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Sheep, Wolves, Serpents, and Doves |
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Written by Julie Parker
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Thursday, 01 November 2007 |
Over the last two weeks I have been at a loss for words to explain situations and resulting emotions here in Jos. Fortunately, as a mission community, we have been given an official statement...a statement that I pray will bring you to your knees, lifting prayers to our Heavenly Father.
"Please be in prayer for the healing of three SIM missionaries who experienced a very traumatic armed robbery on the evening of October 16. Pray for the mission community in Nigeria to know the best ways to protect their members. Pray for discussions with security agencies on ways to improve security. We need God’s grace to be wise in taking practical steps to protect our staff, and at the same time calm rest in God’s strong protection."
A few days ago a friend (who had no idea what has been happening here) sent the following article by John Piper. The message has provided encouragement as we continue serving here. Too good not to share in its entirety! Matthew 10:16
"Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves."
When Jesus sends us to bear witness to him in the world, he does not send us out as dominant and strong, but as weak and seemingly defenseless in ourselves. The only reason I say 'seemingly' defenseless is that it is possible that, since all authorityť belongs to Jesus, he might intervene and shut the mouths of the wolves, like he did the mouths of the lions that surrounded Daniel. ...... This brings us to the dilemma that has faced many faithful witnesses: When do you flee from danger? And when do you embrace it and witness through it? see the entire article on John Piper's website. It's well worth reading.
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 20 November 2007 )
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