Are you always like this?

"Are you always like this?" This is what one of the ladies in my group asked one day. "What do you mean?" I asked. This woman wanted to know if we still dressed, acted, and taught the same things when we are in the U.S. She had been told that westerners come in and teach some things, and then go back home and act differently. I assured her that although I don't wear all my African outfits in the U.S., I still dress modestly, act the same, and teach the same things from God's Word. She was relieved. I was saddened, though, to think that there are already people trying to discourage her from learning the Truth in God's Word.

My group of ladies has reached a major point in our study. A few weeks ago, they were thrilled as the Israelites finally reached the Promised Land. We then went through some of the prophecies about Christ. Last Saturday, we talked about how the Koran teaches that they should study the teachings of Jesus (Issa). I sort of gave them the chance to stop studying. But, praise the Lord, they want to continue!! Please pray for their eyes to be opened and their spirits to receive the wonderful news of Christ being the final sacrifice for our sins. We will meet this Thursday morning and then Saturday before we leave for vacation. Please pray that nothing hinders our study.

Many of you know that the month of fasting (Ramadan) has started. We have many friends, neighbors, and acquaintances who do not allow any food or drink to touch their lips from sunup to sundown. Often, they won't even swallow their own saliva! I asked my friend why they fast. She said it was so that their sins would be forgiven. Also, she said that if you wanted anything, this is a good time to ask for it. It is a pretty miserable time for them because it is so hot right now.

It is really sad for us to watch this going on because we know that their works and sacrifice are not "earning" them anything with God. The one bright spot in all of this is that people often have dreams and visions during this time. Please pray with us that many will truly seek God, and that He will reveal Himself to them in their dreams. Many former Muslims say that they became followers of Christ after He came to them in a dream!

Also, please pray for Chad as he finishes up mountains of work at the office before we leave. Pray that he will have few interruptions, and will work very efficiently. He is also asking for wisdom as he has taken on an additional role as the IMB representative on the board of directors of the missionary school here in town.

We thank you so much for your faithful prayers for us and our work here. You help to keep us going each day!