Yom Kippur in the Sichuan Mountains

We had heard that our bus trip from Chengdu, Sichuan Province of China up to a city tucked in the Sichuan mountains might take up to 14 hrs. but we were spared that rigor - our journey only took 8! It was a privilege to encourage and share with brothers and sisters who have sacrificed deeply to  establish a presence in this needy region. Our hearts were burdened for these wonderful servants of the Lord and our prayer is "Lord, send more harvesters to this tough place".

Sept. 13 was Yom Kippur - the holiest Jewish observance of the year. We noticed one couple at the hostel where we stayed reading prayers (what we didn't know was they were fasting from both food and drink for 27 hrs. as a sign of obedience to God). Our hosts at the hostel, believers in Jesus, had been celebrating each of the Jewish feasts and planned special prayers and a meal the night of the breaking of the fast. They decided to invite the Jewish couple we had observed earlier and 3 other Israelis that happened to be staying at the hostel. They were non-religious and in for a big surprise and a special celebration. As we gathered to break the fast  - prayers were offered and commentaries added by both Christian and Jews. One of the believers had a Shofar (ram's horn) that he blew to formally end the fast and begin the celebratory meal. Did the Jew's faces light up or what! Alberta shared how her parents had hid Jews during WWII and our new Jewish friends were deeply moved and ask Alberta to deliver thanks to her 90 yr. old mom. We closed with a prayer for peace in Jerusalem with the Christians ending with the words " Selah and Shalom" and the Israelis answering back "Amen"! Lets pray not only for peace in Israel but the salvation of Her children.

Prayer Requests:

We leave Sept. 27 for Sri Lanka and India. Pray for meaningful visits to workers in these countries.

Pray for Heather as she continues with her theater internship. She expressed a desire to be a godly influence on those she works along side of that don't yet  know the Savior.

 Pray for Krista as she assembles her portfolio for her capstone art show in the spring. Also pray for her as she takes her driving test Oct. 8. 

Serving Christ with You, Steve and Alberta