(Photo courtesy Kids Alive International)
South Sudan (MNN) — In South Sudan, conflicts continue to rise between the government and the rebels. According to BBC, the fighting has caused over 50,000 deaths, around 235,000 children are suffering from hunger, and around 180 health facilities have been destroyed or unable to function.
Oil fields, which The Guardian says is more than 90% of South Sudan’s foreign revenues, are also being damaged.
BBC said a Chinese firm made a deal with South Sudan in increasing oil production. The China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) said they would use heavy oil recovery technologies to do so.
China announced that they are going to send 700 troops as United Nations peacekeepers to South Sudan. The Guardian says that for most of them, this will be their first time in a peacekeeping mission. And, though they will provide peace, they will be equipped with drones, antitank missiles, and several other weapons for self-defense purposes.
Many are doubting that peace will come soon. Though kids seem to suffer the most, they seem to be the ones with the most hope.
On Christmas Day, in the city of Wau, children refused to listen to the fighting and conflicts casting shadows on the day.
Kids Alive International said the children were determined to share the Word of God and the story of the Prince of Peace. They organized a celebration, inviting church members, the community, and government officials to sing and enjoy plays on the stage.
Kids Alive Sudan Field Director Francis Tombe said, “It was a wonderful day that brought the joy of Christmas to Wau, united the churches, and gave renewed hope to many people.”
This was an incredible way to celebrate and affirm the true source of hope: not the government, but Jesus Christ.
Continue praying for families, refugees, and the government to be transformed in South Sudan.
Dear Francis,
We continue o pray for you every day. We’re so thankful that your Christmas program was well received. May God continue to bless and help you in your ministry their in S. Sudan.
Love and prayers,
The Fosters
Francis: It was so good to hear about your “great day.” I remember well our conversations at Maranatha last summer, and we have prayed for you and the building project. We will continue to pray–be encouraged in our brotherhood, to the praise of our Lord, King Jesus!
Praise God for His believing children who actually ARE children. The prophecy for the future comes to mind, though with a different meaning: “And a little child shall lead them” We pray for the continued faith and steadfastness of these children.
I wish I could save you all, but since I am not able,I pray to my God and King Jesus who is able to save and keep the South Sudan! I pray and proclaim psalm 24 over you and your nation. Peace be still, he is with you!
Blessings,
Leslie
Dear Kids Alive Sudan,
As I read today your message, I wanted to tell you that some people here in Germany hear what is happening in your country. And yes, there is one hope which connects us: Jesus Christ. May your work be blessed. With you in prayer.