Werner, Jean-Pierre, and Rodé Groenewald, Afghanistan

The decision to move to Afghanistan in 2003 was not an easy one for Werner and Hannelie Groenewald. Dying was a real possibility in the war-torn country, and as loving parents, they worried about education for their son, Jean-Pierre, and daughter, Rodé. But they knew that obedience to Christ mattered more than their fears. 

On November 29, 2014, Hannelie was working her shift at a medical clinic. Jean-Pierre spent the day in his room listening to music, playing the guitar, and chatting with friends online, while

Rodé spent time crocheting, working on her computer, and playing video games. Werner went to his office in their apartment complex to prepare for leadership training classes he was teaching that day. 

At about 3:30 in the afternoon, three Islamists broke into their compound and shot to death Werner, Jean-Pierre, and Rodé. After a two-hour standoff with police, one of the attackers detonated a bomb inside the building, killing himself and others, while the other two attackers were killed in an ensuing skirmish. 

The Groenewald family knew the potential cost of following God’s call to Afghanistan. “We had a clear calling,” Hannelie said. “We had a mandate with this; we counted the cost. We knew that something like this could happen. God allowed that for a reason.” 

Prayer

As you reflect on these stories, ask the Lord to embolden you to advance the Great Commission in your circle of influence. Ask God to provide you with a faith that conquers any fear you experience.