When I reflect on my time in India.. the memories are accompanied with the sound of something like and exasperated sigh, “oof!” “woof!” “ugh” or “yikes!”
India was rough and there is no way around it. My experience included so many difficult things. I fear listing them, here, will sound like complaining. I am not one to complain, so I will simply summarize into a short post and say that INDIA WAS HARD.
I called to question my reasons for joining the race and wrestled with the Lord for weeks. When I wasn’t wrestling, I was writhing in agony from a GI virus that took out most of my team in Dehli.
After thinking about all that happened in 5 weeks, the largest lesson I learned is there is no place on earth too hopeless or too hard for Yahweh to work. I had lost hope that my time and energy spent in India was beneficial. I had given up making a difference in a place so full of chaos and confusion. Looking back, I feel convicted of how weak my trust and hope in the Lord was to dismiss an entire country because I didn’t see immediate tangible evidence. I didn’t see change, nor could I imagine it happening—so I gave up on trying.
I am embarrassed to admit that circumstance and selfishness robbed me of hope and happiness (two characteristics I value deeply!) The odd thing about it was did not notice these things were gone until I felt them, again. It was only then, I realized how far from myself I had been feeling.
The end of the month came with a healthy glimpse of how Yahweh is, indeed, working. His children are serving in very tangible ways in Varanasi. My team got in contact with a ministry there. This ministry is a living an breathing example of the early Church in the book of Acts. It was such an encouragement to witness the strength of our brothers and sisters in Varanasi. They are changing lives and selflessly loving members of vulnerable communities in order to bring them the news of salvation.
Personally, the BEST part of this ministry opportunity was to help out in their weekly health clinic. I spent a morning in my nursing-element. I actually used the stethoscope I have been carrying around with me for 4 months! I looked at x-rays, I made prescription recommendations, I assessed patients, and I prayed for them before they left. That experience reminded me of the things I love and the way I has been designed to serve.
Coming out of India and moving to Nepal, I am confidant of these things about myself: I am a servant, an encourager, a champion, coach, nurse…. and a horrible patient!
