11/01/2006: Encouragement to Brave the Cold

Encouragement to Brave the Cold

On a crisp, wintry morning in North India, Peter zips up his jacket and mounts his bicycle to go on outreach. He knows he will face fierce winds and cold temperatures, but because of his warm winter clothing, a gift made possible by the support of a caring Gospel for Asia friend, he is ready to brave these conditions.

After graduating from a GFA Bible college in 1997 where he received intensive ministry training, Peter left the comfortable life he had once known to follow God's call—to live among and reach out to the people of this impoverished area.

Even before receiving the gift of his winter clothing, Peter willingly set out each day to share the Gospel, riding his bike to surrounding areas to tell people of the salvation offered in Christ. Peter was very cold and uncomfortable, and without sufficient insulation in his clothing he would often get sick, but he persevered to reach people with the message of hope.

At first, people were not receptive, but as Peter continued and fervently prayed, the Lord opened their hearts through a healing—and a young church was planted that continues to grow.

Now that he has received a winter clothing packet, Peter will no longer have to brave the cold without proper insulation. With his warm clothes, he can venture out earlier in the day than he could before, which means he can tell even more people about Jesus. Equipped with the winter clothing, he can also travel further, with less risk to his health. Peter's wife received a sweater, which provides her with warmth as she serves alongside her husband, reaching out to women and children.

This young couple is filled with gratitude for their winter clothing, a source of strength and comfort to them as they carry out the ministry God has given them.