Wednesday started with a whimper. We arrived prepared to paint more of the building's exterior. The hired labor had already kicked us out of the bathroom - apparently we weren't pulling tiles quickly enough. We probably weren't. Unfortunately, the remaining unpainted portions of the exterior needed scrubbing and patching before they could be painted. All we could do was wait. I was fairly busy trying to get wireless internet working for the CMC, but the 10-inch masonry walls prevent signals from getting very far. It was becoming clear that we were not meant to be doing much work around the facility today.

I don't mind working in India, and I don't mind playing in India, but I can't stand sitting around doing nothing in India. My time here is limited, and I want to get the most out of it!

So we headed out for an afternoon of shopping. Five of the eight team members with us now are new to the country. So after a brief foray into a WalMart-like grocery, we headed to Pothy's.

If you want to buy a saree in Chennai, Pothy's is the place to go. If you don't like crowds, Pothy's is the last place you want to be. Last year, we shopped Pothy's on a weekend afternoon but it was twice as busy today. That made no sense whatsoever, until we were informed that we are in the month of Aadi, a Tamil Hindu festival period that runs from July 15 - August 15. Like our own holiday season, this festival is coupled with massive department store sales. Nevertheless, we braved the crowds. Dana and Kathryn, with the help of Sheila from the CMC, had a blast picking out sarees and salwars. Most of the men even dived in and purchased gifts for their wives.

For a special treat, we returned to the CMC where they had arranged a performance by their traditional Indian dance group. In exchange for rehearsal space, this group performs at many CMC functions and uses classic Indian dance to relay to gospel. These young girls are incredible dancers! They not only use their bodies, but their hands, facial expressions, and eye movements are all part of the choreography.

You can't communicate if you can't relate. It is a credit to the CMC that they understand the need to be all things to all people and approach ministry with an eye for Indian culture. Which such amazing dancers, the CMC shows that they have what it takes to communicate Christ to the people of India.