INDIA, Friday January 22, 2010
 
God is hearing and answering your prayers on our behalf. Let me show you the evidence:
 
1.        Yesterday we went to our Pastor’s Bible Study safely. It was not until we were on our way in the auto that Nicole told me this is the center of the University District where all of the trouble has been occurring. Indeed, we were later to learn that 2 of our village pastors were detained 3 hours by police and agitators in trying to come. 2 others could not get through on the roads from their village at all – and most of the pastor’s wives did not come because of the potential threats and violence. In the middle of the Bible Study day (3 pm to 8 pm), we learned that 2 more students had committed suicide in protest (they think it is a great thing to be a martyr). But we were safe in both our comings and goings.

We heard the chanting, yelling, and screaming outside in the streets. We were cautious wondering if someone might break-up the meeting. But with doors and windows locked and shuttered, and all curtains drawn shut so noone could see how many people arrived throughout the day, the singing and prasing and praying went on inside.
 
2.        God’s presence was deeply felt with the 22 precious pastors and wives who gathered together. Their skits showing us how they do ministry evangelism to the very poor, the drunks, those bound in witchcraft, the sick, and the outcast – was very real and fun for them, very sobering and heartbreaking for us when we wonder how much we do in walking right up to our lost hurting brothers and sisters to share Christ’s love. Their comments and interaction in the Bible Study led by Pastor Myers, their note-taking and intent concentration showed how hungry they are for this kind of discipling.

3.        All things work together for good. God spoke to my spirit and said, “It is not a problem that you could not buy books or Bibles to give these pastors (many of whom live in the slums among the people they work with). It is not an accident – I know their greatest need: Give them your money!” wow! My commitment to be Jesus hands and feet was being used (tested) again. As I explained what I was about to do and that God had heard their prayers for some money, many began to weep.  In Jesus name, I gave each person 1,000 INR (rupees – less than $25 US), but you’d have thought it was a million dollars. When I finished, they rose to their feet and began to sing and shout and praise God!~ It was my turn to cry.

4.        And at the end of the day, I realized I had not been coughing, I had not had to take any allergy medicine, I had not lost my voice, and I had not had to take any pain pills all day – for my knees or legs (even though we had walked up and down many flights of stairs). PTL. I know that I know that your prayers, the prayers of God’s people are doing more than I could possibly imagine. Thank you is inadequate to express what I am feeling.
 
Last night we received 2 phone calls from ministry partners who are very influential in Hyderabad – they were worried about our safety and how we were getting around in these days of agitation and bandh. They said, “If you have any trouble, phone and I will come to your rescue.” It is wonderful to know that God has put guardian angels, both in the flesh and in the heavenlies, here to walk the path that He is directing with us.
 
We are off to another full day of adventure, ministry, and preparation. Stay tuned for more reports of what God is doing in India.  Oh yes, we have now eaten a half dozen india meals with our right hand ONLY, no left hand and no silverware. No we don't always know what we're eating, but it goes down easier if we don't ask any questions and remember to take our pepto bismo afterwards. We're also adjusting to indian toilet, no toilet paper, and other unique aspects of this wonderful culture.
 
Praise the Lord -- the needed $2000 has been pledged for the sound system. We will go with Pastor Pasula Paul and his son Joel (music and youth leader) today to look at what they have found and priced out. We may even be able to purchase it in time for this Sunday's service. I can't tell you how overwhelmed and overjoyed they are. They never dreamed God would provide in such a wonderful way.
 
 
Blessings and thanks,
Elaine Colvin
WIN India