Back on line!

We are now in Sri Lanka suffering for the Lord with our hotel on the beaches of the Indian Ocean. But there is another side to this beautiful island. As we were landing, there were tanks and heavy artillary on the runway. There were armed guards around the airport protecting it from the rebels and the warfare going on here. Bu tnow, I am getting ahead of myself.

Yesterday was a busy last day in India. We went to an IGL church service in the morning and participated in their enthusiastic worship and then our team did the teaching and the prayers. Their taking of the offering brought me back to the story of the widow's mite - these people who have so little giving what they can to the Lord. They are so appreciative of people from the West coming to minister to them - that they matter in the Kingdom of God. What a privilege to be part of that. Back "home" for lunch and then a quick packing of luggage in the van, saying our good-byes to those not going with us. How hard that was - in just a few short days, you become like family. We're then off to a rural church to dedicate their new church building. We were greeted as honored guests and participated in dedicating the building to the Lord for it to be used for His Kingdom purposes in their community. It is amazing to be so far out and yet still have sound systems complete with a wireless mic! Again, the people are so appreciative for the church in the West to be part of the whole Body of Christ - to provide the resources, training and what it takes to come to their church service. When we were done - it was off to the hotel by the airport for our last night in India. But what a final day it was - 9 hours on the bumpy roads of India - experiencing every part of life here. A ride we won't soon forget!

This morning we had a quick 45 minute flight to Sri Lanka and you would think we were in a different world - I guess we are! No animals on the road, no garbage or litter, everyone driving on the right side of the road, washing machines, dryers and tvs being sold in the airport! You gotta love it.

Conference starts tomorrow - pray for the speakers - that they would be inspired by the Lord and not depend on what they taught last week. Pray for these pastors who needs lots of encouragement. As of right now, we don't know what our role is but we both are anticipating that God has something here for us (and not just a time to relax by the pool!)

Hopefully we will be back on tomorrow as we have to go to a cafe to get internet access. We can't tell you how much we appreciate your prayers and support for us!

gary for the two of us
(sorry Bob you had to miss this!)