DAY SIX

Romans 12:21: Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

The life and culture of a village that has never heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ would confound many people that live in large cities. In southern Mexico, I had the great pleasure of meeting a man who lived in one of these villages. This man came to a saving knowledge of Jesus by the efforts of a brave missionary woman who lived in his village for a short time. I was privileged to see how this man helped initiate the first church in his village. 

On one occasion, he invited me to be part of an inauguration service for a small humble one-room church building they had built. Many were invited to this celebration, and the small congregation did their best to make everyone feel at home. Unfortunately, not everyone that came was happy about this new church; there were those who arrived who insisted that all religious activity should stop. Threats were made that day that saddened the local church members who saw their day of celebration turn into a day of persecution. 

But my friend was undeterred. Instead of giving up, he decided to visit his persecutors and pray a blessing over their homes and families. He became a hero to me that day. Continuing acts of love like this changed the eternity of many unsaved people in this village. 

I have met a number of indigenous believers that face this type of situation daily and respond in love. May we all be able to show such grace, love, and forgiveness as we reach out to those who have never known the love of God. 

Efrain Espinoza - Mexico

Prayer: Lord we come to You today with grateful hearts for those who show us how to stand strong and faithful for Your cause.  Let us follow their example as well as Yours to be willing to pay any price, no matter how costly, in order to advance Your Church and to see You impact the lives of those who still so desperately need You.  Amen.