On Wednesday, January 27, Josh left for a 16 day trip to India. I have been able to hear from him almost every day since he's been gone. He has brought good reports of safety, no sickness, and most of all, the furtherance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
One way they are able to share the gospel is through health clinics in the villages. This year Josh is working with an eye clinic for the first time (previously he worked in dental and health clinics). As each native waits to be seen by the doctor, someone shares about who Jesus is and what he has done one on one with them. All this is done through an interpreter, of course. (I guess that would make it two on one, then. : ) Anyway, they have seen hundreds and hundreds each day and have had to turn people away for an eye exam on one day because they simply ran out of time.
Josh has also preached on the streets of the village as the group walks through. The Indian leader will just say "OK, here is a good spot," and Josh will just start preaching through a megaphone. A crowd will then begin to gather as I'm sure they wonder who this tall, white guy is who is yelling another language at them. Their curiosity is instantly peeked, and the Holy Spirit has drawn many to believe in Christ through this. Josh has been starting the message all the way back at creation because the Hindu Indians need to know about which God he is speaking, the ONE and only God. Then he basically gives a brief synopsis of Christ's story through the Old and New Testament. I am so thankful that God has given him the knowledge and understanding to be able to clearly exposit this to them. The Christo-centrality of the Bible is probably clearer to some of the American Christians in the group after they hear Josh preach. (I know I have sure learned a great deal!)
The kids and I have been managing just fine, although we miss him greatly. We talk about him and pray for him all throughout each day. I am so thankful for all of you who have watched the kids for me, cooked for us, had us over to your home, and most of all prayed for us. Sixteen days is a long time to us, but it is not as hard as it could be if we did not have our family in Christ.
Please pray that the rest of Josh's time there will be productive and Christ honoring. Pray for the hearts of those who hear the message and may even still be chewing on it in the months to come. Pray for the Indian believers who will harvest the seeds.
"The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel." Mark 1: 15
I pray that you will believe, also.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
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