One by one churches in Nuevo Progreso are closing or are being abandoned by their pastors. Even though the Mexican military has the city in their control, church leaders are still being pressured for money by the mafia and they're leaving in fear. Gerardo, the pastor we've established in Nuevo Progreso, said he has not been threatened in any way, but he knows of at least four pastors who have left. Many churches have been joining together in homes to pray for God's protection on their congregations. The persecution by the mafia has brought about new unity among believers. As in any other time of testing, only the strongest and most courageous pastors will want to continue ministering in Nuevo Progreso.
Gerardo reported hearing two separate spurts of gunfire Tuesday, but no one seems to know or will say what happened. When we were there the next day, everything seemed eerily quiet like the calm before a storm. Many of the largest restaurants, bars and stores were closed and shuttered. This is like watching an exciting boom town die a slow and painful death.
While we watched, five or six large military trucks loaded with armed Marines drove out of town. Evidently there had been a change of guard. Some of the young men on the trucks smiled at us and waved; and one held up two fingers in the sign of victory.
This is a unique time and opportunity for evangelism because of the fear and economic troubles families are experiencing. Are we here for such a time as this? If so, we're under God's protection and He will guide and direct us.
The photo is of Lloyd and two children from Nuevo Progreso.
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