PAS PEUR
Three years ago this month, France was reeling in the wake of what was at the time, the deadliest terrorist attack on their soil. In the aftermath, a candlelight vigil was held in honor of the victims, and the people of Paris held an illuminated sign reading,
“Pas Peur,” or “not afraid.” That phrase has stuck with me ever since, and not fearing evil, or shying away from a moment to impact someone’s life, or make a memory in your own, has taken new meaning.
Here in the Ivory Coast, French is the official language. And the phrase has popped up on numerous occasions on my first week in the country. The team I’m currently with is in the capital of Abidjan. We are serving with a local church who’s primary form of outreach is traveling to local ports to minister to truckers as they unload their cargo and wait for up to three months for a new shipment.
I think this is an incredible avenue for evangelism, as the ports that we have frequented are polluted with prostitution, alcoholism, and a palpable sense of despair.
The vast majority of these travelers are Muslim, and from West African nations such as Senegal, Burkina Faso, and most commonly, Mali; all predominantly Muslim nations.
The concept of bringing love into the darkest or dirtiest of places was a constant theme on my Race, and one that bared much fruit. Here at the ports of Abidjan, the same holds true. The team has done a phenomenal job of connecting with these truckers, developing relationships, and initiating conversations. Some of these men have even accepted invitations to church, inquired more about the Lord, and engaged in conversations concerning practical ways to walk out the Christian faith and leave the Muslim world. Of course, it’s never that easy. Converting people starts with love and connection, and conveying that Christ loves them for who they are now. There’s nothing to earn. It’s been an honor to partner with this church who’s been active in this ministry for a number of years. It’s also an honor to walk alongside this team in the first week of their Race as they learn how to plant seeds of love in people who are different from them. The theme, of course, is to not be afraid. To be bold in the face of unfamiliarity. To stand true in your beliefs and to consistently exude love before anything else.
Later this week I’ll be traveling north to connect with another team. Thank you all for your support, and as always, adventure on!
Here’s a pic of the team speaking with a few of the truckers.
