And the Spirit Moved

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.” Romans 8:26, NIV.

There is a pattern to life in every community – even in places disrupted by natural disaster. In Northern Sumatra, Indonesia, part of that pattern is the Muslim call to prayer. Five times a day the mosque loud speakers issue the call to pray. Southern Baptist volunteer teams working in relief efforts have adopted the local pattern by also pausing to pray for the people.

One hot, sunny afternoon a team found itself near a beautiful white mosque near the beach. A fallen tree was nearby, so they gathered around to pray. The Indonesian driver who had been with the group all week was told that the group intended to pray. He was given the choice of joining them or going to the mosque. He chose to stay.

By the end of the prayers, the driver began to cry. He sat for a few minutes afterward. Then he silently got up and went to the mosque. The entire team was moved by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in that simple prayer meeting.

The driver came back later with his mother, who spoke English. She invited the Christian volunteers to meet at their Muslim home the next afternoon! This never before would have entered her mind, but amazing things happen when people pray and the Holy Spirit moves.

Pray that:

The Holy Spirit would sweep across the tsunami torn land of Northern Sumatra and bring healing.

Doors of friendship will continue to swing open as the love of Jesus is shown in tangible ways.

Pacific Rim is a region of the International Mission Board, SBC.