Jhansi Suresh shares that she is a fifth-generation follower of Christ. Beginning with great-great-grandfather Arunachalam alias Asirvatham, Chellaiya alias Samuel, Navamani, and Ranjith Singh.
Devotees
Five generations ago, my father’s forefathers lived in a village called Irunjsirai, near Srivilliputhur in Tamil Nadu. There was a village deity known as Madasamy, and their forefathers had a temple built in their home. The deity was feared, loved, and served with deep devotion. The pujas were held daily, and major decisions were confirmed in the presence of the deity.
Destruction
There was a cholera outbreak that killed many people in the village. Historical records show that there was a plague in the 1890s in which many people died. For hours, my great-great-grandfather prayed fervently to the deity. He pleaded for protection and healing for his family. Suddenly, he heard the voice of God.
Disillusioned
The voice was unexpected, and the message was more disastrous. “Why are you praying to me? I do not have power over life. If the Lord of life takes away life, what can I do?” Shaken, Shocked, he cried: “Then who has the power over life?” The response was again: “I don’t have power, but another does.” Even after a persistent request, the name of God, who has power over life, was not revealed.
Devasted
Meanwhile, many more perished, including all his siblings. In anger, my great-great-grandfather destroyed the family temple.
Dream
In a dream, he received directions to go to a meeting in the nearby town. Obeying the dream, he went and attended a meeting where the Christian gospel was preached. There he learnt: Jesus Christ is the Life. (John 14:6) He understood the true living God, who is the author of life. While his entire family perished, only he survived.
Disciple
A new journey, with new life, with a new vision began. This testimony is shared with each generation. (Joel 1:3) It is a faith legacy, birthed not by tradition but by the truth, that has transformed us. We share it with our children, too.
Do I share the Most Holy Faith with my descendants?