“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
This month we use guidance for prayers offered by our Federation sisters in various parts of the world:
In Hong Kong the political atmosphere remains tense and protestors have been on the streets every weekend since June. Ting writes, ‘We think God has a plan for His people who have been crying out to Him for justice. We pray for His mercy and for His forgiveness of our sins and pray that peace will be restored to the city of Hong Kong. We thank the Lord for His planning for us to have WFMUCW Executive Meeting, WTP, leadership training and EAA Seminar at the beginning of this year as all transportations were blocked near the Cityview area during the riots. We thank the Lord we are all safe too.
In Zimbabwe the political and economic difficulties continue and will make it impossible for many women to attend the Southern and East Africa Area seminar in Kenya this month. Inflation is out of control. Electricity is rationed, and unavailable between 8 and 17 hours a day. Hospitals are without drugs and most medical essentials. Unemployment is over 90 % with many eking a living selling goods on street corners or relying on money sent from outside of Zimbabwe. They are waiting for the rains. A good season will bring hope. Rural folk are desperate, their livestock are dying and there is nothing to eat. Sipiwe says, ‘It is our prayer that God will intervene.’
In Chile Ivonne prays, ‘Dear Lord, my God, You know what is hidden in every heart and you know every story. I humbly ask you today for my country. You know our people, our needs, our joys, fears and sufferings; you know our struggles every day and you know what is best for each one of us. Fill us with your Spirit, let us find peace, let us find You; please govern the heart of every Chilean. Forgive us if we have offended you, but listen to us, o Lord! Chile needs you. O Lord, be our guide, light our way, enlighten Chile. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
In Japan terrible damage was caused by the supersize typhoon last month. Kimiko writes,
‘Because this typhoon was much bigger than we have ever experienced so far, I worried my house roof and a windowpane might be broken. Many river banks collapsed, and many houses encountered flood damage and there were many victims. The nursing care facility in my neighbor town was flooded, but about 200 people could evacuate safely and they were really relieved.
In the MCCA we pray for Lois Grant –Hector, North America Area V-P attending the Council meeting 7-8 November.
In Sri Lanka we pray for peaceful elections this month.
In the UK we pray for victims of traffickers and all those affected by violence. We pray for wisdom as we approach a general election.
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. Romans 14:19
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