A Message from Silas Balraj, Vice President of the Asia Region
This month you get to hear from Silas Balraj, Vice President of the Asia Region. Silas offers a dynamic perspective on this culturally rich region and the unique challenges its people face. Thank you for praying!
Dear Co-laborers in Christ:
It is with great joy that I express my heartfelt gratitude to you for joining Compassion in prayer in releasing Asia’s children from poverty in Jesus’ name. You will never know the impact you are making through your prayers as they influence one of the most complicated, yet fascinating regions in the world: Asia.
The continent is the birthplace of almost every prominent religion in the world. And while this diversity has added to the richness of this region, it has also promoted environments of conflict, tension and, in some cases, extremism — all of which are often fueled by a layer of nationalism. What’s more, these deeply embedded mindsets are not the only components that have created obstacles for the Church’s work in Asia. The continent’s geography has also posed challenges.
Countries like Indonesia and the Philippines are made up of multiple small and large islands with nearly all of them consisting of various sub-ethnicities that adhere to their own cultural practices and teachings, further challenging the work of the local church. This message would be one of discouragement if it weren’t for one remaining and powerful hope: God.
Yes, He is still doing great things in Asia in spite of the struggles faced. The Holy Spirit is empowering the Church, transcending the barriers it faces so it can continue reaching poor children and families — many of whom have never heard or known the love and power of the living God through the Lordship of His Son, Jesus. We are seeing children, who are born in families that follow a different spiritual path or live in a country where Christianity is a minority or is a persecuted faith, become transformed through Christ.
How is this happening? It’s happening because of your prayers and support.
As Jesus says in Matthew 16:18, “And on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (NIV). So is the case in Asia. Make no doubt about it — Go is on the move in this continent. So don’t give up on Asia, because God hasn’t. Keep praying for the Church and the children of this region, knowing that the best is yet to come because of the amazing Great Commission opportunity placed before us.
Thank you, again, for all you are doing for the furtherance of His kingdom in Asia. Join us as we take Asia for Jesus!
In Christ alone,
Silas Balraj
Vice President of the Asia Region