Last full day here

Tomorrow afternoon I begin the long journey back home. Just about the time you get used to the heat, the time differential and the food, you head back home to readjust. Pastor Jyothi Ratna, the Indian pastor we have been working with for years, is an amazing man. He may the kindest, most long-suffering and hardest worker I have ever met. I could hardly believe what this man has been able to accomplish -- built a large church -- built a Bible Training School -- done various works of mercy throughout the region -- and he gives all the credit to God and to Community of Believers church in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

This man is a true spiritual father and is a leader amoung leaders. He pastors a good sized church, runs a bible school and heads up the regional pastor fellowship just to name a few. I've never met anyone quite like him before . . . we will not soon see his equal. Although I must say that India seems to produce leaders like this. I've met several since I've been here and feel unworthy to share the platform with such men and they inevitably honor me in the most amazing way. It's not really me that they are honoring, it is the love and support they have received from American Christians. You have not idea how thankful they are.

They other thing I observe about these folks is their amazing disposition. Thousands of people, cars, three-wheel taxis, tractor-trailors, motorbikes, bicycles, water buffaloes, cattle, goats and hand carts clog every road, every intersection, every street in India. And they never lose it -- never get upset -- never even seem to break a sweat. I'm dying a thousand deaths every minute and they never miss a beat. Wow. These are amazing people! And best of all, very hungry for God! And very thankfull for any little thing you care to teach them! Wow!