I have been to Cuba eight times over the last 16 years. It has been my privilege to know and work with Cuban pastors, business leaders, scholars and other professionals. As the world wonders what effect Fidel Castro's death will have on this strategic nation, I want to make three predictions.
The government will renew its commitment to the failed policies of Castro's revolution.
Many hoped that Fidel's brother Raul would liberalize the Cuban economy, especially in light of improved relations with the U.S. So far, however, the average Cuban has seen little if any benefit from such advances. Tourism is booming in Cuba, which benefits those who work in tourist destinations but harms everyone else. The limited resources of the island are so focused on tourist areas that the rest of the country has even less.
For years, government leaders have adamantly claimed that Fidel's death would not change their commitment to their socialistic revolution, despite the failures of its policies. We should not expect them to change their position, especially in the short term.
The Cuban people will rise above whatever adversity they face.
My first trip to Cuba changed forever my view of the Cuban people. I was astounded at their work ethic, resilience and passion for excellence. I have seen mothers in corrugated tin shacks sweeping their dirt floors with immaculate care. I have seen doctors driving taxis to support their families and lawyers working as doormen for tourist tips, yet they do this with a humble spirit that astounded me.
The Cuban people are some of the best educated in the world. Their passion for excellence in their lives and work will sustain them in the turmoil of these days.
The spiritual awakening in Cuba will continue to grow.
More than a million Cubans have become Christians in recent years. Cuban churches are working together across denominations with a harmony Americans would do well to emulate. Churches are starting in homes, fields, farms, schools and wherever people can gather to worship Jesus. Pastors are braving the threat of government persecution to continue preaching the Gospel with fearless joy.
I have preached on six continents and can testify that the Cuban church is more like the New Testament church than any I have encountered anywhere I have been. Changes to their government will not hinder Cuban Christians in their commitment to Christ.
One of my favorite churches in Cuba is an example of the spiritual movement sweeping the island nation. An artist in their congregation painted a map of the world on the back wall of their sanctuary. Church members take turns day and night praying before this map for the world it represents. They believe themselves to be on the front edge of global spiritual awakening - and they're right.
My question after the death of Fidel Castro is not, what will happen to the church in Cuba? Rather, it is, what will happen to the church in America because of the example of Cuba?
Before You Go
