The tradition of Presepi, or Christmas cribs, is widespread in Italy. Most churches, public areas and some Italian homes will have at least one nativity scene on display. Baby Jesus, however, is usually added on Christmas Day. Pray for a focus on the manger and the humility with which Christ was born into this world to provide us an example of how we are to conduct ourselves. “She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:7b)
Pray4Druze http://www.pray4druze.com/
“When the heavens are shut up and there is no rain, because they have sinned against You, and they pray toward this place and confess Your name and turn from their sin when you afflict them, then hear in heaven and forgive the sin of your servants and of your people Israel, indeed, teach them the good way in which they should walk. And send rain on your land, which you have given your people for an inheritance.” (1 Kings 8:35-36) After some initial rains this winter, it has been dry in the Golan. The land needs more winter rains to refill the Sea of Galilee and the reservoirs. Pray for more rain. More importantly, the people – Druze and Jews – need to turn from their sins. They need to cry out to God in Heaven. Pray that they will, so that God will hear them and forgive their sins and teach them the good way in which they should walk.
It is very common to have Christmas markets across Italy where Italians can go to buy simple or elaborate gifts for family or friends for the holiday. Pray that as people gather at these markets, God becomes the focus of their joy and conversations, not the trinkets they buy. “For you are our glory and joy.” (2 Thessalonians 2:20)
Tim and Daphne Stapleton (International Services): Thank you for praying for needed funds. We are about $2,000 per month short of budget. Pray for the 8 Brazil people groups. No one has ever shared Jesus with these people. Most are indigenous tribal groups who live in closed-off communities. In some cases, the government of Brazil has restricted outside contact with these groups. Pray also for Tim, Sergio, and the others who will be involved in this project.
Here are the names of the people groups: Apiaká, Kanindé, Koiupanka, Pataxó-Hãhãhãe, Tabajara, Tumbalala, Tupinamba, Wassu. Include in your prayers the resources that will be needed to finish the task. Pray for the New Zealand Team as they take next steps for a sending base.