If I had to describe India in one word it would be "opposite." This culture definitely clashes with any other culture I've experienced before. I have learned to eat on the ground, eat with my right hand as my only utensil, keep my head down in public, hold back by smile as to not appear flirtatious towards men, cover my ankles, wear a scarf when I'm dripping sweat, close my mouth while showering out of a bucket, throw my trash on the ground, and lastly I have perfected the art of accurately using the "squatty potty."
Because this culture is so opposite from what I've been taught and what comes natural being in India has made me be deliberately in step with the spirit-every moment of everyday. I have learned what its like to follow Jesus with everything from how I talk, how I eat, how I dress, and how I use the bathroom. India leaves no room to rely on self; and opens the door to rely fully on Christ alone.
India has been tough but I and have cherished being able to see what God is doing here. I have witnessed Him rising up native people to do His work. I have seem pastors that are being discipled on how to lead and being entrusted with 10 orphans to raise in their heavenly Fathers unrelenting love. I have seen faith that can move mountains blossom in the hearts of children that were once forgotten. I have experienced a reliance on Abba here that I can't put into words, and even though it's been hard, India will always have a special place in my heart.
As you look at a few glimpses of my life for the past month I hope you enjoy seeing where I lived and the proper way to squat, how Indian women do laundry alongside water buffalo, how intricate and traditional Indian weddings are, how cooking food from scratch is a daily activity, and most importantly I pray you catch a vision for the beautiful girls I got to do ministry and worship with through drawing, dancing, braiding hair, and having mini photo sessions to make them feel like the treasures they are!
I ask you to pray for this nation. Pray that God will continue to raise up nationals to proclaim His name with boldness, pray that as he draws people to himself that people would step up and explain the gospel to them, and pray that God will empower these people to turn to Him alone.
