David and Julie write: “We had an unexpected revelation about the resistance we have been feeling in the L* community over the last year. When the children stopped coming to Sunday School for no apparent reason and our weekly visitors suddenly stopped coming, we were suspicious that something was not right. This week it has finally been revealed to us that a rumor has been spread in the community that we are not really a church but a part of one of the South African political parties, and our reason for being in the area is to recruit votes for that specific party. There is a great political battle in the area in light of the upcoming elections next year. The area was controlled by one party, until the last election when a different party took control in a close election. So, people are being told that they had better not be seen associating with us or they will be considered as joining a specific political party. While it is good to know what the problem is, we are uncertain of how to overcome the false perception that has been accepted as truth by the community.” Pray that the truths of God’s Word will penetrate the hearts of people in these areas. Pray that those who follow Christ will stand firm in their faith. Pray for protection as missionaries travel in and out of communities like these across South Africa.
Mar2