His family asked him not to practice his faith
When Ebenezer was young, his mother died. Her passing devastated him because she was his friend, confidant, mother, and support system. He entered into heavy grief, loneliness, and depression for two years.
Around that two-year mark, Ebenezer experienced a personal spiritual awakening and discovered God’s love. His Hindu family strongly opposed his new faith and asked him not to attend weekly faith gatherings.
With courage and determination, Ebenezer continued to follow his spiritual path. He stayed committed to his faith, finding strength and hope in God’s care.
Meeting his soulmate
In the summer of 2003, Ebenezer met his wife. Sumathi came from a similar background, and she and Ebenezer were quick friends. They shared messages of hope and compassion with everyone they met.
They eventually fell in love and wanted to get married. Their pastor spoke to their families, who gave their approval, and Ebenezer and Sumathi wed! They went on to have two boys and a girl.
Pursuing God’s Plans for His Life
As the years passed, Ebenezer worked a variety of jobs, but something inside him was restless. One day, he felt a deep sense of calling, realizing that his purpose was to serve others and make a positive impact, not just follow the ways of the secular world.
In 2018, Ebenezer shared his desire to serve others with his pastor, and shortly after, he met Embrace a Village. He learned a great deal about supporting people affected by leprosy and the impact of serving alongside them. Soon after, he began working with EAV.
Ebenezer says, “The EAV team has guided me in so many ways—teaching me about serving others, personal growth, family life, and experiencing God’s love in our work and community.” I am so happy and blessed to work among these people.”
We are so grateful for Ebenezer, Sumathi, and their sweet children. The way they care for and support the patients and staff at our base reminds us of the importance of compassion and service in action.
Like Ebenezer, you may be wrestling with a desire to serve others but aren’t sure what that looks like. Sometimes it means serving in everyday life, and other times it means serving through community programs and outreach efforts.
Either way, we know that God has the perfect plan for you and that He will be faithful in revealing it to you. We hope you receive clarity and guidance, and that you feel confident in the decisions you make through the peace and assurance God provides.
We also want to affirm that you are making a huge difference, even if you don’t always see it! Over the years, your generosity has greatly impacted our work—whether through financial gifts, helping raise awareness, or offering prayers for our teams and the people we serve. You are helping bring hope, care, and support to many, and we are so grateful.