I originally wrote a long post about the time at the orphanage late that night. When I hit “publish” it disappeared, never to be flung. It was late, wifi was sketchy, so I just went to sleep. So, here is the alternate version!
When we got into the airport in Kathmandu, it was as uncrowded as I have ever seen it. It was a breeze getting our entry visas, luggage, and we were soon on the way to the hotel. The streets were relatively free of any traffic, the air was clear. I thought, is this REALLY Kathmandu? From the hotel we went up to the orphanage. On the way the taxi driver told us that it was a national holiday, as the government was going to announce that evening whether the new constitution would have a Hindu government or a secular government. We were told that most people wanted a secular government, which would give more religious freedom to everyone. More on that later.
We were warmly greeted at the orphanage by the children, giving us garlands and flowers. When we gave the duffel bag to Maya to open it and give the stuffed animals to the kids, it was truly a joy to see. They each went for one they liked and hugged them and smiled. I have it on film but my iPad is in such bad shape I really can’t upload the video yet. We also presented Dev with money that people had donated for the orphanage. Anyway, it was a remarkable scene. We stayed for a while and went down the street to where the new facility is being built. It is on property given to the orphanage by a Christian man who is a builder. He is doing a lot of the construction himself. He then invited us to sit in his patio for some delicious tea served by his wife. It was such a pleasant evening. It was then time to go. The government was going to announce the decision. If it was to be a Hindu government, there would be some rioting. We did see lines of military and police personnel at the ready. But soon we saw the joy and celebrating in the streets all the way back to the hotel. I will never forget all I saw.
Then on Monday morning we had breakfast at the hotel with 2 Nepalese pastors and a couple who direct the CC Bible College in Kathmandu. I was able to present several thousand dollars that people had donated to Pastor Baburam, who distributes food and supplies to village churches who in turn distribute it to their villages. It makes a huge difference in those mountain villages where help has still been very sparse.
Then we headed for the airport for the flight to Mumbai, followed by a 6-hour drive to Pune. So, here I am about to be picked up for the Pastor’s Conference.
Love to you all.
David