Hearts Breaking, God Moving
Monday night’s Passion 2010 Live Link was such a beautiful and powerful time as 14000 of us connected from 43 nations and over 5000 locations around the globe. Yet, among the thousands who were with us our hearts were breaking for one who was not.
If you joined the Link or have followed this Blog, you know about Hannah, an amazing recent college grad who messaged us a few days before the Link from west Africa where she is working to share the light of grace among the Koso people.
Hannah put the whole Live Link in perspective, and we were determined to pray for her during the night, and for the Koso, an unreached nomadic Muslim people group numbering in the hundreds of thousands.
As the Link approached, we reached out to Hannah (who is from the Atlanta area) to find out more about her and the work of which she was a part. Monday morning an email arrived from Mali that made us smile…
Hey, wow, never thought one little blog comment would lead to so many supporters and prayers for the Koso! God continues to blow my mind when I am not even expecting it.
So about me, um, I like traveling, hiking, spontaneous road trips, shrimp and grits….ok ok I’m guessing this isn’t actually the information you were looking for, i kid i kid.
Actually, I graduated from the University of Georgia just over a year ago and headed to Mali to work with the Koso in April. I’ll be here for 2 years working to translate a chronological Bible story set into Koso Tigemaxo (one of the four Koso dialects) and trekking up and down the Niger river to share this amazing story of Jesus in Koso villages. Most days, having this responsibility of sharing with a Koso man or woman the story of Christ for the very first time is so daunting and overwhelming. I question so much, wow, “who am I to get this privilege?” But I am also constantly reminded that God decided to make His name famous here and in every nation a long time ago and certainly has the power to make His name famous among the hardened hearts of the Koso.
So about how I got here, I don’t even know where to begin. It has been a long journey that I was sure would break me before I ever actually got to Mali. I’ll fill you in on the condensed version. So many factors including BCM ministers at UGA, summer missions trips, Passion Conference ‘07, a car accident leading to the death of one of the best people I have ever known and my best friend Miley and lots of hospital time for me, and the unavoidable desire and calling I had to make Jesus known among people who had never heard are what got me here. After being surrounded by some of the most amazing people at UGA who were dedicated to sharing the gospel everyday among college students I knew I couldn’t just sit on the sidelines anymore soaking up the “wow factor” and energy I got from seeing these people at work. I started looking into mission opportunities around the world and God led me to Mali, west Africa and the Koso. If you knew me better you would understand that working with a people group called the Koso is so fitting!
Currently there are no known believers among the Koso and they are considered one of the toughest people groups in west Africa to reach because of their nomadic lifestyles. I ask that prayers be lifted for the Koso people, that they would turn away from their idols, from their empty religion and turn instead to the true Father and Creator of the universe.
Thanks so much and I can’t wait for LiveLink tonight, I really hope the internet will hold out so I can be a part of it.
hannah
Can you imagine being in the heart of Mali and suddenly God marshaling thousands of people on every continent to pray for you and the people you are giving your life to reach?
But, then Monday took a difficult turn as we learned (even before Hannah did) that her mom had suddenly died of a heart attack here in Atlanta that day. Soon, that crushing news would reach Hannah in Mali.
Tears flowed. Yet God’s sovereign grace shined through.
Suddenly, the Passion Live Link became so much more… and I knew we were on holy ground. Not only because we were worshiping the Maker of all, but because the Creator of the Universe was using our little gathering to extend His arms to a daughter who’s heart was breaking. 2 Chronicles 16:9 came rushing in to frame the moment: For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may show Himself to be strong on behalf of those whose heart is completely His.
As we prayed for Hannah during the Link, and for the beautiful Koso of Mali, she was on a flight to Paris that would eventually lead her home. And today, as I type this post, she is celebrating the life of her mom, Anitria, and laying her body to rest.
Hannah’s mom loved Jesus, served him well and gave her life to seeing children grow and understand just how amazing He is. As I talked with Hannah this morning, I assured her many around the world were praying for her family and for the Koso, for whom I trust in some way God will redeem her mother’s death until Jesus’ name is known and praised in their tongue.
We love you, Hannah,
Louie/Shelley and all in the Passion Movement
September 17th, 2009 at 12:13 PM
praying every day, hannah.
2 cor 12.9
xx
September 17th, 2009 at 12:37 PM
Praying very much for you Hannah, your family and the Bozo from here in the UK
September 17th, 2009 at 12:57 PM
thinking of you and your family, Hannah.
believing for the Bozo of Mali.
Jesus is alive!
September 17th, 2009 at 1:12 PM
Thanks for sharing this…it is great to hear more about Hannah and hear calling to reach the Bozo people!
My heart breaks for Hannah’s loss…but, we can know that heaven is rejoicing that her mom has made it home!
I’ve been praying for Hannah, her family and the Bozo people…and will continue.
With love and prayers…
Karahly
- Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
September 17th, 2009 at 1:17 PM
Hannah,
I’m praying for you and your family. and for the Bozo people.
Greater things are yet to come!!
September 17th, 2009 at 2:40 PM
We are praying for you, Hannah. I know that God brought you to the hearts of many for a reason.
September 17th, 2009 at 3:50 PM
Isn’t it amazing how God does more than we could as or imagine. May the Holy Spirit do His work as He comforts and reveals Jesus Christ.
September 17th, 2009 at 4:24 PM
Wow, thanks for sharing Louie. It was really special reading Hannah’s e-mail. My heart broke when you mentioned what happened to her mom on the livelink. Will continue to pray for Hannah and her family. Still trusting and believing that God has an incredible purpose and plan for Hannah.
September 17th, 2009 at 4:43 PM
God knows and I love it! He knows everything! So obvious, yet so profound!
Hannah, our thoughts and prayers are with you!
September 17th, 2009 at 5:00 PM
So cool,
so wonderful to get this encouragement.
Bless you Hannah. in Jesus name.
is there a way to get in touch with Her?!!
September 17th, 2009 at 5:17 PM
May God’s grace and mercy cover you every moment.
September 17th, 2009 at 6:44 PM
Thanks heaps Louie & Shelley for sharing this glimpse into Hannah’s story so far and how God is using her to reach the Bozo. I am inspired, as Hannah said, to no longer stand on the side lines watching other people share the gospel (either at home or abroad) but to really become a shining light for God and making His name known among the people around me right where I am in my home city of Auckland.
Will most definitely continue to pray for you and your family Hannah and the Bozo people!
~Priscilla
September 17th, 2009 at 7:27 PM
So terribly sorry to read this about Hannah’s mum. Have been praying for you Hannah and our family will continue to do so.
Psalm 34:18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
September 17th, 2009 at 7:47 PM
amen to:
Psalm 34:18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
September 17th, 2009 at 8:03 PM
What continues to amazes every day me is how the Lord uses links, Passion, college students and everything in between to connect people in such awesome and real ways. In ways He knows we will need. Thanks for sharing the story and definitely praying!
September 17th, 2009 at 10:13 PM
Truthfully, I am shaking right now! After we attended Student Life camp this summer, a dear friend of mine began reading this blog and sent me the link tonight. About half-way through, my hands covered my face! While I do not know Hannah personally, I knew Miley since before I could remember. That girl taught me so much about Christ and about how we are to follow Him. I truly consider Miley to be my hero, and she helped me to grow so much in Christ in the past year, even though she was not physically here with us. Miley taught me that we cannot be lukewarm; as good as our intentions are, it is our actions that matter. It is so awesome to see Hannah turning her thoughts into actions and shining His light to the Bozo people! I will be praying for Hannah, her family, and the Bozo people! Miley and Hannah’s mother are now together in a place that is unfathomably awesome!! We just have to trust His perfect plan!
September 18th, 2009 at 2:36 AM
Was in my apartment alone for the Live Link. Was actually right smack in the middle of my finals for the summer Quarter.
Wasn’t sure what God was planning for that night, I just knew I needed to link up. Even though I wasn’t going to make it to Passion 2010.
And sure enough, God had a purpose. I am glad to be a part of the 10,000 strong that God marshaled together to join hearts and pray for Hannah and her work with the Bozo people.
God bless you guys at the Passion Movement for making this happen, and God bless you, Hannah. The rewards in heaven are piled up in mountains for you.
Amen.
-KJ
September 18th, 2009 at 7:29 AM
We are praying for you, Hannah.
September 18th, 2009 at 8:49 AM
new mercies today.
hope for tomorrow.
lots of us praying.
God never fails.
cc
September 18th, 2009 at 10:40 AM
Hannah,
still praying for you.
Psalm 18
The cords of death entangled me;
the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me. (4)
The cords of the grave coiled around me;
the snares of death confronted me. (5)
In my distress I called to the Lord;
I cried to my God for help.
From His temple He heard my voice;
my cry came before Him, into His ears. (6)
He reached down from high and took hold of me (16);
. . . the Lord [is] my support. (18)
To the faithful You show Yourself faithful . . . (25)
You, O Lord, keep my lamp burning;
my God turns my darkness into light. (28)
With Your help I can advance against a troop [can run through a barricade],
with my God I can scale a wall. (29)
It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. (32)
. . . he enables me to stand on the heights. (33)
He trains my hands for battle . . . (34)
You give me Your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me (35) . . .
You broaden Your path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn. (36)
. . . He shows unfailing kindness to his annointed. (50)
Hannah, I pray that God’s glory is greater than any anguish you experience . . . candice
September 18th, 2009 at 12:31 PM
I am continually amazed at how great the Father’s hand is and how He is continually providing for needs we don’t even know we have. He never forgets us, even when we feel that we are truly at the ends of the earth. He never forgets His servants. I love you Hannah!
September 18th, 2009 at 9:07 PM
Isaiah 55:8-11.
September 19th, 2009 at 3:50 PM
I sat on Monday, praising Jesus with all of you, and my eldest daughter on my lap as you shared about Hannah and her mom. Tears of the anguish that comes from life on earth, and tears of Joy as our Redeemer is bringing His story, The Gospel, to the whole world through His people.
Hannah is my daughter’s name. She prayed, also, for Hannah, and for the Bozo. His Grace is Enough.
For His Renown! paul pettefer
September 20th, 2009 at 2:22 PM
oh my gosh. Louie and Shelley thanks for posting this. its refreshing to see how intimately God is still moving. Hannah, the joy of the Lord is on you! keep shining girl. I’ll be praying for you.
September 20th, 2009 at 4:42 PM
Passion 2010 Live Link,
May our glorious GOD be praised as He moved and is moving the Nations to worship Him alone.
What to say about Hannah? A willing vessel of God’s saving mercy and through the Spirit’s work, called her to the unreached peoples of West Africa. Hannah is a young single girl who is sold out to our Lord Jesus Christ. She is wasting her life rightly!
My wife and I stayed with Hannah along with a small team from our church. We were sent there to encourage and reach out to our dear friends. Hannah willingly opened her home to our team and aided us in our work to reach the Bozo.
Hannah lives part of her time in a village on the Niger and the other part of her time in a small city in Mali. The Bozo has taken her in as one of their own and truly doors for the Gospel have been opening up. While our team was there and we stayed in Hannah’s village we were able to explain the Gospel and ask a question: “How many Bozo do you know Chief that are Christians?” He said, “None and all we have ever known is Islam from birth.”
So Passion 2010 my charge is to PRAY! Pray for the Bozo and the many other Hannahs that are sold out. That are wasting their lives rightly and suffering for the God’s glory through Jesus Christ our Lord and His message to the Nations.
In Christ Alone,
David Horsburgh
September 20th, 2009 at 5:03 PM
David, thanks so much for sharing that about Hannah and her work with the Bozo! It helps to know how to pray even more specifically for her and people like her that are ministering to the Bozo :) How cool that the Bozo have taken Hannah in as one of their own too!
~Priscilla
September 21st, 2009 at 7:02 AM
I was at the Cobb Center last night with my family and my daughter Hannah when you told the story of Hannah and the Bozo people. My family and I all looked at our Hannah who has been very sick, still undiagnosed. I was so moved when you addressed all the Hannahs in the building and spoke directly to them. It strengthened my faith that God cares about us and our child. Life has been on hold during this illness. Only God could have chosen the vessel whose name was the same as our child Hannah. Thank you for your lives lived for Christ.
September 21st, 2009 at 1:29 PM
I have tears in my eyes reading this. we are so many lives, so many stories intertwined in the grand scheme of things.
So, Hannah, we are all behind you now. Thank you for going to the unreached people.
Thank the Lord for His mercies being new every morning and linking us all together.
September 22nd, 2009 at 11:23 AM
Dear Pastor Louie,
I thank the Lord for your life and the Word He has given you from 2 Chronicles 16:9:
“For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may show Himself to be strong on behalf of those whose heart is completely His.”
Thank you for sharing Hannah’s life with us. Please extend this letter to her.
Her life, her testimony were God’s awakening call to me, to get up from my slumber, to get off from procrastination and all these “but’s” when it comes to sharing Jesus.
Dear Hannah,
These words of yours awakened me:
“Most days, having this responsibility of sharing with a Bozo man or woman the story of Christ for the very first time is so daunting and overwhelming. I question so much, wow, “who am I to get this privilege?” But I am also constantly reminded that God decided to make His name famous here and in every nation a long time ago and certainly has the power to make His name famous among the hardened hearts of the Bozo.”
Thanks for making me realize that it is indeed a privilege, an honor to have known Jesus and to share Him among people whose hearts are not yet His (but will soon be, in His mighty Name).
Thanks for making me realize that it’s not a burden, it’s not an extra work added to our schedules. But indeed, the most essential part of it. And indeed, our strength.
And yes, i thank you for these awakening lines:
“I knew I couldn’t just sit on the sidelines anymore soaking up the “wow factor” and energy I got from seeing these people at work.”
In my life, as i see my brothers and sisters working for Him and His renown, i was like you, soaked up with the “wow factor” and the energy from His children (my brothers and sisters) serving Him.
I felt the urgency to serve Him. But i do not know exactly how.
But now with your testimony, i was just awakened that even with the smallest of things we do for Jesus, we bring glory to His Name.
And yes, it is a privilege so great to share Jesus whom we have in our lives.
I’ve heard about your mom, and I would like to tell you that Jesus is with you right now, sharing with the sorrow your heart feels. Jesus is much more powerful than death; He rose and conquered it when He died for us.
Jesus loves you so much, and from the depths of His love, He embraces you.
I also claim and believe that the hearts of the Bozo people are now for Christ, and they receive His Salvation, in Jesus’ mighty Name. Amen!
I love you dear sister.
With you in prayer,
Patt Rissa
September 24th, 2009 at 8:22 PM
I’m working late in Seattle, listening to the podcast & crying tears for Hannah and praying for her and her family right now.
September 27th, 2009 at 12:12 PM
May God comfort you and your family, Hanna, and also renew your strength in Him to carry on. The world is praying for you and the Bozo.
It really shows how much God cares for His children.
September 30th, 2009 at 11:13 AM
Hi Hannah, I am Anna’s mom (your Prince Rupert roommate:) from summer of 2008! I was so saddened when Anna told me of yet another heartbreak in your young life! This morning I was reading, “Come Away My Beloved” and thot of you as I read these words, “Through multitudes of tests, you will learn courage. It does not matter the price you pay, but at any cost you must obtain strength of character and the fortitude to endure. I would build your resources until you are able to carry unusually heavy loads and withstand intense pressures. You will become an ambassador for the Kingdom of Heaven to whom I can assign critical missions, confident that you are equipped to fulfil them” May these words encourage you and may you know how much we love you and are praying for you and all of your family!!!!
October 2nd, 2009 at 2:50 AM
Oh Hannah, it took a while for da news to reach me here in Kampala. Emily was the one who shared with me. I just wanna thank you Louie for reaching out to my co-laborer in Christ. Hannah is so amazing and so strong and her story continues to write itself and bring Glory to God. Thank you all for supporting her thru this hard time, I have no words that would take away the hurt, but to know that the passion community is aching with her is a start! Let us not stop praying for those Bozo people in Mali, satan is just trying to stop wut was bout to explode ova there, let them remain in our hearts! Thanks again Louie and passion community!!!!
August 13th, 2010 at 3:41 PM
August 13, 2010 3:15 PM
LG & Passion Team URGENT!
Prayer for Hannah in Mali, West Africa (She is from Georgia)
From Team mate:
Greetings to all of you,
We ask that you please pray for our sister Hannah. She is sick right now with Malaria. She is at the clinic in the capital and is doing better. Please pray for her healing.
Thank you,
Billy
August 18th, 2010 at 9:54 AM
From M in the field in West Africa:
“What a week we have had. This week was filled with great ministry opportunities and great adversities. In light of the above verses mentioned, it is not surprising that the two extremes would come at the same time. We believe that difficulty, sickness, and/or persecution are expected to be part of the delivering of the Gospel, especially to those who will believe.
This week has found Hannah quite sick with malaria and some unknown infection. She has been in the hospital and is currently doing much better. She has been released from the hospital. Thank you for your prayers for her. We still need to know what the infection is, but the malaria and its effects are under control. Also this week, three of our children got sick. Their sicknesses are not nearly as bad as Hannah’s, but please pray they would be completely healed from their sickness, too. Also, we ask for prayer for wisdom and discernment in decisions we need to make in the near future that will impact our ministry here in Mali.”