Happy Pongal

As I mentioned in yesterday's post, Pangol is a festival here in India where many things happen. People bring out their old stuff to burn in the streets (small things) and signify the old going out and making room for the new. They call it a Bogi - one of the guys with us continues to kid with some of them to bring out their old wives or husbands and look for a new one. Of course it is a joke and they like it. Who knew. They also use chalk to make these very beautiful designs on the road. I have include a pic of one to give you an idea.

I have shared with many that they can bring out their old gods, those that are not true and that I would gladly introduce them to the one true God. It provides a very good conversation starter and many have listened very intently. Pray that God will help these people see that the true God brings them true freedom and hope.

Destruction at one church

Yesterday we ministered in an area that was very oppressive. You could feel the oppression and many made us aware that we were not welcome in that area as Christians. I never felt threatened physically, but the spiritual oppression was very real. A couple of weeks ago, some locals did much damage to the church hut and some of the areas around it. Pray that God would protect these believers and that He would bring this area to Himself.

We do our last day of house visits, devotionals and direct ministry today. Tomorrow we will be involved in many different worship services among four churches and all of us speaking many times. Pray that God's Word will go out clearly.

On another matter, my friend and co-worker at LifeWay, Kevin Spratt and his family need your prayer. Kevin'sister, Erika, was killed in a car accident on Weds. She leaves a husband and two small children. She was just 25-years-old. Please pray for Kevin and his family. The memorial service is Saturday in Ky and Ohio. Thanks so much for praying for them.