August 2021
“How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand;
when I awake, I am still with thee.” ~ Psalm 139:17-18
Dear Ones in Christ,
Since we sent the last prayer letter, my dad had severe stomach pain which was caused by a blockage in his intestines. Although the doctors tried non-surgical procedures, they determined surgery was ultimately necessary. Dad has made it through the surgery and is now going through the difficult recovery process. I asked him what Bible passage has been encouraging him during this time, and he cited the above passage from Psalms. We are rejoicing that God has precious thoughts of us and He is with us, even in our most difficult days.
A couple months ago IEM expanded our Food Kit program in Uttar Pradesh (UP), North India. The program is being well received as our evangelist is distributing 25 kits per month in local villages. Last month he particularly focused on Tikra Village and was able to get the support of the newly-elected head of the village in this endeavor. Together they were able to locate widows who especially needed help during the pandemic. It was a great blessing to them.
Our campus in Kerala, South India is still not able to open due to the pandemic and government restrictions. We are continuing the education of our Bible School students through online classes. The faculty remains vigilant and dedicated, and we are all praying that some relief will come so that we can return to in-person classes. Please pray for our students and faculty to get through this difficult time.
Please pray for Dad as he is recovering and trying to get back to a normal eating and sleeping schedule. We appreciate your prayers and are thankful for your love and concern for us. We love you and pray for you, too!
Yours in His Service,
Dayan Mathai