“We are now in a new era as a Mwinika people. The old times are past and the things we did are no longer necessary now that we know what God’s Word says. We have to do things differently now. I am not going to do any more of the ceremonies in which I have to pray to my ancestors! They are human like I am. They die and can’t come back anymore. They have no power. So why should I look to them for my salvation? God is the only one who can save us. The Saviour is the one we should look at. I am from now on only going to pray to Him.”
How we rejoice in hearing these words! Especially since it was said by a close neighbour and Mwinika friend. Not only that: he is our community’s religious leader and highly respected! He is also one of the guys who has helped Francois the do the Bible lesson development and since they have finished with the lessons a week ago, this guy now has the full picture of the Gospel.
Francois wanted to give the three helpers a week or so to think about what they have learned before we ask them what they believe personally. In the mean time we are praying … and the question remained until now: will they believe? Will this Message change their hearts; their lives? Or will they only nod and smile and continue as before? Or worse: reject the message outright and tell us to leave!?
However, with these words of our friend it is clear that lives are changing!
I overheard this discussing on Friday morning. A group of men were sitting under a tree near our house, visiting. The discussion became very heated at one stage, and I was wondering if some of the men are disagreeing with this leader. However, as I listened closer I realized that this guy was excited because he was agreeing!! He was saying that religion can’t save us and is meaningless if there are no heart changes… Loudly he proclaimed:
“What is on the inside counts more than what is on the outside. God looks at our hearts, not at how many times I go to my [religious gathering place]. What does it help if I go often to pray, but while I am there I am thinking bad thoughts? God knows my thoughts! My heart must change and follow God’s ways.”
These are but some of the things these men discussed… with many who has not had exposure to the lessons, carefully listening to what they are saying. Amazing! Can it be that we already are seeing the first evangelistic efforts of the new believers??
With the last week of Bible lessons (Phase 1) coming up this first week of July, we ask you to earnestly pray with us for the salvation of many Mwinika people.