RAVI JOHN SANKARO RAO
Lead me from death to life

I was born and brought up in Gundupalem, Krishna District, India, in a staunch Hindu family. My parents used to perform rituals to scores of different gods and goddesses, according to our tradition.

This is the divine encounter and personal experience of Ravi John Shankara Rao.

I studied for my secondary school diploma, but, due to financial problems, I discontinued my studies, joined a private company and later became involved in a business. My aim in life was to earn money, enjoy life and give to charity (which I hoped would bring me merit to enter into eternal life).

In my 26th year, while I was in Chilakluripeta, Guntur District, two of my friends died in an accident. This brought the question to my mind: Where will I go if I die in the same way? I increased my worship to various gods, but I did not get any answer to my question.

One of my Christian friends told me, “Accept Jesus, and He will give you peace.” I thought that up till then I had served several gods, so I would also give Jesus a chance. That day, November 20, 1979, became an unforgettable day in my life. God revealed His love to me through a vision and also showed me my life. I realized that I was a sinner, that I had done many wrong things. That day, I prayed to God, “Father, forgive me”. Immediately, I experienced God’s love and forgiveness. I knew that God had accepted me as His son.

Now I have received an answer to my question. Jesus died in my place, and, after my death, I will still be alive and I will be with God forever. That day, I received peace and joy in my heart, and God transformed my life. Since that day, God has been with me, guiding me in all situations. In 1984, God called me to become a full-time Christian minister. I have married, and we have been blessed with two children.

I would love to share my wonderful experience with you. God wants everyone to receive forgiveness and live in peace and joy. The loving, living God who has given me joy is also able to help you.

Ravi John Sankaro Rao now has four degrees, teaches at Mennonite Brethren Centenary Bible College in Shamshabad, India, and directs the Church Extension Worker program for the India Mennonite Brethren Church.