Today I experienced the grace of God in providing me with preparation for India. As I got on my bus to go to downtown Los Angeles, I walked to the back of the bus where i normally sit to sleep or read and there discovered a friend I've met before. His name is Oza, and he is Indian-born, but now works in the jewelry district of L.A. Oza grew up on the streets in India. Today he told me how he was actually brought to America when he was young to work as a slave in a restaurant. After losing even that job, he was homeless in Redondo Beach, CA, until a generous Christian couple provided for his needs, took him to church, and got him a job. Oza is now a successful, middle-aged, Christian man with a family of his own. With his hard work and earnings, he has been able to help bring up his siblings from poverty in India, and he regularly goes back to his country of origin to meet spiritual and physical needs. Talking with Oza, I have learned much about how to travel to India, what to eat/drink to stay healthy, and where to carefully meet physical needs. God is teaching me even in my routine bus ride.
My "coincidental" interaction with Oza comes in the midst of our Mission's Conference here at Biola, where I have been excited for the Mission of God among the nations and have been able to speak with other missionaries and mission organizations. Yesterday, Kyle and I were able to meet Jeff Boesel of OC International, who we almost went with, about missions overseas and the cultural and spiritual difficulties they entail. Jeff is also good friends with Subash, and he encouraged us by giving his highest regard of Subash's heart, ability, and strategy for ministry. He is truly a great connection.
We are excited for all that God is already doing to prepare us for India and the people He has put in our lives to give us counsel. Not that we are altogether faithful and just, but "the LORD loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones." "He will never leave you nor forsake you."
Jason
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