In the gospel of Mark there is an interesting anecdote about children. Let me quote my comments on this passage from my book, Cantelon’s Casual Commentary:
Jesus had a high view of [children], as he did of women…Mark tells us about Jesus and the little children. He mentions that Jesus and the disciples were “in the house”. He doesn’t tell us whose it was or where it was. Regardless, a crowd gathered and began to press in with their children hoping Jesus “would place his hands on them” in order to bless them. The guard-dog disciples tried to push them back, but Jesus, “indignant” at his disciples and compassionate towards the children, opened his arms and said,” Let the little children come to me.” These youngsters were the ones to whom “the kingdom of God belongs.” He took each one in his arms and blessed them. I’d love to read the story of what those blessed children became.
[Then] Jesus gave another blunt teaching when he said,” anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Adult doubts, skepticism, and second thoughts can sabotage faith. Only those with the childlike capacity to throw oneself into Jesus’ arms, as it were, will ever enter into the Lord’s eternal presence. The guileless child has the imagination and trust to act on simple belief. “Jesus loves me? Great! I’m his.”
I remember this always as we at WOW minister to children at risk in Africa and India. The kingdom of heaven is theirs.
“But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me!” Matthew 14:30
In Exodus 17 we read the story of the battle between Israel and the Amalekites championed by three men in their eighties! Moses (80 years), his brother Aaron (83 years), and their brother-in-law Hur (must have been of similar age), stood on a hill above the conflict. Moses with the “staff of God” raised over his head and his brother and brother-in-law holding up his arms as they tired, saw the Lord vanquish the enemy with Joshua leading Israel’s army. It was a classic biblical example of God’s power enabling those who pray, support, and fight in the cause of righteousness and justice.
WOW is currently engaged in a battle for righteousness and justice, but not with a temporal enemy. We’re facing a war with the one who the Bible says “seeks to kill and destroy”. His weapon is HIV & AIDS. Ours is the combination of prayer, funding, and faithfulness.
We’ve fought this battle for 25 years, and with the arrival of very expensive yet vital Antiretroviral (ARV) medications 20 years ago, funded by PEPFAR – President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief – there has been real progress. Now that USAID support for PEPFAR has been suspended our ministry partners in Africa and India are in crisis. We may be back to the early days when AIDS was always fatal.
Here’s the latest from one of our champion pastors:
“The last few weeks have been a true roller coaster. We were told to stop all programs supported by the US government but we put a small group of our dedicated staff together to keep serving the most pressing needs. Our Kabwe site has lost all its USAID support so it’s now permanently closed. Our Livingstone and Lusaka clinics have been allowed to continue until September 2025. We are urgently looking for ways to keep the ministry going but so far we have no solution. One third of our support for general pharmaceuticals (dealing with opportunistic infections) has been discontinued due to recently revealed Zambian government corruption. Thus we have added stress. We may soon be stymied.”
Rev Helmut Reutter, Founder and President CHRESO ministries Zambia
I’m hearing similar expressions of deep concern from all of our champion ministry partners in Zambia, South Africa, Malawi, and India.
These “salt of the earth” champions are “Jesus’ hands extended” to the “least of these”. Like Moses’ extended hands they are growing weary. They need an Aaron and a Hur.
WOW continues to provide the pharma and selenium funding, an integral part of the Home Based Care (HBC) ministry with the weekly visits to thousands of people under our partners’ care. WOW has increased food support by 35% to our partner “Somebody Cares” in Malawi where we’re feeding 8000 orphans, widows, and grannies each month, and we’ve funded solar electric systems to ICO (Impact Community Outreach) and CHRESO in Zambia. Now Somebody Cares needs a solar system as well.
As never before in our 25 year history we need “Aaron and Hur” to hold up the hands of our humble, faithful ministry friends. Their sense of urgency is palpable. WOW is a proven champion of champions. Together we have and will continue to pray, support, and fight the good fight.
The analogy may be a bit of a stretch but I see WOW as “Moses”, you as “Aaron and Hur”, and our on the ground champions as “Joshua”.
In faithful concert we will prevail! Ultimately “the battle is the Lord’s”.
I’ve been asked over the past 25 years why we do what we do with WOW. The short answer is that it’s clear from scripture that we should care for orphans and widows in their distress. The long answer is that one hears and obeys the Lord’s calling to service over one’s entire lifetime. Sometimes that “hearing and calling” comes via an “epiphany”.
In a book I’m currently writing, I reference the Apostle Paul’s conversion from Saul, the rabidly anti-christian rabbi, to Paul, the first missionary to the Gentiles and author of most of the New Testament’s theology:
“Blinded by the intense heavenly light Saul fell from his horse and hitting the ground called out, ’What should I do Lord?’ In this immediate response Saul knew with whom he was dealing. This was his enemy, Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified and resurrected one, but he was enemy no more- now he was ‘Lord’. There is no explanation for this instant recognition of the Lord other than this encounter was both vision and epiphany, a manifestation of the divine. It was focused on the solitary Saul. The others with him ‘saw the light’ but did not hear the voice. It was the moment this single soul became a ‘witness unto all men’ of the deity of the risen Christ.”
So, vision in combination with calling can produce unexpected and life changing outcomes. One needs to hear and obey the heavenly voice.
Most of us may not want to admit it but we like being in control. Overlooking the constant impact of that which we can’t control (like our autonomic nervous system, our internal organ function, our general genetic makeup, etc, etc) we flatter ourselves with our self discipline, fitness and diet values, money management, social interactions, and on and on. We think we’re in control but, of course, we’re not.
The book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible reminds us that pretty much every circumstance in our lives is “seasonal”:
“For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest. A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance. A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away. A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace.” (Eccl.3:1-8).
Much can be seen in these words but one key truth is that we don’t control the seasonal dynamics of life but we “participate” in the broader scheme of things. Ultimately we’re under the control of the heavenly order, where our Father “works everything for our good”. We are not called to control but to trust his loving and sovereign care. Indeed a most excellent slogan for our lives is,” In God We Trust”.
Our partners at Somebody Cares Ministries in Malawi are facing unprecedented challenges. We ask for your prayers for the following critical needs:
National Fuel Crisis
Malawi has been experiencing a severe fuel shortage, which has only worsened as the New Year begins. Many Malawians are spending up to two days waiting in their vehicles for fuel deliveries. This shortage has led to a drastic increase in public transportation fares, with minibus and motorbike taxi services tripling their rates. Please pray for a swift resolution to this fuel crisis, as it continues to disrupt daily life and livelihoods.
Economic Challenges
The devaluation of the Malawian currency against the U.S. dollar in late 2023 has caused severe financial strain for many people. While the official exchange rate has stabilized at 1,750 MK to 1 USD, the street rate has surged to an alarming 3,500 MK to 1 USD, doubling the official rate. The cost of goods and transportation has risen accordingly, yet wages remain calculated based on the lower bank rate, making it incredibly difficult for many to afford even basic necessities. We ask that you pray for the people of Malawi, that they may find relief from these economic hardships.
Farming and Weather Impacts
The 2024 growing season has brought significant challenges for farmers in Malawi. A combination of dry spells, floods, and a fall armyworm infestation has resulted in a 16% decline in agricultural production. Tragically, nearly half of the country’s maize crop, a vital food staple, has been affected. This decline in maize production, compounded by other weather-related challenges, has further threatened food security for countless families. Please join us in praying for those who rely on agriculture for their livelihood and for a swift recovery from these devastating weather impacts.
Hunger Crisis
The ongoing crisis is also leading to a severe hunger crisis. From October 2024 to March 2025, it is projected that 5.7 million people—28% of Malawi’s population—will face acute food insecurity. Many will experience crisis-level hunger in both rural and urban areas, exacerbated by the reduced maize harvest. With their farms unable to meet their needs, many will be forced to rely on costly market purchases to feed their families. We ask for your prayers for those who are suffering from hunger and for provision in this time of dire need.
Faith and Hope Amid Challenges
As Malawians face these overwhelming challenges, we pray for strength and resilience. Our partners at Somebody Cares Ministries are committed to helping those in need, and we know that faith and hope are the foundation for overcoming such trials. Please pray that hope will arise in the hearts of those suffering and that their faith will remain firm through these trying times.
We thank you for your ongoing support and prayers for the people of Malawi. Your prayers make a difference, and together, we can stand with our partners during this difficult season.
Christmas for millions around the globe is the highlight of the year. “Peace on earth, goodwill to men” springs from the intuitive knowledge of God that we all possess. There is an upward call in our souls. This may be the impetus throughout the ages to build churches with a steeple causing us to look above and reach for the heavens.
Speaking of steeples, the sight of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, rising like a phoenix from the ashes after a 5 year restoration, its beauty, sanctity, and steeple rebuilt, amazed us all.
In so many ways it symbolizes hope. Our war weary world needs to know that new life can rise from total destruction. The shattered homes, villages, and cities that have dominated our screens for the past three years, whether Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, or most recently Syria, will not dominate forever. Surely God hears as our wrecked world says enough is enough—help us O God. Lord have mercy.
The sages of Israel in centuries of biblical interpretation tell us that the greatest power in the world is “the power of return”- that is, the transformative impact of repentance, turning away from sin and turning one’s heart back to God. When a nation sets its face toward Heaven it thinks and acts peacefully. Indeed it makes peace. And as Jesus said, ”Blessed are the peacemakers…”.
Now is the time for all men and women of faith to turn away from our sins of selfishness and entitlement and renew our covenant to love the Lord and neighbour with “all our heart, soul, mind, and strength”. Love still heals whether it be for one or a multitude. Let love be the steeple of our souls.
WOW – is a partner with Cross Connect Community Outreach led by Kyle Tolman. They serve some of the most vulnerable in South Africa. They have an effective, comprehensive ministry for which we thank the Lord.
House Nehemiah: A Home for Children in Need
House Nehemiah is a safe haven for children between the ages of 3 and 13, providing them with love, stability, and a sense of belonging. These children come from challenging backgrounds, often with no family support. A big question that has been looming for Cross Connect is, What happens when these children turn 14 and leave House Nehemiah?
A Miraculous Property Opportunity
The team began searching for properties that could be developed into a new home for children 14 years and older. They explored a few options, but each needed extensive renovations. Then, an unexpected door: a neighbor approached Kyle and asked if they would consider buying his property. The house is ideal, with plenty of space and room to expand. After sharing this opportunity with a few people connected to the ministry, the response was overwhelming.
The very next week, Kyle received a call: “We want to purchase the entire property … We believe in your work.” What a beautiful testimony of God’s provision! He made a way where there seemed to be no way. Please join us in prayer for a smooth transition and the funding needed for renovations.
New Farming Project for Women
Another exciting initiative is the rollout of a new farming project that will train local women in basic agricultural skills. This program not only provides a means of income but also restores dignity and purpose, equipping women to contribute to their families and communities. Pray for wisdom and resources as this project develops.
Combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
The GBV programs continue to grow, reaching more women and children affected by abuse. We ask for your prayers for those involved, both participants and facilitators, that God’s healing and peace will flow mightily in these sessions. Pray also for protection over the staff and volunteers as they engage in this sensitive work, often in difficult circumstances.
Project Esther
The Esther Program is a home-based care program that aims to assist single-headed households with food, basic needs and everything their children may need to succeed. Health Challenges for Kyle Tolman
Lastly, pray for Kyle, who is facing health challenges. His journey is ongoing. Pray for daily grace, healing, and the strength to continue leading this amazing ministry.
How You Can Pray:
Provision for House Nehemiah and the new property
Wisdom in addressing the needs of older children
Success for the new farming project
Protection and breakthrough in the GBV programs
Project Esther
Strength and health for Kyle Tolman
Thank you for standing with WOW Mission in prayer! Your intercession and support are vital as we seek to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those who need Him most.
Partner Spotlight: Impact Community Outreach (ICO) – A Call to Prayer
Wow Mission partners with organizations that are committed to making a lasting impact in the lives of those they serve. One such partner, Impact Community Outreach (ICO), continues to carry out their vital work in challenging circumstances, and they have shared specific prayer requests with us. We invite you to join us in lifting them up in prayer, trusting that God hears and answers according to His perfect will.
Pray for Spiritual Awakening
ICO’s volunteers are on the frontlines, ministering to orphans, widows, patients, and primary caregivers. Many of those they serve are in desperate need of hope and healing. Please pray that God would open the spiritual eyes of these individuals to see the light of the Gospel. Pray that hearts would be softened, and that many would come to know the love of God through the dedicated service of ICO’s team.
Pray for Provision Amidst Drought
Zambia is currently facing a severe drought, leading to a scarcity of food. This situation has made life even more challenging for the vulnerable populations that ICO serves. We ask you to pray for God’s supernatural provision during this difficult time. May He provide food and resources to sustain the orphans, widows, and families who are struggling.
Pray for Rob’s Farm Irrigation Project
Rob’s farm plays a crucial role in ICO’s mission, providing food and resources to those in need. However, to maximize its potential, an irrigation system is urgently needed. Please pray that God would provide the necessary funds to set up this irrigation system, allowing the farm to thrive even in times of drought. This project is not just about growing crops; it’s about growing hope and sustainability for the community.
Pray for the Launch of a Bible School
ICO has a vision to start a Bible School at Rob’s farm, with the goal of equipping and empowering believers to spread the Gospel in their communities. This ambitious project is slated to begin before January 2025, but it requires significant resources to get off the ground. Pray that God would provide all the necessary resources, including teachers, materials, and funding, to make this vision a reality.
Standing Together in Faith
At Wow Mission, we believe in the power of prayer and the importance of standing together as a community. We are grateful for the work that ICO is doing and for the opportunity to support them. As we bring these requests before God, let us do so with hearts full of expectation, knowing that He is able to do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine.
Thank you for your continued support and prayers for Wow Mission’s many partners. Together, we can make a difference, bringing the hope and love of God to those who need it most.
As we pray for our ministry partner, Somebody Cares Ministries in Malawi, we have the opportunity to bring the pressing needs of their community before the throne of grace. In the midst of great challenges and uncertainties, their trust and hope are in the One who hears and holds the power to bring about change.
Pray for God’s Intervention
Jehovah Jireh is our provider. The Malawi fields have not yielded as expected, and the cost of staple maize has quadrupled, placing a heavy burden on families. We are asking God to intervene and ease the strain on those facing a tough year ahead.
Pray Justice Prevails
Pray for the widows who have been victims of land grabs by greedy relatives. May God’s righteous judgment bring restitution and protection to those who have been wronged, securing their rightful inheritance and peace of mind.
Pray for Continued Passion
As SCM volunteers continue to serve the people in their community, let’s pray for their continued passion for God and love for Him and others among the team and volunteers. May their hearts be steadfast in devotion, their actions fueled by love, and their service a reflection of Christ’s selfless love.
Pray for a Spiritual Harvest and God’s Will
Along with providing physical care for the vulnerable, Somebody Cares Ministries desires to see more and more people come to know Christ and experience the transformative power of His grace. May the Holy Spirit move mightily in their midst, drawing hearts closer to God and igniting a revival that spreads far and wide.
Also pray the church in Malawi returns to God and rediscovers a true focus on the people of God. Pray for a revival of spiritual fervor, a renewed commitment to biblical truth, and a unity that advances God’s kingdom.
Lastly, as Malawi prepares for upcoming elections, submit petitions for God’s guidance and sovereign will to prevail. As campaigns begin, may righteousness and integrity mark the proceedings, and may the outcome be according to God’s divine purpose.
As we unite in prayer, trust in the promise that God hears and answers our prayers.
