When the Church plant in Sad Village started there was a man who was a devout and dedicated idol worshiper. He became very angry when construction of our Church building began, and would say that the building would never be completed, and that if it did complete one of my (Hammer’s) nieces or nephews (who originally are from this village) would die. He was threatening to put curses on their lives as a way to discourage us in the work.
This man had a nephew named Eric. Eric was also an idol worshiper, but began interacting with our Church planters in the village. During this time one of his children became very sick. Hammer went to meet with him and offered to pray for the child, and take the child to the hospital for treatment. Eric refused to allow us to pray or bring the child to the hospital, because his uncle was performing idol ceremonies on the child. A few days later Hammer called to check on the child. Eric said the child was doing worse and agreed to bring the child to go to the hospital. However, by the time they arrived at Hammer’s house, he knew it was too late for this child to seek medical attention. They prayed and headed toward a local hospital, but within 30 minutes of arriving the child passed away.
In speaking with Eric at the funeral he was beginning to question, “Where is the power in these idols?” This was a turning point for Eric in his faith. Eric was also having a very difficult time providing for his family. Hammer helped to find him a job with some Christian friends in Ghana. In his time of preparation, he accidentally lost one of his toes in a machete accident, and when he left for Ghana it became very infected. As a result, he needed to return to Togo, where the ministry helped him find treatment. Everything comes out to God’s glory, and as a result of him returning to Togo, he was able to encourage his wife and family to come to Church. Recently they were both immersed into Christ! What a wonderful thing to behold, as it is very rare for a married couple to both give their lives to Christ. Please pray for this young family, and for so many others in Sad Village yet to be reached! |