| July 2008 | | Print | |
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I visited last month with "PK", our evangelist to the Khmu. He shared in more detail his experiences in jail a year ago in Southeast Asia. His arrest stemmed from a church meeting that he had attended. In prison, his roommate was a notorious killer who routinely confiscated anything of value from new prisoners. When he found out that PK was a Christian leader, his cell mate gave him his bed mat and blanket rather than have PK sleep on concrete. As PK worshipped and prayed, the Lord called him to fast for the first 6 days. His prayer during those days was focused on forgiveness to the authorities who had arrested him, prayers for their release from evil powers and prayers for God to bless them. During those 6 days his roommate tried to attack him with evil spirits and witchcraft, the true source of his power in the prison. When nothing happened to PK, his roommate asked to know more about PK's beliefs. When he understood the message of grace and forgiveness in Christ - he gave his life to Jesus. It was obvious to him and others in the prison that Jesus had power over evil spirits. The prisoners were divided against each other through fear and bitterness when PK arrived. PK used the little money he had with him to purchase food for a community meal each day. After the conversion of the most feared prisoner, others asked him to share the reason for the hope that he had. Many others then gave their lives to Christ. PK told them that the reason God had sent him to the prison was to teach them to love God and to love each other. Many embraced him and wept as he was released from the prison 15 days later. Some of those new believers have subsequently been released and are now learning to follow Jesus in our churches. PK summed up his thoughts about that challenging ordeal in prison by quoting Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Ministry Highlights-J and F have had many opportunities to connect with individuals and families during their recent involvement with relief efforts. We are grateful that they have been able to bring help and comfort to their friends and neighbors and pray that many will meet Jesus as a result.-Samir and Lewiza recently returned from a recent ministry assignment in North Africa, where they were able to record a number of television programs that will be used for evangelism and discipleship. Pray that God will continue to use their programs to reach homes that would otherwise be closed to the gospel, and that those involved in follow-up ministry would be able to respond to inquiries with discernment and insight. Items for Prayer-Pray for PK and C as they continue to minister to the Khmu people. Pray that they would clearly hear the voice of God as they serve him and pray for boldness, strength and protection. Pray that they would continue to use every opportunity to shine the light of the gospel in dark places.-R and M are currently hosting a team of young adults on a short term assignment who are trekking in a remote mountain range so that they can share the good news of Jesus Christ with those who have never before heard his name. Pray for physical endurance, strength and protection and pray that God would lead them as they visit families in a nomadic people group. Until all have heard,Randy Friesen |