Home Sweet Home

Summing up my travels through India can be done by giving you two verbal pictures.

The first weekend:
Vibrant expatriate society which moves in and around the culture surrounding it without being completely immersed within it. Like many expat communities, this one is a revolving door with families moving in and out every 2-3 years. The women came from varying backgrounds and nations, yet came together with same focus of enrichment. We loved hearing their stories and sharing with them what we believed Father had sent us to share. We learned much about the international community and their needs. Many ladies "put their spoon down" and moved forward in their personal relationships. We left exhausted, but expectant for what we would encounter in our second weekend.

The second weekend:
52 Indian women came together for a unique time of fellowship, teaching, and exuberant music. WOW! The women came from several of the 26 Indian states, which allowed us to learn about the different states and the issues the women face. We found a vibrance within them that is seen within the lives of those who live with persecution of varying levels. Each has made a costly choice to follow Truth, even though many in their families have not. After learning of their walks and challenges, our 'prepared words' were tossed to the side as we slid to our knees for insight and discernment. It was a beautiful weekend! Stones were cast aside and ladies were willfully being released from heavy burdens.

Our last night in India, we were given an elaborate gift from a family. Fabric was brought into our hotel rooms and choices were made in the afternoon. By evening, we were being dressed by women in the fellowship in the traditional Indian sari. Did you know they wrap 18 feet of material around their bodies? This does not include the little shirt or long skirt worn under the folds of fabric. We were honored to wear our gifts to their evening gathering. Even though I was a bit uncomfortable in the new attire, it was washed away as we all walked into the main hall. Cheers and gasps of delight were heard around the room from the women. They grasped our hands and faces while saying, "Now you are Indian! Now you are one of us!" We took numerous photos at the close of the evening, but oops!...my camera was up in my room.

Thank you for taking time out to read as well as intercede for all of us on our trip. Even though we were only four, our love could not have extended as far as it did without you and many others joining together on our behalf. It is an honor to serve those among the nations and an extreme joy to know I do not walk alone in this pilgrimage. Many blessings to you all!