Tomorrow, I leave for  10 days in India. I have never been to that part of the world so am looking forward to it greatly. We are going up near the Bhutan border…way north in the tea growing capital – but the weather will be very pleasant – in the 50s and 70s. I am hoping to get a glimpse of the Himalayas while there.

I hope I have packed the right clothes, medicines and gifts! I am allowed two suitcases – neither can weigh over 50 lbs. They don’t.

India has always seemed so exotic – because it is! It is so far away and has such delicious foods – I happen to love curry. However, rice does not like me. And I cannot drink the tea if it has caffeine. I hope they will not be offended.

I am to speak at least 4 – 5 times to a very large crowd – they tell me 30,000 or so. I cannot imagine. I have never spoken to that many people at one time but I know for me, I have to prepare as much for 30 as I do for 30,000. The culture is very different. I have had an Indian friend “vet” my messages so nothing will be misinterrpreted. I will have a translator. Hopefully, he or she will improve the messages.

We plan to visit Mother Teresa’s Sisters of Charity and hope to have the privilege of speaking at The Carey Memorial Church in Calcutta. William Carey, called the “father of modern missions” took the Gospel to India in 1893 and had a hand in the modernization of India. He served India until his death.

Because of my mother’s parents, I have missionary blood! So I am always thrilled to see what God is doing elsewhere in the world and want to be used in a small way. I always come home with a renewed burden to do more.

Please pray for us – I am taking a friend with me. The trip has been organized by Advancing Native Missions of Charlottesville. A marvelous organization dedicated to finding and  supporting indigenous missionaries around the world. As of March, I will serve on their Board. I have never been involved with a group that prays, loves, serves in such a humble, Christ-like way. It is a joy just to be around them. The leadership is incredible – special folks who live out the idea of “servant leadership”.

This trip is taking me way outside my comfort zone! Far away from home and friends and family. But it is also an exciting new adventure and I will be depending on God in every way!

I am not sure I’ll have Internet connection…if I do I shall post news and photos – otherwise I will do it when I get  back!