"All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away."
-Isaiah 64:6 (NIV)
We stepped off the boat into a mass of local residents, donned in their traditional dress, graciously offering us their handmade lays and welcome baskets as well as umbrellas to protect us from the searing heat of the Equatorial sun. The rhythmic beat of the drums and the synchronized steps of the dancers ushered our team down the main street of the town, under a canopy of ribbons, to the local primary school where we were treated to more traditional dancing, fresh coconut milk, and the smiling faces of what seemed like the entire town. The warm hospitality continued throughout our stay and was again showcased during the final ceremony where we were treated to another buffet of traditional foods and the kind words of one of the town's leaders as well as a letter from the students. In short, we were received into their town as if we were foreign dignitaries and into their hearts as if we were family.
We cherish the friendships that have been started. We applaud the generosity, hospitality, and genuine gratitude we experienced from the people of this country. We are also reminded of the sobering reality that they are not only lost, but also oppressed and ensnared by the lies of Islam. While the enemy's defenses are legitimate, we know that our God is sovereign and will, in time, peel away the mask and shed light into this country.
In fact, the Father has opened doors into this dark country in such a way that, instead of having to sneak 'under the radar' to gain access, our SPORTS company is not only welcomed, but begged to return. We WILL return and bring the Kingdom of Light with us as we remain obedient to the call the Father has given us. Please prayerfully consider how you can partner with us to reach this unreached nation!
