Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Update on Biwat

Thank you for your prayers and your emails of support!

Here's a brief update on the situation in Biwat Settlement. About 90 people slept at our church on Saturday night (mostly women and children). Many of them returned to their homes in the settlement on Sunday, although a small group of them are still staying at the church. There has not been any further fighting, but the situation is uncertain and tense for them. It's especially difficult for them to sleep at night, not knowing if and when the fighting will begin again. Many of the men are keeping watch for as long as they can.

The tribe who had their houses burnt apparently had a 25-seater busload of people from their village arrive. They are armed and ready to fight...if necessary.

We continue to pray for true reconciliation and peace for the people there! What the community really needs is godly leaders who are filled with the peace and wisdom of Jesus Christ. Then they can ensure that the ongoing fighting between the tribal groups is properly addressed. Many of the residents are carrying anger, hurt and deep resentment from years past--these feelings are just below the surface and bubble over very quickly. And in many ways, it's very understandable. How hard it is to forgive and be reconciled to your neighbours when they have burned your home down; or, seriously injured your daughter by slashing her with a knife; or worse, killed your son?

Only when you know the power of Christ`s forgiveness in your own life are you able to travel the difficult but blessed road of true reconciliation!

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