We just returned from Nepal and have a heartwarming story to share about resilience, dedication, and the impact of your support.
The day began as we boarded a bus at 7 AM and left the charming city of Pokhara and onto unpaved, rugged roads. Unfortunately, the bus’ air conditioning also decided to stop working. The ride was bumpy, and the heat was sweltering. After about five hours, we arrived at Sahodar Hospital—a small facility of six rooms with only one operating room.
But in this small hospital, we saw palpable evidence of God’s active presence. We had the privilege of meeting our dear partner, Dr. Shiva, a remarkable individual with an even more incredible story.
He shared, “We were born very poor in a low caste Hindu family of sharecroppers. We were denied access to education. My older brother eventually found a family that supported his education, and he, in turn, brought me and my three brothers to school. We became the first literate individuals in our community. Tragically, we lost four of our siblings as a result of diarrhea, an easily treatable condition. Our oldest brother became a follower of Christ and we followed his example. Through the grace of God, sheer determination, and hard work, my younger brother and I became doctors. Instead of opting for lucrative careers in the city or abroad, we returned to our home village to address the dire need for medical services, ensuring other families would not suffer as ours did. Over the years, we built the humble hospital you see today and planted a vibrant church. While we continue to face challenges in paying salaries and obtaining essential equipment, we will never give up in showing the love and kindness of our Savior.”
Adjacent to the hospital, the church planted by Dr. Shiva’s family offered us a special space to worship and connect with the community of local believers. Their faith, unity, and shared mission in the face of adversity was deeply moving.
Dr. Shiva’s selflessness and profound faith left a mark on all of us.
Our focus shifted from the long, arduous bus ride to the overwhelming generosity and love of individuals like Dr. Shiva and his staff. He truly is letting the light of Christ shine through him. We witnessed the impact of a life lived on mission.
As we reflect on our journey, we carry home with us a profound sense of awe and gratitude for the incredible people we met in Nepal and for what God is doing there.
Please consider continuing your support, enabling us to touch more lives and empower more communities worldwide in the name of Jesus.
