Varghese, a Christian missionary, attended a large festival honoring a false god. His sole purpose was to share the love of Christ with all who would listen.
That day, thousands of worshipers lined the banks of the Ganges river. Believing the river was a holy place, they submersed themselves in its water to receive physical healing and the forgiveness of sins.
In reality, the worshipers were bathing in one of the most filthy rivers on the face of the planet. Because of the religious significance, partially cremated bodies are frequently thrown into the river. The putrid smell of human and industrial waste fills the air.
Vargese approached the banks of the river as he moved through the mass of people. Kneeling on the water's edge he found a young woman, weeping uncontrollably.
Gripped with compassion, he approached her. Composing herself, she wiped away the tears. The woman shared that her husband was sick with tuberculosis and had been unemployed for months.
On this day, to make peace with the god of the Ganges, she gave her greatest offering. A half-hour earlier she threw her infant, a baby boy, into the river where he drowned.
For centuries this practice has taken place by people so lost, so hopeless, so desperate they'd do anything to find forgiveness of sins. They've never been told about Jesus Christ or experienced true redemption.
To learn more about those who've yet to hear of Christ's love and what can be done about it, dive into your new book, Revolution in World Missions. Compelling stories and information are found among its pages.
© GFA, Inc. – "Transforming Communities through God's Love" – 1-800-946-2742 – info@gfa.org
