God’s working in Zimbabwe

Every time you see a story about Zimbabwe, it’s depressing. The stories talk about a government being oppressive to the people; people starving; people dieing from AIDS or hunger. Yes, all of these things are true – but there’s so much more going on in this country. God is at work!

I met a pastor who had been arrested for leading a prayer meeting. Government officials contend that the prayer meeting was anti-government. Those attending the meeting say they were praying for their country. Their prayers were answered as the pastor sat in jail, witnessing to other inmates and jail officials. By the time he was released, 50+ people came to know Jesus as their Savior.

Another pastor I met had a totally amazing story. He grew up in an African Traditional Religions home (witch doctors and voodoo). He said from the time he was five-years-old, all he wanted to do was go visit the church, but his father never let him. By the time he was in his teens, this pastor was living on the streets. One day, a missionary stopped to visit with the street boys. This pastor gave his life to Jesus. That day changed the path of his life. The missionary helped him finish school and this pastor went to seminary.

This pastor became not only the first known Christian among his people, but also the first trained in church planting. He went back to his village to tell them about Christ. At first, he and his wife were ridiculed for their faith. They had two miscarriages and were told this is what happens when you turn on your ancestors. The young couple persevered and a few women came to Christ. They visited hospitals, giving out oranges during this time when food is sparse.

One day, a policeman brought an orphan to them. The pastor asked what he was supposed to do with this orphan. The police said, “You are the Christian, are you not?”

The pastor said he knew that was the test from the community. So, he and his wife began taking in orphans. Now, there are more than 60 orphans living with them. Through this ministry, the community saw Christ’s love in action and accepted the Christians. Many started asking more questions – even this pastor’s family.

Now, two years later – there are 20 churches among this people. Around 1,000 were baptized last year alone.

In a country where there is little to be thankful for, this pastor and his wife thank God for the miracles He’s working in their community and among their people.