In the presence of the enemies
By Avichail
@Avichail (694)
Indonesia
March 17, 2007 8:58am CST
Gracia Burnham and her husband, Martin, lived for years as missionaries in rural areas of the Philippines. One day in May 2001, while taking a short vacation they were kidnapped by Muslim terrorists. Suddenly they found themselves in a day-by-day struggle to stay alive.
A year later in the rescue mission, Martin was shot to death leaving Gracia alone back to their home. At the funeral, one of the couple's friends gave an eloquent tribute to Martin's life. "Gracia was rescued from the jungle by a helicopter. Martin was rescued from the jungle on angels' wings."
(Reader's Digest 0304)
How blessed are the children of God. In grief they find comfort. In presence of the enemies they find peace. In death they find life.
1 response
@danishcanadian (28953)
• Canada
17 Mar 07
Wasn't this turned into a book called "In The Presence Of Mine Enemies?" My step-dad read that book a few years ago, and told me it was wonderful. He told me the story, and what you said sounds really really familliar. Thanks so much for sharing this with all of us.
1 person likes this
@Avichail (694)
• Indonesia
17 Mar 07
Yes, Danishcanadian, you are right. The book is written by Gracia Burnham herself, published by Tyndale House in 2003. A year after the incident. The excerpt I wrote here was from Reader's Digest. It was truly a beautiful story how God intervened, interfered and interwoven the life of His people to bring the lost ones back to Him...=)
