This is a glimpse into my life thus far in India. I am absolutely in love with this country and it’s people. Instead of sharing a specific story or a general bit of what it’s been like I thought I would share 11 memories that have been my favorite of the 18 days we have been here. Enjoy!
1. Went to a children’s home to play, sing songs and share Jesus’ stories. Met so many little beauties who all call me “auntie.” Loved to hear the little ones pray on their knees in posture towards Jesus.
2. Went to a home today for women rescued from trafficking and the danger of the slums. I got to meet Sharada, who showed me to write in Kannada, the dialect spoken in this province. She is 18 years old. She is beautiful, patient, and loves Jesus.
3. Went to the orientation of the HIV/AIDS hospital where we served the previous week. I was so privileged and blessed to hear from the man who began this good work in Christ’s name. He reminded me that “it isn’t my ability Jesus wants, but my availability.”
4. Went to a church service in ENGLISH! Was able to spend the day resting and rereading the incredible story of Brother Andrew, “God’s Smuggler.”
5. Today, when given a two minute warning, went in a hurry and spur of the moment rush to a local women’s church group. We all sat in a circle, all able to see each other. We were so blessed by Shorbah’s hospitality and the love, warmth and welcome that was extended to my teammate, Kate, and I. We were able to share our testimonies, along with hearing some of theirs.
6. Spent the morning cleaning at the hospital. It was nice to just be a practical blessing and offer a smile and touch of the hand wherever I went.
7. This morning I fed the neighbor goat at the end of the street my banana peel, it ate it and then stared at me.
8. I was able to help with dinner a bit tonight. I enjoyed patting, rolling and the folding of the chapati. Our friend here, Hephzi, was so helpful and patient. It made me feel at home.
9. Went to “Home of Hope” today- a place where people are taken off of the street and are either restored back to health through medical attention and nutrition or are given a safe and comfortable place to breath their last. We then traveled down the road on to the children’s home and hardcore played for only fifteen minutes, but what a unforgettable fifteen minutes they were.
10. On our day off, we went into downtown Bangalore’s bustling MG road where there are coffee shops, markets, clothing stores, and tourists. And with the presence of tourists comes the presences of beggars. It is such a difficult situation, because many of the beggars ask for money and even if you do give it to them you never really know if the money will actually go to them or to a pimp who may “own” them. There are countless babies and children wandering the streets. One woman, however, came up to me and asked me for food. She followed me for a good bit, asking and motioning with her hand. I was distressed, I didn’t have food and I wasn’t sure if it was wise to “perpetuate the habit.” I asked Jesus about it and told Him I wasn’t sure what to do. And I felt the immediate response of “I think you do.” When I looked up I saw a bakery and headed straight for it. Upon entering it I recognized the song they were playing as a Christian song! “My Savior lives, my Savior loves, my Savior is always there for me…” I was ecstatic! After figuring out it was a Christian place and speaking to the clerk about it for a bit, I knew this was no accident. I purchased a cupcake and went out to where the woman was still waiting. I went up to her and asked her what her name was. She told me quietly her name…”Ashvini.” I pressed the box into her hands. “Ashvini,” I told her “this isn’t from me, okay? This is from Jesus and He loves you. Do you understand me?” She nodded yes as a smile spread across her face. “Ok, remember Ashvini, Jesus loves you and I do too.” Then we smiled at each other one last time before I walked away.
And that is all I know of Ashvini.
11. We arrived in the village where we will be spending the next week, yesterday. It is so peaceful here. Today, however, was crazy fun. It was Holi day here in India and we spent the day with the villagers throwing color dust, water, and eggs at each other in celebration. It is definitely a day I will never forget.
Jesus is so good, and He is moving in this nation so much through the work of its own people.
Also, PRAISE THE LORD, I am FULLY FUNDED!
Thank you so much to all of you who gave and made this journey possible for me. God bless you!
