I love challenges (probably to a fault), especially those kind that say it can’t be done or you’ll never make it. Such was the case a little over four months ago when Dorothy and I became aware of an amazing portable Bible audio device, called a Proclaimer, which is developed right here in Albuquerque by Faith Comes By Hearing (FCBH).
Because we had developed a relationship several years ago with a young evangelist by the name of Peter Bamidele in southwest Nigeria, we immediately reached out to Peter to inquire if this was something that he and his fellow workers could use as a tool to reach people who don’t read or write in the remote rural villages. Because FCBH had already recorded the Bible in a multitude of the dialects of Nigeria, a Proclaimer would allow the people to hear God’s word in their own languages.
Peter said, “Yes, please, . . .” and we were off and running. When he received the first Proclaimer, he demonstrated it at a Missions Conference in his home city of Akure and the result has been requests that have kept us busy ever since. In fact, we received one for 200 units from a ministry in the capital city of Abuja, that we had to send directly to FCBH for follow-up.
Why is all this so amazing? Partially because of the timing, of course. We felt it was from God. But also we were initially told that because Nigeria is such a problematic country, the units probably wouldn’t get there and we may be wasting our time and money. Well, we accepted that challenge and to date, we have sent 10 Proclaimers into Nigeria during the last quarter of 2018. They are now being used by faithful evangelists in the states of Ondo, Oyo and Osun. Because of the tremendous need there, we know that this is a very small beginning, but this verse from Zechariah 4:10 keeps us motivated:
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin . . .”
Joyfully and by God’s grace, we will continue to supply Proclaimers to our brethren in Nigeria in 2019, and as a sign of this, we’re happy to let you know that number 11 is in the air, as we speak. Thank you, Jesus!
This picture was taken December 24 of Pastor Joseph Oririwe (in the red shirt) along with Peter (in the white shirt) in Salawa village, which from Peter’s home in Akure is a four-hour bus ride plus an additional one-hour lift on the back of a motorcycle!
OUR GOAL: We serve a big God. 20 Proclaimers to Nigeria in the next ninety days is our prayer. How? Only God knows but He is all we need! If you would like to receive more information about this ministry, along with some great pictures, just hit reply and we’ll keep you up to date. Thank you for your prayers. Maranatha!
