“All your rejoicing in all things should therefore be a rejoicing in the Cross where all your blessings were purchased for you at the cost of the death of the Son of God, Jesus Christ.” (John Piper, Don’t Waste Your Life, p.57)
During four days last week, Dr. Rao taught a series of sessions here in India that unfolded the story of the Bible from cover to cover. He gave an overview of the Bible, highlighting the major themes and clearly explaining the gospel message in greater detail. Many of the people who came were Kannada speaking and listened very attentively as the message was translated.
On the last evening, our translator led the group in prayer in Kannada. Listening to these precious people pray to the One True God in their native language is one of the most beautiful things on earth. Although I couldn’t understand what he was saying, I could tell that it was heart-felt and very meaningful. I found out later that two women had given their lives over to Jesus Christ during that prayer. Praise the Lord!
I am continually humbled and amazed at the wonderful love of Jesus Christ. Being able to continually focus my mind again and again on the life-changing power of the gospel has been both refreshing and challenging. Going through the five colors of the Wordless Book with the children helped me to see that we must have the faith of a child in order to believe. Explaining the bridge illustration to two children afterwards reminded me of God’s whole plan of salvation as He bridged the gap between us and God. Writing out my salvation testimony to share with the community that gathered for our presentation reminded me of my own story and His powerful saving work. Hearing the salvation testimonies of my other team members as they each spoke a different evening spoke volumes of God’s sovereignty in calling people unto Himself. That’s the power of the cross.
One thing that God showed me this week is that the impact of the Gospel is truly HIS redeeming work in people’s lives. God can use people to speak His words, but there is ultimately not any effort on our part that can draw people to Him. “For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.” (2 Corinthians 4).
We have been seeing God move in the hearts of people around us, and we covet your prayers as this time of ministry here continues. The pastor has told us of many people who have shown interest – even Hindu people who have been attending church services. Hearts that were previously closed to the gospel (as in the case of one young woman who works here in the church) have been opened within the past few weeks. We are praising God for the visible work of His hand … and even more as He works in the unseen. Praise His Holy Name!
