We have entered the season of eclectic beliefs. Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas are the most celebrated closing events of the year in the U.S., and I would like to share a few short experiences from outside the States regarding these three holidays.

While traveling through North Africa last year, we were walking through a store and came across a line of children waiting their turn to sit on someone’s lap. We were horrified to see a woman dressed up as a hideous witch, sitting on a chair amid demonic decorations. Sitting on her lap was a little child smiling for the camera to have a Halloween memory with the witch.

During Thanksgiving, a local Maghreb family texted us pictures of their Thanksgiving meal. They do not practice Thanksgiving there, but this family had been around Christians and appreciated the idea of taking time to be thankful.

Following this, we experienced walking through stores with little Christmas trees, decorations and even opportunities for pictures with Santa. The sight surprised us because Christmas is known as a “Christian” holiday, and we were living in a Muslim country.

I started realizing how much of an impact the outside world can have on someone. These places are so focused on looking like the U.S. that they are willing to incorporate U.S. traditions into their society. But in the midst of all of this, where is Jesus?

One of my closest friends from the Maghreb, after receiving Jesus as his personal Savior, always sang, “I have decided to follow Jesus,” because it became one of his favorite songs.

A family in Cambodia has recently accepted Jesus as their Savior. The wife has exclaimed that she loves the Bible. The more they study, the more she falls in love with God’s Word.

A few weeks ago, I spoke with a missionary friend from a different country who had applied for his residence visa. While he wanted a 10-year visa, he had thought perhaps he should only request one for three years as that might more likely be approved. However, when turning in his paperwork, he felt impressed that if the officer asked what duration he wanted, he should request a 10-year visa. When my friend’s turn arrived, the officer asked him how many years the visa should cover. My friend took a breath and asked for 10. Surprised, the officer asked why so many years.

Before he could answer, the officer noticed writing in his local language on my friend’s clothing. It talked about love and kindness. The officer asked what it meant, and my friend said that he believes that we are to be kind and loving to everyone. The officer smiled and said that he agreed, then handed him his papers approving a 10-year visa. Praise God!

If you are wondering, “Where is Jesus amid the ugliness and selfishness of this world?” He is in the heart of someone singing, “I have decided to follow Jesus.” He is in the home of a poor family that has decided to accept Him as their Savior. He is in the visa office, working in ways we cannot see, guiding the gospel into all the world. He is with you, drawing you to Himself in loving kindness. Jesus is always right where He needs to be, working all things out for the blessing of His people.

Thank you for your continual prayers and support in spreading the gospel into all the world. God bless you. May our eyes be upon Him through it all.

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