December starts with the arrival of the omicron COVID-19 variant identified by the researchers in South Africa. The variant is currently found in the Gauteng province, an urban area of Pretoria and Johannesburg. The sample of the variant was collected in Botswana on November 11, 2021. As a precautionary measure, the United States placed a travel ban on South Africa and seven other countries within the Southern African area. That’s what we know so far. Omicron is under study, and there is nothing to panic about right now until the research study is completed with remedial warnings. We pray for God’s protection for the people of South Africa and all our listeners in the South African hemisphere and beyond.
December is a difficult month within southern Saharan Africa, with an increase in bandits, kidnappings, murders, rape, the burning down of church buildings, and the killing of Christians. We received bad news on November 28 from Zamfara State, Northern Nigeria. Bandits (Islamic terrorists) sent a threat letter confirmed by the State Police Command in Zamfara State, to all Christian churches to shut down their places of worship or risk attacks. World Christian Broadcasting calls on all Christians to pray for the Christians in the Zamfara State of Nigeria. These Christians have suffered so much at the hands of Islamic terrorists.
Now, for some good news. In the last few months of this year, African pathways doubled the number of listeners. Many more listeners wrote to us to express their joy and took time to list what they learned from our programs. In reply to the many listeners, “We continue to improve our programs, and we want you to know that we take the time to read all your letters and listen to your concerns. Please continue to write to us as you listen, and do not forget to let us know how we can serve you better. Every listener is a partner in our work of ministry. Please be extra cautious wherever you may be this December within sub-Saharan Africa. May God bless you and protect you as this year is running out.”
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
