Often when I make a quick rundown of the latest world news, I think of a passage of Isaiah 55:
Seek the LORD while He may be found. Call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD. And He will have mercy on him; and to our God. For He will abundantly pardon. Verses 6-7
Today is most certainly the day of salvation. We have no guarantee that we will see tomorrow. There is a great urgency to reach those we can while there is still time. Later in the chapter we find these verses:
For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth; and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes forth from My mouth: It shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. Verses 10-11
The House of Blessing missionaries are probably more aware of this than many of us living in the West. Wars, rumors of wars, and threats of even more wars are on the minds of many people in our world today — especially in the Middle East. Without getting into the complexities of all that is going on today, life is not assured for anyone from one day to the next. So, the work of evangelism and the making of disciples continues on a daily basis.
Word was received from brother Omar that he and Hisham, Mahmoud, Falih, Bassam, and Taher have visited 14 refugee camps since the last update. They have taught about the life of Jesus and interacted with a great many that wanted to hear about Him. There were many extended sessions drinking hot tea over a wood fire as they discussed the Savior and what Christianity is all about. There were requests for Bibles everywhere they went, but they were only able to leave 6 Bibles in each camp. Bibles printed by underground printers cost $15 apiece and so only so many could be distributed with the limited funds available.
Word was also received from Mufieda that she, Hafidha, Faryal, and Labiba are still teaching classes but had to limit them to 20 female students due to limited funds. The sisters had hoped to be able to purchase one tent large enough to have all 20 study in the same tent but it was not possible at this time. They still continue believing in miraculous provision as there are many potential students on a waiting list, eager to study Scripture. They ask for prayer and provision that they can take advantage of the open doors available. Time is running out.
Many more Bibles are needed for the days ahead as the HOB missionaries are going to be visiting many more refugee camps. There are also additional teaching materials ready to be sent but funds will be needed to make copies of the materials as well as stationary supplies and other necessary items for the students.
As I close this short update, I can’t help but share the urgency in my own heart. We are living in the perilous times the Apostle Paul warned about in his letters to Timothy. Many people wonder if we are truly at the end of the age. Those days are here. In 1 Thessalonians 5 we are told that the world will not recognize the signs of the times, but the true Church will. There is a colossal storm on our horizon and it is going to affect the entire world. As God’s people, we must walk in true intimacy with our God so we will hear His instructions and be empowered for whatever is just ahead. Our “Catching Away” time is also imminent. Note what Paul said to the Thessalonians:
1 But concerning the times and seasons, brethren, you have non need that I should write to you. 2 For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. 3 For when they say, “Peace and safety!” Then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. 4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this day should overtake you as a thief. 5 You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ 10 who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. 11 Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Forever in His Service,
Maranatha!
Jake
Where do I send money?
I’ll text you