India Update
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Baptismal Blessings
Three new believers wanted to be baptized, so their pastor made a big deal of it. He held a meeting on a housetop and invited community leaders, neighbors, and family members to come. He paid to rent a tent and a PA system and offered a meal for everyone who came.
We were the honored guest speakers who shared about the meaning of baptism and lifted up Christ; 17 were saved in the service, and 5 were baptized, 2 deciding at the last minute to do so, including the husband of one lady who was taking a stand for Christ. The baby congregation led a joyful procession through the streets of the village to the baptismal site. The pastor and people were rejoicing in the way God had blessed their faith in a very resistant place.
We have been making the most of opportunities during the dry and sunny “winter” here in India.
“Happy Christmas”
It sounded a little different to our American ears, but even Hindus wish others a “Happy Christmas.” Believers make a big deal about Christmas in December, putting on many special gatherings throughout the month. Many Hindu neighbors will come to an outdoor service that celebrates the Christmas “festival.” Singing, plays, preaching, and a birthday cake for the Lord Jesus will draw many unsaved into meetings. It gave us opportunities to present Christ, and we saw 59 saved at these events in December.
Funeral Remembrances
Other opportunities to share Christ came at “funeral remembrances.” When a loved one dies, the funeral usually takes place the same day. About a week later, the family receives neighbors and friends into their homes, much like at funeral homes in the United States. The father-in-law of one of our local friends died. We were invited to the remembrance, but they told us afterwards that they thought we would not come to their humble home. We went, and in sharing the Gospel to all who were present, 12 were saved. At another remembrance, 13 were saved. Soul winning works in this land when it is done with love and clarity.
Please continue to pray for us as we use the opportunities around us and find ways to create more! Pray for Satan to be hindered as we lift up the Lord Jesus Christ. “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” (John 12:32)
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