Dear friends,
Warm greetings from the city of Joy, Kolkata!
It has been more than 2 months since I came back to this city, but I feel like it has been more than 6months already. This means that I have settled down into the city well and am content and enjoying my life in the city. One thing I try to keep in my mind is that the real joy is not dependent on my circumstances as it comes from the Lord when I live close to Him. The more I put my trust in Him and enjoy His presence day by day while believing that He is with me and watch over me wherever I go, the greater joy in my heart overflow. Doesthat sound a bit superficial?? But this is what I have found these days. I feel it is easier this time to live in the city while focusing on the people whom God has brought to me.
You may wonder what I have been doing… Since I am back, Ihave been working for people who are living with HIV/AIDS and been visiting the Hindu Community to start a children’s work. I’m doing it gradually for the fellowship and little bit of research on the city itself during the week. On Saturday I do see my Bengali tutor, guitar and am involved in the worshippractice for the fellowship. Days go by fast…
It is already December and the seasonal activities are coming soon. We are having a Christmas programme on 8th Dec. for the HIV/AIDS friends. Some ladies will sing, and a few will testify about their faith in the Lord. In fact I was so blessed by our friend who came to me personally and shared that He trusts in Jesus’ name and he experiences prayers being answered immediately. Sometimes I wondered whether they really understood the Gospel as the Hindus are so pluralistic, but once again realized that it is He who sows the seed and bear the fruits in His time!
Soon, I need to make one big decision for the Community development work. I am praying for God’s wisdom as I talk with people with whom I work closely in facing somechallenges. I find that we don’t all tend to be involved in other’s pain and brokenness due to the fear of commitment and responsibility that follows. I know God gives us the ability to love and care…
Here are some prayer points:
- For the many Christmas meetings in December that His name will be glorified.
- For our friends who are not well, that we may respond to their needs holistically
- For the community Development work and for the staff at CCC to work in a good harmony.
- For my trip to attend the Interserve India annual prayer meeting (26th Dec. – 2nd Jan) safety in travel especially on the train.
For my accommodation and moving (I came back my old place, settled down quickly and it has worked out well. But I need to move out another place and I have seen some options. When Christmas is over, after coming back from the prayer meeting, I would like to shift to the new place)
I just would like to say ‘Big thanks to all of you’ I can’t imagine myself serving in this city without your prayers, care and support. May God bless you all richly.
Jenghee