'Hamba Satan' man rejoices despite 300-year sentence!
IN January this year, Joy! featured the testimony of Michael Ellias Mafogo who was standing trial for a number of armed robberies. We also told of his determination to come clean before the Lord and his "Hamba Satan" clean-up repentance and restitution actions.
He recently wrote to bring us up-to-date on his life and the outcome of his trial:
Writing of his appearance in the regional court in Louis Trichardt on Jaunary 17, Michael says, "The love, mercy and salvation of God on that day was in abundance; the goodness of the Lord wrapped around me like a warm blanket in winter." (He thanks all who prayed for him that day that the Father would do His will.)
"After my public confession and return of the stolen and hijacked goods to the value of R320 000; and after obtaining forgiveness from the victims, the Regional Court decided to put me away for 381 years behind bars. After the prison official worked my sentence out, they said I will have to do 300 years full.
"My Bible tells me to thank and praise the Lord in all situations at all times. No matter what the court said, the victory is still ours, brethren. Nothing can take us out of the hand of our ever-loving Father.
"Those of you who are shocked at this sentence, hear me for a moment: This is nothing. Why do I say that? Because of the Word of our Father. Take a look at David who measured the giant against God and the giant became what? Nothing. Anything one measures against God becomes nothing.
"No matter how dark it looks I am still walking with God and being a bright light for God in the corner where I am. That first night after the sentencing I was so strengthened I even preached and encouraged prayer partners not to give up, but to trust God for a bright future: no matter what happens they must know that God is in control and He never changes or fails.
"I am now in Thohoyandau Maximum A Prison which is in Venda, Northern Province. Since I came here I have witnessed my testimony touching and drawing hearts that would never have been reached -- both inmates and officials. They did not expect that the person with the highest prison sentence could speak like I did and do (Glory and honour to God who made this possible, through your prayers and encouragement.)
"I urge the body of Christ to visit the overflowing prisons in their areas. The Department of Correctional Services needs your help: as for a person to be fully corrected needs the spiritual transformation that only God can do. Bring your light where it is really needed."
Obviously Michael needs much support himself and for his evangelistic work. His wife, Shirley and daughter, Michelle (eight years old) and son Mike Jr (five) also need help, both spiritual and practical (food and clothing). They may all be contacted through the home address of Box 407, Ramokgopa 0811. Michael himself also urges readers to contact him through that same address, rather than through the prison. His personal needs are especially for writing paper, envelopes and stamps; as well as for Bibles for distribution in the prison.