India Day 4

I am physically in India, but tonight I find my mind drifting back to Marianna. When I spoke with Sherry today she told me about a friend and church member, Murray Whiddon. Bro. Murray is fighting cancer and the battle is not going well. I have been praying a lot for both Murray and his wife Phyllis. They have both been so loving towards me and my family. He is an amazing believer and a true servant of Christ. I do not know what their future holds, but I pray they both experience the incredible peace and presence of God.

Today, we began with breakfast at the senior pastor's house. It was a great time to sit and talk about ministry and just share life together. I really enjoy the two men with me on this experience. They both have a heart for people and a desire to be used by God. Later in the day we came to the hotel to get ready for the concert. The concert is a big deal for the church.  There are several hundred people here and many of them are important officials in the city. Everyone has been on edge today because the high court in India was set to make a ruling that involved a 60 year old case over a disputed worship site in another part of the country. This site is claimed by muslims, hindus, and seeks. If I understand right the decision was handed down this afternoon. So far there has not been any major disruption here in Hyderabad.

The music at the concert is incredible. Jeff sang my favorite worship song! I have met so many people that my mind I'd on overload with trying to remember all the names. Afterwards we are having a huge buffet here and getting to stay the night at the hotel. I am excited about the soft bed and hot shower. This is a very nice hotel and would rival some of the finest hotels in the States. However, down the hall from our room on the sixth floor you can look down on a city block of people living in tents, shacks made of scraps, and some just under a tarp. The contrast from where I stand in luxury to the slum below reminds me of the contrast and disparity in this country and really throughout the world. It also reminds me that despite economic situation, cultural background, skin color, family status, or natural talents there is only one common and equalizing truth in this world. We all have a need for a savior. No matter what our differences we all can experience the love and grace of Jesus. I hope you will spend some time today thanking Him for Grace. Thanks for praying for me and join me in lifting up the Whiddon family.