May 6, 2011

ETHIOPIA

because

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. 

Revelation 5:12

Dear Pastor and Praying Friends,

As the second most populated country in Africa, Ethiopia is home to 85 million people, most of whom are shrouded in the darkness of two primary false religions. Ethiopian Orthodox makes up about 50% of the population. This religion is a blend of ancient mysticism, strict Jewish ritualistic practices and pagan animistic beliefs. The Orthodox privately promote spirit worship of all sorts, including demons. Islam originally came to Ethiopia in the seventh century. In the last thirty years it has grown to more than 40% of the population. Voice Of The Martyrs reports that Muslims have started massive campaigns to Islamize Ethiopia by penetrating Christian areas with bribes and mosque building programs. Today Ethiopia is a primary battleground between the Orthodox and the Muslims. Ethiopians desperately need the light of the glorious Gospel of the precious Lamb of God. Our hearts are gripped by the somber words of 2 Corinthians 4:3-4, “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” 

Praise God for these recent churches who have financially joined the team of reaching Ethiopia for Christ.

• Faith Baptist Church - Cadillac, MI
• Fellowship Baptist Church - Luther, MI
• Fenton Road Baptist Church - Flint, MI
• Henry Baptist Church - McDonough, GA
• Trussville Southside Baptist Church - Trussville, AL

“We’ll keep the home fires burning.” In the home we’re renting we’ve been blessed with a fine Christian couple who are both our neighbors and landlords. Because our family is on the road so much these kind folks have graciously offered to watch over things, including keeping our wood furnace burning during the cold months. As they’ve put it, “We’ll keep the home fires burning.”  Their helping hand exemplifies the sweet spirit of so many who have been an encouragement to us. Like the church who had a special prayer time and laying on of hands after the morning service. Or the Pastor who paid for my motel one night, even though I wasn’t scheduled to be at his Church. Many more stories could be told about such loving people. We’re deeply grateful for these and a host of others who are a vital part of this eternal mission of glorifying God. Thank you.

Because He Is Worthy,

Lonnie, Nodja, Elizabeth, Josiah, Judson & Holly