In West Africa, the landlocked nation of Mali is not an easy place to follow Jesus. Jihadist violence affects much of the country, with many regions under strict Islamic law. Christian presence in these areas is banned, making proclaiming the gospel openly almost impossible.

But despite the challenges and persecution, our partner Radio T is sharing God’s love with the people of Mali through weekly radio programmes on more than 20 local stations.

Broadcasting in local languages, listeners are hearing the good news of Jesus, learning from the Bible and hearts are being changed. 

Ab is one of these listeners and here is his story.

Man listening to a small radio in Mali 

"My name is Ab. I live in Timbuktu, with my wife and our four children. I've always been passionate about radio. However, I never thought that the radio would totally change my life.

Recently a Christian programme caught my attention. It was the first time I had heard a teaching in my language on one of the city's radio stations.

The programme was about the story of Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers and who, by miracles of which only God is capable, became prime minister of Egypt and saved his people from famine. What struck me the most was the attitude of Joseph who forgave his brothers and recognized their actions were part of God's plan to bring him to this position.

This story moved me deeply to the point that I went to the radio station, where I was given a small radio set with a memory card containing programmes and many Christian songs.

I know that my family would not understand my interest in these biblical stories, so I secretly listen to the messages every night. I ask for your prayers and blessings so that I can fully understand these teachings."

Pray 

Lord, we lift up Ab to you now. Thank you that you are powerfully speaking to him through your word. Would you reveal more of yourself to him as he listens to the Bible and Radio T’s programmes. Help Ab to understand your deep love for him, and the truth that Jesus is his saviour. We lift up the team at Radio T as they support and encourage Ab and other listeners. Would you protect and strengthen them, and grant them wisdom as they continue to make you known in Mali. Amen

Thank you for praying for Mali with us today. To find out more about Radio T’s work, and how the gospel is being shared across Africa, Asia and the Middle East, sign up for our Prayer Focus daily prayer points using the PrayerMate app linked below.

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