Resetting Life's Clock and Renewing the Cloak: A Fresh Start

Clearing Out the Old to Embrace the New

Philipose Vaidyar

(Adapted from my sermon delivered on  29 December 2024) 

 

As we enter a new year, it’s natural to reflect on the habits, routines, and attitudes we’ve carried with us. Much like the objects and tools in our daily lives, there comes a time when we need to evaluate what’s useful and what’s holding us back.  

Take, for instance, the calendar hanging on the wall. Throughout the year, it reminds us of plans, events, and appointments. But at the end of the year, we replace it without hesitation, making room for a fresh one that reflects the days and opportunities ahead. In this digital era, we don’t even keep the old calendar for reference—it has served its purpose, and it’s time to move on.

Similarly, think about the clock on our wall. We glance at it multiple times a day to track time. Yet, when its battery runs out, we replace it promptly. The spent battery is discarded without attachment, ensuring the clock continues to serve its purpose. Or consider a worn-out tire: we don’t wait for it to become dangerously unfit before replacing it. The risk is too great, so we act quickly and responsibly.

These examples teach us a valuable lesson about life. If we know how to remove, replace, and discard old items that no longer serve us, why are we sometimes negligent in dealing with our outdated habits, behaviors, and attitudes?

Think about the garbage in our kitchens. If left unattended, it begins to stink by the next day. Nobody wants the foul smell lingering, and we certainly don’t want others to endure it either. So, we take action—disposing of it properly, burning what can be burned, burying what can be buried, and recycling what can be reused. This simple principle has profound implications for our personal lives.

Why cling to old habits, toxic behaviors, or mindsets that steal our peace and burden those around us? The start of a new year is our chance to discard the "garbage" in our hearts—resentments, grudges, or harmful patterns—while recycling the lessons of the past into wisdom for the future.

This is more than decluttering; it’s a soul-deep renewal. Let’s burn away what harms, bury what hinders, and embrace what transforms. As we swap old calendars and replace expired batteries, let’s resolve to leave behind anything holding us back and step boldly into the fresh opportunities ahead.

 

A Biblical Roadmap to Renewal

As the year ends, we reflect on life’s journey—its highs, lows, and lessons. While we may carry burdens of regret or unresolved pain, the Word of God calls us to let go of the old and embrace the new with hope.  In Colossians 3:1-17, the Apostle Paul provides a clear guide for leaving behind what weighs us down and stepping into a life renewed in Christ. Let us meditate on this passage and its wisdom as we prepare for a fresh start in the new year.

1. Set Our Minds on Things Above (Colossians 3:1-4)

Paul begins with a call to recalibrate our focus:

"Since, then, we have been raised with Christ, set our hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God."

To "set our minds on things above" means shifting our perspective from the temporary to the eternal. The concerns of this world—our achievements, possessions, or struggles—are short-lived. But the treasures of heaven are everlasting.

As we look ahead, let us resolve to invest in the eternal. Spend time in prayer, study God’s Word, and nurture our relationship with Him.

2.Put to Death the Old Self (Colossians 3:5-7)

Paul instructs us to "put to death" whatever belongs to our earthly nature, listing sins such as sexual immorality, greed, anger, and slander.

Leaving the past behind requires intentional action. Just as a gardener uproots weeds to make space for healthy growth, we must remove destructive habits and attitudes to thrive in our new life with Christ.

Reflect on areas where we need to let go of old patterns or behaviors. Let us surrender them to God and trust in His transforming power.

3. Clothe Ourselves with Compassion, Kindness, and Humility (Colossians 3:8-14)
After shedding the old self, Paul urges us to "put on" a new wardrobe—one that reflects the character of Christ. Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience are not just virtues; they are the spiritual garments that distinguish us as followers of Jesus.

Paul highlights the importance of forgiveness:
"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" (Colossians 3:13).

Forgiveness is a necessary part of this new attire. Just as Christ forgave us without condition, we are called to extend the same grace to others. It frees us from bitterness and restores relationships within the body of Christ.

Above all, Paul instructs us to put on love:
"And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity" (Colossians 3:14).

Love is the overcoat, the crowning garment that completes our spiritual wardrobe. It binds every virtue—compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and forgiveness—into perfect unity. Without love, these qualities lose their coherence and purpose. Love is central to holy living, reflecting the character of Christ and the heart of the Gospel.

When we clothe ourselves with these virtues, wrapped in the love of Christ, we embody His life and become a witness to His transforming power. This spiritual attire ensures that we live in harmony with others and radiate the Kingdom of God in all we do.

4. A Heart Ruled by Christ's Peace and Enriched by His Word (Colossians 3:15-17)
Paul concludes with a powerful exhortation that emphasizes three guiding principles for living a Christ-centered life:

¹⁵ And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. ¹⁶ Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teach and admonish one another in all wisdom, and sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God. ¹⁷ And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:15-17).

This passage calls us to live intentionally, allowing Christ's transformative power to shape every area of our lives. It invites us into a deeper relationship with Him, guiding us through three key practices:

Let the Peace of Christ Rule in Our Hearts

Reconciliation and peace with God are central to our faith. When we allow the peace of Christ to rule in our hearts, it becomes the foundation for unity with others and stability within ourselves. This peace is not passive but active, calling us to resolve conflicts, live harmoniously as one body, and reflect the love of Christ in our relationships.

Let the Word of Christ Dwell in Us Richly

The Word of God must take up residence in our hearts and minds, saturating every aspect of our lives. This involves:

Meditating and Applying the Word: Engaging deeply with Scripture through study, meditation, and obedience transforms our hearts and aligns our lives with God’s will.

Teaching and Encouraging One Another: When the Word dwells richly in us, it equips us to teach, admonish, and inspire others with wisdom, whether through psalms, hymns, or Spirit-filled songs.

Aligning with God’s Will: Immersing ourselves in the Word renews our minds and enables us to discern God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will.

When the Word shapes our perspectives and actions, it becomes the anchor that steadies us in uncertainty and the lens through which we view life’s complexities.

Be Thankful for All Things

Gratitude is woven throughout this passage as a vital aspect of the Christian life. Paul reminds us to:

• Be thankful for God’s peace and promises: Recognizing His goodness fills us with gratitude that transcends circumstances.
• Give thanks in all we do: Whether in word or deed, our actions should glorify God and express appreciation for His blessings.
• Extend gratitude to others: A thankful heart fosters humility and strengthens relationships within the body of Christ.

When we let Christ’s peace rule, His Word dwell richly, and gratitude overflow in our hearts, our lives become acts of worship. This holistic approach transforms our daily actions, enabling us to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, bringing glory to God and reflecting His love to the world.

Moving Forward Together

As we close this year, let us commit to leaving the past behind—not by our own strength, but through the power of the Holy Spirit. Let us set our minds on things above, put to death the old self, clothe ourselves with Christ-like character, and live each day for His glory. Take a moment to write down one thing we want to leave behind in 2024 and one way we want to grow towards maturity and a fruitful life ahead in 2025 and for eternity. 

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A Journey Off Course

The Illusion of Direction

Philipose Vaidyar

If Bombay can alternatively be called Mumbai, why can't Bangalore be Mangalore? My journey from Nilambur to Bangalore in the summer of 1997 brought this question to life with unexpected depth.

I was traveling for a ten-day program in Whitefield, representing my college at Madurai. The 8-9 hour bus ride would take me through Gudalur, Mysore, and Bangalore. It was a typical summer day as I stood at the Nilambur bus stand, waiting for the Thrissur – Bangalore bus to arrive. Suddenly, I spotted Sam, a familiar friend who worked and lived in the Malappuram district and shifted to Calicut a couple of years ago. He approached me with a broad beaming smile, and we discovered we were headed to Bangalore.

Sam and I took adjacent seats on the left side of the bus. As we settled into the journey, the road began winding ascent through the scenic Nadugani Ghat. Our conversations flowed, and Sam shared his remarkable life story. Once a restless soul who had fled home, he wandered in search of peace but found none. It was in Nilambur, years ago, that he encountered the gospel, which gave his life a newfound purpose.

Sam became a devoted evangelist, working for a church mission. But when the mission faltered due to crucial leadership failures, he faced immense struggles. With two young children to support, Sam was now traveling to Bangalore for an interview for a job in Dubai. His bag held a newspaper clipping with the interview details.

As the bus climbed the Nilgiris, the landscape unfolded its breathtaking charm. The air grew cooler, eucalyptus trees lined the road, and pines and silver oaks rose majestically, their shadows dancing on the valley below. It felt as though the trees were silent witnesses to our journey, their stillness a sharp contrast to the whirlwind of emotions in Sam’s story.

At Gudalur, the bus stopped for lunch. We followed the driver and conductor to a small eatery, a simple but reliable choice. The food was plain yet satisfying, a much-needed break before the road to Mysore stretched ahead.

Passing Mysore Palace was a fleeting moment of grandeur—its glittering domes and sprawling gardens a brief yet unforgettable sight. Sam and I spoke less now, each absorbed in our thoughts as the bus headed toward Bangalore.

As evening descended, we arrived at the bustling Majestic Bus Stand. From there, we caught a city bus to Austin Town, where my friend Philip welcomed us into his small but hospitable home. Despite having guests already, Philip made space for us in his cramped drawing room. After a modest dinner outside, we lay down on a makeshift bedding  and drifted into sleep, weary from the day’s travel.

The next morning, as I reminded him to locate the interview address, Sam retrieved the newspaper clipping from his bag. I wanted to have a look at it before handing it over to Philip, who was to examine the address. To my amazement, I noticed that the address was in Mangalore! Philip said Mangalore is another 9 hours journey away from Bangalore.

Sam's eyes opened wide in astonishment. He said he had verified with more than one person about the address. A college student had assured him that Mangalore and Bangalore were the same. Locally, in Malayalam, Bangalore was referred to as Banglore, and Mangalore as Mangalapuram, but the two cities were 350 kilometers apart!

Sam consoled himself with the fact that there was one more day for the interview. He could still make it to Mangalore; it’s another 8-9 hour journey from here. At least he didn’t miss the interview entirely. Sam, though shaken, remained resolute. He decided to press on, unwilling to abandon his goal.

Reflections on the Road
We both had to leave Philip’s place sooner: I to Whitefield and Sam to Mangalore.  As I watched Sam depart, I was struck by the sadness of his mistake. He was sincere and determined, yet a single misunderstanding had sent him miles in the wrong direction.

It made me reflect: How often do we embark on life’s journey with the best intentions, only to find ourselves off course? Are we certain of our destination, or do we, like Sam, rely on flawed information, risking precious time and effort?

But how did the interview turn out? Almost 28 years later, as I wrote this, I checked with Sam and discovered that the interview was a complete sham. They collected passports and some money but have not returned either yet.

“Do all roads lead to Rome?” Perhaps they do. But not all paths lead to the ultimate truth. The Bible reminds us:
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matthew 7:13-14)

In life's journey, sincerity is crucial, but it must be paired with clarity of direction. We must ask ourselves: Are we on the right path, or will we one day regret realizing we’ve been heading the wrong way? When it comes to life’s ultimate destiny, there are no second chances to correct our course once we’ve arrived. Proverbs 14:12 reminds us of this sobering truth: "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." Let this verse urge us to seek God’s guidance and ensure that our steps align with His will, leading us to the right destination.

The Deceptive Web of False Prophets!!

 

As we celebrate Christmas and the New Year, reflecting on the light of Christ—the reason for this season—we’re reminded to renew our walk in His truth. This is a time of giving and receiving, as we share love and reflect on the greatest gift: Jesus Christ. Yet, amid this generosity, some are more focused on receiving—false prophets cloaking selfish motives in spiritual pretense. They speak of blessings but mean bank accounts, urging sacrificial giving while their hands remain open. This season, we must ask: who truly benefits from our giving, and how can we discern the difference?

Beware of False Prophets: A Warning to the Church

Philipose Vaidyar

In a world where false teachers and preachers often sway unprepared believers, the discipline of personal Bible study becomes a vital safeguard, anchoring faith in truth and fostering discernment against deception. Though I came to faith in my early teens, the discipline of personal Bible study became pivotal during my college years. It shaped my spiritual journey and equipped me to discern teachings in light of Scripture. This practice strengthened my faith and revealed a significant gap: many believers needed to learn the habit of studying the Word independently, relying solely on sermons for spiritual nourishment.

In conversations with pastors, I often encountered resistance to fostering personal Bible study among congregants, as some viewed it as a threat to their role. Yet, moments of openness—like when I trained grass-roots level church leaders in this discipline—proved transformative. Pastors who once relied solely on leading sermons began preparing and teaching with newfound depth, empowered by their engagement with Scripture.

These experiences affirmed the vital role of personal Bible study in spiritual growth. It nurtures discernment, deepens faith, and enables authentic leadership—an often overlooked yet indispensable aspect of discipleship. This conviction continues to drive my passion to equip others to encounter the transformative power of God’s Word first-hand.

Beware of False Prophets: A Warning to the Church

In the name of God, many have been deceived, manipulated, and exploited. False prophets have risen, claiming to speak on behalf of God, yet leading people astray. As believers, we are called to be vigilant, discerning, and grounded in biblical truth to safeguard ourselves and others from spiritual deception.

Recognizing the Red Flags

How can we identify false prophets? The Bible warns us:

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:15-16, ESV)

Here are some common red flags:

1. Lack of Biblical Foundation:
   False prophets often rely on personal experiences, emotions, or opinions rather than Scripture. They twist the Word to suit their agendas, ignoring essential doctrines.
2. Claims of Special Authority:
   They may claim an exclusive connection with God, presenting themselves as the sole bearers of divine revelation or power.
3. Unbiblical Healing Claims:
   Often, they promise miraculous healing while ignoring biblical teachings on suffering, faith, and the sovereignty of God. Paul reminds us:

"But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:9, ESV)

4. Greed for Money:
   Many false prophets are motivated by the desire for wealth. Paul warns us:

"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs." (1 Timothy 6:10, ESV)

Their ministries frequently revolve around personal financial gain rather than serving God and His people.

5. Manipulation and Control:
   False prophets use tactics like guilt, fear, or emotional appeals to control followers, often discouraging questions or accountability.
6. Independent Ministries Lacking Accountability:
   Some pastors and preachers operate independently without submitting to any oversight or accountability. Their ministries often center on personal gain, mobilizing funds under the guise of church activities. Such leaders frequently focus on acquiring wealth through offerings and investments in real estate, portraying success as a sign of God’s blessing.

"Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." (Proverbs 11:14, ESV)

Real-Life Examples

The church has witnessed many cases where false prophets have exploited their followers.

The Exploitation by False Prophets

1. Sacrificial Giving Abuse
False prophets often manipulate their followers into giving sacrificially, even beyond their financial means, by asserting that their blessings are directly tied to how much they contribute to their ministry. They exploit the sincere faith of their congregants, turning acts of giving into burdensome obligations, all while promising divine rewards that seldom materialize.

2. Independent Wealth-Focused Churches
Some pastors establish churches as personal empires, promoting wealth and prosperity as signs of spiritual favor. These leaders emphasize material success over genuine spiritual growth, mobilizing funds to acquire real estate or expand their personal influence. Congregants are often left spiritually malnourished, with their faith reduced to a transactional relationship centered on financial gain.

3. Creating Fear and Dependency
False prophets rarely provide genuine comfort or reassurance, leaving people confident in their spiritual well-being. Instead, they thrive on creating confusion and fear, often insisting that hidden problems exist in an individual's life—problems only they can identify or resolve. They manipulate through fear, claiming that attending their gatherings or meetings is the key to solving these manufactured issues. By fostering this dependency, they erode confidence in personal faith, redirecting trust and hope toward themselves rather than God.

4. Counterfeit Signs and Wonders
To reinforce their deceptive authority, false prophets frequently rely on counterfeit signs and wonders. These fabricated miracles are designed to captivate, instill awe, and create an illusion of divine intervention. By performing these acts, they lead followers to believe they possess exclusive solutions to life's challenges. This manipulation deepens fear and confusion, drawing people into a cycle of reliance on the prophet rather than encouraging them to seek the truth in God’s Word.

Through these tactics—exploitation, fear, and deceit—false prophets distort the essence of faith, replacing spiritual growth and freedom with control, dependency, and personal gain.

These examples highlight the dangers of misplaced trust and underscore the need for discernment.

The Dangers of Blind Obedience

When we blindly follow a leader without questioning their teachings, we risk being led astray. Scripture calls us to test everything:

"But test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil." (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, ESV)

1. Test All Teachings:
   Compare what is taught in the Bible to ensure alignment with God’s Word.
2. Seek Accountability:
   Encourage transparency and biblical oversight in your church or ministry. Leaders are called to shepherd, not dominate:

"Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock." (1 Peter 5:3, ESV)

3. Be Cautious of Emotional Manipulation:
   False prophets often exploit emotions to bypass critical thinking. Be vigilant against rhetoric designed to provoke guilt, fear, or uncritical loyalty.

 A Call to Discernment

As believers, we are not helpless. God has equipped us with tools to guard against deception:

1. Study the Bible:
   A strong foundation in Scripture helps us discern truth from falsehood:

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17, ESV)

2. Pray for Discernment:
   Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom to distinguish between truth and error:

"When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth, for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will declare to you the things that are to come." (John 16:13, ESV)

3. Seek Wise Counsel:
   Surround yourself with biblically sound leaders and mentors who can guide you and provide accountability.
4. Engage in Community:
   A discerning church community is a powerful defense against false teachings. Attend Bible studies and workshops to grow in understanding and vigilance.

Hope Amidst Deception

Though false prophets abound, we take comfort in God’s faithfulness. He will protect His people and guide them into truth. As Jesus promised:

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." (John 10:27, ESV)

We can overcome deception and walk confidently in faith by remaining rooted in Christ.

Let us be vigilant, prayerful, and committed to the truth. We can protect the church from deception and faithfully serve our Lord Jesus Christ.

May the light of Christ fill your hearts with joy, peace, and truth this Christmas and in the coming year. Wishing you a blessed and discerning season!

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From Beak to Bond: Lessons Beyond

Profound Lessons from an Unlikely Teacher

Philipose Vaidyar

The humble crow is one of the animal kingdom's most remarkable and often overlooked teachers. We've all heard of the classic story of "The Thirsty Crow," learning early in school how this clever bird drops stones into a pitcher to raise the water level, satisfying its thirst. But my recent encounter with crows taught me a deeper, more profound lesson about love, community, and the bonds they share.

As a child, I often watched how two crows work together craftily and intelligently. I witnessed, firsthand, how one crow would snatch a chick while the mother hen flew after it, and the other crow would swoop in to grab the chick. I thought to myself, "How clever these birds are!" Their strategic coordination was a lesson in teamwork, intelligence, and, at times, mischief.

Nowadays, in most areas except rural landscapes, it’s rare to find water pots left out for the crows to scout. They’ve adapted to modern sources, knowing water is usually available from taps rather than open pots. When you switch on the motor pump, even if it’s not very noisy, a thirsty crow observes from a distance. It patiently waits for the tank to overflow, then perches conveniently on the overflow pipe to quench its thirst.

In the realm of nature, there are countless lessons to be learned—lessons in intelligence, perseverance, and even love. However, what I observed recently added a new dimension to my understanding of crows. It was a lesson not just in survival but in love and mourning. My most recent encounter with crows taught me a lesson far more profound. It was not a display of intelligence or mischief, but one of love, grief, and community.

It began one morning when I noticed two dead crows lying in our compound. From the looks of it, they had been electrocuted by the power lines running through the area. As I made plans to bury them after a short trip, I didn’t think much of it. But what I witnessed the following day left me in awe. Early in the morning, before the sun had even begun to rise, the sky was filled with crows. Hundreds of them, flying in large, tight circles, cawing loudly and persistently. Their calls echoed through the air with such intensity and emotion that it was impossible to ignore. The heaviness in their cawing spoke volumes. It wasn’t just noise—it was grief.

I had never known that crows, with all their wit and cunning, could also be so deeply social and emotional. As I stood there watching, I realized I was witnessing something extraordinary: a communal mourning ritual. Research has shown that crows, like many other social animals, have the capacity for grief. When one of their own dies, they gather in large groups, cawing in what seems like a farewell. This phenomenon is not just about survival; it’s a testament to the emotional intelligence and social bonds that these birds share.

Crows are known for their complex social structures and behaviors. They live in tight-knit groups and display remarkable problem-solving abilities. However, it is their mourning rituals that truly highlight their emotional depth. According to studies, crows are known to hold “funerals” for deceased members of their flock. They may call out, gather in a circle, and sometimes even stay near the body for hours as if paying their respects. The mourning behavior observed in crows is not a random act but a social necessity—reinforcing their bonds and ensuring the stability of the group. These rituals, much like human funerals, offer a form of closure and solidarity, strengthening the emotional fabric of the community.

What struck me most was that these birds, often dismissed as mere scavengers, embody an emotional depth that challenges the boundaries we draw between ourselves and the animal world. The crows’ display of mourning wasn’t just instinctive—it was a profound act of love, loyalty, and shared grief, a poignant reminder of the strength found in the community. They weren’t simply circling the sky but honoring their fallen fellow, uniting themselves in sorrow.

In that moment, I was struck by how love transcends boundaries, uniting humans and animals alike. The crows' vigil was a powerful reminder that relationships—simple or profound—sustain us, especially in times of loss.

Their mourning wasn’t just nature’s display; it reflected our humanity, challenging the belief that deep emotional bonds are uniquely ours. Community and empathy are universal truths—the very fabric of life. Watching the crows grieve, I was reminded that life’s meaning lies in the relationships we nurture. Their actions urged us to grieve, heal, and honor what matters most.

Ultimately, the lesson is clear: love and connection define existence. Like the crows circling their fallen, we too must gather around those we cherish, offering comfort and strength in life’s trials. It is in these acts of togetherness that we find life’s deepest meaning.

Here is Romans 12:9-16 (NIV), which beautifully reflects the themes of love, empathy, and community:

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.
10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.
11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

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Riding Through Time

The Curious Chronicles of Cycles

Philipose Vaidyar

In a small hillside town in Kerala, fifty years ago, bicycles were the unsung heroes of daily life. They were more than just a means of transport—they were symbols of freedom and independence, carrying dreams and responsibilities alike over dirt paths and winding lanes. For many, owning a bicycle was a mark of pride, a modest luxury not every household could afford, yet an essential companion for those who did. These two-wheeled marvels were the common man’s faithful steed, tirelessly bridging distances, connecting lives, and simplifying daily struggles.

As a child, I would often stop at the sound of a metallic clink from a passing bicycle bell. It wasn’t just a sound but a melody that spoke of motion and possibility, a promise of journeys yet to be taken. The rhythmic squeak of the wheels, the occasional skid on a dusty road—all seemed to tell a story of freedom I could only imagine, a world of adventure just out of reach but irresistibly inviting. It was a simpler time, where even the hum of a bicycle chain carried the charm of a song unsung, weaving itself into the fabric of everyday life.

The Cycles of Life

My father owned a full-sized bicycle, a giant to my eight-year-old self. When he is not out, it rested regally on the veranda, its black frame gleaming in the midday sun, a tax tag from the Panchayat, a fixed yellow tin tag with black letters and a number, secured to any visible nut on the body. That tag, renewed every six months, was a ticket to legitimacy. Cycle inspectors emerged at times on roads, ready to pounce on anyone riding without a license. The fines they levied could buy a week’s worth of groceries, and yet the bicycle was worth the risk.

I was too short to ride it properly, but the pull of its allure was too strong to resist. Baby, one of my elder cousins, who visited our home, once, became my mentor at least for that day. He told me the art of one-sided pedaling—perching on the left, one leg on the pedal, and the other skimming the ground for balance. My classroom was our fine, cow-dung-plastered courtyard, and the compound, a maze of tree roots and loose stones that added layers of challenge to the learning process.

When my father wasn’t home, I would sneak the bicycle out. With the seat under my arm and my little legs spinning the pedals, I’d wobble my way around the yard. The crashes were inevitable, and the scars on my knees became a badge of honor among my friends. I felt triumphant the first time I cycled down the mud path, to the panchayat road to our paddy fields. A kilometer felt like a grand journey, the wind against my face like applause from an unseen audience.

But cycling was more than a skill—it became my companion in life’s journeys. I carried groceries from the market, bundles of gatherings from the fields, and even messages between neighbors. Yet, ironically, I never cycled to school. Back then, the sight of a student on a bicycle was almost unheard of; bicycles were for trips for tasks and work, not education.

As years passed, my connection to the bicycle deepened. I learned to fix its chain when it slipped off the crank wheels, patch up punctures with tools my father kept, and even dismantle and repaint it when the frame grew dull. By the time I was a teenager, the cycle was an extension of myself—a symbol of resilience, resourcefulness, and the joys of simple living. During the Christmas season, I even tried fixing tiny stars and lighting them up using the cycle's dynamo.

Mr. Bicycle

Decades later, bicycles continued to weave stories, like the one involving a missionary in a remote Maharashtrian village. In those days, motorbikes were coveted treasures, but for most missionaries, bicycles were the lifeline. This particular couple had a faithful companion in their eight-year-old cycle, which they used tirelessly to travel miles for their ministry. They visited families, shared the gospel in the local dialect, and fostered unity among their small community.

When the cycle started demanding frequent repairs, the missionary wrote to the organization for permission to buy a new one. A few letters and replies went back and forth, with carbon copies duly sent, and weeks passed in patient waiting. Finally, the reply came—a curt refusal.

“I’ve used a cycle for 15 years at home,” the administrator wrote. “You can maintain yours longer.”

Disheartened but undeterred, the missionary and his wife devised a clever solution. They applied for a new cycle in her name, reasoning that it would sidestep bureaucratic hurdles. Two weeks later, a check arrived, and the village welcomed a shiny new bicycle. The old one, meanwhile, leaned against the wall of their hut, gathering rust and stories.

Years later, when I saw that rusted bicycle during a visit, it spoke volumes. It was more than a discarded vehicle—it was a testament to perseverance, leadership, and the unspoken hierarchies that often define human interactions. I pondered the questions it raised:

• Do we truly hear the needs of those we lead?
• Is leadership about wielding authority, or is it about service?
• What impressions do we leave on the hearts of those around us?

 

The Bell That Rang in Wayanad

The hills of Wayanad have their own rhythm, a mix of misty mornings and bustling markets. It was here that I met Biju, the leader of a small NGO dedicated to empowering marginalized communities. In fact, I had been invited by Biju to create a video documentary on his work in Wayanad. I went for a location scout and our initial meeting. 

During an informal team discussion, one of his staff shared a heartfelt story about Babu, the high school-aged son of a local staff member named Kunjumon. Babu walked five miles each way to school, his feet weary by the time he returned home. Biju encouraged the boy to pray for a bicycle, promising to raise funds for a second-hand one. The bell of that bicycle began ringing in my ears.

Though my financial situation was insecure without a regular work in hand, I felt a nudge to help. I shared Babu’s story with a friend over the phone, and to my surprise, instantly he offered to gift the cost of a new bicycle. I enquired, George whose contact I had, to get a quote for a regular cycle. Within days, the funds were sent, as I insisted to George's account, and Babu had a gleaming new ride to conquer the hills.

But the story didn’t end with Babu’s joy. Biju, instead of celebrating the solution, was upset. He felt bypassed, his authority undermined. George, the staff member who facilitated the purchase, was fired.

I was stunned. Wasn’t the boy’s need the priority? Why did egos overshadow generosity? The incident left a bitter taste, but it also illuminated a harsh truth: sometimes, even acts of kindness are entangled in human weakness.

 

The Climax: A Cycle of Reflections

These stories—of my childhood bicycle, the missionary’s rusting companion, and Babu’s new ride—are linked by more than spokes and wheels. They are tales of humanity’s relationship with humility, authority, and service.

The bicycle, simple as it is, becomes a mirror. It reflects the dreams of an eight-year-old child, the resilience of a missionary couple, and the struggles of a boy in Wayanad. It also exposes the flaws in systems, the pettiness in leadership, and the power of small acts of kindness.

As I sat on my newer veranda, watching a child pedal past on a bright blue cycle, I thought about the journey of life itself. Like learning to ride, it’s a balance of falls and triumphs, of effort and grace. And in the end, the question isn’t about how far we traveled or how fast we went—but whom we carried along the way.

Wouldn’t you agree? (Your comments are invited)

Here is one from our son, Joash, that I captured once from the balcony in Chennai, enjoy yet another experience of his post on his cycling experience in Chennai and beyond!!! 

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