India - covid - baptisms & more
COVID
The Covid crisis and lockdown are now winding down in India, thank God! During the lockdown (enforced by armed guards) the people were not allowed to leave their homes except for a few hours in the morning and they were not allowed to work. In India, if you don't work you don't eat. Needless to say, many people were starving and needed help to survive. Our ministry fed thousands and delivered medicine and supplies to Covid patients. We were able to save many lives.
It is heartbreaking to report that we lost several pastors to Covid that were connected to our ministry. Streams in the Desert International, Inc. is dedicated to helping the surviving widows and children of these men and women of God. We provided funds to pay for Christian burial which was a tremendous blessing to the pastor’s widows and families.
GOD’S KINGDOM EXPANDING
Many people have received Jesus during these dark times. It warmed our hearts to see a crowd of people seeking baptism recently in one of the tribal areas that our ministry supports. They got baptized in a drainage ditch! We pray that this great harvest will continue and spread. I was in awe of the dedication and the tenacity of those desiring to leave their old lives and become new creatures in Jesus Christ. When they chose to be baptized they made a very public statement concerning their former life. They came out of the water brand new and many take a new Christian name. It also can cost them much persecution and even their lives. A few years ago members of our ministry were beaten severely with sticks and poles because of their public profession of faith in Jesus.
PRAYER MINISTRY
Our prayer warriors never stop praying! They take turns praying in 8 hour shifts and prayer goes up 24/7. They always remember you in prayer and they are so grateful for the support they receive.
CHILDREN
One of our Hope Homes had severe flooding. The landlord refused to repair the roof and the monsoon rains poured in. We were able to find a new rental that is able to house all of our children.
The children are returning to school. We supply the tuition, new uniforms, supplies, book bags, and new shoes. Some of the older children that have been with our ministry from the beginning are now working on advanced degrees to become nurses, engineers, and business careers. It is overwhelming to think that our children used to live on the streets, some eating mud to fill the ache in their stomachs. These same children now want to help others through nursing and medical careers. Through Streams in the Desert the Lord has given them a family and hope.
We continue to shelter, feed, clothe and educate children and widows in our Hope Homes. We are feeding leprous people and also sharing our food with many that have been starving.
THANK YOU for your continued love, prayers, and giving. YOU ARE CHANGING THE LIVES OF MANY. Would you consider giving a monthly gift? Any amount will help!
WIDOWS
The widows are happy and healthy. We purchased an air conditioner last year so that they do not have to suffer from the horrible heat.
The Podcast on SoundCloud is HERE.
God Bless you!
With Love,