A Real Battle

We live and breathe in a world we can touch, see and feel. We are often consumed in our physical reality and lose sight of the spiritual battle just beyond our range of vision. Occasionally, the unseen war rages close enough to the surface that it can no longer be mistaken for anything less than what it is.

In voodoo-entrenched Togoville, witchcraft and idol worship have reigned for decades. It is there that Vapor has been establishing a center for humanitarian aid and sustainable life change for the past year and nine months. While idol worship and voodoo practice is part of daily life for many in Togoville, there are also large, annual ceremonial cleansings and ancestral worship gatherings where animistic spirits are called into action. Animal and grain sacrifices heap high on stone carved male and female gods found in the city. During such gatherings, witch doctors beat drums that can be heard deep into the night, as can the sounds from people wailing, mass orgies and attempts at demonic incantation.

Recently, the morning after one of these ceremonies, Vapor staff members were rocked with news of a young girl laid bare as a human sacrifice, heart removed from her chest. Shortly afterward, a young boy was discovered floating in a community well, legs chopped off at the knees and head removed.

Many people explain away the inner workings and activities of places like Togoville as simply “cultural” and see little harm in them. In contrast, our African staff frequently witness overwhelming evidence of spiritual warfare. In spite of the darkness, God has been using our team in ways that bring much encouragement, confidence and light.

As this year comes to a close and we think of all that has been accomplished through our three African centers, we are thankful for the part you have chosen to play. Please continue to uphold Vapor Sports Ministries and all of our staff throughout the world. As you give thanks this season, we request special prayer for our field representatives in Togoville, Togo, Christian and Celine Nklukiye, as they continue to bring the hope and light of Christ into the midst of a real battle.

Life is a vapor,

Micah McElveen