When was the last time you saw a positive headline about Afghanistan?
One of our Afghanistan field workers writes: “Darkness has cast its shadow over the skies of Afghanistan, bringing fear, terror, anxiety, insecurity, murder, and theft upon the people. But God has not abandoned His children in the darkness. Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spirits of darkness. And God has risen against these dark forces with great miracles, using His people through the power of the Holy Spirit to turn darkness into light and stand firm for the Lord.”
In the last year or two, believers from several closed nations have gotten access to Afghanistan and in the middle of untold suffering, they see God working powerfully. They have focussed on the needs of the poor, abused, neglected and oppressed, and respond in Jesus’ name. And as Back to Jerusalem, we are privileged to support their efforts.
Children from poor families are particularly vulnerable, as the ‘education’ available to them under the Taliban is not designed to benefit their futures. Our field worker writes:
“No one knows what future awaits them under the Taliban’s rule. They seek to take these children to jihadist training centers, where they will be taught Islamic laws, trained with weapons, and prepared for acts of terror and violence.”
To counteract this bleak prospect, alternative education is set up in poor communities by our partners. There is much enthusiasm from parents, who often have never had the chance to be educated themselves. This is why along with educating the children, illiterate mothers and fathers are also trained in both reading and other basic skills that can help them better support their families.
As well as educating children, it is immensely important they can experience moments of joy and plenty. We received some beautiful footage of a field trip organised for these children. They could enjoy a playground and a wonderful picnic with special foods and snacks. One child commented “I wish we could always be this happy.”
Our fieldworker writes: “That day was more than a simple outing for them; it was a moment when they felt seen, loved, and could just be children without worries. When the day ended and they boarded the bus back, they did not want this joy to end. But a hope had dawned in their hearts; a hope for the days when they would be able to experience moments like this again.”
They went on: “We pray and ask God to bless you our beloved supporters who made the children feel that there are still people who love them. This is the love of Christ that flows from you, our dear brothers and sisters.” Our field workers love and serve the poorest and share the gospel with those who have no hope. Many respond, but their work is dangerous. Arrests are a constant possibility, both for them and the new believers. So, as well as continuing to support them, please also pray for protection and the courage to keep serving!
