DISCLAIMER: Due to travelling, and sketchy internet, journal updates are not posted in real time.
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Our second Sunday here found us saying farewell to Sarah and Cyndy.
Typical of the unpredictable vagaries of overseas nations, their scheduled flight was moved forward, which required them to head to the airport immediately after participating in the worship service.
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| Worship |
Tears brimmed in many eyes as they prayed a blessing over their journey home. Hugs were given and received with hopeful promises of a return trip.
Thankfully traffic was reasonable so Megha and I were able to drop them at the airport and be back at church to catch the end of Gary's message and prayer time.
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| Sharing the Word |
As they made their way homeward, we piled in the mini van for the 2 hour drive to another town, where I was privileged to share a message titled "Joy in the Journey". I shared how focusing our hearts and lives on our relationship with Jesus equips us to minister to others from a pure, joyful stream. Our service for Jesus should flow from love - rather than duty.
Plans for our first weekend of ministry and eye clinic outreach in a nearby the hill city had been derailed by heavy rains which caused mudslides in several areas. The main road into the hills was blocked. Even when it was partially cleared, with some detours, the normally 3 hour drive was taking a precarious 7+ hours.
Sadly we cancelled plans for this trip, regrouped and held an afternoon service in another town. The main route was also closed by a mudslide. The alternate route was bone-jarringly rough, and added about 30 minutes to the 2 hour drive.
By our second Sunday here the main road was mostly cleared and passable with some careful maneuvering. Check out the photos below for the residual mess and harrowing view down to the Teesta River.
Successful mission outreach requires extreme flexibility and a can-do attitude. Remembering at all times that God has gone before us and He is not surprised.
This truth applies to your life today. Wherever you find yourself, unexpected events in your life are opportunities to see God's powerful hand at work .
The Journey Continues ... Pat
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| Barely passable even after the mudslide was cleared |
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| Railroad crossing |
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| Worship at Village Church |