Hope Rising - Prayer Alert April 2016

Cuba Update:

As the civil war in Colombia winds down, there is increasing unrest caused by past members of armed factions (who used to be under a certain amount of discipline). They are now being incorporated back into society. Criminal bands are on the rise, similar to what happened in the United States after the Civil War. In the end, it was not really the gun fighters who won the Wild West, but the preachers who were used by God to change lives. This is our hope for Colombia.

Many who caused major problems in the past have now been converted. They are on their way to maturity in Christ and as this happens new ministry is coming forth. We have many testimonies that we are not at liberty to share at this time for security concerns. We see key people on all sides of the spectrum who we have been witnessing to for quite some time and who are close to being converted.

In one case, a general is in prison for alleged human rights abuses. I have visited him for years. On my last visit, he lowered his head and promised to forgive all his enemies. Then, with fire in his eyes he looked back up at me and named his worst enemy and vehemently stated that he would never, ever, forgive him. 
Please pray for God to soften his heart. 

Recently, I received a message from a tough guerrilla commander back in the mountains whom I had met only once about ten years ago. Many of his men and women have become Christians listening to our radio messages and also I have witnessed to some in person. This guerrilla commander has been very frustrated with me over the years. He said to others, “When my soldiers talk to Russell they become Christians.” Recently, he sent me an invitation to visit him. I can tell that he is under intense conviction from the Holy Spirit.  

Thank you for your prayers and support as each day brings new challenges and opportunities for transformed lives.

A PERSONAL NOTE FROM KELLY IN COLOMBIA

I felt God had abandoned me after my husband Pabel was killed and I did not understand. Why did this injustice happen to a man that had dedicated his whole life to the service of God? But after God's dealings with me and my kids, I realize that it was necessary for Pabel's testimony to end so that God's work could continue directly to all the people that oppose Him. It was so that the Gentiles could hear who the Almighty God of the hosts is, who shields and watches over the widows and the orphans. I still feel pain, but when I began to walk with the Lord I told Him, “He could do whatever He pleased with me.” I gave Him my heart so that He could watch over me, and if it is necessary I am willing to give my life.

I am continuing the work of evangelizing many people, as Pabel did, in places where the Lord allows me to go with His word. In my spare time, my son Israel and I load a box of Bibles onto Pabel's old motorcycle and share the gospel of the Kingdom to whomever the Lord allows. My son gives out the Bibles and I share the message the Lord places in my heart.

My children and I would like to thank everyone enormously for the wonderful gift of the house I now have for my family!