Could I please bring to your prayerful attention the present situation in Malawi, where very heavy rainfall over the past week has resulted in serious flash-flooding and loss of life. The government has declared a state of emergency in the Southern Region where we work extensively.
Many people have lost their homes and the government are reporting 48 fatalities country-wide, although unconfirmed reports received at the weekend from a friend in Zomba suggest 34 dead/missing there alone.
Some of our friends and colleagues have been directly affected to varying degrees. I have been told that Brother Goodson, with whom I travelled and laboured extensively last month, has completely lost his home, but I am still trying to confirm this.
Please pray (1) that the rains will ease – the forecast is not promising; (2) that those affected will be able to find temporary accomodation as needed (I am told that in some Blantyre townships 90% of homes are affected to some degree); (3) that the Government and other agencies will act quickly and efficiently to relieve the hardship of those affected; and (4) that those who have been bereaved/injured will be comforted and challenged from the Word of God.
I returned from Malawi just 4 weeks ago, greatly encouraged by the continued interest in the Word of God, so this sad news is a major disappointment. Before hearing this news I had already purposed to return on 12th February, but please also pray that the Lord will guide as to whether I should bring forward those plans.
We appreciate your prayerful care for the work in Malawi.