From the heart

Dear partner and friend

As the August winds pick up outside and we eagerly await with anticipation spring to break through after the winter months, I’m pondering on “expectation”.

My dad died in mid-July following a short but devastating illness. The parting and grief would have been unbearable if it weren’t for the eager anticipation of being at home with the Lord when we’re away from the Body (2 Cor. 5:8) as followers of Jesus, and the godly hope of resurrection of the dead and life in the world to come (Nicene creed). Because of that hope, we now have this expectation of a reunion with my dad in our forever home with Christ.

Perhaps you face hardship and need a reminder to live in this expectation. Be encouraged! Live in the hope of a life hereafter that is free from the pain and hardship of this world.
In this issue, you will read of the severe hardship faced by our family of faith on the African continent. The situation is desperate for the millions of displaced Christians, especially in the Sahel countries of Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali as well as the Central African Republic and Northern Mozambique. It is a complex situation with religious and political causes, driven by radical Islamist insurgency.

Yet, you will also read of the steadfast living of the African Church following Jesus amidst the danger and displacement. And the African Church’s invite to answer their call to stand with them in prayer and action through the Arise Africa campaign and petition. May we take hold of such a wonderful opportunity to stand with the Body of Christ. And may we be blessed for our involvement and prayers as we suffer with those in the Body who are suffering (1 Cor. 12:25-27).

Peace

Lynette Leibach
Executive director of Open Doors Southern Africa