In the Presence of My Enemies
Gracia Burnham
A gripping account of the kidnapping of American Missionaries and their year of terror in the Philippine jungle
Sometimes reading how others endured trouble and trials is actually encouraging to face your own. This story, In the Presence of My Enemies, recounts the terrifying fourteen months Gracia and her husband, Martin, spent as hostages of the militant Abu Sayyaf group in the Philippine jungle. It is a real-life thriller that serves as a profound spiritual journey.
It was a blessing to read Gracia's words as she recounts the tragedy that her and her husband endured. Her account is remarkably raw and honest. She doesn't sugarcoat the experience or present a flawless faith; she shares her deep moments of doubt, fear, and frustration.
This story about the Burnhams is a wild adventure of trying to remain hopeful when all hope is lost, chronicling the constant danger, physical exhaustion, and lack of provision. Yet, the title powerfully illustrates how Gracia learned to find God's peace and provision literally while surrounded by her captors. It is a powerful testament to the fact that faith isn't just for the easy times—it's what sustains you when you are truly in the valley of the shadow of death.
Quote from the book
"There was a Gracia I barely knew existed: fearful Gracia, selfish Gracia, bitter Gracia, angry-at-God Gracia. That wasn't the only me, but it was a bigger part of me than I wanted to accept."
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