24 August 2011

News from Zambia - 24 August 2011 A

24 August 2011

Greetings from Luanshya!

The world is buzzing with news of the events in Libya, Syria and the "Arab Spring." Even in Zambia these developments are points of interest as Zambians prepare for elections in just four weeks. Unlike the situations in other parts of the world, however, Zambians tend to be more peaceful. They have avoided allowing their robust campaign gatherings to become violent. Last week we had parades in Luanshya by two opposing parties on the same day on the same street marching in opposite directions. The "cadres" (party members) shouted their slogans to each other and waved their banners, but these are neighbours, friends and even family members so nobody threw a stone or threatened violence. As we watched from the sidewalk in front of the Christian Resource Centre, members of both parties waved to us. They know that we do not get involved in their political process, but they know that we pray for a peaceful election process. Please join us in that prayer.

With the dry season comes grass fires. Last week one fire started by children went out of control and consumed the grass roof of an 80-year-old man who is a member of our Kafubu Block congregation. The boys of the Lighthouse Children's Home helped me clean up the ash and debris from the fire. The heat was so intense that it melted the pots he used to cook his meager meals. As the boys cleaned they realized just how blessed they were to have a comfortable place to live, eat and sleep. After they finished they each offered to donate a shirt and pair of trousers to the man. There are pictures of the boys and the man attached to this update. Other members of the church as well as several neighbours are also contributing from their meager belongings to help this senior saint.

The newest ministry is the Ladies Fellowship Bibl Study which meets on Thursday afternoon at the home of the ladies participating. They started with the subject: Women, Submission, Home and the Workplace focusing from 1 Corinthians 11:1-16. This week the topic is "Relationaship" from Ephesians 5:21-6:9. Sherry started leading, but the ladies participate in the discussions.  Next week the study will be led by one of the ladies who is a retired officer in the Ministry of Education. The group is growing. The ladies are bringing their friends and neighbours  - many of whom attend churches but have not heard the Gospel. Please pray for this new outreach!

The Youth Fellowship will be studying "Providence Made Practical" (Romans 8:26-30) this Friday. In the second half or Romans 8 the Apostle Paul some of the most powerful and comforting words in all his writings reminding us of God's magnificent providence. For those who believe in both the goodness and greatness of God, His providence over all things becomes a comfort and encouragement. God attends to every detail, is never caught off guard by tragedies and works all things out for our ultimate good – and His greatest glory. This truth has not only profound implications for our salvation, but also practical implications for our daily walk. Initially we reject God's providence. Progressively we tolerate God's providence. Ultimately we can come to completely accept God's providence. (Isaiah 55:8-9; Jeremiah 18:2-6)

This week they will study Romans 8:31-39 / The Security of the Believer – We Overwhelmingly Conquer! All seats were full and additional benches and Bibles were brought in for use. We will have a "Minute to Win It" competition to help build relationships with the new attendees and the "regulars." We appreciate your prayers for this growing area of ministry.

As we continue to see the work here expand and grow we thank the Lord for your consistent faithful support and prayer. 

Together in His Service,
Patrick & Sherry

        

Patrick & Sherry Coleman
P O Box 90010
Luanshya, 
Zambia

Off:   260 212 512359/512539
Res: 260 212 510033
Cell (P): 260 966 780113
Cell (S): 260 966 780112