It was just about dark when he came by. One of the believers came to the house and called out to announce his presence. I went out and we started the typical small talk conversation. After a minute or two he said, “I just want to tell you this, I am happy.” He went on to elaborate, “The group that met yesterday hearing God’s Word together [the Patpatar church made up of new believers], I am happy for that. What Jesus has done for us, I am happy for that. The Holy Spirit coming inside us like God’s Word says, I am happy for that. I say, ‘thank you’ to God my Father.” With that he turned and said, “that’s all” and walked away.
His statements reflected the attitude of several of the believers this week. During one of the believer’s meetings one man shared that he had been listening to a group of people talking fearfully about a firefly that they saw. They wondered who’s dead spirit it was and why it had come to them. The man shared with us and said, “I couldn’t help but smile and laugh on the inside. They were afraid, but I smiled. They thought that the firefly was a dead man’s spirit, but I knew it wasn’t.” Another man spoke and said, “I am glad because I no longer have to live in fear of the dreams that I have. I’m a believer in Jesus and those dreams aren’t messages from spirits. I was always afraid when I would dream, and didn’t know what would happen to me, but now I can just be happy.”
It is thrilling to be a part of this “brand new church” as we study the first “brand new church” in the book of Acts. It has also been exciting to continue to teach in the other village as we progress towards teaching the Gospel. Last week we presented the birth of John the Baptist and Jesus. We taught about Jesus’ childhood, His baptism, and His temptations by the devil. Next week begins the ministry of Jesus as we teach about the many miracles, words, and actions of the promised Messiah.
Thank you for your continued prayer. Despite some lessons that taught truths from God’s Word contrary to what the Patpatar believe, there has continued to be good attendance. Pray as we only have four weeks left of this foundational teaching, that they would continue to come, to have understanding, and to accept the Gospel message. Last update I asked pray for the church that the group would be more faithful in attending. The last two weeks have been well attended and they are excited as they are learning about their identity as a group of believers. We appreciate your participation as part of the church, the Body of Christ.
ALL for Him, Aaron