Mount Saint Thomas - first full day in the books

Hello again from the other side of the world. The first day here in India was a complete success. After our morning naps and hot showers (yes!), we enjoyed a great buffet lunch of all kinds of Indian food. One of my favorite comments that I heard was "stay away from the green leaves - they are HOT!" - good advice :). Fueled up, we were ready to head to a series of locations marking the last days of the Apostle Thomas' life.

We first went to the Big Mount - which is the actual location of where Thomas was killed. From the heights of this small mountain (~300ft), we were also able to see breath-taking views of the city as well as the Bay of Bengal. Walking into the 16th century chapel that houses an original painting by Saint Luke, murals of the deaths of all 12 apostles, and the stone on which Thomas fell after the spear struck him down. . . left us all humbled and inspired.

From there we went to a cave (Little Mount) that served as a hiding spot for Thomas during many of his days of persecution. It was amazing to be in that spot and see the small hole by which he escaped his pursuers just days before his eventual death. There is also a miraculous well nearby (only 2 feet deep) that is said to have appeared after Thomas had prayed for water to quench the thirst of those listening to him preach one day. Though drought has repeatedly hit the region in the past 2000 years, and though the location is elevated on a small mountain side, it is said that this well has never gone dry.

Finally, we went to the Santhome Cathedral, which houses the tomb of St. Thomas himself. We were able to see bones from St. Thomas as well as the spear head that killed St. Thomas. . . just crazy to be viewing these things nearly 2000 years later, and humbling. You see, many scholars believe that Thomas at first resisted the call to go to India, but that he eventually did so because he knew it is what God truly wanted him to do. Twenty years, 7 built churches, and thousands of believers later he was killed for his faith. His initial wants and desires did not cloud God's higher call to purpose and meaning for his life. . . May the same be said of us - be it at work, at home, or at "play".

We ended our night with a treat of Pizza Hut at a shopping center here in Chennai - lots of laughter and smiles tonight, we are blessed and feel on mission - tomorrow will be a great day!