GLOBAL OUTREACH NEWS RELEASE
March 2004
Dear Team Partner.
Greetings in Jesus Name!
It seems impossible that three months have flown since the last news report.
It is always encouraging to hear from some of you with warm expressions of you love and concern for us at this time of increasing persecution. We are here by Divine appointment and our trust is always in Him.
We are encouraged by Psa. 91: 4-6, He shall cover you with his feathers – – under His wings shall you take refuge – – you shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday. We are safe in the hollow of His hand.
The scripture assures us that, He will make the wrath of men to praise Him, – – where sin abounds, grace will much more abound.
Although the present political unrest and religious persecution has impeded, to some degree substantial public crusades, smaller quieter gatherings are proceeding, albeit with disturbance. On a daily basis reports come in of pastors being intimidated, churches defaced or plundered. Last week one of our own fellowship’s churches, which had only been built a few months ago, was destroyed by arson. That congregation is now meeting in temporary facilities. At this moment regular blue tarpaulins (canopies) are being flown in from Canada to improvise as temporary shade placed over a bamboo frame, to allow the congregations to continue to meet for services in rural areas.
Pastors and leadership need your prayers at this time of great disturbance.
Presently Parliament has been suspended in preparation for an election. Until that date the incidences of abuse and riot are escalating daily. Fortunately to date there has been no politically related loss of life.
Last week as Shirley and I left our vehicle and walked toward a building, seconds later, within fifty yards of where we alighted, another car drew alongside the car in front and assassinated the three occupants. This would be considered a revenge killing for a minor disagreement – Kangaroo court.
Ministry continues in light of the turmoil, the power of the Word draws the lost to His saving grace. Every area of human need is met as His deliverance still touches the lives of those whose hearts have been opened.
Please keep us in your prayers as you are in ours.
In his love & service
John & Shirley Abraham