Daily Topic for August 21, 2007
John begins the book of Revelation with a clear vision of Jesus Christ, the One who is coming soon. In this quotation from the prophet Daniel, John emphasizes the impact the return of Jesus Christ will have upon the peoples of the earth. He says they will mourn. Why? Because, suddenly confronted with their rejection of Him, they will become aware that they deserve the judgment to come. Scripture makes it clear, however, that some from every people will rejoice at Christ’s return. These are the ones who belong to Him, who have heard and believed the gospel and who have submitted their lives to His Lordship.
Father, bless us by Your Spirit as we work to increase the number of those who will delight in Jesus’ return.
How does a people group get lost? How can 14,000 people in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) of China miss being identified? How can at least the same number-probably more-in northern India not even be counted?
The Groma people live at the border between Tibet and the Indian state of Sikkim. In many respects their lifestyle blends with those around them: Many practice polyandry, meaning that one woman can have more than one husband. They observe Tibetan Buddhism, albeit with their own traditional practices mixed in. They herd yaks, sheep, and goats. “Operation China” says, “Groma women do most of the work. The men often spend their days drinking and gambling….” The only thing unique about them is their language.
The few efforts to introduce Jesus to them meet with stiff resistance. Anyone who shows an interest in the gospel quickly gets reminded of the terrible persecution of converts in the past.
But The Gromas are not forgotten. While statisticians have overlooked them, God has not. God knows them by name, knows their language and their needs. And, those who live in Sikkim, India, where they have Christian contact.
Learn more at joshuaproject.netPray that God will lead South Asians to bring the gospel in the Groma language, and that linguists will translate the Bible and gospel cassettes for them. Pray that God will prepare Groma hearts to receive the seeds of the gospel.-EF