October 23, 2013
Based on reports from an Alliance worker in Senegal
“Do you have a sheep?”
I was asked that question repeatedly last week. It may seem odd, but it’s a natural inquiry here.
October 15 is the biggest holiday of the year for followers of the majority religion in West Africa. And it isn’t just a regional celebration. Around the globe adherents of this faith, the youngest of the world’s five major religions, observe this holy day, which commemorates God’s provision of a lamb for Abraham to sacrifice instead of his beloved son (see Genesis 22).
Many in West Africa sacrifice a sheep on this day, hoping their sins will be forgiven. “Celebrants also give each other money and gifts, dress in their best clothes, and travel long distances to be with family,” explains one of my Alliance colleagues, comparing the holiday here to Christmas in the West.
Begin a Conversation
My family and I spent hours visiting with many of our neighbors and friends last Tuesday. As we enjoyed good food, we talked about the real need we have for a holy sacrifice to purify and restore us to relationship with God.
If you have the privilege of conversing with those who follow this major world religion, consider asking them about this holiday. (A word of advice: Don’t waste time arguing about which son Abraham was asked to sacrifice.) You could find the discussion to be a natural bridge for sharing about the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross.
Through cultural and religious bridges like these, may many more come to know the grace available through Him.
What You Can Do
Pray
Through your prayers, encouragement, and support, you are an essential partner in enabling Alliance workers to demonstrate the love, truth, and power of Jesus to those who have had little or no opportunity to encounter Him. Use the Weekly Alliance Prayer Requests to assist you in praying for our worldwide team.
Give
- Give to the Great Commission Fund (GCF) and partner with Alliance workers, like those in West Africa, who are introducing lost people to the light of Jesus.
- Give now
Learn More
Read an article about how many are finding new life in Jesus through Alliance ministries and following His lead to be baptized.