“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth where moth and dust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Matthew 6:19-21
I could list the things we did today – and maybe I’ll get to that – but for those who have never been, let me try to give you an introduction to India….it is overwhelming. The sights, the sounds, the smells, the tastes, and sometimes the heat can be an overload to the senses. Your preconceived notions of crowdedness and poverty are generally accurate, and can easily give you feelings of sadness, or even pity. It can take some effort to get past your first impression and try to find the answer to the question of why you came here in the first place. But if you’re successful in getting through the initial culture shock, this place can be a treasure.
Our partners in Damoh, MICP and CICM, are the most gracious hosts you will ever find. They cater to your every need and provide every comfort. The challenges to their mission in India are numerous and very complicated.
It does not seem like raising the standard of living to something that is comparable to a developed country will ever happen in India. But life does go on. And while satisfying physical needs may not be feasible, fulfilling spiritual needs is even more important. In trying to do that, you will be blessed even more than those you’re trying to serve.
I concede, I didn’t know if I would have a heart for young children. But these young people have broken whatever barriers I had. They have gotten all of me. My “real” life seems so far away and so long ago.
I can’t believe we’re leaving tomorrow. I have no shame in saying there won’t be many dry eyes when that happens.
– Mintoo
Leave a Reply