ebenezer
EBENEZER
Writing a column (or blog) is not my strong suit. Still, sometimes it is good to put my thoughts on paper and to look back on a certain period. Currently I have been living in South Africa for six months. At this moment I feel compelled to raise an Ebenezer: Hitherto hath the LORD helped us (1 Samuel 7:12).
I feel at home in South Africa after six months. The local people from the work field have a special place in my heart. It is remarkable that during the past six months the Lord has wanted to bring several people into my path with whom I can speak heart to heart. For example, I met a young woman who has become a true friend of mine. Despite differences in culture and background, there is a spiritual recognition during our conversations. These conversations give me so much joy and gladness. The LORD is working! Even here in dark South Africa, where Satan holds so many people in his grip and the spirit world is strongly present.
The Lord has said to me that He has given an open door here in South Africa to make God's Word known (Revelation 3:8). The annotation on this passage says, "That is, a sure and unhindered opportunity to spread the Gospel with good progress."
I may experience this at times as well. There are so many opportunities to share the Gospel here. During home visits, during children's and youth classes, in the orphanage, in the home for the elderly and to so many women working in the garden. This brings so many people - who are unfamiliar with the Biblical message - under the hearing of God's Word. Though there are also many who have not yet been reached. And yes, there is also much enmity against the Biblical message among the people, enmity that naturally lives in my heart as well... Yet I also notice that there is a hunger and thirst for the Word among the people, especially among children and teenagers. At times I strongly look forward to the fulfillment of His promise: "Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God." (Psalm 68:31)
Marieke Bakker
