Today was a scorcher. We took a walk this morning to a little market down the street. We bought all kinds of foreign snacks and goodies. After our walk we had breakfast and then gathered in the chapel to have a quick discussion about how we have been changed/affected or had God speak to us thus far. Colleen said she is learning to be more comfortable praying out loud for people. Morgan has learned to cope with the sadness of the kids who are on the streets. She also loves the all in one bathrooms here. She said "My favorite part about India is that you can poop and shower at the same time!" Rachel said she feels God is telling her to look into her heart to find the stregnth to be able to really step out of her comfort zone and give everything up for a life in Christ through missionary work. She feels it is a different thing to say you can do something and actually be able to do it. HAiley spent some time with some girls preparing food for the mission. They were asking her about America and how many hours she spent praying and how many times a day. She said it was hard to answer honestly and not be embarassed. I have to say I agree with her. The kids at this mission are so dedicated to Christ. They pray 1 hour at 5 am and 1 hour at 7 pm, they have two hours of bible study plus school in between. Richard spoke about the trials the people here face....communism, sustaining every day life but we face just as many trials but of a different nature at home.....love of self, stuff, etc. June said she had been humbeled and didn't even know she needed to be. Max really was moved by how passionate the worship is by the people here. Ben and Gregg found the Indians to be so caring to one another. Jason really has been inspired to take back the one on one approach of evangelism. Greg really wants to publicize the good PRF is doing for the community and marketing the uniqueness of our church but struggles with the advertising not coming off as self serving. Zack really didn't feel as uncomfortable as he thought he would here. The comforts of home really weren't missed as much as he thought they would be. Leigh Anne said she feels like to really accomplish something in ministry she has to be doing something all the time and resting makes her feel selfish.But now she sees that resting is valuable and needed. She really noticed how Indian people rejoice in service even when it seems trivial. However in the US it is hard to get someone to do something simple like making copies and see it as a priveledge to serve in that way.
This is what I can recount from the meeting this morning. I did my best to try and convey their thoughts and feeling correctly but I'm sure I didn't get everything exactly right. The point, however, is that everyone in some capacity has changed and grown in the Lord on this trip.
After the meeting we went into a village just outside of the city for a clinic again. The area was quite poor. MAny of the kids didn't go to school. We gave out some balloons and used the face crayons on thier hands again. There were less people than the other clinics but just as much need. The doctors that do this really do care about the people and making their lives better.
Tonight we went to a thank you reception for Richard. It was fantastic. I loved seeing Richard in his element (speaking about about coaching/swimming) while out of his element....here in India, after a week of serving and growth. It was touching. The mayor of Vizag, Indian national swim coach and a variety of YMCA officials and Indian top athletes (in swimming) all attended. They were so greatful for Richards help and service to the YMCA and thier athletes. THe athletes were so thrilled to meet him and speak to him.
Tonight is our final night. We have church in the morning and then we leave for the airport for a long 36 hour flight home. This has been such a journey. God has shown me that I shouldn't feel bad about having more than the people here. A need or desire for more wealth here is "chasing after the wind". They don't need our money, they need our God! India is desperate for Christ and it is up to us to assis them in spreading His message throughout this great nation. The number one prayer request I heard while here was to pray for India. It gives me a whole new perspective on prayer at home. Why don't I ask people to pray for the US!? In many ways the US needs Jesus just as badly as India.....just for other reasons.
Pray for a comfortable, restful and uneventful trip home. Pray for our safe return. I can't wait to share in greater detail with everyone!
Love from India,
Krendi
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