Domestic Violence
Through listening to two women whose lives have been rocked by domestic violence, I am beginning to understand the deep well of bitterness, hatred, and hurt in this society today.  It is not only between husbands and wives, but between parents and children, in-laws, and extended family. 

The majority of believing women I know are the first believers in their family.   They bear the marks of being brought up in a cruel, atheistic society that has for years, especially during the Cultural Revolution of the 1960’s and 70’s, seen the break down of healthy family structure.  But there is hope, because these women know they are hurting and need help.  Jesus said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.  I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”  Luke 5:31-32.
  
Therefore, we see tremendous openness in these days to the message of Christ.  And in this darkness, what is attractive and even priceless is joyful, loving Christian marriages and homes.  Time and again I have heard comments by local Chinese of the deep impact they experienced when they witnessing genuine love and respect in the believers’ homes.

• Please pray for the Christian marriages of Chinese.  Pray they would be bear effective testimony that speak into the hearts of hurting people.  Pray for more men to come to faith, who will be able to lead and love their families in godliness.

Thank you for praying for WF and her husband.  He has returned from the province.  They both have a sincere desire to grow in their faith.  Because reading the Bible is difficult for them, I’ve started teaching through telling Bible stories which they can remember more easily.  Her father always joins in as well. Last week we discussed the Samaritan woman at the well and encouraged them to share their testimony with their friends as she did.  They have recently moved to another small courtyard with 3 other families. 

• Please pray they would begin to share with these neighbors.
• Please continue to pray for the Sunday school ministry going on in their neighborhood on both Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons.  50-60 children come each week.