Violence has been escalating very quickly between Sudan and South Sudan over the last couple of months, but especially in the last few days. Last week, the South Sudanese army reportedly (BBC) captured an oil field in Heglig, Sudan, causing Sudan to retaliate with arms. Over the last few days, there have been outbursts of fighting along the border, and then today the BBC reported that fighting had moved well into South Sudan to an area north of Aweil, a village where Aid Sudan works and where a partner organization, Cush 4 Christ, is located (and several missionary families live).
Just tonight, the BBC has reported that President Bashir (of Sudan) has declared to “free” the South Sudanese from the South Sudanese government, promising to eliminate those “insects.” Both sides have called off peace talks and have been beefing up their arms.
We are urging you to please join us in lifting the two Sudans up in prayer. We are keeping a very close watch on the international news, and praying that God sends a miracle that will prevent all-out war. It is no longer just some far-away country to us…there are people there who are very near and dear to our hearts, and we want nothing more than for South Sudan to be cloaked in peace.
Please pray for the leaders of both Sudans, that they would have the sense to stop this before it goes too far.
Please pray for the international community and that they would step in and do something to diffuse the tension.
Please pray for the millions of men, women, and children who have only just barely begun to taste the sweetness of peace.
Please pray for the missionaries who are scattered all throughout South Sudan–for their safety, for their boldness, and for wisdom to follow the Spirit’s leading.
Please pray.
