A Gift

Our day began, after the walk in the rain, with the staff of EMI in prayer and worship through song. The room was full of architects, engineers, and the four of us - not exactly musical geniuses. Today and tomorrow the staff of EMI planned 2 days of prayer and fasting with times of reflection, praise and worship through song, and prayers of thanksgiving for God's protection and provision. This year EMI India celebrates it's 10 year anniversary. As stories were told and prayers were said it became clear of God's blessing and purpose for the ministry of EMI here in India over the last decade.

Bobby commented on the obedience that each person sitting in the room had shown in being a part of the work God has done through EMI. In our short time here we have come to appreciate and deeply respect the staff who live here (most for over 5 years) and the interns who have given 6 months to 1 year to support the ministry here. Ryan shared his deep gratitude for the team and the community of TNL. He went on to express how unique it is for 4 people - 2 pastors and 2 who did not know him well (Bobby had not met him until the airport in Dehli) to come visit simply to encourage him. I told the staff and interns the story from our side. That two months ago when we were looking at schedules and task lists, finances, families and feasability, the timing was all wrong to come visit Ryan. I called him on a Friday morning to tell him that it wasn't going to work out this time. Yet in his voice I heard a clarity and a gentle nudge that although it looked wrong on the outside it was the exact right time from God's perspective. That decision would be confirmed with our incredibly affordable plane fare, the generosity of several who allowed us not only to come, but to come with financial gifts for the community here, and a community that has allowed and encouraged two of its pastors to come encourage our friend.

As I prayed later in the afternoon, I thanked God for the gift it is to Ryan, but also the gift it is to us to be here with him. When asked, "what did you do when you went to India?" my reply will be, "I went to see our friend, to pray with him, eat with him, laugh with him, and thank God for the work and life he has given him."
[Jared Mackey]