Day of the Christian MartyrSample

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. They discussed the possibility of dying in the war-torn country and, as loving parents, worried about how they would educate their son, Jean-Pierre, and daughter, Rodé, but they knew that obedience to Christ mattered more than their fears.

On Nov. 29, 2014, Hannelie worked her shift at a medical clinic. Jean-Pierre spent the day 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 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.”

Scripture

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1–2

Prayer/Response

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.

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