APRIL 12, 2005
Dear Friends,
Today, jostling along a road near Mumbai, India, I attempt to compose this note to you. I've traveled here in a collaborative effort to bring candidate physicians from India to the United States for a short-term fellowship concerning children with HIV/AIDS. This effort has begun with REACH and physicians from Seattle, and may well be joined by other ministries, such as OASIS.
From the beginning, REACH Ministries has been about the children and about obeying God's call. I confess, one of my greatest tasks is to keep my fears and numerous concerns under God's authority. It's a bit like a freshman Lit. student on the first day of an advanced physics class, "Not sure I can do this." But thankfully, God, our instructor, encourages and teaches well. Without him, I wind up frustrated, burdened and overwhelmed.
Thank God for God and thank God for the textbook He provides, making it possible for me to learn. When I face these moments of dread, I open the book. In my case, it is "The Message" by Eugene Peterson, and today's page is Matthew 16:24: "Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You are not in the driver's seat; I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I'll show you how."
So I have to let God be my instructor, or presently, in Mumbai with this small team, in the "drivers seat." I am encouraged, learning that those I travel with, those collaborating for the sake of the children share the goals of REACH: All strongly desire to serve in a pleasing manner, to extend hope through unconditional love and to maintain uncompromised values. All have a calm reassurance that God alone is moving us toward our destination.
So, from the other side of the world, from milling about in the World's largest democracy, from observing great, great needs of children here, I nevertheless close with this plea: Please continue your support of REACH children at home. Then, pray with us for India and for the relief this present project may well bring to her children.
Blessings my friends,
Susan K. Slonaker
P.S. As we continue to expand our efforts of hope and healing wrapped in grace, as our energies are aimed at strengthening compassion in our community, I ask you continue to walk along side us. Continue to encourage us with your words of support, service and financial gifts.