Introduction
This partnership with our founding pastor, Bob Caldwell, and others has flourished into what we now know as Send Hope Now. Through their dedication and support, it is evident how God uses willing hearts to reach many with His love and grace.
Main Points
The Story I Share Is Rooted
The story I share is rooted in my gratitude for those who have contributed to this mission over the years. Since its beginnings in a simple shed, where my wife and I taught non-Christian children Bible stories and songs, we witnessed an explosive growth as the church formed and multiplied.
- Today, there are around 200 churches in India, and with God’s provision, we have constructed approximately 75 churches over the years.
- Each step reminds us of God's faithfulness and how much He desires to bless those who serve Him faithfully.
- In Matthew 25, the parable of the talents illuminates our responsibility as stewards of what God has entrusted to us.
The First Two Servants Received Commendation
The first two servants received commendation for their faithfulness, while the one who buried his talent faced rebuke. Reflecting on this parable, I encourage you to regularly assess your faithfulness and ask yourself if you are using what God has given you to bless others.
- Each day offers a fresh opportunity to earn the commendation of being a “good and faithful servant.” The need for Christ in India is immense, as only about 3% of its 1.3 billion pe.
- Our ministry aims to change lives through the gospel, not only by planting churches but also by ensuring that our people live out their faith in holiness and prayer.
- We train our pastors to share the gospel in culturally relevant ways and help them relate to their communities, thus fostering true transformation for many who once lived in darkne.
One Significant Focus Has Been Education
One significant focus has been education, particularly for our pastors’ children. Initially, we sought to provide a good education, and now we see many of them becoming professionals, including engineers and doctors. This educational commitment has not only uplifted families but also allowed many to contribute back to the mission and support their churches, illustrating how faith and practical action together can empower future generations. Starting this mission was not without challenges. We faced opposition, especially from non-Christian leaders during our initial efforts.
Yet Through Persistence And Reliance On
Yet, through persistence and reliance on prayer, we overcame hurdles. The lives transformed by faith serve as testimonies to the power of God at work, encouraging us to press on despite adversity. We have continued to emphasize a life of prayer, healing, and holiness among our congregants, instilling in them the significance of relying on God in times of distress. There is profound joy in serving God and witnessing the changes in communities as people come to faith. For instance, through our ministry, many who once struggled with addiction now contribute to their families positively.
The Ripple Effect Of The Gospel
The ripple effect of the gospel leads to societal change, economically and socially, as families turn from self-destructive habits to constructive, faith-filled living. Looking at the future, I see unwavering vision within families that seek not only to grow individually but also to serve collectively. Last month, over 400 youths from different backgrounds gathered for a youth camp, hungry for spiritual growth. This energy reflects a new generation eager to spread the gospel and fulfill their calling amidst the vast diversity of India. The thirst for God's word among tribal communities and the significance of living a life of prayer and worship stand as pillars of our ministry’s efforts.
Conclusion
In closing, I invite you to reflect on the immense blessings that come from being faithful servants of God. The transformative stories that emanate from our mission in India exemplify the impact of living out the Great Commission. We all have a part to play in the Kingdom, and as we cultivate faithfulness, we are assured that God will use us to touch lives and bring change for His glory. Let us pursue our own faith journeys with the same fervor, knowing that what we invest in serves a higher purpose in God’s plan.