Though peace continues in our little region, we have had some very interesting visitors this past week. There have been visits from a couple of different groups of the anti-balaxka, who came and went from our town without a problem. All of the Fulani and Muslixm people have crossed over into Cameroon. Their peaceful visits were due in part, we believe, to the proactive and non-confrontational welcome given them by government officials, missionaries, and local clergy. One of these groups had done some grievous damage to the north of us, to Fulani/Muslixm villagers, which we are saddened by, but still we remain grateful that our immediate area remains unaffected.
Next came the French peacekeeping forces, about 50 of them in about a dozen vehicles rolled into town.
See the feet sticking out, someone is catching a much needed rest!
As they checked out the town and the surroundings, they presented themselves as serious but calm, and very friendly with the local population, which was a refreshing change from the typical soldier around here. A town meeting was held, with reps from churches, government and our local military, the hospital and then missionaries. They were, I think, surprised at the peace and order, and though we wouldn’t have minded having them stay around, they saw no need for it and returned to the east.
The French captain seems like a good leader, and as I watched him and listened to him at a meeting later with just missionaries, I couldn’t help but pray for him as I thought about what he and his group have seen and had to handle. What horrors and sorrow and anger and grief… Please keep praying for this country, for those who seek to make peace to have success.
