Almost every culture and tradition has a story in which light overcomes darkness. We see this in the Christian faith—Jesus is the light of the world. We see it in Greek mythology, as Prometheus steals fire from the gods to bring light to humanity. We see it in Star Wars, in the battle between the light and dark sides. It’s the same story repeated throughout history.
For millions, this story is most evident in the festival of Diwali—celebrated each fall by Hindus in South Asia and around the world.
The story begins with the kidnapping of Sita, the wife of a Hindu god incarnated in the form of Prince Rama. Sita is taken by a demon king, Ravana, and Rama goes to retrieve his beloved. Ultimately, he succeeds and brings his wife home, where they are welcomed by their people who light rows of oil lamps to guide them home. Good Rama, the light, defeats bad Ravana, the dark.
Admittedly, there are many versions of this tale in different traditions across the Hindu world—but the point remains, and the celebration is known as the feast of light, or Diwali.
For Faithful Witness workers and their teammates in South Asia, this is a time of celebration, fellowship, and even ministry! As local families share meals, exchange gifts, and brighten their homes with lights, our team is walking alongside neighbours—strengthening relationships and pointing to the hope of Scripture that light conquers darkness.
We recently spoke with Priya, who works alongside the Faithful Witness team in South Asia. She described how most families spend the week before Diwali cleaning their homes and shared how one simple conversation opened a door—reminding a neighbour that God desires clean hearts even more than clean houses. Through these everyday moments and festival traditions, relationships grow deeper, and truth takes root.
“Most of the time it’s about affirming the relationship, knowing that this gains you the opportunity to talk further,” Priya explained.
While Diwali is filled with beauty and celebration, it also carries elements of idolatry and spiritual darkness. For the Faithful Witness team, this means setting aside intentional time for prayer and offering support to one another as the festival approaches each year. And in that posture of prayer, the festival becomes a reminder of an even greater hope—the return of Jesus.
There are many stories of how a single decision to visit a family during Diwali resulted in years-long relationships, ministry opportunities, and even Bible studies. Fellowship during Diwali carries unique importance. In South Asia, Christians are often viewed as outsiders, disconnected from local traditions. But by joining in the celebrations—sharing meals, exchanging gifts, and honouring the festival—our Faithful Witness team is breaking down barriers and opening doors for the gospel.
“When their Hindu neighbour sees them celebrating an Indian festival through the affirming of community ties, it goes a really long way,” Priya shared, “they’ll note how we worship Jesus but also respect their culture.”
While Diwali is filled with beauty and celebration, it also carries elements of idolatry and spiritual darkness. For the Faithful Witness team, this means intentional time in prayer and support for one another as the festival approaches each year. And in that posture of prayer, the festival becomes a reminder of an even greater hope—the return of Jesus.
“They are celebrating the return of Rama to his kingdom and I wonder what it will be like when Jesus returns to His Kingdom,” Priya shared, “I meditate on that more than I ever had I not experienced Diwali.”
Let us take comfort in the ultimate truth that light will overcome darkness, and Christ will return for his bride, the Church. And until that day, we will continue in the example set by the Faithful Witness team to be intentional and prayerful.
Pray With Us
- For fruitful conversation and opportunities to share with friends and neighbours during this Diwali season.
- For protection from spiritual warfare during the festival days.
- For the team’s anticipation of receiving new Faithful Witness teammates this year.
