Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.
Hebrews 13:3
One of the greatest blessings this year was welcoming our dear friend and ministry partner, Jiwan, from India to the United States. Although his visit was brief, the impact it had on all of us will last much longer.
During his time here, we were able to gather with several families for sweet times of fellowship. Around dinner tables and in living rooms, Jiwan shared firsthand what God is doing in India and Nepal, while also speaking honestly about the growing persecution believers are facing. Those who attended had the opportunity to hear his heart, ask questions, and better understand both the challenges and the incredible opportunities for the Gospel in that part of the world.
Jiwan explained that new anti-conversion laws have made it increasingly difficult to openly share the Gospel in many areas of India. While the mission has not changed, the methods must often adapt. Future trips may look different than they have in the past. Rather than large public evangelistic efforts, we anticipate spending more time prayer walking, encouraging pastors and believers, strengthening local churches, and supporting the work that God has already established. The Gospel continues to advance, but wisdom and discernment are more important than ever.
We were also blessed to host an open house in our home that was filled with laughter, meaningful conversations, and joyful reunions. It was wonderful to reconnect with friends we hadn’t seen in quite some time, and Jiwan was especially encouraged to see so many familiar faces. The love and support shown by everyone who came reminded him that he is not laboring alone. Even though his visit was short, it strengthened and encouraged him in ways that words cannot fully express.
One statement Jiwan repeated throughout his visit continues to echo in our hearts. After sharing about the realities of following Christ in India, he would say, “Now that you have heard our story, you are responsible.” It was not spoken to bring guilt, but to extend an invitation. An invitation to pray faithfully, to give generously, and to stand alongside our brothers and sisters who are serving Christ under increasingly difficult circumstances.
As members of the body of Christ, we all have a part to play. Some are called to go. Some are called to give. Every believer is called to pray.
How You Can Partner with TREC
Please continue to pray for Jiwan, Esther, and the believers throughout India and Nepal as they faithfully proclaim Christ in the midst of growing opposition. Pray for wisdom, protection, boldness, and open doors for the Gospel.
If God leads you to become more involved, there are many ways to partner with us. You can keep up with all that’s going on by subscribing to our newsletter at trecmud.com, where we share updates about what God is doing around the world. You can also give online to help support these ongoing ministry efforts. And if your church or small group would like to learn more about missions or if you have ever considered serving on a mission trip, we would love to connect with you and share how you can be involved.
Thank you for praying, giving, and going as the Lord leads. Together, we have the privilege of taking the hope of Jesus to those who need Him most.
Blessings,
Jeff & Trudy
