Christians in southern Sudan believe recent events in their country are part of God's plan for their nation.

Sudan sits just below Egypt. The north is ruled by Islamic dictator Omar al-Bashir, but the south is dominated by Chrisitans, who believe biblical prophecy is coming true right before their eyes.

Southern Sudanese residents recently voted for independence from the largely Muslim north.

Christians say the Bible talks about the land of Cush in Isaiah:18, describing a land divided by rivers where the people are tall and smooth-skinned.

Many south Sudanese Christians believe this passage refers to them, and they will soon be free to praise God in their own land.