Christmas is outreach time in this Hindu nation. They worship many gods - millions in fact. Many Hindus recognize Jesus as a good teacher or one of the gods. As we share the true meaning of Jesus' birth at Christmas time - our prayer is that their spiritual eyes will be opened and they will receive Him as Lord and Savior.
What does this look like? Families from the church invite their neighbors and host a night of carols, food and fun. If their home is small, the party will happen around a bonfire in the yard. Christmas songs will be sung in 5 languages - Hindi, Nepali, Bengali, Adavasi and English. I volunteered to be part of the Carolers and am working to learn the songs! Whew. I'll probably be humming along for a lot of them.
During the evening Gary will be sharing the story of Jesus - from the manager - to the cross and the power of the resurrection. We have this hope - when we receive Jesus we are assured of salvation and now have the amazing privilege to actually have a relationship with God almighty. We know that God loves us and cares for us; hears and answers our prayers.
Hinduism and other religions do not offer any assurances that their prayers, incense, offerings, good works, etc. will actually be accepted. There is very little hope. That is the difference between religion and relationship.
Scenes from Christmas 2019 Notice the snacks! |
This year's Christmas outreach party will bless 16 mothers & young married women and 55 children at Baginbari. At a second location, the party will bless an additional 20 children. They will receive groceries for each family, toys for the children, beauty products for the mothers, and a small box of Christmas treats for everyone. (Slice of cake, a samosa, and a delicious crunchy snack called Bhujia ) There will be singing and sharing the Christmas story in their tribal language: Adavasi.
India's Prime Minister Modi’s BJP Party has been pushing Hindu Nationalism and we have noticed that people have become much harder to the Gospel than in previous years.
Will you join us in prayer for these outreaches? As you prepare your home and your hearts to celebrate Christmas, would you lift up these lost souls who will be hearing about Jesus' love - many for the first time. Agree with us for:
- Hearts to be dramatically touched by Holy Spirit
- The Love of Jesus to penetrate their hearts so that they receive Him as Savior
- Christians in India to stand strong and boldly share their faith in Jesus in spite of opposition
Your love and prayerful support make it possible for us to be here. You are part of all we do - and we are so grateful. This Christmas, may you find the joy that only Jesus can give.
Praise the Lord! How joyful are those who fear the Lord and delight in obeying his commands. They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor. Psalm 112: 1 & 9 NLT
~ Journey with Joy ~ Pat
My morning meander lead me down a new path that opened up to this beautiful view with the foothills of the Himalaya's in the distance. |
No comments:
Post a Comment