The Rugged Road of SAIACS

We all walk through the rugged road of SAIACS,

Shaped and moulded by pioneers' prayerful acts.

Founders, workers, and students walked this path,

Leaving a legacy for those who will take the oath.

A place called "excellence for service,"

Filled with people who hold this promise.

While some leave this place to minister,

Some remain to listen as God whispers.

Oh! who are we that the Lord calls,

To walk this path and serve within His halls?

May we never take His grace for granted,

As we walk the path the faithful planted.

(Vizo Seyie__19th Nov. 2025/on JOC chapel day)

Only Him!

I've noticed over and over again 

That when life does not favor us,

The only place we run to, is God.

The desires of the heart,

The thoughts of the mind,

And the longings of the soul

Are found only in Him.

Yes, only Him!

(Vizo Seyie, 23rd October 2023)

The Mural on the Wall

Some live their lives in haste,

Some let their moments waste.

But some count each day,

And walk a wiser way.

Like a mural on the wall,

Their lives speak to all.

Like books that stand so tall,

They’ve made it worth the call.

One dot may seem too small,

Yet patience shapes it all. 

Don't let your vision fall,

Wait for the final hall.

The picture will display,

For all the world one day.

That a life, like brushstrokes small,

Painted a beautiful mural on the wall.

(Vizo Seyie, 27th September 2025)

(Ps: A painting drawn by one of the Alumni where each dot represents the number of days spent in SAIACS)

Nature

Who can go against nature?

Whether good or bad, we cannot help but admire its beauty.

Be it trees, mountains, rivers or streams,

Can you find fault in them?

To complain is to make yourself a fool,

To appreciate is to elevate your soul.

So perfect as the trees grow taller,

So vast as the mountains stretch their arms,

So smooth as the rivers rush down,

So fresh as the streams glide by.

Look at the rocks, the sand upon the land,

Nothing bothers them.

What we see is peace and tranquility,

Surpassing every doubt and fear.

Think of the ocean’s waves,

Coming and going without regret.

Its vision deep and clear.

Simply being what it is!

There is nothing among creation,

Whether it breathes or not,

That fails to declare God’s glory

Without rest, day and night.

Who then, is the worst among creation?

Nature? Or man?

There is no defence for mankind.

At every hour,

A missing element lingers within him.

So poor, so wretched in his being.

But God, rich in mercy, deep in love,

Extended compassion to the worst,

That he might draw the best from him

Among all creation.

How blessed it is then, to say,

Thank you, Lord!

For your mercy and grace,

For your compassion and love.

Remember what the Psalmist declares,

“What is mankind that you are mindful of them,

Human beings that you care for them?”

_Vizo Seyie (9th August 2025)

Whispers and Deceptions: A Mafia Night (Part 2)

It all started with the outrageous voice of Blesson, heralding the truth out loud. He went to the point of sacrificing his own life, pleading the villagers to eliminate Vizo , whom he suspected to be a mafia. However, his courage led him into trouble, as the crowd outplayed him. Rumours had it that innocence has its own strength to outwit even the loudest voice.

Then came Awor, an innocent villager, who opened his eyes when mafias were called to open. His mistake of taking a tactical move left the mafias no choice but to eliminate him, having caught him red-handed. Rumours had it that Awor regretted eliminating his fellow villager Blesson, as he too stepped out of the game to join him sit on the table.

 Dr. Varghese having carefully observed the flow of the game spoke with decisive logic. Yet, the mafias fearing the worst, voted to eliminate him as well. Although the doctor *Sandya* had saved him once, he was eventually taken down as the villagers, in their most innocent and misplaced reasoning, successfully corporated with the Mafias.

Another villager, Salem who has been sitting between two mafias, powerfully fought for the villagers survival. He too argued with the logic, not realising that he had become the bait for the mafias. Rumours had it that mafias were deeply grateful to him, for he never suspected the two sitting besides him. Perhaps the greatest danger is closest at hand.

 Godfrey, the "holy Christian mafia," gathered all his courage to defend himself when he was caught. He argued that a mafia could be identified by signs of tension or stress, which he himself showed none. Ironically, what he claimed not to be was not convincing enough leading to his downfall. Rumours had it that he went out in peace and serenity which truly were his traits.

Among all, Ravi, the mafia gang's spokesperson, played a paradoxical role. Traditionally, it was believed that the one who spoke the most was the one most suspected. Yet his skillful play turned that logic upside down. The outcome felt like an oxymoron despite his talkative nature, he survived till the very end.

Moral: Even the shapest logic can fail when trust is misplaced, because in mafia, truth does not always win, perception does.

Jai ho Jai ho....JOC🙌😄🤪😜

M.Th 2: The Books on the Shelves: A Thesis Journey

Thesis-a must! There's no turning back!

It's frustrating, even depressing at times.

We get stuck not knowing which route to take.

Like sheeps without a shepherd-so helpless.

Thoughts overwhelm, but we simply don't know what to write.

Our screens consume the whole being, but there seems to be no answer.

Spending enough time, energy drained, not realising a well is already dug on our eyes.

We walk around thinking we'll get some inspiration from our friends;

But it's only suppressing to see them progressing while we stall.

Breakthrough never seem to show its face,

Hope no longer gleams from the depths of our carrels.

But wait a minute! Look at the books on the shelves! Don't they convey evidence and sheer hope? 

They are not simply coats of veneer, but proof of its possibility.

Think about them and let's keep our heads held high.

They took the same route we are taking now. 

Look at them, it's countless and humongous,

Displaying a glimmer of hope and confidence.

Just push harder for a while, and we'll see ourselves on the other side.

It may seem long, but we'll soon realise that we are already there. 

They say, “the grass is greener on the other side.”

But in fact it is greener, where we water it.

Let's keep watering our thesis.

It may take time, but we'll soon find ourselves standing on our own grass. 

Let's press on for we'll soon be like those books on the shelves.

(_Vizo Seyie, 21st June, 2025)

Happy Father's Day

So bold and so confident is your WORD that taunts and hunts DEATH proclaiming, "Where O death, is your victory? Where O death, is your sting?"

Here's a small note for you, dad:

Dear dad, despite your absence, 

The best thing was your presence. 

My heart longs to meet you there, 

Where you live at home so dear.

At times, I want to give up; 

But you're waiting with your cup.

How can I, when you did not!

I'll strive hard with all I've got.

Happy Father's day, Dad

(Vizo Seyie, 15th June, 2025)

The Carrels of Scholars

Oh! what joy it is,

To write a thesis.

We get stuck sometimes

But HOPE, it still chimes.

Like the sparkling pole

Our mind won't withhold.

For it is not just papers

It's the Carrels of scholars.

(Ps: Thanking God for Arho's head that sparkles without electricity and gives inspiration even without saying a word) 🙏🏻

_Vizo Seyie (9th June, 2025)

SEASON OF RETURN

Vacation gets colder,

SAIACS feels warmer.

Diverse hearts we see;

Camaraderei!

Homes and family missed-

SAIACS framily exists.

New season awaits,

A call to serve fate.

(Vizo Seyie, 2nd June, 2025)

Ekletos Chapel Week: Theme Song

HOLD ON TO CHRIST 

Verse 1 

We toil all day in the sun 

Seeking acceptance and praise 

But all that we do will soon end 

So Lets learn to let go my friend (x2)

Chorus

Hold on to Christ, the everlasting one 

for He is our firm foundation 

Hold on to Christ, our anchor of hope

He offers peace and life eternal.

Verse 2

Each day has its own wave,

The untold mystery is death

Be bold, Embrace what's at hand 

In this transient land (x2)

Verse 3

Excel in work and let's thrive 

Yes, learn to celebrate life

For in Christ our lives are secure

So live with joy and in hope (2x)

Written by: Vizo Seyie

Edited by: Ma'am Annie 

Dated: 26th February, 2024

Freshers' Night Song (M.Th 1/PG Dip.)

Main Verse

Life in the hostel, it is very fun.

If you cherish each day, it will go well with you. 

It's true, it's true, *it's true, it's true.* 

We wish that this never ends;

Rejoice and spend your time, these days will never come. 

Oh SAIACS, oh SAIACS.

Verse 1

Gents and ladies hostel, it is very fun.

To use washing machine, you need 10 kilos

Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no.

I wonder how this will work;

Sisters can wash themselves; brothers, don't you worry, You have the smaller one.

Verse 2

Students' life in SAIACS, it is not easy.

For there is no exam, yet don't take it easy.

You know, you know, you know, you know. 

I don't want this student's life;

Assignments can overwhelm, but AI says don't worry.

So relax and chill out.

Verse 3

SAIACS community, it is lively.

We can't wait for Fridays to have fellowship.

Oh yes, oh yes, oh yes, oh yes.

Class, get over quickly;

Fridays are the best night, you can be who you are, 

But Monday, why Monday?

Verse 4

Fish in the commons, it is very rare.

Your coming is a surprise, for you are expensive.

Oh ho, oh ho, oh ho, oh ho.

How we wish you were cheaper;

But still we can adjust, commons is still the best.

So just eat, you'll survive.

Verse 5

Sports in SAIACS, it is very fun.

We only have one ground, yet we play every sport.

Haha, haha, haha, haha.

Oh! how playful SAIACS are

Playing, giving your life, like international,

Smashing and striking.

End Verse

Life in SAIACS, it is very fun.

If you cherish each day, it will go well with you. 

It's true, it's true, it's true it's true.

_Vizo Seyie (12th July, 2024)

Mafia (Part 1)

The game Mafia was bombarded through Sinai's lead 💪🏻. As the game begins having settled who the mafias, villagers and the doctor were, Dr. Varghese , an innocent villager took the lead to speak up. He spoke like a modern villager that a doctor (Vizo) suspected him to be a mafia and killed him with the help of other villagers 😜. Yet, he died as a martyr having killed the first mafia (Shim) under his powerful speech. There are conspiracy rumours that this mafia who died was killed by her own member (Blesson) 😝.

Intriguing to know, yet intricate in its essence was a mafia who defended herself with a simple hearing problem (Zakie) in her most innocent and soothing voice. She fooled and convicted the villagers yet her mistake in closing her eyes when the villagers were told to open, led to her death 😆.

Interestingly, another mafia (Apang), who was suspected from the first instance, survived till the end. There are rumours that he has been fooling his vibrant neighbour who was one of the villagers (Evila) to collaborate with him in carrying out his mischievous act. She learnt that a friend/neighbour can be a foe, which she may not forget nor forgive him 😂.

 Moral: The loudest speeches can end in martyrdom and the sweetest voice can fool the sharpest ears 🤣.

_Vizo Seyie (26th July, 2024)

JOC Farewell

FAREWELL

Manu George

Like the hair that misses your head,

JOC will miss your presence.

The skillful play of the strings on the guitar,

And the soothing voice that echoes during the cell group,

Will be missed.

Yet, we believe that though time takes us apart, 

The bonds and memories created will grow stronger.

Even as you soar high with your family,

May God lift you higher for His glory.

Ashish Varghese

As sharp as the keys on the piano, 

So is your personality. 

Like the sweet, calm melodies a piano produces,  

Your character and behavior are equally harmonious.  

Though we've only known you for a short while,

Your presence has indeed made a difference.

Though young at heart, you are wise beyond your years.

As you pursue your music career,  

May God smooth your journey,  

Turning your life into a sweet melody—  

A harmony that inspires those around you.

 *_JOC, We are the light! We will always fight!_*

_Vizo Seyie (10th August, 2024)

SAIACS CAMPUS

A year just went by, not realising that SAIACS has a history as to why it is there, "why it is there?" Touring around the campus, having been enlightened with every bit and piece of SAIACS made me realised the vision, the passion and the mission of the pioneers. This question, "how could someone be so well-detailed and meticulously built such a humongous umbworld of SAIACS?" keeps arising in my mind. I realised that SAIACS is not only the power house for academics, but a tapestry of architecture having the coloration of Indian and western style along with Christian and Islamic structure. Additionally, the well-manicured lawn and the trees perfectly aligned by the pioneers is just amazing. Amidst all these tapestries, there is also "the resting place", located right behind the commons, adjacent to the road, which in fact, looks like an altar or more likely a stone-table. This is placed as a symbolic representation for rest, despite the heavy load we carry and experience in serving God. 

Indeed, in SAIACS, not everything has to be written just as action speaks louder than words. No wonder, James said, "faith without work is dead."

It's not only the inside that is filled with countless academic books, scholary people, theologians and Bible students, but what's on the outside matters too. 

And that's what "Excellence for Service" must look like as the SAIACS motto says. For at the end of the day, what matters is not your degree but how you live your life. 

People in the past have given their "today" for the people of "tomorrow." Can we also do that? What we are giving our "today" is what matters the most for such a time as this! 

Just like the coloration of the chapel of resurrection, a Christian architecture and the fisherman hall with an Islamic architecture, may we continue to build relationships with people of other faith that will result to the salvific work of Jesus Christ.

"God's work done in God's way will never lack God's supply." (Hudson Tylor)

 

 _Vizo Seyie (8th June, 2024)

The Untold Normal Slavery in a Family for the Females

We live in a society where works between male and female are strictly demarcated. This has mostly barred and marred most females to carry more loads than males. Yes, it may look normal but that normal in reality is abnormal when females are overly indulged and don't get to rest like males do. This mainly revolves around the household chores which are seen as females' work. The fact that we see washing of clothes, baking, cooking, cleaning of dishes, sweeping and so forth as females' work, men take advantage of it. The advantage is normal for males and yet, the females conversely have to carry those loads which in fact, males can render their services too. At times both parties don't seem to recognise the struggles which lie within; the females think that it's their job and the males think likewise. However, this long and deep wired practice implanted in our culture, having been practiced till date should be given a reconsideration. After all, females  are also humans as much as males are. Despite the labels and demarcation of works, why can't there be flexibility? It is totally fine for a male to take turns sweeping the floor, cleaning the dishes or cooking. 

Yes, males are considered physically stronger than females, but stooping down to do females' works does not make you weak. In fact it only builds you up and your family. It gives/leaves more space for love to grow. It enlarges your consciousness, and emits positive and vibrant practices of one's culture. This is not to change the culture that has existed, but to supplement our culture. It safeguards females' rights as much as males have.

I strongly believe, our society can become better and our children's future can be bright when we start prioritising on simple and basic things right from our family first by easing the loads of our sisters and mothers. 

May LOVE drive us!

_Vizo Seyie

Why Am I a Christian?

Living in a world where "logic" and "rationality" seem to dominate the "what we do" with "why we do." The question "why am I a Christian" never caught my attention until I was triggered in an ordinary Sunday Service. One might say, because you were born into a Christian family with a Christian ambience. And yes, our environment can deeply affect the way we live and believe. However, that answers only the "how" of my Christian being. The "WHY" of a Christian life goes beyond natural influence. As we mature in Christian faith, we should start asking "why am I a Christian?" I want to answer this with the thoughts below:

_Not because I was born into a Christian family or ambience.

_Not because Sunday school trained my mind to hold onto that faith.

_Not because Christianity is one of the leading religions.

_Not because of the historical facts and evidence of the Bible.

_Not because of witnessing people being used by God mightily.

BUT,

Because these were the overwhelming evidence and fruits of "why I believe" the "what I believe."

It is because of what Christ did for me personally and that I benefited from it. He "gave," so, I "live" for him.

It is not only because of what I "see and read," but also what I tangibly "feel and experience" in life.

The "how" can be answered generally and is a one time event. But the "why" is always personal and is a continuous process; you learn every day the "why" of your Christian being.

May we continuously learn the "why," so that it draws us closer to the "who" of the Christian being, instead of being confined only to "how" we became a Christian.

 

__Vizo Seyie (4th February, 2024)

Why I Write What I Write!

Because love compels. Penning down my thoughts amidst the vacuum of life when inspiration strikes is intriguing. 

When my mouth loses confidence, writing has the fortitude to bring forth what's within. Though a novice, without embracing writing, I would be paralyzed in many ways. I find confidence in the words of Octavia E. Butler, who said, "You don't start out writing good stuff. You start out writing crap and thinking it's good stuff, and then gradually you get better at it. That's why I say one of the most valuable traits is persistence." Indeed, I have not attained my intended goals, and yet, persistence is what kept me going.

I WRITE, 

Not to receive the applause of man, but for love and enjoyment. 

To ponder how the mind works and how God allows us to think differently.  

To wonder at the beauty of perspectives and marvel at how God made our minds and thoughts to be creative. 

To be amazed that words have the power to change and uplift lowly souls. 

To give fortitude that you can rise above your comfort zone and move beyond. 

To make someone feel they belong, because of the similar disposition of judgment and discretion. 

To provide affirmation and support that we stand for the same cause. 

To demonstrate that writing is not simply the placement of words; it is time and hard work. 

To showcase the value of written books and to provide credentials to education. 

To respect what it feels like to be a teacher of oneself. 

To examine what it feels like to ponder. 

To realize that there is so much to explore. 

To be enthralled by the avalanche of information.

_Vizo Seyie 

The Metamorphism of Becoming a Real Student

Introducing oneself and getting to know others are a trend, but give it some time, you might not even bother to know who lives next door. 

🔍 Truth: Social enthusiasm tends to fade with time. Know that sustaining relationships takes intention, not just initial excitement.

Calling "brother" or "sir," "sister" or "ma’am" becomes a mental puzzle. The confusion of whether someone is a student or a teacher plays trick on your mind. Your only safety lies in your humble "good morning" and "good evening" without their designations.

🔍 Truth: Courtesy is a universal language—even when identity is unclear, kindness still communicates clearly.

Speaking in English feels refreshing when the institution is fresh for your legs to step on for the first couple of weeks. In fact, it sounds even better when it comes with all kinds of mysterious accents.

🔍 Truth: Enthusiasm in using a new language fades over time. What's important is authentic communication rather than polished form. Accents may vary, but what matters is making connections.

Reading books is your daily bread and discipline is very close to your nose. But as experience falls in and you begin to mature, these habits slowly drift to the background; you don’t really notice them and strangely you don't miss them either.

🔍 Truth: Early discipline often weakens without conscious effort.

Oddly enough, the Bible often seems more alive when you're outside the seminary than within. And let’s admit it—saying “AMEN!” comes with the most passion when someone prays the shortest prayer before food.

No wonder—both AMEN and FOOD have just four letters. They must be meant to go together.

🔍 Truth: Our loudest AMENS sometimes come from hunger, not holiness.

Perhaps, All these experiences can be called, "the metamorphism of becoming a real student." 

🔍 Truth: Change is inevitable—but how we change matters.

📘 Lesson: Maturity isn’t just about adapting; it's about reflecting, recalibrating, and returning to what matters.

_Vizo Seyie (25th October, 2023)

_Revised on (12th July, 2025)

Irony of Vacation

As the year narrow towards winter,

And the season gets colder;

Mixed emotions are seen,

Of joys and tears as I deem.

Holiday will drive each one back home,

To enjoy the pleasure of their dome.

How melancholic for  those who would not.

As they hold back to tie the unfinished knot.

As people go home to gather, 

Their thoughts are gathered to shatter.

As people unite to feast, 

They are at unease.

Yet, God is still on the throne,

Reigning and seeing all things like a drone.

His plan and purpose is forever infinite,

Though we remain finite.

Our hope rest assured in him,

For we belong to him.

                                  _Vizo Seyie (4th December, 2023)

 

Love Builds Up (1 Corinthians 8:1)

Oh LOVE! How unique is your being.

How enthralling it is that you captured the heart of God.

Your existence brought forth 'creation,'

Knowing well in sin humans would fall. 

Yet, you were selfless in your essence

Clothed with a self-effacing robe,

To build and coruscate life to the world.

God chose ‘You’ over "knowledge" 

Knowing that love builds, not demolishes. 

Though the world projects love as "self,"

We fathom that it is "others."

Though the world holds the posters of 

"Individualism and Humanism,"

The raison d’être we hold is God’s love.

Afterall, what is LOVE when we cannot GIVE? 

Love is experienced only when it is dispensed.

Not confining to the emotions of the soul alone, 

It transcends to ‘sacrifice.’

In the four lettered word of “LOVE”

Ingrained with the encompassing quintessence of ‘BUILD,’

May we choose ‘love’ to 'build' the church of Christ.

(19th November, 2023)

_Vizo Seyie

MATURITY

Never demean an amateur, 

For it suppresses their maturity.

No matter their age, every individual has their own unique sense of maturity.

Maturity is not only age, it is also experience and knowledge.

You will never lose anything by treating someone in a mature way.

In fact, your matured action will only uplift an amateur to move on. 

Think about how good it feels to be when a teacher considers a student as his/her friend,

The relationship only grows. 

In acceptance there is growth, but in demarcation, it is not.

Life can have a fair trial if we treat each other like we treat ourselves.

May we learn to live our life for the best of others like Jesus, 

For we can be an "answered prayer" to someone.

Remember that your small act of positive gesture is a huge contribution for someone.

So, don't be tight-fisted, but be generous with your life.

Be kind and treat people well each day,

There is no regret, only profit.

(8th November, 2023)

_Vizo Seyie

Death

"O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" 1 Corinthians 15:55

 

Death

Unpredictable, was what we saw, yet you were inevitable;

To turn our back on you was what we desired,

Yet, we must face you right in front.

Your presence filled our eyes with tears;

Pilfering the joy from our hearts.

The eyes swelled, the voice cracked and the strength weakened.

Your coming made the dead lay in peace,

But your going made the living fill with remorse.

You disregarded our highs and lows;

For your power was insuperable.

The living were forced to question the giver of life,

As though it was the liability of God. 

Yet, O death! Your victory is temporary,

For you cannot conquer. 

It seems like you win the battle each day,

But you fail to take the throne.

You dishearten us, as we pass through the dark tunnel;

But we rest assured that a glorious light awaits at the end.

We now rejoice for what lies ahead;

For though you strive to fill the grave, 

Christ will resurrect us all with his coming.

You will tremble and fall as resurrection shows its face;

The putrefied body will be revived into a glorious one,

For Christ is our hope who reigns over death.

_Vizo Seyie

 

Memoirs (Personal Thoughts/Experiences)

Journey of Faith/Brevity of life

Each day life comes with surprise packages,

Filled with known and unknown gifts.

At times it makes your heart glad;

Conversely, it saddens you.

Thoughts been caught between two worlds 

Seems to make life an enigma.

Yet, it offers you a choice, 

To just "be" or go beyond "be" with faith;

For our life is not a crystal clear road.

There are times called, "leap of faith"

Contradicted by "motions of life".

Either you choose the journey of faith

Or the brevity of life will catch you by surprise.

(22nd July, 2023)

Encanto

Out of the blue, "encanto" was introduced to me by an acquaintance.

My curiosity led me on a voyage for an adventure.

Only to discover that it was filled with fantasies of miracles, gifts and talents. 

Yet, the end lesson was not the miracle,

It was the "person" as the song echoes,

"But the stars don't shine, they burn

And the constellations shift.

I think it's time you learn;

You're more than just your gift

And I'm sorry I held on too tight

Just so afraid I'd lose you too

The miracle is not some magic 

that you've got

The miracle is you, not some gift, just you

The miracle is you, all of you, all of you"

 (25th July, 2023)

SAIACS Friday Evening

A time when diversity meets unity;

People of different regions, castes and tribes

Coming together like a rainbow;

To represent and be an ambassador 

Of their covenant with God.

Amidst the blue we meet people who are like-minded, some sportive, some epistemophilic and some philonoist.

Yet, at the end they all cohere and uplift one another. 

Yes, this is SAIACS and that's what happens on Friday evening.

(28th July, 2023)

The Crossroad

An impromptu landed me at the Crossroad church today.

Being indolent and fatigued, 

Initially my thoughts tempted me from attending the service.

Yet my chum's zeal ignited a lit to my soul to company; 

This led to a marvelous encounter from the pastor's sermon, an epiphany!

"That Christ loved the church not because it was perfectly lovable.

But to make her holy and glorious for himself.

Likewise, a husband must not look for a perfect wife to love,

But develop her like Christ for himself."

(Ephesians 5:25-33) 

(30th July, 2023)

The conflict

What a misery to find your soul in conflict with your flesh and spirit.

When one says yes, the other says no;

When the other says yes, it's a no from the other.

But wait a minute, is it not the Holy Spirit our helper? How can help come when there is no conflict?

How can he comfort you when you are not in an uncomfort zone?

Is it not political jargon like peace or justice used when there is a conflict?

Be assured that in your conflict, the Holy Spirit wills to bring peace.

You need to only rely on him.

(15th August, 2023)

Money

It is wrong when you do not pray for people who send bulks of money

that flow in like rivers for your studies.

You deceit yourself when you are not grateful or remember them.

You are wasting their money when you do not fulfilled your responsibilities.

When you do not develop your spiritual life, you are not living the purpose of your life.

And their investments for you to serve the Lord is in vain. 

Remember that nothing is too small to be grateful for and giving your best.

Father's Love

As time goes farther,

Your love grows deeper.

Never did I encapsulate all your love in the first place, 

But now, as time filters the memories, 

And your love explodes deep within me,

It shakes my whole being to only give in.

Indeed, how strong and deep is the love of missing someone.

It cannot be fully known and understood, Only time reveals. 

Miss you dad, yet anticipating to see you on that glorious day.

" (20th August, 2023)

Being Wise

We often forget that as adults 

We need the faith of children.

Imagine the Pharisees and Sadducees listening to Jesus with the faith of children.

All their theologies and critical mindset would have been reformed and refined.

They were smart, but lacked wisdom.

Don't let your smartness fool you,

For being smart is loud, but wisdom is quiet.

Choose wisely as you live this gift of life.

Perplex

Life at times throws you with subtlety,

Perplex as the word is, so is the person.

Born to fulfill a task, yet the process twists you.

Makes you lost in an unknown world,

As you struggle to find yourself.

Exhilarated thoughts but exhausted deep within.

Identity doesn't seem to find you, 

It's only your imagery.

Yet, holding on to the tassel of life, 

Hoping to move on again

3:20Am, 3rd Sep. 2023

At the edge of my bed stood a white shabby lady; shaking with the beat of the rain drops. 

Little hunch with obscure face,

Holding a white rolled and folded chart-paper to pass it to me.

Bewildered as my eyes and consciousness collided to make sense gazing at her.

I tried to stand up, but my body was glued to my bed.

Only two things came to my mind; the name "JESUS" and "Praise the Lord."

Did my best to say it outloud, yet the voice was only louder on the inside.

Later, as I intently looked at her, she became so ugly and unkempt, and her eyes began to bulge out as though she was scared, attaching herself at the corner to find comfort.

I was scared and frightened to my bone in the first place; yet boldness like never before overwhelmed me in the next moment.

"Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me"

Only Him

I've noticed over and over again 

That when life does not favor us,

The only place we run to is God.

The desires of the heart,

The thoughts of the mind

And the longings of the soul

Are found only in Him.

Yes, only Him!

(11th October, 2023)

_Vizo Seyie

A tribute for Mother's Day

If LOVE is a person, it would be a mother. No wonder of all the characters, a poem on a mother stands out in the book of Proverbs. Indeed she is truly wise with her words and graceful with her life. A mother is indeed the true definition of what love is. She does not care about her pains or sufferings. All she does is offer herself as a living sacrifice for her children. Despite her struggles she is so determined to display only her love. I guess it won't be wrong to consider a mother as the best expression of what humanity must look like. If the world can possessed the quality of a mother, the world would have been a much better place. No  guard would be needed nor the feeling of being insecured. 

Still then, a mother's love has demonstrated that genuine love involves courage, hardwork and sacrifice. For which the world still sustains and thrives to show love in the midst of chaos. 

Truly a mother's existence has acted as a beacon that stirs our hearts to walk and grow in love. Although her knowledge of God's word is unpolished, she has lived a better life than many. She may not be educated with intellectual knowledge but is still filled with wisdom. No matter what, she chooses humility for who she is when we have ignored it.

Indeed, no one can replace her. She is the perfect replica of a true leader and we ought to follow her footsteps. She is the epitome of what we know as "selfless for service." Because all that matter in this life for her is whether she is able to LOVE or not. 

May we love our mothers all the more and strive to grow in love.

_Vizo Seyie

It is easier to preach than to practice

Preaching is something that all theologians are bound to besides other engagements. However, preaching cannot be as simple as it should be, since one has to practice what he/she preaches. The statement “it is easier to preach than to practice” sounds casual in my opinion as it denotes a person who preaches just for the sake without having the burden for the lost soul. After all, our theology has to be practical and not only live by theory. 

I strongly believed that preaching has to be practical and theology should come alive like the Word of God. If Jesus himself said that he came not to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many, how can we as servants or God, believers of Jesus Christ, whether laymen or theologians simply preach and not practice. 

Yes, I too agree to some extend that it is easier to preach than to practice. Because that would be like preaching without conviction or without having burden for those who are perishing which will eventually lost the essence of preaching. Preaching has to be exemplary that must be lived out through one’s life. 

After all, the instruction of Paul to Timothy to let him set an example in his life, speech, conduct, love and purity remind us that one should not only preach, but live out our preaching. Paul also instructs Timothy to let him examine his own teaching and conduct so that nobody would criticize him and this should apply to every preacher who has committed and dedicated themself to serve in ministry.

Furthermore, looking at different preachers and witnessing how preachings are done, only those who practice what they preached are able to execute and deliver the Word of God powerfully and effectively. Regardless of whether a person maybe  anointed or not if an individual does not practice what he/she preaches than what is the meaning behind being anointed. 

In addition, in today’s world "preaching" seems to be so common as though it is been sold in the market where anyone can just get accessed to it through social media and other platforms. Hence, many immature preachers and normal preachers might be tempted to simply preach without knowing the real value of what preaching should look like. Many motivational and inspirational preachings are heard and listened everyday from our phones, and hence, sometimes in the process of imitation one might be tempted to fall out from knowing the real meaning of preaching.

Personally, I do not intend to say that I know better about what preaching should be like or say that I practice what I preach every moment of my life. But the truth is,  preaching has to be practical, theology has to be living and our life should respond to what we preach. 

Practically speaking, it is indeed truer to say that it is easier to preach than to practice and this explicitly connotes that human are mere mortal. However, that should not give an advantage for anyone to fall. Rather, one should continue to persevere and endure because it is the power of God, the Holy Spirit who will help us in the process. Also, the fact that "preaching" is not only something confined to the theological world which is physical but is spiritual in its essence. And that itself should give us the courage and boldness to move forward despite the difficulties we face to live out what we have preached. 

Despite the difficulties we face to live out preaching in real life, it is also emboldening to know that we have the Holy Spirit to guide and teach us to live out the truth. And that makes Christian preaching unique from other religious preaching. 

In conclusion, I would say that God would never enjoy someone preaching but not practicing what he/she has preached. John 14:15 says, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” and keeping God’s commandments mean to live out the Word of God as an act of obedience. Hence, a true preacher would never say, “it is easier to preach than to practice” but say "it is hard to preach without practicing" because they will ultimately love to keep God’s commandments and follow what they have preached.   

God bless..! 

_Vizo Seyie

Metamorphosis: A Call To Change

Intrigued by the thoughts of what the Bible presents to us about God, initially I marveled as to why a divine being would call for a relationship with mere mortals. This motivated me to register myself on the journey of faith which eventually led me on a theological voyage. The scratch line seems perplexing as I contemplated and pondered the reasons to discover what lies behind the mind of God for this call. The intricacies of theologies about God and philosophies about life began to fill my mind. However, amidst these ambiguities, I learned that God's plan and purpose can be known when we diligently seek to know the truth without wavering in our faith. The corollary I noticed on this voyage was a “change”; a change from a blurry perception about God to a wholesome transformation in my inner being. The pursuit to discover about God eventually led to the call of metamorphosis. 

This change did not happen overnight. it was slow and sometimes imperceptible. However, it ultimately did its purpose. Challenges did come in as I stepped in the world of academics which made me forget to rummage and understand the condition of my inner being. Ironically, it even made me to forget my Bible, and prayer conscious was only seen in services rather than in my rooms. However, that made me to “realize” rather than appease me to “relax.” As I think of the changed areas, it was my attitude and behavior, the way I perceived and my approaches towards life. Christ likeness and lifestyle began to encapsulate my inner being as I lived my life in reality. I started to see classrooms not simply as a hall to receive lectures but also to put it into practice what I have learned. Place like Spicer's hall reminds me that God is not far. I can worship and rejuvenate my spiritual life. Library began to teach me that I do not know everything but I can learn, hence teaching me to stay humble. It was not my intellect that brought these changes but the catalyst was the Holy Spirit who acted as the agent of this metamorphosis. 

As we have embarked on this journey of faith, let us be reminded that God will eventually lead us to a transform life, enabling us to live like Christ through the enablement of the Holy Spirit. 

In the end note, let this verse be the essence as we look forward with our life. 

Romans 12:2 “Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God 

transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect" (NLT)

 

(Ps: Written under the aegis of LDAP, 2022 for Shalom Bible Seminary publication) 

_Vizo Seyie

Think Of Your Parents

Think Of Your Parents 

Think of your parents for they will not be always with you; 

One day, they will leave you or you will leave them as death closes in. 

Think of your parents though they are uneducated and ignorant; 

For they have traded themselves with ignorance to give you education. 

Think of them though they make mistakes because they are getting old. 

Do not pour your wrath upon them but render your hands and feet; 

For they did not fail to let you down as you embark on your journey. 

Think of them when you are with your friends,

Enjoying the pleasures of your life filled with exhilaration. 

Think of them for they are working somewhere, 

Toiling hard and shedding sweats for your smile and laughter. 

Think of them in your achievements and successes in life, 

For they did not fail to mention your name before God; 

Remember them for you did not achieve on your own. 

Think of them though they look chronically untidy; 

Do not be ashamed of their ignorance or unkempt appearance. 

Think of them for they chose to barter their beauty just for you. 

Think of your parents in your profession and works, 

For it will stimulate you to be industrious in life. 

It will bring the best version of who you really are; 

And empower you to live a life of dignity and integrity. 

Do you think of your parents? If not, then think of your parents..! 

-Vizo Seyie

The Debt

Dear youth, as you mature in age and knowledge, don't forget that your parents are growing old in them. Don't argue with them with your sophisticated knowledge about the world for they are mostly confined within the kitchen. They have treasured you more than their own lives, so don't belittled their awkwardness or unschooled lifestyle.

Though they lavishly pour out their hearts against you, don't try to bark against them. 

You may seem intellectual than your parents but don't forget they saw the sun first. They have experienced more, so their knowledge and wisdom is towering as compared to yours. 

Don't whine about them for their failures to meet your needs or for their misconduct. 

In fact, it is due season for them to be senile and make uncountable mistakes for they are receding into a child like state. 

So, do your best to take care of them for you owe them your past, present and future. 

Dear youth, remember this! 

Had they not confined themselves in the kitchen, you would not have seen the world. 

Had they not become uneducated, you would not have been literate. 

Had they not become ignorant, you would not have become an intellectualist. 

Had they not dressed and have unkempt appearance, you would not have become dignified. 

Had they not use keypads you would not have used smartphones .

Had they not sacrificed, you would not have gain. 

Had they not! You would not. 

May we continue to love our parents all the more! 

(Hope you find yourself related in some areas..!) 

_Vizo Seyie

Meraki

We love to do things beyond the so called simplicity. Technical, complex, intricate or obscure things are our closest friends. Yet, when we embrace them and expose it to the world some assumes it as a parade.Conversely, it is what we love to treasure and enjoy doing it. We find pleasure. It exhilarates our inner being and gives us the resilience to press on.
It is love that makes us do technical stuff and not a talent to expose to receive the applause of  vain glory.
Should we call a singer who always sings even in an untimely manner a smug?
Should we call a musician who plays instruments whenever he sees one a brag?
Or should we say it is love that propels them to go all out?
I believe we cannot stop a preacher from preaching even in the absence of a podium. It is his love for God, his love for soul which enables the person to forge ahead.
Today let love move you, not your judgmental thoughts. 

_Vizo Seyie

Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior

You came from the world beyond and dwelled with men. 

High above the heavens lie your glory, 

Yet you forfeit all those for our sake. 

You could have chosen an Eden for your birth

Yet you chose to be born in a manger. 

You came as a man but men were incomparable.

They say, think globally, act locally; 

And this seems only to point back to your being;

For your thoughts surpasses heavens

And your life was down to earth. 

You could have made your ministry noble;

Yet you chose only ordinary men for extraordinary purposes. 

You used the unqualified to qualify them. 

You did not worry about the support from your family or hometown

Knowing that doing the will of your Father was the peak. 

Indeed your ways and thoughts are higher, 

For you do things differently from man. 

Who can understand your sovereign plan;

Unless one submit to your divine will

And live their life in obedience to your Word. 

(Jesus Christ, the reason for the season. 

Wishing you all Merry Christmas) 

_Vizo Seyie

Lessons from Disaster

Disasters are unavoidable and inevitable like death. It comes and goes as it wishes but I believe that, to destroy life depends fully on the sovereignty of God. There is nothing under the heaven that happens without the knowledge of God, for everything is naked before his eyes.

About a decade ago, my family had wrestled with landslides or let me also say mudslides. It had been a part of our visitor for over some years and so we expected him (if I may say) when it rains. However, God was and is good and faithful even during those unpleasant times. The good thing was that landslides did not occur from below, but right above our house. Had it occured from below, it would have dragged our house down to the river. There were times where landslides would overwhelmed us, that mud would reached the roof of our house. There were also times where right after school we (siblings) had to rest in our neighbor's domicile due to the road blockage. I also remembered an incident that happened late at night around 10 pm. It was a rainy evening and so I was warming myself near the hearth. I stayed till 10 pm and later as soon as I left for my room, suddenly retaining walls, made not of bricks but solid rocks came tumbling and rolling down right in the face of the kitchen walls. As I heard that I was literally shivering not knowing what to do since my parents were in the village and I was alone with my eldest brother. However, God was faithful and good again as I witnessed that those solid square rocks had destroyed only a small pink bucket, disfigured one water container and one solid square rock was found in the plastic water drum. The devil might have thought for once "I've got them now" but no, God's goodness exceeds far beyond even in the midst of an unexpected and unpleasant situation. 

As I contemplate and ponder back, I realised that God did not leave us out alone. Landslides did pregnant our house as it hits the walls but I'm thankful that the walls were not made of bricks but tins. Bricks can collapse but not tins. Can't imagine how much it would have cost us if it was made of bricks. God also sent helpful neighbors who came and enjoyed the mud-balls with us which would roll down to the river with all its might. 

I feel that sometimes, it is better to dwell with a disaster because it helps us to learn, experience and grow from it. Escaping a disaster may save us from getting a scar, but better is with a scar for it gives us valuable lessons. It is also intriguing that disaster can help us to even discover more about the attributes of God if we set our minds right even in the midst of our storm. 

We all know that problems and difficulties in life are inevitable which might bring about a disaster. Yet, I want to say that we must learn to praise God in the midst of our storm. Let's try our best to discover the goodness and faithfulness of God even if our situations may seem dark, because God will never leave us alone. He always rescues and He always saves. I believe God's faithfulness and goodness are not meant only when we are living a peaceful life but I think it is best understood when we discover those in the midst of our storm.   

#Reminiscing the good old stories and discovering what the mind thinks about them. 

#God is faithful and good. 

Thanks for reading. God bless you. 😇

_Vizo Seyie

The Scratch Line

Every race starts from the scratch line and so is mine. Days passed by as I contemplate and rummage my thoughts thoroughly to embark myself from the scratch line for my first ever blog. Conversely, procrastination did contribute to my thoughts to delay, which delayed what I needed to progress. I reminded myself with what most of the successful individuals would testify, "to believe in yourself" and for which I also decided to pen down my thoughts as this phrase really invigorates my inner being and sparkle a lit to my thought. 

As an introvert, I also realised that writing elucidates and explicates my thoughts better rather than speaking and for which I thought that this would be the right platform for me to share my world. As of now, I am just a novice who is trying to make its first move from the scratch line and so you can expect the unexpected as well as some surprise packages that will come along the way.  

I am exhilarated as well as somehow perplexed as to what may come next, but the fact that I am starting my writing on Christmas Day really gives me the fortitude and confident to press on, because the incarnation of Jesus Christ gave me thousand of reasons and purpose to write.

I know we all have our own scratch line from where we start our journey and so as we embark to make our move, let's not demean the real person who is within us with the feeling of low self-esteem or inferiority complex, because you'll never know what you can really do until you believe in yourself to make that move. 

Wishing and praying that this blog will bring glory and honor to God's name.  

God bless..! 

_Vizo Seyie