From the heart

Dear partner and friend

At the end of this year, it’s a privilege to reflect on the Lord’s faithfulness. With your support, as our faithful partner, Open Doors had the opportunity to serve many who follow Jesus in dangerous places.

We know that more still needs to be done, as many people have not yet heard the Good News of the saving grace of Jesus. How will they hear if no one tells them?
That is why guarding the local Church to represent Jesus in these dangerous places is paramount. There is significant opposition. Those on the frontline pay a great price for their faith.

What an honour to be entrusted to tell their testimonies. We have all been invited to know about, pray, support and speak out on behalf of those in our family of faith who are suffering.

That is why we’re thankful for your prayers and support for our persecuted family this year. Thank you for responding to their prayers and needs.

This month, our focus is on the testimony of children who face exclusion, bullying and hatred for their families’ faith and their own faith.

Moms and dads naturally want to protect and provide for their children while showing them the way to follow Jesus boldly. In our communities, parents are expected and encouraged to do this. In contrast, when following Jesus in dangerous places, Christian parents are sidelined and often unable to protect their children against the onslaught and hatred.

Together, we can encourage them not to give up and to continue following Jesus boldly. Engaging with their testimonies of endurance and forgiveness can also strengthen our faith.

As this year ends, I pray that you and your loved ones would have a peaceful and meaningful period of drawing closer to Jesus and relishing the rest.

Peace

Lynette Leibach
Executive director of Open Doors Southern Africa