We (along with some of the Indian consultants and clients) had the privilege of visiting Mahabalipuram (or Mamalapurim), about 1.5 hours south of Chennai. This is the area where Don and Margie Cook are living, and serving the poor. They welcomed us into their home with cool drinks and warm hospitality, and refreshed us with prayer and worship.

Don and Margie have been living in India now for almost a year, following a calling to come to this country to serve the widows and the poor. Don has been working with local people, including a pastor, to build houses. It was so amazing to get to see these houses and meet the people who are living in them. What an incredible blessing both Margie and Don have been to the people in this area! For information on how you can support the work they are doing, please go to: www.equipfoundation.org.

One of the highlights of the day was when a Hindu man in one of the villages gave his life to the Lord. Don makes a regular practice of laying hands and praying for the people he regularly encounters. This man was led in prayer by one of the clients from the venture, who was able to speak to him in their common language, Tamil.

I am so grateful for having the opportunity to visit the Cooks’ home, and getting the chance to see the houses they have built. I have been incredibly encouraged by their testimony of what it is to truly walk by faith. I thank God for Don and Margie, and for all they have taught me about marriage, family, God’s love, service, and so much more. May God continue to bless them and the work of their hands.

Stacie Nishimine