Chief Malemba realized how much Jesus had changed him when a young girl named Ancha* asked for his help.
The girl’s family had sent her to another family to be a child bride, but she refused. Arranged marriages like these were a cultural tradition in this Mozambican village. As chief, it was Malemba’s duty to preserve that culture. However, as he looked into the young girl’s pleading face, he saw the situation through different eyes.
Malemba had given his life to Jesus when Every Home missionaries visited his village the year before. Since that time, he’d studied God’s Word voraciously — and it was changing the way he led his community.
He called the two families together and told them that he would not allow the girl to be married. Malemba then announced to the whole village that forcing children into marriage would no longer be tolerated. It was a controversial decision, but a bold witness.
“The work of Every Home for Christ not only brings change to people’s spiritual lives,” an Every Home missionary writes, “it also makes a way for the culture of the Kingdom of God.”
The Gospel brings salvation, but it also brings justice. When you share Jesus’ love, you literally change the world.
Ron, you can send the Gospel to communities like Malemba’s. Will you? |