feel that this ministry is just like the ministry of Mother Teresa in the city of Joy in Kolkata and are convinced that these are the people for whom Lord Jesus came into this world, to serve and not to be served in the most difficult terrain.
Mr. T. R. Raja aka Auto Raja, the founder of this home, was a proponent of the love of Jesus Christ and through this experience, we were inspired to break our conventional notions of comfort and to become uncomfortable for the sake of Love. It was eye-opening and challenging to truly be praxis-oriented in serving humanity having Jesus as our role model. As was repeated time and time again by Mr. Raja, “Jesus ‘touched’ the leper to heal him and thus we should be daring to do the same”. Mr. Raja was influenced by Matthew 25:40, “I the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me’.” And thus we were also inspired to live for the least of these.
The Home of Hope is a home that cares for the destitute, schizophrenics, mentally challenged, and disabled men and women, who were abandoned or living in the streets. The home also cares for orphan children. There are about 400 men, 350 women, and 50 children on an average. We urge you to witness and participate in this ministry and such similar ministries for the helpless and hopelessly broken in body and spirit.
Team members: J Yesurathnam, Bian A. Sangma, C. S. Pradeep and Koushhik P J.
BSI KERALA AUXILIARY KATTAKADA BRANCH (TRIVANDRUM): BIBLE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION
BSI Kerala Auxiliary held their Bible Convention, Bible exhibition and sales at CSI Church, Kattakada under the auspices of Kattakada Branch from 20th to 22nd October 2023. The Auxiliary Secretary Rev Jacob Antony Koodathinkal shared the Word on Sunday Worship at the CSI Church. The Bible Exhibition began with prayer by Rev. M. S. Swingly, (Branch President). We thank Rev. Sadheeshlal Mr. Vimal Raj (Branch Secretary); Mr. Gunamony (Regional co-ordinator, Trivandrum East Region), the Church Committee and the entire congregation for their leadership, great support and participation.
