Home ›

monthly focus ~ planting seeds in the sahara

space05.jpg

PLANTING SEEDS IN THE SAHARA



sahara.jpgThe Republic of Mali is a landlocked country in West Africa. EBM is working in five areas of Mali, with four EBM works situated in the north on the sands of the Sahara.  Mali is a stronghold of Islam, yet God is raising up His church in this harsh land. 

Ken and Sarah Beckley serve in Dire.  Their church sponsored a big outreach weekend in April over Easter.  They started with an open “debate” at the church on Saturday about the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  That night, they had an outdoor evangelistic meeting at the church with songs, a play about the resurrection, a message by Ken and the showing of the Jesus film in Songhai, the local language.  Sunday morning the church held their regular services and then followed the services with an all-day fellowship for the church family and guests.  The outreach plan was in place, the church was excited, and it was implemented.  

What was the outcome?  The Beckleys sent this report recently.

“The weekend did go very well.  Saturday morning 40 people came for the debate.  Ken really enjoyed the opportunity to challenge their thinking regarding this [the resurrection of Jesus Christ] major difference in our two belief systems!  The people were very attentive, and we had a very good question and discussion time after his presentation.  In fact, we had to cut the questions off, as we were running very late. . .  

That evening we had about 300 for our showing of the JESUS film in Songhai.  About a third of those were children, but they also need to hear, and could clearly understand the message this time [in their own language].  We were pleased to see the reactions of the people, as they commented on Jesus’ teaching, his responses to those opposed to him and his love for those in difficult situations.  Since then, we have had opportunities to talk to a lot of people who saw the film and to bring it up each time we see them.  They are all so pleased that they can understand it in their language, and say that it is a very good clear Songhai.  Please continue to pray for all those who were challenged by the Word, that the Spirit would continue to work in their hearts. . . .

The services and fellowship on Sunday were an encouragement to everyone.  Each church family always invites a number of non-Christian friends to join us. This gives additional opportunities to help them witness the joy of Christian fellowship. . .”

Results from evangelism move slowly in Mali.  Those who come to Christ are persecuted for their faith.  Families often disown those who become Christians.  To take a stand for Christ is not easy, yet those who do grow deep and strong in their faith.  Pray for the church in Dire.  Pray for the Beckleys as they assist the national leadership in strengthening the outreach of the church in this area.  Pray that these Christian brothers and sisters will be instruments God uses to draw other Malians to Himself.