Around the world, the Christmas season is a time when we get together with family and friends. And if we can’t be with them physically, we send them messages of love and encouragement. It’s also when we miss those closest to us who are no longer with us, the most. And it’s a time when we’re reminded again of what is truly important.
Ecclesiastes 3:12 reads: “I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live.” This is especially true during Christmas, as it’s during this season that many people stop focusing on themselves and start to focus on others and doing good.
Looking back at this year, I thank you, our partners, for the good you’ve done for our family in Christ through your prayers and support throughout the year. It was a difficult year, especially due to the pandemic, but you stood with them. May God bless you for your love for our family in Christ.
During this season, my heart goes out to our family in Christ in countries where they’re persecuted. Many of them pray for peace, as it’s a time of increased persecution for them. Others like the Salcedo family remember their loved ones who were killed because they believed in a baby born at Christmas.
As we look forward to spending time with loved ones, please continue to keep our persecuted family in your prayers.
And if you’re able to give, please bless them this Christmas . Let’s keep on reminding them that amid persecution they are never alone!
Jan Gouws
Executive Director
Open Doors Southern Africa
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