Amelia* serves in West Africa, sharing the gospel with those in a region that is very opposed to the message of Jesus Christ. She has recently been learning from her language teacher about the influential Griot (musicians/singers) status group – this is a hereditary caste-like group who serve as oral historians, poets, musicians and praise singers. Though considered to be of low status, they wield a lot of power through their ability to praise or shame through song. She has heard stories about policemen stopping cars for traffic infringements, but on hearing the family name, quickly letting them go (or as one story goes, even paying them to drive on) after they recognised a Griot family name. Please join Amelia in praying for the redemption of music from being a weapon wielded for money or power, or for the praising of individuals or families. Pray instead for a release of worship that unites people and stirs hearts as they turn to look at Jesus. Ask the Lord to raise up writers and singers of worship songs.

*Name changed for security reasons