As cold waters to a thirsty soul,
So is good news from a distant land.
Proverbs 25:25

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, . . . "Your God reigns!"
Isaiah 52:7
good news from a distant land (all posts)
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Saturday, July 3, 2010

The World Cup: Pray for Uruguay!

As Uruguay advances to the semi-finals on the African continent (and as I refrain from any comment on the Suarez thing), here are a couple of thoughts that might guide our prayers:

North Americans once again realize that there is a country of Uruguay (and that it is not located in Africa). Certainly this is one of the nations we should include in our efforts to follow our Lord’s last words: “Make disciples of all nations . . . teaching them to observe all things I have commanded you. . . .” Certainly here are some who fit within the apostle’s instructions that prayers be offered for all men. Certainly God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.

These events are immense in the life of Uruguay; there is an entire generation that has never experienced this level of victory. It is appropriate to thank God for His goodness to all (“common grace”).

Whether Uruguay advances or not, some will find that this event does not satisfy. Defeat will expose something of the idolatry that is in all of our hearts. Victory will expose something of the idolatry that is in all of our hearts. The emptiness that accompanies misplaced devotion can only be filled by God Himself. Dissatisfaction with false gods is a good thing. It is right that we pray for God to use this in His seeking of sinners.

As Matías has noted (and let me know if you would like his latest update), Uruguayan believers will use this event for special evangelistic outreach. We do well to labor together with them in prayer.

Let’s pray for good news!

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