Short Version:
“Grace” – a new story crafter
“Are you going to invite me to your birthday party?”
What do these people really need to know to follow HIM?
The Himalayas…a constant encouragement.
A New Story-Crafter
We’ve started crafting stories with a new friend, “Grace”- (the relative of one of our neighbors). This involves taking trips to her village (15 minutes on the motorcycle, and about 45 minutes hike down to her village). Living in the village a few days a week to craft and test stories has been a blessing. Fetching water, fire wood (all on my head, of course), making rotis (flat, round bread) by fire-light, unsure of where the next spot will be to go to the bathroom, conversing in the village language, etc, etc- the fun never ends.
“Grace” a new story-crafter and me working on stories…
wrapped in our shawls to keep warm!
Are you going to invite me for your birthday?
All of our neighbors and even a few others have asked me this question recently. They all know my birthday is on the 21st of December, and they are all expecting a party with food and dancing. So, attempting to be culturally appropriate, we’ll arrange a party. I’m also hoping two of our story-crafters will be there, and I’ll ask one to tell the story of Jesus’ birth. I hope to follow the story, by sharing a short testimony of what the birth of this baby means in my life. It will be exciting to have the house filled with people- from the lowest class to the highest, and three different religions—most non-believers, but many of whom have heard some or all of the stories we have thus far.
What do these people really need to know to follow HIM?
As Robin and I have been meeting to discuss additional stories to add to the set, this question has been laying heavy on my heart and mind. Since we are planning to do only 24-26 stories, it’s not possible to focus on all the qualities and characteristics that could draw someone to Him. Thus, we have to make some decisions about what stories to do, and what characteristics to draw out. We have learned so much from the past year and are able to make some good “guesses.” However, it’s hard to accept that we won’t ever really know what’s best. We can try what we think would be best-- but then must fully TRUST that HE will take are of the rest.
As I praise him for the work that has been done and also ask him to help me trust Him with the work that remains, He has directed me to this verse…the words that David encouraged Solomon with as he got ready to build the temple.
“Be strong and courageous and do the work. Don’t be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by the size of the task, for the Lord God is with you! He will not fail you or forsake you.
He will see to it that all the work…is finished correctly.!
~ 1 Chronicles 28:20 (NLT)
The Himalayas – December brings cold weather, but also beautiful, clear views of the ‘snow mountains!’ Being able to wake up every morning and see the mountains (not these in particular, but other ones) constantly reminds me that just as the mountains stand firm no matter what happens- our Father is also there, no matter how good or how bad things may be. What a blessing to always be reminded of this.
PRAISE AND PRAYER:
Praise for a new story-crafter.
Praise for being able to make more progress on our previous stories.
Praise for staying healthy.
Prayer for all of our story-crafters (Nathan, Precious, Grace) as they continue adjust previous stories.
Prayer for my birthday party- that it would be another opportunity to demonstrate His love to the Kahani people. Also pray for my testimony- as I figure out how to say everything I want to in the Kahani language.
Prayer for guidance in deciding more stories for the set.
As you think about what this Christmas season means, don’t forget that so many people still don’t know its meaning. Pray for those across the street from you as well as the Kahani people- that HIS STORY would become real in their hearts!!!
Have a wonderful Christmas!
Til All Have Heard,
~ Elizabeth
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