Did you know that the official English spelling of Kolkata is like i just spelled it? it was changed a few years ago from Calcutta to Kolkata to more accurately reflect how Indians say the name.
India has lots of different languages. I'll be learning Bengali, (which is officially the language of West Bengal, (the "state" of India where Kolkata is)). i've started learning Bengali already, i have a book, and Cd's to help me learn to read, write and speak. i know i'm pretty slow going right now, but i figure every little bit helps!
right now, my proposed flight itinerary has me leaving Detroit metro at 7pm on Feb 15, and arriving in Kolkata at 8:30am on Feb 17. Some of that is layover, and some is time change...but its still a long time to travel!
a friend recently asked me how i decided to go to India, and why Word Made Flesh and why "only" 4 months. i thought they were good questions. Here are the answers. I was looking to minister specifically to people who have the least reason for worldly hope. I know there are lots of different ways to build the kingdom of God, discipleship, church planting, schools, health care, ect, ect. The passion that God has placed on my heart is to serve people who need hope. I want to be a part of showing people that God is good, and that He does care even for them. I was sharing that with some friends, and they have a friend who has served with WMF, and they suggested i check it out. I did, and it was a good fit. As for the 4 months, it was the best fit for me in the structure of WMF. As for why India, well, as absurd as this may sound, there is a Caedmon's Call CD, "Share the Well" and that's what first piqued my interest in India. I wanted to serve in a place that was different from any other culture i've interacted with. Also, i wanted to serve in a place where they don't "assume" the way of Jesus to be true. I wanted to serve among people who hadn't yet had the chance to hear about the One True God who loves them. So, India it is! And that's a quick snapshot of how God put this adventure together!
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3 comments:
just wanted to leave a comment first - it's important to me to be first, you know...
Thanks for clearing up the spelling issue with Kolkota. I was wondering if the official spelling had changed, or if it was just an issue of English-speaking people being confused about India and its cities.
and look, i just mispelled Kolkata...I'm such an American...
Mel,
I don't know who this Melissa girl is that keeps posting things on this blog but it sounds like she is about to go on an amazing journey for God!! I will be praying for you and checking your blog frequently!
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