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Short Stories (Stories for the Youth), book by Father Tadros Yacoub Malaty

305- A Magic Lamp

 

St-Takla.org Image: Fanous, lantern صورة في موقع الأنبا تكلا: فانوس، لمبة جاز

When I was in Raliegh in North Carolina, a book containing messages from American kids to God drew my attention. I read it not for fun but I discovered the reality of my soul through these simple messages.

The following is one of them,

Dear God, If You presented me a magic lamp like Aladen’s I’ll give You all what You want except my money and toys. Raphael

Do not be upset. Many a time, we present such messages to our Lord but not that frankly. Do we not often desire that God would give us a magic lamp in order to have money as we wish? We also are ready to present Him everything save our souls, money, etc.

→ English translation of the story here at St-Takla.org: قدِّم لي مصباحًا سحريًا.

What to ask for and what to offer?

+ What to ask for?

I do not want a magic lamp to fulfill my dreams.

I desire Your Holy Spirit,

To lift my soul up to Your heaven,

And carry me to the heavenly Father’s bosom.

Give me Yourself O the Desire of my heart.

+ What to offer You?

May I offer You my heart before my tongue makes a vow.

You are my life, money and fun.

I offer You what is Yours O the Heavenly Treasure.

Any fun, without You, is meaningless.

You are my richness and delight.

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