You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
Matthew 5:14-15
Hope Lusaka has been growing steadfastly in these past years. Despite being in its early stages of growth and having a young congregation, our brothers and sisters in this city of Zambia have been training in crusade ministry, children’s outreach through games and songs, preaching the gospel and the entire process of selecting, purchasing, wrapping, and distributing gifts as well as media skills. However, at the end of last year, this small church took a big step by sending their very first mission team into another region, marking this as a milestone moment for a pioneering church!
Armed with their skills to teach various educational programs, including university-level ICT, this team decided to take the training provided to them and step out in faith into a region well known for its dangers. It’s wonderful to see the team praying and fasting along this journey, growing in boldness and obedience to the Lord to an extent that moved Ps Lance and Belle, who are serving amongst the people in Lusaka.
The mission was not without stress, but it was undeniably a testimony to God’s grace and power. They began to witness real multiplication, real discipleship in action. There was so much joy and encouragement in the region of Manica, as they experienced the crusades, the fellowship, the new school uniforms for the children, and the love of God that came with all of it. The children’s faces were full of smiles, and the hearts of the parents were touched. Parents who used to be reluctant sending their children to school due to farming responsibilities are now bringing their children over daily. A cultural shift has begun in Manica, a multi-generational transformation, as the school attendance begins to steadily increase.
It has truly been a labour of love, but the region is now tasting the fruit of the effort. The mission team engages in evangelism and deliverance ministry, as well as building literal bridges with the local community. There seems to be a tangible sense of hope in the air. This was further proven by the formation of Hope Manica as a hub for fellowship and idea-sharing. Ps Lance and Belle said that this mission team’s journey has continued to exceed their expectations at every turn.
The pastors would like to express their appreciation for the team at Hope Brisbane, who have been faithful not just in prayers but also in financially supporting the ministry. However, the need remains great, especially funds for the school. The donations are fully channelled into feeding programs, teachers’ salaries, general school support as well as enabling more mission trips like the one from Lusaka.
Thanks to those who have supported, there has been a new school office building that has been added. Unfortunately, the journey has not been easy. The school has suffered three break-ins, vandalism, and theft attempts, all signs of a desperate community. While the community forgives and blesses those responsible, the pastor and the team know that they must steward God’s provision wisely, realising a need to secure a perimeter wall and a gate to keep the children and their resources safe. Ps Lance and Belle call on us to continue to partner with them in prayer, giving and sponsoring the children there. Even sponsoring one child for a year can change a life forever.
The mission team from Lusaka have embraced the Scriptures as the light of the world. They are now moving around, sharing their light to those in darkness, putting themselves on a stand to shine on more people in need. What can we do today to shine the light that Jesus has put inside us? Do you have a community around you that is still in darkness? You too can make a difference in their lives, just like the team from Lusaka did.