Asia 2012
Imagine for a moment, if you can, ministering in a region
where having in your possession ANY Christian symbol or material could land you
in prison. Imagine trying to start
churches in a society where attempting to convert the local citizens was criminal. Imagine being driven away by mobs or beaten
regularly when attempting any open ministry.
Imagine being the pastor of a church in a region where it is considered
a criminal act just allowing a converted Muslim to even attend your
services. Imagine living in a culture
that everything from your clothing, to your language, to your day of worship
identifies you as an “enemy” of that state religion. Imagine seeing numbers of
your women and young girls herded into the streets and humiliate because they
attend your church. Imagine congregating
secretly in a home to worship and every knock at the door could be the police
to carry you off. Imagine the courage it
would take to “let your light so shine before men” there. Most of us cannot imagine living in such an
environment void of the blessed gift of freedom.
Recently, I was blessed to spend two months in
regions of Southeast Asia that this describes. I was in four different
countries, each different but yet the same.
I have been amazed at the
steadfastness of God’s servants there.
While they do not enjoy the bountiful harvest that other nations
witness, they are impacting their people and their stories cause one to shake
the head in utter awe at their courage and conviction. Each of them in their own way has paid a
price for their service to Christ.
Thank you, Pastors and churches for your steadfastness and enduring spirit in the Lord's work. We look forward to serving with you in the future.
