MI S S ION S
Worldwide Prayer Concerns
“But recall those earlier days when, after you had been enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to abuse and persecution, and sometimes being partners with those so treated.” – Hebrews 10:32-33
Parkistan
Persecution.com and Telegraph.co.uk Last May, we rejoiced when Asia Bibi was finally allowed to leave Pakistan for Canada. She had spent about a decade in prison on blasphemy charges that were dismissed by Pakistan’s Supreme Court, but only after a lengthy appeals process. It was a difficult period for her as she languished in prison, unsure what would happen. Even upon her release, she was basically on house arrest as the government was unable to assure her safety against vigilantes who wanted to murder her. Arrangements were made to move her to Canada, where she has been able to live a more normal life again.
Laos
However, there are still many others in Pakistan who are victims of this unjust law, under which a false accusation can land someone in jail for years as the case drags on. Pray for Imran Masih, who is another Christian who has been imprisoned since 2009, falsely accused of burning a Quran. His case has had one appeals court hearing in 2015. There are at least 22 other Christians in similar situations. But there are also dozens of Muslims jailed under this law, since the accusation can be leveled as a means of silencing a rival or settling a score. Pray that the government of Pakistan will work to reform this law and free these prisoners.
Voice of the Martyrs VOM shared that about a year ago, police in the Boke province of Laos destroyed a building that had been used as a house church. But instead of quashing the gospel, there are so many new believers that the church doesn’t have room for them all, and a new addition is being constructed. Praise God that He can work powerfully, even amid opposition. Pray that the government leaders would come to know the love of Christ.
Venezula
Pray for the church in Venezuela as the economic crisis continues. Shortages of food and supplies as well unimaginable inflation continues to make daily life extremely challenging. Pray that a political and economic solution could emerge so that the people of Venezuela can have hope for the future. Pray that Christians would be able to show Christ’s love in the midst of this crisis. Pray that relief would get to those who most need it.
- Jonathan Peske If you have information to share about the persecuted church or news from the mission field, please share it with Jonathan Peske.
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