Of the six times I have been to India, this last time was by far the most challenging, both physically and spiritually. For some reason, the Lord allowed our team to experience some difficult struggles such as we have never had before. It was clear that our enemy wanted to thwart us and steal our joy. But just as clearly, we were convinced that the Lord wanted us to depend on His strength to bring glory to His Name in spite of our weaknesses.

First, we were able to visit one of our missionary families in North India. Paul, Diane, Susan and I were very impacted by the short time (3 days) we spent with them at their home, moving around the city and hearing about their ministry. The difficulties that they face and the sacrifices that they have chosen to make in order to bring the gospel of our Lord Jesus to a very dark place were quite overwhelming to me. And they still are. I cannot adequately express how proud I am of this couple. They are surely laying up eternal treasures in heaven and they are incredible examples to all of us. They need our prayers!

Leaving that place, our challenges continued for the next two weeks – travel challenges, health challenges and a lot of spiritual warfare. Unfortunately, I was unable to deliver a number of my teaching sessions, due to illness. But God used others to carry the load so that we were able to finish our goal and see almost 75 pastors graduate from this training. It was a very special time to see these underprivileged men who live in conditions much worse than you or I, joyfully accept their graduation certificates, showing gratitude for the gift of training they have been given. They testified of the tremendous impact that this training has had on their spiritual lives and ministry. What a blessing to hear and be a part of that!

It was also a bittersweet time with these men that we have come to know over the past 10 years. We said goodbye to them, knowing that this may be the last time we see them in this life – holding on to the hope that we will see them some day in glory.

None of this would have been possible without the prayer support and generosity of many of you over the past 10 years. Seeds have been sown and planted. Roots have grown deep and much fruit can already be seen. All of this has been accomplished because of your partnership in the Gospel and the fact that you have helped us in the work. May the Lord continue to bless the ministry of Shepherding the Nations for His glory and His ALONE.

Well we just finished a great day of ministry. I preached two messages at BHEL and Jeff shared his testimony (he did a great job). There were probably around 700 people at the service which lasted 3.5 hours! One of the amazing parts was listening to the people pray for over an hour (although we could understand nothing they were saying).

BHEL Church with around 700 in attendance

Jeff had his first taste of India during the daytime. It was a mild drive as drives go in India. But Jeff was shocked even at the low traffic of a Sunday. Can’t wait to see what he thinks about a Monday.

A family of 5 out for an afternoon ride 🙂

Here are a few things to pray for:
1. Jet lag. I am having a hard time this time. I am so tired during the day and so is Jeff. Hopefully, we can get on schedule tomorrow.
2. Health. Ravi & Shanthi want us to avoid shaking hands with everyone. They even recommended that I wear a mask when I am not preaching. I guess there are some severe flues going around and they want me to be careful. This has me a little nervous now.

Dinner with Ravi, Shanthi, Ryder, Jeff and me

More prayer requests to come. FYI, I could feel the prayer power when I was on stage preaching. Even before I felt a calm and a peace that was supernatural. Thanks to everyone who is praying!