Karnataka

We have finished our short stay in the state of Karnataka. We were housed at the YWAM base here in Belgaum, along with the DTS students of that base who are also on their outreach. Belgaum is a large city of over a million people and I've enjoyed going around the city via bus and autorickshaw.

This week we visited a number of houses for prayer and meetings. We also visited a village for an open-air program of singing, skits and preaching. My favourite time was attending a retirement party for a church lady - the church members met outside in the court area of a government housing project and after the program we all sat down for dinner. I've been impressed by the generosity we've experienced here. We've had two meals with local Christians and every home we visit we are offered tea and cookies, even in the village. Another good time for me was being able to give the lesson at a pastor's meeting on Saturday for 45 minutes - a good opportunity to use my speaking skills and pass on some of the teaching I've received.

One other thing - there are no "maximum occupancy" rules here, at least none that are enforced. Yesterday coming home from dinner at a home, we crammed 21 people into an autorickshaw that ought to only carry 10!. Granted two members were hanging out the door so they weren't exactly "in" the rickshaw but still!

Tomorrow morning we are heading for the state of Maharastra and it will be another long journey.

Hinduism

One thing I've observed in this India sojourn is that Hindus are spiritual people. On my way into town I walk past a temple. It is not very large, and has an open-air style. It is painted cream and white with a terracotta tile roof and a tile floor. Inside is the shrine which contains the figure of the deity which is maybe a foot in height. At certain times the doors of the shrine are open and the hanging oil lamps are lit. Devotees go into the temple to look at the deity and to pray. There is not much noise - the people just look quietly with their hands folded.

I particularly enjoyed my week of Hindu studies. I learned some valuable concepts that will help me during our outreach part of the DTS. I don't want to come across as a foreigner proclaiming a foreign religion that requires someone to totally change their community in order to convert.

In particular I learned about gurus, Hindu holy men who have forsaken worldly pursuits in order to acheive peace and enlightenment. A "guru" is someone who leads you from darkness into light. Ring any bells? Read John 8:12 and you'll see what I mean. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%208:12&version=31