Reconciliation Through A Playground

Reconciliation Through A Playground After years of division and distrust, the Hindu and Christian villagers of Bandabaju, India are finally seeing hope for reconciliation. Strangely enough, that hope has come in the form of a children’s playground. In 2008, an outbreak of deadly religious violence in the village left two churches burnt down, and  over one hundred Christians were forced out of their homes. Even though many homes were rebuilt, many Christians remained paralyzed with fear. Then in 2012, an idea was hatched to help heal the community…build a place for children to play! After a local Christian family donated the land, by mid-July the park was completed and dedicated to the glory of God. Thanks to the children’s playground the community of Bandabaju is beginning to reconcile. “After the riots the Hindu and Christian communities were not on speaking terms,” the Christian leader recalls. “Whenever they came across each other in the marketplace or while walking on the road, there was tension. The children’s park has been amazing tool in bringing the two communities together. Today they meet in the park regularly, sit, relax and talk to each other.” A local Hindu leader added, “Even though we have done so much harm to the Christians, it is a great thing that they still have concern for our children.” Daily Hindu and Christian families are seen laughing and playing in the park. The Christian leader added, “I hope the gap between our two communities caused by the violence will be lessened when our children play together.” One With Them Be One With Them as you join in this prayer for Indian Christian and Hindu families: Heavenly Father, we praise You for who You are, and for the many blessings You bestow on Your children and their neighbors. You have always used the least, the weakest, the most unlikely people to accomplish Your Will, never leaving a doubt that the victory was because of You. And now we see You using children, and parents’ love for their children, as a bridge to join two groups in much need of healing. Once again, God, You are the hero of the story. We thank You and ask that You continue to show Your favor on this unity of people in India. Praying in Jesus’ name. Amen.  2013.06.22

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9)