Pray with East Timor, November 10, 2024
Lectionary Selection: Ruth 3:1-5: 4:13-17
Prayers for East Timor
Gracious God, we express our gratitude to Jesus for the gift of friendship and his unwavering presence. We pray for all who serve in our congregations. We lift up the government of Timor Leste and all citizens, asking God to use them as instruments of peace and integrity. We pray for those facing crises globally, including our brothers and sisters in Haiti, asking for strength and comfort for those suffering. May God bless our church community, filling them with love, health, and joy in their ministries. We humbly pray for peace and tranquility in East Timor, asking God to bless the church in East Timor as a witness of love and peace. We seek unity and mutual support within our community, inspired by Ruth’s loyalty and commitment. We place our hopes in God’s hands, trusting in God’s guidance as we strive to serve faithfully. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Mission Moment from East Timor
On behalf of the Igreja Protestante in Timor Leste, we extend warm greetings and prayers to our brothers and sisters in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ. We acknowledge Christ’s constant presence in all circumstances.
The Protestant Church in Timor-Leste, established on July 9, 1988, was led by Rev. Vicente Ximenes de Vasconcelos and Rev. Marcelo Cinereu, along with several dedicated gospel teachers. Today, the church comprises 76 congregations, serving 2,329 families and a total of 12,751 individuals, including 49 pastors and 25 Gospel Teachers.
The Igreja Protestante in Timor Leste (IPTL: The Protestant Church in East Timor) is supported by the Naroman Social Foundation (FUSONA), focusing on education, health, and economic development. This foundation operates various educational institutions and has established a theology training center to empower youth and strengthen church leadership. The passage from Ruth 3:1-5 provides a profound narrative that resonates with the values and challenges we continue to face in Timor Leste today. Here, below, are the key lessons we have derived from this scripture, along with reflections and acknowledgments relevant to the context of the Igreja Protestante in Timor Leste.
Naomi’s concern for Ruth emphasizes the significance of familial bonds. In Timor Leste, where family and community are central to social structure, it is essential to support one another in overcoming challenges. Strong family ties can be a foundation for a brighter future.
Ruth’s decision to follow Naomi’s guidance and approach Boaz demonstrates the importance of courage. In the context of development and social change in Timor Leste, having the courage to take initiative and adapt is crucial for progress.
The mutual respect and support that emerged through Ruth and Boaz’s complicated relationship highlight the value of relationships in human life. In Timor Leste, fostering good relationships among individuals, communities, and leaders, regardless of the challenges that surround such relationships, is vital for promoting harmony and facilitating progress.
Ruth’s determination to secure a better future for herself and Naomi reflects the aspirations of many in Timor Leste. This embodies a collective hope for a future where individuals can live with dignity and access improved opportunities.
The story of Ruth and Boaz illustrates that significant plans can emerge from seemingly ordinary events. This narrative reminds us how simple actions become part of the event of redemption revealed in Christ Jesus. Just as Ruth’s actions led to her deliverance, we are called to be faithful in small things, trusting that they can become part of God’s plan for the world.
Written by: Rev. Miguel Ballo da Costa, Secretary General, Protestant Church in East Timor (IPTL)
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