“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
Ephesians 6:12
A battle of the flesh
Growing up in Central Oregon (Prineville) wrestling was always a top sport in terms of Crook County pride. Wrestling required agility, conditioning, offensive and defensive skills, stamina, strength, and downright gutting it out at times. This is a full body, flesh on flesh contact sport!
Recently, we Journeyed to Odek (Omoro District) to join in the medicine distribution day. Every other month, there are so many children and families that come for this special day. The struggle it takes for the parent to bring their child such a great distance is a battle in the flesh, as they may have to carry the child or tie them on a bicycle or boda (motorcycle). These children are coming because they have Nodding Syndrome or Epilepsy.
A heart wrenching wrestling match
We met Ronald several years ago. The last time we saw him he was walking. With the closure of the Nodding Syndrome facility, so many children have relapsed. It is heartbreaking to see and leaves one wondering, what can we possibly do?
1. Serve
We can be the hands and feet of Jesus to these children and families. To show them we are with them as they have this physical battle in the flesh. We can come alongside the District Medical Team and provide funds to cover the cost of facilitation and distribution.
We can visit homes of some of the most vulnerable and bring resources that will lift some of the burden, if even for a moment. Sharing words of encouragement and the love of Jesus. Ronald is now officially on our list of homes to visit in the future.
2. Pray
Seeing Ronald in this condition, the first reaction was to drop down on my knees and Pray over him, along with Pastor Matthew Okello. We say God is good All the time, and All the time God is good. Nodding Syndrome is not good. And we have the position and God given authority to come against these principalities, powers, rulers of darkness, and spiritual hosts of wickedness. Together we can stand with these children and families in prayer and wrestle the darkness until it is defeated!
3. Give
Please support Journey International, as we continue to go to the wrestling mat for these children and families. You know, wrestling is actually a team sport. We need you to join with us in this heavenly match to bring hope and victory!
God Bless you and Thank you for standing with us,
The Journey International Team
More about Nodding Syndrome
