Last Sunday was the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. Every 2nd Sunday of November, churches across the globe get on their knees on behalf of those endure great hardship as a result of their faith in Christ. If your church is not involved, I encourage you to take initiative and put resources together to be a part of it next year.
As Sunday drew near, I was inundated with information about the persecuted church. As I studied the global map, I noticed that most of the restricted nations were the same in 2011 as they were the first time I saw such a map in 1997. However, much has happened this past year, especially in North Africa. Recent political events in Egypt and Libya have created political vacuums where change will inevitably take place, whether positive or negative. We need to be committed to praying for our brothers and sisters in the faith living under brutal conditions. We must intercede on behalf of missionaries in these countries, risking much to labor for Christ.
In our western culture and mindset, we need to be reminded that, while God transforms individuals, he is also able to transform nations. God is not limited by political or economic realities. He is exceedingly able to make all things new, in persons and peoples.
When I hear stories of their faith it reminds me of the saints referred to in Hebrews 11, “Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated— of whom the world was not worthy—” Hebrews 11 is about heroes of our faith, and when I think of modern day heroes of the faith, I think of those suffering injustice for the sake of Christ. Their testimonies challenge me. Their examples compel me to make wiser decisions. I cannot assume I will put it all on the line when it counts. I do not want to be one of those who shrink back. I want to stand strong and bold for Christ. I need to lay the foundation for that today.
It is not likely that you or I interact with those suffering persecution very often. It is difficult to know how to pray when we don’t know specifics. Names, places, situations. Voice of the Martyrs is an organization that provides such information that allows believers to pray for specific people in specific places, enduring specific hardships. I would encourage you to go to their website and explore.
If you are interested in more information about the persecuted church, Voice of the Martyrs offers many ways to provide it to you.
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And as we pray, let us pray Hebrews 12:1 for our persecuted brother and sisters as well as for ourselves:” Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Praise be to God forever.
Comment(1)
lora mapp says
November 17, 2011 at 7:59 amI put it on my calendar to remember and remind people of next year. Great website. Thanks Casey!