Merry Christmas from Misty (sorry this is posting late)

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thank you for your continued partnership. I am looking forward to working together in 2022 to further God's kingdom!

Because I work cross-culturally, I love that this picture has a variety of Christmas wishes in other languages. By the way, look up Isaiah 41:9-10; I hope you will be blessed and encouraged like I was!

Fetele and I in August. Can you see the joy radiating in her face?? She exudes the character of Jesus in so many ways and she always has a verse to share. This time it was Isaiah 41:9-10.

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I have included this picture of Fetele as a reminder to pray for Ethiopia. Over a year ago, civil war broke out in the northern part of Ethiopia. The fighting has been between the Tigray militia and Ethiopian national forces. About the time we were there in August, things started moving further south toward the middle of the country. There was intense fighting, cities were overtaken, including the capturing of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rumors have circulated about the possibility of Addis (the capital) being taken. A State of Emergency was declared, meaning curfews, and the ability of the government to search and detain people.
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So far Addis is still stable, but a lot of other areas have not been. Cities have been fought over, thousands have died, and millions have been displaced. Active fighting is still occurring and humanitarian efforts are being hindered due to looting and bureautic action restricting aid. There is a collapse of public services, crumbling infrastructure, and lack of access to basic needs such as food and medical care. The situation is heartbreaking. The US State Department, as well as many other nations, started telling citizens to leave Ethiopia as soon as possible as the situation continues to deteriorate. 

Here are a few key areas to pray about as well as how the Lord leads you: 

• Peace and stability in Ethiopia. Resolution of the conflicts. Aid to get to those who desperately need it.
• Wisdom for those serving in Ethiopia about when to leave Ethiopia or when to return.
• God’s provision in this season, especially for those Ethiopian-led ministries, who are continuing to serve and meet needs in an unstable environment, with rising inflation; wisdom for these leaders as to how best to provide care.
• For those who are being threatened and displaced, access to basic needs.
• Healing of trauma and secondary trauma that is occurring.
• For the children living in the streets amidst the chaos and fear and for those who are being recruited to join the military

Thank you for your prayers. We serve a mighty God. Christmas is a good season to remember how powerful He is and how we can bring our prayer requests to Him! I am also reminded that Christmas is not always a joyful time for everyone, especially for those who are hurting over a loss, etc. as I have definitely been there. May the Lord draw you near, offering hope, comfort, and encouragement during this season.

Merry Christmas and with love,

Misty Bodkins ​

Would you prayerfully consider an end of the year donation? There are 2 ways you may donate to Misty at Ministry Care. You can make checks payable to “Ministry Care” and send them to:
 
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