Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
“For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.” – Habakkuk 2:14
As I write this message, the dry winter season has begun here in India. The weather has been unusually cold, and many locals are saying that global shifts, such as climate change and even the effects of past tsunamis, have altered the timing and nature of the seasons. What once followed a steady rhythm now seems delayed and unpredictable. Yet in all things, we trust that the Lord holds every season in His hand (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
Farewell to Pune - A Place of Learning and Fellowship
Tonight, I will be departing from Pune (formerly known as Poona), a well-known educational hub in India. My next destination is Kottayam, in the state of Kerala—also known as the “World Coconut City.” The train journey will take around 38 hours.
To put it in perspective: many of us feel tired after a 4-hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur to Penang or Singapore. But here in India, a 5-hour journey is considered short, locals often say it feels like just 45 minutes!
Fellowship with Brother Mathaikutty and Family
I had a blessed time of fellowship with Brother Mathaikutty, a former theology professor (picture attached). He has a deep conviction about house churches, preferring gatherings of believers in homes rather than large buildings. His vision is similar to the concept shared by Brother Yun, the author of The Heavenly Man.
His 18-year-old son, Betson, also has a heart to serve God through medical missions. I sense God’s calling upon this family, and I believe He brought me here to encourage and guide them in their journey. Please keep them in your prayers as they seek to follow God’s leading faithfully.
A Heart for the Word and the End Times
During our time together, we also discussed the often-overlooked topic of biblical prophecy, especially concerning the end times. Many believers shy away from this subject, but the Lord opened new understanding to us through the Book of Daniel, especially chapter 8.
Here are a few reflections I’d like to share humbly:
- Daniel 8:8 - “The goat became very great, but at the height of its power the large horn was broken off, and in its place four prominent horns grew up toward the four winds of heaven.”
This speaks of powers rising and falling, empires and economies that seem unstoppable, yet collapse suddenly. Many Islamic-majority nations today have grown in financial influence and are transferring wealth globally.
- Daniel 8:9 - “Out of one of them came another horn, which started small but grew in power to the south and to the east and toward the Beautiful Land.”
The "Beautiful Land" refers to Israel. The directions of east and south symbolically point toward Palestine and Egypt, nations central to present-day tensions. The prophecy speaks of powers rising subtly, gaining ground spiritually and politically.
As we study further in Daniel and throughout Scripture, we begin to see that the world stage is preparing for significant spiritual battles. While governments and armies may plan their own strategies, the Lord is sovereign, and His Word will be fulfilled. Let us stay prayerful, discerning, and grounded in truth.
“Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets.” - Amos 3:7
Pressing On with Faith
As I continue this journey across India, I ask for your continued prayers, for strength, protection, and provision. The road is long, but the joy of seeing lives touched by the Gospel makes every mile worth it.
Please also pray for the people of India, that their hearts would be softened to receive the love and truth of Jesus Christ. In every village, classroom, and home, may the light of Christ shine brightly.
May the Lord lead the way, and may His peace reign over every nation.
With love in Christ,
Pastor Boaz Kok
