Africa 101.8: The Needs of Malawi

When people think of Malawi, they think of dirty children with torn clothing and big eyes. They think of tired adults carrying heavy loads. They think of sick people, dying of malaria and AIDS. They think of the need for food and clothing and medical care. And all of this is very heartbreakingly true.

But while many in Malawi are desperate for relief from all of those things, there is something they need more than all of that put together. They need God.

Malawi is so open to the good news of Jesus Christ, but change comes slowly. As Christ is shared, love is shown and trust is earned, then lives are dramatically transformed. And as more Malawians live their daily lives for Christ regardless of and even in spite of their circumstances, everyone else starts to notice and wants to know how they, too, can have that peace and reassurance in the midst of pain, suffering and death. And so God is able to move and spread throughout a country desperate for Him.

What does it take to see this happen?

Malawi needs Jesus. They need people willing to step out of their comfortable lives, come sit in the dirt on their level, and tell them about the love of Jesus. They need to see Jesus living and active in the hearts of real people who are unselfishly coming to share with them.

Malawi needs people to care. It is so easy to see a picture, watch a television special or read an article and say “Awww, isn’t that a shame. Someone should help them.” But is that really caring? Jesus didn’t see the blind and the sick and give them a sympathetic look as he walked on by. God demands action from His people through giving as well as going.

Malawi needs prayer. It sounds so trite, but who in this world doesn’t need prayer? We all suffer, with much of our suffering brought on ourselves through our selfishness, greed and rebellious choices. Malawi is no different; it is a suffering country that greatly needs prayer.

Malawi needs most the one thing that will never run out, grow old, or decay. Malawi needs God.

Thank you for going along on this journey of learning a bit about Malawi. I hope you enjoyed the information and pray it has opened your heart to other people in need. Give thanks for all that you have, even as you ask God how you might help others less fortunate. Happy Holidays!