Our time in India is coming to an end, so soon. As we prepare ourselves for departure, and the inevitable reverse culture shock that will come to us on our return, we continue to experience the overwhelming here in India.

Last night as we gathered in small groups at the hotel to review and reflect on our amazing 12 days in this country, the heavens opened up in a downpour. We peered out our windows into the late night darkness as the rains began. Suddenly the building shook and the night was shattered by an explosion of light and sound. Lightning was everywhere, all at once!

The sky was aglow with continual multiple flashes that seemed centered over our hotel. The wind gusted as buckets of rain poured. Our thoughts turned to the roof of the newly refurbished Christian Media Centre studio, and the materials to repair it that sit at the Madras train station. As we lifted prayers to God that He would hold His hand of blessing and protection over the studio, we also reflected on the legions of people we have seen here living in palm-thatched shelters or on the streets. Monsoons are a part of life in this country, and so is desperation and hopelessness.

We fell asleep well after midnight with our curtains open while light danced in the sky and rain pounded the window. This morning we find the city was washed with over 4-1/4" of rain in less than 3 hours. At church we see little interior damage from the deluge; our repairs to the roof last week took the water and shed it well. Monday they will retrieve the roofing materials to complete the job permanently.

After church we said our goodbyes to the Nationals and staff who had become our co-workers, friends, and family over the last week and a half. Early afternoon we were treated to lunch by Glen Butler at the Crown Restaurant on the 20th floor of a very impressive hotel. We had views across the city all the way to the sea, and could pick out some of the sites we had visited in our tours. Afterwards we returned to our rooms to pack and rest.

We will be downstairs with our luggage tomorrow (Monday) morning at 2:00; depart for the airport at 2:15; all for our 5:25 am departure. We are anxious to see you all soon!