CUSTOMS

Warm Indian air enveloped me as I walked towards the last gate that separated me from the Cochin airport and Silas and Sam who stood ready to greet me. Just as I thought the long journey was about to end, a customs official motioned me to his table.

“Please open your suitcase,” he said. So I complied. Immediately the inspector’s eyes locked on the contents of a large cardboard box. “What are these”, he asked.

“These are my CD’s,” I replied.

He looked at me skeptically and was quickly joined by more curious officials.

“These are commercial products, and you will have to pay a duty tax.”

“Oh Lord,” I uttered a silent prayer. “You know these CDs are to further Your kingdom. Please help me.”

I showed the official the picture on the Choices album and he could see that it was truly my face. Next I explained that I was a singer here in India to do concerts and these were my own products. I was ready to refuse to pay and just leave the box with them—at least anyone who took them would hear the gospel! But their demeanor changed. Suddenly, they wanted to shake my hand. I offered each of them a CD and two men awkwardly accepted. They asked what was in my other suitcase. When they found that my description was accurate with the contents inside, they waved me on. I was free to go with no tax to be paid. Thank You, Lord!

Thus began what would be an incredible three weeks of ministry. God blessed each step of the journey. It was obvious that many people were praying for our team! God miraculously worked in the lives of people because a great number of you were praying. Thank you so much! I look forward to sharing with you in the weeks ahead, stories from India.

Meditation

Jeremiah 17:10—I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve.

When we enter any nation all we own and have is subject to being examined. Customs is the procedure for inspecting goods and baggage. For most of us it is an unpleasant reality to be subjected to inspection. But in truth it is a good reminder. Every day we go through customs. While we may at times be screened by human officials, it is God Who examines us. He sees the very motives that dwell in our hearts and knows the thoughts that wind through our minds. Are we clean? Is our Father pleased with what He sees? “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Psalms 19:14).