In 2000, the First World Christian Book Fair was organised in Mumbai by the Christian Booksellers International Association (CBAI). Apparently, it was a success, but due to the last-minute cancellations of a few, there was a huge financial loss for the person who organised it. However, there was J.D. Rajendran, who had his booth: “Word of Christ.” There, he was able to connect with other Christian book publishers. One international publisher was willing to accept him as a distributor on a trial basis for three months. The diligent Rajendran optimally utilised the opportunity, and Word of Christ became one of the leading Christian publishers. Great is the army that publishes His Word. (Psalm 68:11)
Discipline of reading: Although Christians in India had a higher literacy rate, the book-reading habit was not. If all pastors showed from their pulpit a Christian book, sharing what they read, and encouraged the congregation to buy and read, Christian publications would flourish. Without such encouragement and endorsement, Christian publishers were not able to innovate, cultivate readership, and support local writers. Production of Christian literature was mainly translations of books by prominent authors from Western nations.
Lack of stewardship: Sadly, Christian publications in India did not thrive and grow. A few leaders who inherited the ministry or mantle that fell on them were not faithful. The assets of the publishing agencies were sold, printing presses were sold or left in a dilapidated building to rust. Selfish and greedy leaders turned the ministry properties into their private assets.
Power of Resurrection: The Lord Jesus Christ, who defeated death and rose again, works in marvellous ways. When there was the death of publications ministries around, God raised new publishers who would continue the faithful work of the Lord. Rajendran, who was a businessman, was called by God to take the mandate of Christian publication. Babu K. Verghese has written a biography of Rajendran: The Bible Man of India, From market place to mission field. God is not without witness in every generation. (Acts 14:17)
Am I a faithful steward of God’s call, resources, and opportunities?