Today as I am writing the update there is the noise of firecrackers and the smell of smoke all around us.  Today is when the largest temple in our area celebrates the “birthday” of the 12 gods that are worshipped.  People have come from all over Taiwan to attend the processions and eat some of the specialty rice that hundreds of residents have helped to cook.  This event has been happening for over 100 years.  The eating together is viewed as a “peace meal.”

It is hard to watch the elderly people parading by recognizing that they have done this their whole lives.  They have known nothing else.  They have not accepted the good news of the gospel. It was also hard to see some of our elementary students happily enjoying the festivities.  Our prayer is that the Bible stories and sharing we are doing with them will give them an opportunity to believe in Jesus.

It is a spiritual battle.  No one can come to belief unless God draws them in.  No one can be saved unless they allow God to do a miracle in their hearts.  Please pray that many more will respond to the gospel message in the coming year.