recall a long, bumpy ride in a tiny van across Northern India. I finished teaching a group of persecuted believers in a remote village. As I prepared to leave, a small, hunchbacked woman grabbed my hand and reached out to present an interesting gift. It was handmade, with intricate detail: a small box made of glass and plastic that looked like it was originally intended as a wedding gift. I’ve often wondered what the story behind this mysterious gift is. She clearly gave me something that was very precious to her. I was reminded of the vast difference in what we perceive as “valuable.”
When we are poor, even a little trinket brings us joy. When we are hungry, that first bite explodes with flavor!
On the ride home, I interviewed our host about some of his life experiences. Gafur’s face radiated with joy as he shared God’s goodness to him and his family in the midst of incredible suffering. Some of their suffering came because they live in India. Some of their suffering came because they were Christians living in India.
Gafur told me that there were many times he simply could not provide food for his family. He tried to find work. He served his village as a spiritual leader, and people helped when they could. But, Gafur shared, there were many months when it just wasn’t enough.
As a father of five, I tried to imagine the feelings I would experience if I were unable to provide basic necessities for my family. There is great joy in providing for our children and sharp pains when there are things we can’t provide.
Read More Persecution Blog: Stay Hungry!.
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