Not Just a Car Model

This man in Riau is making a nisan or grave-marker out of cement and ceramic tile. This type of headstone is very common on Sumatra. There are different types of nisan used for Christians and Muslims. Usually the businesses who make nisan are located next to the cemetery.

Death is a reality that every Sumatran will have to face. Most people here on the island prefer not to think about it, but all acknowledge the truth that death is an impending appointment for every person. The important question is how to best prepare for that appointment.

The common belief on Sumatra is that good works is the best method to prepare to meet God. They are often unclear about how much “good work” is needed to balance “bad deeds.” The idea of a mediator who steps in to pay the sin debt seems too good to be true.

Death is coming for every man. And in the history of the world death only gave back one man because He never did any “bad deeds.” Jesus is that man, and He gave the great sacrifice once for all to pay the sin debt of those who believe upon His finished work.

Sumatrans need to hear about the great substitutionary death of Jesus and the Good News that there is another way to prepare for the inevitable meeting with God after death. That way is the way of grace through faith. After all, by good works no one is justified before Holy God.

Pray for the people on Sumatra who are trusting in good works to realize that they are not able to pay their own sin debt.

Pray for Christ followers to be bold to share the Good News about how Jesus has already paid the sin debt for those who believe upon His finished work at Calvary.

Pray for the Holy Spirit to bring deep conviction of sin to the peoples of Sumatra so that they can repent before it is too late.