A Crisis of Faith
In December 1903, in the quiet of a pre-dawn morning in Rampur Kataania, Punjab, a young Sundar Singh stood at the brink of despair. The death of his beloved mother had plunged him into a deep crisis of faith. Raised in a wealthy Sikh family, educated in the teachings of Sikhism and Hinduism, and exposed to Christian teachings at school, Sundar found himself disillusioned and angry. In a moment of defiance, he burned a Bible, page by page. He sought peace in various philosophies but found none.
A Vision That Changed Everything
Contemplating ending his life, Sundar cried out in desperation for divine revelation. As the early morning light filled his room, Sundar encountered a vision that changed his life forever. He saw a figure he recognized as Jesus Christ, who spoke directly to him: "How long will you deny me? I died for you; I have given my life for you." Sundar was struck by the nail marks on Christ's hands and the profound love in his words.
This encounter transformed Sundar's heart and mind. He later shared, "I found nothing in Hindu philosophy. Only in Jesus Christ whom I used to hate, I found peace." On his 16th birthday in September 1905, Sundar was baptized in an English church in Shimla, marking his official commitment to follow the path illuminated by his vision.
The Way of the Sadhu
Embracing a life of simplicity, Sundar donned the saffron robe of a Sadhu, renouncing worldly possessions and dedicating himself to sharing the message of Jesus. He traveled tirelessly across India, Tibet, and beyond, living a life marked by humility and compassion. As he proclaimed, "I am not worthy to follow in the steps of my Lord, but, like Him, I want no home, no possessions." Through his journey, Sundar experienced and preached about the living Christ, bringing hope and peace to many.
A Legacy of Light
Sundar Singh's life stands as a testament to the power of Jesus' transformative love, a journey from darkness to light, from skepticism to faith, and from despair to profound purpose.
