Source: Beyond, July 11, 2024
Lakshmi poured some of their precious water over John’s feet and wiped them with her hands. John wept unashamedly. As she washed, Lakshmi thanked Jesus for John and the message he had shared. You see, John hadn’t just preached to the brick-makers. He had spent time with them. He had eaten their food and drunk their water. He had shown them how to follow the God who loves them and knows them by name. Lakshmi and several others soon became beloved co-laborers with John in their community.
A few months later, monsoon season arrived, [and] the brick-making families decided to go back home to see family.
But when Lakshmi and the other leaders shared their plans with John, he was sad and confused. Why leave? A year ago, when they arrived, they had been idol worshipers. Now, there were 17 house churches among the 40 families of the community. “Why go home?” he asked. “Please stay. We can pray and wait out the monsoons. Don’t go.”
That was six weeks ago. John recently learned that each of the 17 families has started at least one new Bible study in homes among their family and friends back home!
From another part of the world, read about missionary explorers venturing into Amazon jungles looking for isolated people groups (International Mission Board).