Too Hard: Opening Closed Doors and Hearts
I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. — Isaiah 43:19 KJV
Even before Covid-19 closed churches and countries, the doors to Christian ministry in many countries were slamming shut. Not that they had ever been open very wide. Eager to reach out in Buddhist areas and give children a strong start with a good education, American Nicole and a Bamar pastor opened their first Happy Kids’ World preschool in 2017. They had to find creative ways to work around the many restrictions. Although they could not reference the Bible in their classes, they made sure that all of their lessons were based on the Bible. They made a lot of home visits, and they prayed that the Holy Spirit would lead them.
When political and civil unrest exploded, the doors to the country closed even tighter. Foreign Christians like Nicole and her husband, had to leave the country, and Christians in some areas were persecuted—even killed—and their homes and churches destroyed.
Finally, Covid lockdowns forced the schools and other programs to close. In spite of not receiving salaries in two and a half years, the workers have remained faithful, growing in their faith and effectiveness. They have continued to work in spite of the restrictions, difficulties, and dangers.
God has blessed their efforts and, with the help of Zoom and social media, expanded their reach to new areas through online Sunday school classes, Bible studies, teacher training, and marriage and parenting classes.
Preschool student Maiah’s parents were one couple impacted by those classes. They committed their lives to God and started going to church. After a time of discipling, the pair has joined the ministry team and want to serve God full time. With a desire to reach Buddhists in their village, they recently opened a school in their home.
“Please pray for them,” the pastor requested. “God is using them, but not without trial. They have been persecuted terribly, but their faith is helping them continue.”
In spite of the restrictions and difficulties—perhaps even as a direct result—God is working in this country. Those who chose to follow Christ do so knowing that it won’t be easy—it may cost them everything. But they willingly persevere, knowing that time is short and people’s need for Jesus is great.
The team is praying to open two new schools this year: a second boarding school and a Christian school. “We have 11 students registered so far,” says the pastor. “We are going to start small and pray for God’s direction.”
Christians in this country are working tirelessly and sacrificing much in answer to God’s call. Will you support their endeavor through prayer and giving?
