Time in the City of Joy (Kolkata)

We were well prepared for the walk from the cars to the house where this evening's fellowship was held. We were warned that we were going into a poor community where there were people who may not receive our presence well. We were warned of danger and told to walk fast through narrow alleys and keep close to our team. We did not see visually any danger, but there were obvious moments were we knew we were being hurried not out of concern for timeliness but for our safety. We placed our trust in God and our team. This was a maze which we knew we would not easily find our way in without them. How often do we feel like life is a maze and need to rely on God and others to find our way? Matthew 7:13 and 14. Taking the narrow road is not meant to be easy and as we have seen here can be fraught with danger, the stories of persecution are a regular experience to our Brothers and Sisters of faith in India. Brutality towards, possessions, home and person; murder and rape are not unheard of in fellowships of India. This is a daily danger a good number experience purely because of their faith.

One vital part of discipleship in India is hospitality and relation. Immediately after the fellowship gathering it is not unusual to eat together. We were honoured to be invited into this and welcomed into Vikash's home the pastor leader of the Biglife church in that area. We noted they serve their guest abundantly and often ensure they are fed before themselves. We were told that this is their way and not due to having western visitors. Guests are always given the best seat (bed) to sit on. However much they have, or whatever state of home guests are welcome without appointment. The abundant hospitality of God is seen in his people. We all joined in song in a natural response of joy of being together. We praised in both languages singing together or separately as the others prayed. A common feature is prayer requests being shared, and people came forward with faith in a God who heals.

Then we were escorted safely back to the car to enjoy the comfort and safety of the guest house mindful some do not have that privilege.

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