A few weeks ago, I was speaking from a portable stage in rural Zimbabwe, not far from the Mozambique border. During an invitation to receive Jesus as Lord, a young man came forward. As we prayed with him, he revealed that he had been a local witchdoctor for many years, highly respected and sought after in the community. Yet, he was weary of the bondage it had placed on him. “I haven’t slept at night for years,” he confessed. “I’m often up on the mountain with the spirits that guide me.”
The following day, after a time of deliverance, he expressed his desire to gather his witchdoctor paraphernalia—robes, bones, trinkets, and a treasured python snake skin—and destroy it. He said, “I want to burn it in front of my village so everyone knows I no longer practice this.”
As we collected his items, villagers began to gather around, some in disbelief, others fearful, certain he was too powerful and dangerous to trust. A few were angry, as they relied on him for help with the spirits. Despite this, the young man was resolute.
Once we had gathered his gear, we moved to a clearing in the village where we began preaching the gospel. Dozens of people gathered, and many accepted Christ as the gospel message spread through the village. We then proceeded to burn his witchcraft tools.
Marie had written a word that was read over him as the fire burned, declaring that God was changing his name to Lucas... the bringer of light.
Two days later he was baptized, along with over 120 new believers. When asked what name he wanted for his baptism certificate he proudly declared, "I'm Lucas". We saw more than 300 people choose Christ, and a new church was born.
This is just one example of how God’s power confronts darkness and breaks through strongholds. Through our work with Vineyard Missions and other organizations, we have the privilege of helping establish new churches and works around the world.
Would you join with us with a monthly contribution to allow us to continue to work throughout the USA and around the world? We are grateful for you.
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