Greetings from India!
Yesterday I had a great experience at the village I visited when I was here four years ago. In 2004 it was hit by the tsunami, which originated in Indonesia, wiping out over 50 homes in seconds, killing hundreds of people.
Many of those who died were the men, who were fishing at the time. They left behind many widows and orphans. Soon after numerous groups came to help, among them the mission with whom we are serving, UEM. When all the other social help groups left, UEM kept a church planter in place.
When visiting four years ago, I saw Raj beginning to share the love of Jesus with this Hindu village, which before the tsunami had been totally closed to outsiders, especially Christians. But the Lord used that tragedy to open their hearts and lives to the Gospel.
Four years later this village is undergoing a great transformation. We were welcomed with open arms and even heard the testimony of the former Hindu temple priestess. At first she was greatly angered at hearing the Word of God, but one day the Holy Spirit came upon her, delivered her from her demons and gave her the peace of Christ. Now she boldly shares her testimony with all who listen, which includes increasing numbers of people.
We thank you for your prayers and support and look forward to sharing pictures and stories with you when we return!
P Mike
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Love the Blogs! So great to hear your stories. If possible, I'd love to see pics of the team in the places you are describing. Also details on the foods you are eating and how you are all coping with that. I know this part of your time is limited, we are just very curious:) Hang in there! We miss you so much! (Cant wait to see you Rachel :):):)
ReplyDeletemargaret- rachel's mom
ReplyDeletegreetings india team from columbus ,indiana.
it's 5:30 p.m. here and raing.
i wait in anticipation each day for the blog from you . i'm so thankful for this way of keeping in touch and hearing all your news.
i found the one today especially touching.
i start my day by looking at the prayer card rachel made telling where the team will be each day and i start my day in prayer the good lord will continue to bless each one of you.
could you please tell rachel "mom" loves her and misses her very much and looks forward to hearing her stories when she gets home.
love and blessings to you all
Thanks, Mike, for the glimpse into this village and the love there! Seth and I have been praying for all of you—your safety and ability to reach out.
ReplyDeleteRachel's sister Cheryl
ReplyDeleteFriday evening
Thank you so much for sharing all your stories. It is so good to hear from the "team" and have some idea of how you are doing and what you are experiencing. God Bless each of you and give you what you need to help those lives you touch. We keep you all in our prayers and look forward to your return home.