July 2021
“Blessed is the one whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers.” Psalm 1: 2-3
Beloved Ones in Christ,
In the time of the Rajas in India, they planted trees by the side of the road to give shade and shelter to the many travelers who would be journeying by foot. They also would often provide water. There are many people in the world who are weary and are suffering. We who are redeemed by the Lord have to be a shelter and refuge to these souls, “like a tree planted by the rivers of water that brings forth his fruit in his season.” We consider all our supporters to be like the trees described in Psalm 1.
This month, I took a special trip with my daughter Mishal, son-in-law Len and my three oldest grandsons. We traveled to Seattle and central Washington, traveling the path I took when I first arrived in America in December 1962, 59 years ago. (Mariamma arrived eight months later in August 1963). We visited dear friends who attended Selah Bible College with me and also friends from my Biola and Talbot days, and I was able to share about IEM with Thorp Community Church, a wonderful community of believers who have supported the work of God in India through IEM for over 40 years.
When I think about the blessed churches, friends and supporters over these past many decades, I am reminded of the Lord’s promise that those who have blessed India with faithful prayers and support are like the tree in Psalm 1 that continues to yield fruit and prosper. Our ministry work of providing food kits to families in North and South India is a reminder that there are so many weary and suffering people. We are grateful to all of you who have been a shelter and refuge to these people as we endeavor to reach them with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
May the Lord enable IEM, through His people, to continue steadfast in our work until His return or when he calls us home. I love you and thank the Lord for all of you in my prayers.
Yours in His Service,
V. Mathai