J and C
SOUTH ASIA
South Asia Faces Uncertain Future
The general situation here in the capital city seemed to have calmed down. But the rebel insurgency problems are far from over. Now and then we see groups of people holding rebel banners and flags chanting anti-government slogans marching on the streets stalling traffic. Nothing concrete and promising have come out of the talks between the government and the rebels. The recent inhumane attacks on US and the imminent war against terrorists world-wide have added to more uncertainty and unpredictable days ahead.
The rebels have strengthened their grip on the villages outside the city. It is now not safe for me to travel out of the capital. For the time being I have been advised to suspend my visits to our churches. The rebels are holding rallies in the other districts to recruit people for their cause. New faces provoke suspicion. The police will suspect the new face is with the rebels and vice versa. Lately I’ve been feeling frustrated for being so helpless in the situation.
Last week the A/G Council called for an emergency meeting for all pastors working in the region. Most of the pastors have received threats and intimidation by the rebels. Two A/G senior council leaders encouraged the pastors that this is the time to keep focus on God and intensify our daily conversation with Him. I was also approached to encourage the brothers with God’s Word. I pointed them to our Chief Shepherd who in His darkest hours sought human companionship and support from His close friends. Together they went to seek God in the garden. In his hour of need our Chief Shepherd sought after God and intensified His talk with Him until He finally gave in to God’s will. That was how our Chief Shepherd won the battle and faced the dark journey ahead of Him. It is a privilege to be able to stand with my fellow brothers in this hour of need and face times of uncertainty ahead with them.
C and the boys are all doing fine. For emergency measures we will be taking a potential co-worker to stay with us. If we are forced to evacuate, she will take care of the home until we return. At this moment, I am focussing my time teaching in Bible-school. I am also making preparations for the opening of our Harvests Missions Centre early next year. Once it is safe to travel, I shall resume my weekend visits to our churches again. Please pray that this will be soon!
Editor:
There are also reports that a devastating earthquake is “highly likely in the near future. Regardless of how strong or weak that earthquake will be… the capital will almost certainly be badly affected. When this happens, experts predict, there will be: huge loss of life; 60% damage to buildings…”
Please uphold J&C in your daily prayers.
