Pastor Dewey Moede Note: Please continue to pray for our Brother David Maddox. It has been awhile since we have received an update on his battle with cancer. He also has written a book, “The Curtain”. I was asked to review the book, it is a must read, as this report from David is………..
This is my first attempt at a Monday Update since May 23rd. That was a chemo week which ended normally but then immediately I was attacked by an infection which put me in the hospital twice – I lost about fourteen pounds – and am now trying to get my strength back so we can see what is next. We will be meeting with chemo doctors on the 11th and 19th to get a plan and be sure the inflection is under control. The infection is in the fluid surrounding the cancer which creates unique problems of its own. It appears what we are doing in the way of chemo will have to be changed, but we really don’t know. Please pray for peace and strength during this time and that the doctors have wisdom to know how to proceed. Pray that we keep our focus on the Lord – continue to grow in Him – and not miss an opportunity to serve or glorify Him.
For some time now the Lord has been pressing on my heart the significance of sharing Jesus now for the window when that will be possible without significant persecution is closing. For those who doubt this the Wall Street Journal last week revealed what is happening in Russia. Here is a portion of the brief story on what could very probably be the law in Russia shortly.
Christians in Russia won’t be allowed to email their friends an invitation to church or to evangelize in their own homes if Russia’s newest set of surveillance and anti-terrorism laws are enacted.
The proposed laws, considered the country’s most restrictive measures in post-Soviet history, place broad limitations on missionary work, including preaching, teaching, and engaging in any activity designed to recruit people into a religious group.
To share their faith, citizens must secure a government permit through a registered religious organization, and they cannot evangelize anywhere besides churches and other religious sites. The restrictions even apply to activity in private residences and online.
The attack on our faith both here and around the world is real. It is time to proclaim Jesus from the roof tops while we still can. We will proclaim God’s truth regardless of the law, but while the door is open is the time to sprint to the finish line.
Thank you for your prayers and partnership on the journey.
