We have said those words many times, in 3 different languages, over the past several days. Here in Burkina, it is very important to visit your friends and colleagues and wish them many blessings for the New Year, while giving each one 4 kisses on the cheeks. In addition to greeting, we find that this time of year presents many opportunities for sharing the Good News with those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
A young Muslim man gave us this blessing the other day, “May God grant that I may enter your road this year.” What an open door that was for us to say to him, “You CAN!”
On Jan. 2nd an English Bible study began, using Josh McDowell’s book More Than A Carpenter. Some of the students have never asked Christ into their lives. What an open door to tell them that they can receive His free gift of salvation in this New Year!
We are blessed to be living and ministering in a country where people are spiritually hungry and where conversation about spiritual matters is welcome. Will you please pray with us that 2007 will be a year when many Burkinabe will receive Christ into their lives. Here are some other items for your intercession:
- We now have a precious newborn baby in our home! We asked you to pray for Rachelle, a young woman who has lost 4 babies in late pregnancy. Little Deborah was born a month early by c-section on Dec. 16th and is doing well. She and her mom will be with us for several more weeks so she can put on weight and avoid exposure to all the illnesses that are going around right now (see attached photo).
- Steve will be making 2 bush trips this month to work on church construction. Pray for his safety and for divine encounters for him along the way.
- A new session of English will begin at the end of January. Pray for wisdom for Debbi as she determines what curriculum will be taught. Pray also that many students who are spiritually hungry will come to the classes .
Your prayers and financial support in 2006 were a huge blessing to us. We know that without them we would not be here in Burkina Faso. Thank you for continuing to be a part of our team in this New Year. We want to give you each this blessing for 2007: May God grant you the most sincere desire of your heart and may He bless you with His peace and joy.
With love in Christ,
Steve and Debbi