India – A Land of Promise

Its been four years since I last visited India. I invited my older sister to join me which she readily agreed. Her mission was to visit her friends in a town near Calcutta.  She has never traveled with me before and I wasn’t sure how she would do, but as it turned out, she loved the Indian cuisine. Unfortunately I don’t . . . or didn’t until I was able to convince our hosts to leave off the chilies. It was then that I could appreciate all the spices that were added to the food. One hurdle was crossed over! My friends in Hyderabad were also sensitive to us Americans and our ways.

While there, I was able to minister to pastors, wives of pastors, a couple villages, visit an international school, and a children’s home. We also toured Golkonda, the remains of a king’s fort of 400 years. We also saw Mother Teresa’s mission and grave, William Carey’s college in Serimpur and his grave. A highlight was to visit small businesses where silk sari’s were woven. My sister bought a sari although I don’t think she’ll wear one on a daily basis.

An observation while in India: they are becoming more westernized. Their clothing, food chains and more modern trucking were in both large cities. Regardless, this trip was memorable. I got to see more tourist spots and meet the most wonderful people. I thank my God for the opportunity for this special trip. I believe there is a promising future for those who will accept the God that I serve.