Pictured : The boy child of one of our partnered evangelist in South Sudan.

The news of a “breakthrough” peace deal is floating in the air in sub Sahara Sudan like duty free perfume in international airports – It’s sweet… but costly!
This weeks “deal” is modeled after two prior agreements that have failed within hours of being signed. Peace cannot be “declared” by a discussion of leaders in N. Africa who, by reputation are guilty of crimes against humanity. True Peace is only ushered in when the Prince of Peace is welcomed into the hearts of a countries leaders and inhabitants.

Back in 2017 my worst fears came true, with the declaration of famine for hundreds of thousands of people in parts of South Sudan. For those of us working in the country and in the field of food security the warning signs have been there since 2014. Two of the thresholds needed to declare a famine (death rates and global acute malnutrition rates) are lagging indicators, which means that by the time that these thresholds are met, people are already dying prior to and long after… even today Tuesday, August 7, 2018.

I am glad to see my twitter feed load with South Sudanese celebrating, yet many fear the leaders are doing the same thing & expecting different outcomes. Mercy Partners is in direct village contact with the people who show symptoms of post traumatic stress, excessive nervousness, permanent fear, a state of hyper-vigilance. It is the “least of these” and “hope fatigue” that is center of our prayers that this new peace deal will hold as we continue to ask the Prince of Peace to be present in the lives of our brothers and sisters.

Will you join us in prayer?
"Almighty God, from whom all thought of truth and peace come from, we beg that you kindle peace in the hearts of all and guide the leaders who seek you for peace in South Sudan. Lead them with your pure and peaceable wisdom so that the tranquility of your kingdom may go forward, till the nation of South Sudan is filled with the knowledge of your love.”

Colossians 3 : “ Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
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