(Sunday, January 12, 2014) Today we went to Moses’ church and spoke to children, teens and the whole congregation. I’ve spoken to them 30 or more times over the years. I know most of the people personally and have been in many of their homes. I’ve watched the children grow, and some of the older ones die. I am truly at home there, and of course they love having Nancy with them! I feel very much at home and truly loved by them. What a wonderful blessing to be loved by two very special churches, one in Doylestown and one in India! That is a great blessing from God.
I am typing as we drive 6+ hours from Hyderabad to Vijayawada. When I finish here I must go over the lessons for the coming days. Circumstances have caused me to have to throw out many of my plans and come with new plans and lessons. If you know me you know I’d rather have it all dialed down 6 months ago instead of not knowing what I’m going to teach tomorrow! Pray for wisdom and guidance as I seek God’s will for what is the best use of the time I have with these dedicated servants of God!
Thanks for the emails! Many of you have emailed me messages of encouragement and I greatly appreciate each and every one. I can’t write back often, but look forward to reading them. Thanks!
On a more somber note, though, is the news that a pastor in Hyderabad was killed by a mob yesterday while giving out tracks. He is the third pastor who has been killed that way recently. We are in no danger, neither are those who keep silent. But the ones who stand up for their faith and share it with others are often in danger. The reactions of Christians in Hyderabad is strong. They are gathering at this time in a public display to demand equal protection for Christians as others. These deaths are making them stronger in their faith. This just shows me all the more how important it is to do whatever we can to help support these pastors. They are truly on the front lines. Prayers are being requested for the family of this pastor.
Psalms 116:15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
Revelation 1:17-18 “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. “
Thank God for the freedom and protection from persecution which you experience.
Pray for your brothers and sisters in the Lord who are not so fortunate.
Pray for comfort for those who suffer for their faith. Ask God to empower His people with courage to stand up for their faiths. Pray for that for the Christians in America for they, too, need courage to stand. Pray for yourself, to have courage to take advantage of the opportunities God will give you today to share His love with others.