"First of all, I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" These were
the words from quarterback Tim Tebow after leading his team to a 13-10
overtime win yesterday.
This is exactly how we feel here in Mali, Africa after a grueling yet
delightful week. Can I explain?
1) One by one, over 60,000 Gideon New Testaments were placed into the hands
of the people in capital city Bamako. We had surpassed the goal by 10,000.
Everywhere, folk could be seen reading and pondering the new little BOOK.
2) The value of prayer was so vivid. Each morning at 5:30, five teams of men
were on their knees at the Hotel. Throughout the week, at numerous times in
front of the schools, military camps, hospitals, etc two or three or four of
us would bow together. Often, ones receiving the Word would ask for prayer,
in the classroom, at the Hotel entrance, etc.
3) One morning, we were surrounded by crowds of children pushing so hard
that we had to close down for an hour or so. Gladly, no one was trampled.
The next day, it might have happened again, had not the Lord sent a school
director with a stick in hand to get them into the classroom. YES, God
answered prayer!
4) The double cab pickup joined the chorus of thanksgiving, the off road
tires singing beneath the load, the small 3L deisel purring like a kitten.
Every evening, she took on 4,000 copies of God's Word. One day, it was over
6,000.
5) A golden version was welcomed personally by President Toure. Free air
time was given on national TV to tell the glory of the written Word and
encourage continued freedom of religion. Election year is a only few days
away.
6) Where God is active, so is the adversary. Guess who was trailing the
delegation and was in to see the President immediately?? The top religious
leader of the country.
7) Dan has the privilege to disciple a school teacher whom the Lord had
prepared to respond to Jesus Christ, the Living WORD. We only know of this
one among 60,000. We hope and pray that many more will follow.
8) Marsha and Dan joined national pastors and believers to say goodbye to
seven devout men from overseas with tears and warm embraces. Our next
reunion will be in glory, hand in hand with those from every tribe and
nation. Are you glad to be part of the team? I am!
With thanks, Dan and Marsha
