Chennai . . . the capitol of Tamil Nadu was formerly known as Madras. On Monday Viju drove the car here (8 hours) while we took a quick plane trip from Bangalore (40 minutes). The one thing that stands out to us about big cities in India is that they basically are all the same. . . crowded and noisy. From our 5th floor hotel room, the sounds of the city ring loud and clear.
On Tuesday Sal presented a three session conference on the Book of Daniel. Fifty pastors attended. Many of them were unfamiliar with Daniel, Revelation and the importance of prophecy in our day. It is a sad testimony to the quality of Biblical education that is available here. These men were so hungry for solid teaching. Plans are in the works to meet on a regular basis with pastors from all over India by ZOOM for Bible Study and discipleship when we return to the USA.
On Wednesday was a joy to meet with 80 women for a study from John 12 and Mark 14 entitled, Why This Waste? I wish you could have seen the sweet faces of these ladies. As I stood before them the sea of color from the beautiful saris they wore just seem to make my heart glad. At the conclusion of the study, all of them raised their hands and committed to “waste” their lives on Jesus through love, humility and service.
On Thursday we went to see the shrine of St. Thomas who was responsible for bringing the gospel to India after the diaspora in Jerusalem. He is the apostle that at first doubted the resurrection but went on to become the first missionary to India. He landed in Kerala and traveled to Madras planting churches across the land. While praying he was speared to death by local antagonists. His grave is here in Chennai. Because of his ministry, Christianity was firmly planted and is today the only light and hope. All over the memorial grounds there are signs that say, “My Lord and My God.”
Friday Sal conducted a Pastors Meeting for 190 church leaders. Our friend, Stanton, attended and gave testimony how his life was changed by attending conferences and Bible School since 2014. He is now in full time ministry teaching to rural and tribal people about the God of the Bible. In the evening I spoke to a women’s group. I was thrilled to see many young girls attending. The joy on their faces was thrillingly to see. Many are in active ministry and came forward for prayer.
It is now Saturday. We are at a church of about 80 pastors and church leaders in attendance. This is our final meeting in Chennai. We leave this afternoon for a three-city tour of conferences before we arrive at our “Indian” home and visit our beloved widows.
- Please pray for us as we have an “on-the-go” schedule this coming week.
- Pray we all stay healthy and spiritually protected.
- Pray for Viju to continue in good health. Pray for protection for Ammu as she travels ahead of us to prepare our home base in the village.