I look up and squint as my eyes adjust to the darkness.
The power is out again.
Yet this time the darkness seems more spiritual than literal. All around me are young Nepalese people praying in their language. Although I don't understand it I know it is powerful. The words that flow from their mouths are passionate and purposeful, it brings me to tears.
I look over at my Squad mate Tyler. He has his head between his knees and is receiving the words of prayer that the young people speak over us. I cry harder as the Holy spirit moves and the prayers become louder, and are bathed in authority and Love. I have attended night prayers dozens of times, but there is something very different about this one. Something at work here is huge. Another voice begins to speak…
Its Reuben Rai our ministry contact for the month here in Nepal. Reuben is over the Nepal church's network, he pastors a church himself, oversees bible school, a bible distribution ministry and much more. He also very frequently houses world racers like myself and my team, calling us into the authority and greatness we should walk in by allowing us to serve alongside him for the month. Yes Reuben, and his family are certainly turning Nepal upside down for the sake of the Gospel, and GOD is using them to literally stop the plans of the enemy!
Tonight Reuben speaks slowly, but intentionally. I can tell that every word he utters is of importance so I listen, my ears cling to every word…
He tells us he needs prayer. Prayer for strength as a pastor, as a Shepard, as a leader. He knows that the work the LORD has called him to does not come without sacrifice, so just like every other leader he has to follow the LORD to lead the sheep and that is not always easy. He also tell us that there is a rebel group in Nepal whose mission is to find and kill pastors, Christian pastors.
My initial response is to worry for him, but I notice that his words carry absolutely no fear. He is not afraid, and neither are his bible students who still sit all around us listening, meditating, and praying.
It was indeed one of the most powerful Holy Spirit moments of my life…
I have prayed for the persecuted church before, read books and articles on it. Every time something strikes a chord in my heart, but this was different. To be in a moment like that. To literally see GODs people rise up wholeheartedly and stand against fear. To hear them talk about facing death for Christ, and still serve Him the way they do even in youth is astounding.
That moment changed me. And after that we were privileged to pray for Reuben and our young warrior brothers and sisters in the LORD, it changed me.
I can't explain it but something in my view of the Gospel shifted that night. It's like I hold it as even more true because I have seen in another way in which it transforms lives.I wish my words could do justice to the experience, it they cant. But if you are reading this blog I ask that you do a few things.
1. If you have not accepted Christ as your personal savior please do so. It is the most important decision you will ever make.
2. If you have accepted Christ then PLEASE get up and do something about it. There is a harvest, and not enough laborers. Do not waste the precious time the LORD has given you, especially in your youth, you will never get that back.
3. Please pray for Reuben Rai, his family, church family and ministries. GOD is using them in a mighty way to shake the nations!
Also The bible distribution ministry is in great need of bibles. If you are interested in donating PLEASE contact me! There are people here who desire to hear, and read the WORD. We take having a bible for granted sometimes, but they need them here.
