In the last couple of years, I’ve had the privilege of preaching the Gospel in public and private schools in The Philippines and several countries in Africa. This is in addition to work in Mexico. I’m constantly amazed at the openness and receptivity of these precious souls to the Lord Jesus Christ. In every case when I come to the story of Jesus dying on the Cross for sinners and when I challenge them to repentance and faith, there comes a holy hush over the crowd. Sometimes, especially in highly Muslim areas, there is some giggling and mocking, but most of the students display a very quiet reverence.

But Zimbabwe was different.

I’ve never been in a more spiritually sensitive and thirsty nation. The holy hush that I’ve come to expect was almost immediate, in every setting, indoors, outdoors, elementary, high school or college. I almost always start with some humor to establish rapport; I don’t think it was necessary in Zimbabwe. It seemed that the Holy Spirit was just waiting until I was through joking around to come upon the crowd.

Also, I’ve never preached to so many in such a short time. In a recent article, I told you that in 2010 I preached to 18,000+. In Zimbabwe, in eight days, I preached to 14,382! Our national evangelists who set these meetings up with the schools had a letter from the Ministry of Education granting us permission “for the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ” in the schools of Zimbabwe. No restrictions. And the local school officials welcomed us with open arms, endorsed us before the students and often summarized and amened our message when we were through. The Lord of the Harvest truly set before us an open door that no one can shut.

“That was a remarkable experience. The students left different than when they came in.” Teacher at Ilhathi High School

Mauku Primary School. 1289 students. School song: Jesus Loves Me. Said the Lord’s Prayer just like when I was in elementary.

Eveline All Girls High School. 1200 students. After invitation, shouting, almost screaming praise of joy.

Sizane High School. 1200 students. Overwhelming response to the Gospel, some weeping. Head Master told students, “Now we ought to be able to go the whole year without a pregnancy.”

Emakhandeni Secondary. 800 students. Before we started, police led a boy away in handcuffs. He had stabbed a student in the back with a screwdriver. At the assembly, the principal said, “We are very sad today. The devil has set up camp in this school.” We ran him out.

Downtown Bulawayo, introduced a 12 year old street beggar girl to Jesus. Her name, Rumbidayi, means “praising.” 12,060.

MEXICO CITY April 7-10. 4 messages on Revival to pastors.

Thanks for sending and praying,
Dan Grindstaff

P.S. They called me “Madala,” a term of highest honor and deepest respect. OK, it means ‘old man,’ but they meant it respectfully!!