Double Ten

October 10 is known as Double Ten Day.  It is the day that Taiwan celebrates its National Day.

News reports of recent days have mentioned growing tensions in Southeast Asia as the large country to Taiwan’s west exerts its influence.  Many nations, both those in the region and those who feel responsibility to maintain world peace, are expressing their concerns.

Taiwan is home to about 23 million people.  Historically it has been ruled by Polynesians, Europeans, the Japanese, and by the Chinese.  Although it is currently a democratic republic that is self-governed, the long-term political status of the island is disputed.  Some feel it is a province of China that needs to be reunited.  Others are pursuing a goal of greater autonomy. Between the two polar viewpoints is a large range of moderating views.

Caught in the middle are the residents of Taiwan.  Their views also span the wide spectrum mentioned.  But the most urgent concerns relate to providing for every day life.

It seems that regional tensions, that include the future of Taiwan, will not be resolved naturally.  The ambitious goals of competing powers seem destined for further conflict. Peace and security are unlikely to be found through political or military means.

This highlights the need for Taiwanese people to hear about Jesus. Christ provides citizenship in a heavenly kingdom that will be eternal.  He gives meaning to life and hope for the future, including during times of stress.

Please pray for the Taiwanese as they celebrate Double Ten Day.  Pray that God will reveal Himself to them and they will find hope and identity in Christ.

Praise and Prayer

• May God help us to have gratitude-filled hearts as we prepare for celebrating Canadian Thanksgiving.  Taiwan does not have an official Thanksgiving Day. However, having a heart full of thanks is a habit that helps to produce a healthy spiritual life.  Please pray that we will all aspire towards this goal.
• Please pray for unity and Christ-inspired fellowship as the Taiwan C&MA pastors and church leaders meet Oct. 16 for the annual denomination business meeting.  The pandemic, political views, societal problems, and personal biases all tend to divide.  We believe that the Holy Spirit wants to unite people in Christ.  Let’s pray for this to happen.