Day 5:
…So He became their Savior. In all their affection He was afflicted, and the angel of His presence saved them; in His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, and He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old. Isaiah 63:8-9b
North Korea is often described as one huge prison. North Koreans can be imprisoned for virtually any state-defined crime, such as being a Christian, making a negative comment about the regime, traveling to China to look for food, failing to have a picture of Kim Il-Sung in their house or even failure to keep it clean enough. Punishment is not limited to the offender, but also three generations of the offender's family. What compounds these situations for citizens are the severe violations of human rights that occur throughout the North Korean penal system, including systematic use of torture, forced abortions, public and private executions, use of humans for chemical and biological testing and extreme starvation.
There are roughly two types of labor camps. One type is for re-education purposes, the other for political prisoners (who are considered hopeless). It is estimated that there 200,000 prisoners being held in just five of the 12 prison camps of North Korea. The number of additional prisoners in other known prisons and in "secret" prisons, some of which are said to be completely underground, is unknown. In addition, North Korea's State Security Agency maintains about 30 labor education and forced labor camps. At least two of these camps are larger in area than the District of Columbia. The numbers of how many people die or are released each year from labor camps is not published. No one knows the exact number, but in the last three decades it is estimated that at least 500,000 people are believed to have perished in North Korea's huge network of jails, prison camps and underground secret construction projects.
According to Open Doors' Christian sources we estimate the number of imprisoned Christians between 50 and 70 thousand. Most are imprisoned because of their faith in Christ, some for other reasons. Christians are considered political prisoners. Under normal circumstances, they will never be released.
READ ISAIAH 63:11-14
PRAY
God has visited His people in North Korea even during their oppression and extreme suffering and humiliation. But now the time has come for Christians around the world to lift up our voices in believing, confident prayer for God to intervene sovereignly and bring a mighty work of deliverance and restoration of His people in that land! As you read this PRAY!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Syria opposition demands reforms, vows protests
Syrian opposition figures said Wednesday their "massive grassroots revolution" will break the regime unless President Bashar al-Assad leads a transition to democracy, even as authorities intensified their crackdown on the country's uprising.
The statement from an umbrella group of opposition activists in Syria and abroad called the National Initiative for Change said a democratic transition will "safeguard the nation from falling into a period of violence, chaos and civil war."
"If the Syrian president does not wish to be recorded in history as a leader of this transition period, there is no alternative left for Syrians except to move forward along the same path as did the Tunisians, Egyptians and Libyans before them," the statement said.
Opposition More Organized
The opposition is getting more organized as the uprising gains momentum, but it is still largely a grassroots operation. There are no credible opposition leaders who have risen to the level of being considered as a possible successor to Assad.
A relentless crackdown since mid-March has killed more than 400 people across Syria, with 120 dead over the weekend. That has only emboldened protesters who started their revolt with calls for modest reforms but are now increasingly demanding Assad's downfall.
On Monday, the army sent tanks into Daraa, 80 miles (130 kilometers) south of Damascus, and there have been reports of shooting and raids there and in areas across the country ever since. Daraa is where the uprising began last month.
Tanks Deployed
On Wednesday, witnesses and human rights activists said the army also deployed tanks around the Damascus suburb of Douma and the coastal city of Banias, where there have been large demonstrations in recent weeks.
One Douma resident said security agents were going house-to-house, carrying lists of wanted people and conducting raids. If the agents did not find the person they were looking for, they took his relatives into custody, the resident said.
Two funerals were planned Wednesday, he said.
In Banias, a witness said the army redeployed tanks and armored personnel carriers near the main highway leading into the city.
Residents contacted by the AP spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear for their safety.
Foreign Media Banned
Syria has banned nearly all foreign media and restricted access to trouble spots since the uprising began, making it almost impossible to verify the dramatic events shaking one of the most authoritarian regimes in the Arab world.
Amnesty International said the UN Security Council must refer the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court.
"The Syrian government is clearly trying to shatter the will of those peacefully expressing dissent by shelling them, firing on them and locking them up," said Salil Shetty, Amnesty International's Secretary General
The statement from an umbrella group of opposition activists in Syria and abroad called the National Initiative for Change said a democratic transition will "safeguard the nation from falling into a period of violence, chaos and civil war."
"If the Syrian president does not wish to be recorded in history as a leader of this transition period, there is no alternative left for Syrians except to move forward along the same path as did the Tunisians, Egyptians and Libyans before them," the statement said.
Opposition More Organized
The opposition is getting more organized as the uprising gains momentum, but it is still largely a grassroots operation. There are no credible opposition leaders who have risen to the level of being considered as a possible successor to Assad.
A relentless crackdown since mid-March has killed more than 400 people across Syria, with 120 dead over the weekend. That has only emboldened protesters who started their revolt with calls for modest reforms but are now increasingly demanding Assad's downfall.
On Monday, the army sent tanks into Daraa, 80 miles (130 kilometers) south of Damascus, and there have been reports of shooting and raids there and in areas across the country ever since. Daraa is where the uprising began last month.
Tanks Deployed
On Wednesday, witnesses and human rights activists said the army also deployed tanks around the Damascus suburb of Douma and the coastal city of Banias, where there have been large demonstrations in recent weeks.
One Douma resident said security agents were going house-to-house, carrying lists of wanted people and conducting raids. If the agents did not find the person they were looking for, they took his relatives into custody, the resident said.
Two funerals were planned Wednesday, he said.
In Banias, a witness said the army redeployed tanks and armored personnel carriers near the main highway leading into the city.
Residents contacted by the AP spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear for their safety.
Foreign Media Banned
Syria has banned nearly all foreign media and restricted access to trouble spots since the uprising began, making it almost impossible to verify the dramatic events shaking one of the most authoritarian regimes in the Arab world.
Amnesty International said the UN Security Council must refer the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court.
"The Syrian government is clearly trying to shatter the will of those peacefully expressing dissent by shelling them, firing on them and locking them up," said Salil Shetty, Amnesty International's Secretary General
The Lord Will Make North Korea a Praise in the Earth
The Lord has made proclamation to the ends of the earth; "Say to the Daughter of Zion, 'See, your Savior comes'! See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.'" They will be called the Holy People the Redeemed of the Lord; and you will be called Sought After, the City No Longer Deserted. Isaiah 62:11-12
North Korea is the most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. Believers risk imprisonment and death just to own a Bible. And yet the Word of God continues to go out and to bring true freedom, especially in the cities near the Chinese border. Every year North Koreans risk their lives to cross over the border into China. Once they have crossed, the danger continues, but there are also opportunities to hear the Good News of Christ when they fall under the care of Christian safe houses. As they receive Christ and are discipled, many refugees return to North Korea at great personal risk to bring the Gospel message to their fellow citizens at home.
For Christians in North Korea life is especially fragile. Many would feel forsaken were it not for the hope of Christ. Many wonder, "How long, Lord, must we suffer?" But as one Christian wrote, "There is no way that we can stop ourselves from falling from the cliff of despair if we only look at the reality. Jesus saves us from it. We try to be positive, always, whatever situation we face. We will keep marching toward the eternal heaven, where Jesus has prepared a place for us."
READ AND PRAY
Just as God beautified Pyongyang and other cities and villages of North Korea in the early 1900's, so He will do it again. He will give His people new names. No longer will they be called "forsaken," but their name will be Hephzibah, "My delight is in her." No longer will their land be "desolate," but rather Beulah, "Married to the Lord!" And God will rejoice over them!
Read aloud Isaiah chapter 62 and pray for North Korea by using Scripture as your prayer.
North Korea is the most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. Believers risk imprisonment and death just to own a Bible. And yet the Word of God continues to go out and to bring true freedom, especially in the cities near the Chinese border. Every year North Koreans risk their lives to cross over the border into China. Once they have crossed, the danger continues, but there are also opportunities to hear the Good News of Christ when they fall under the care of Christian safe houses. As they receive Christ and are discipled, many refugees return to North Korea at great personal risk to bring the Gospel message to their fellow citizens at home.
For Christians in North Korea life is especially fragile. Many would feel forsaken were it not for the hope of Christ. Many wonder, "How long, Lord, must we suffer?" But as one Christian wrote, "There is no way that we can stop ourselves from falling from the cliff of despair if we only look at the reality. Jesus saves us from it. We try to be positive, always, whatever situation we face. We will keep marching toward the eternal heaven, where Jesus has prepared a place for us."
READ AND PRAY
Just as God beautified Pyongyang and other cities and villages of North Korea in the early 1900's, so He will do it again. He will give His people new names. No longer will they be called "forsaken," but their name will be Hephzibah, "My delight is in her." No longer will their land be "desolate," but rather Beulah, "Married to the Lord!" And God will rejoice over them!
Read aloud Isaiah chapter 62 and pray for North Korea by using Scripture as your prayer.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Pray Today for the Children of North Korea
: Pray that Children of North Korea Will be Known Among the Nations as Blessed of the Lord
Then their offspring will be known among the nations, and their descendants in the midst of peoples. All who see them will recognize them because they are the offspring whom the Lord has blessed! Isaiah 61:9
Can you imagine the sorrow of not being able to pass on your faith to your children? In North Korea this simple and natural act is dangerous for both believers and their children. Parents sometimes tell their children stories from the Bible as though they are fairy tales just so they can impart some of their faith to them. And they live out their lives as an example. But if caught overtly sharing their faith, they can be sent to prison…and their children with them. As soon as parents are arrested, their children are sent with them to the same prison camps where they then face an abysmal existence. They are forced into hard labor, and often their little bodies succumb to the physical toll. Not many children survive the prison camps, and any who do remain alive are severely traumatized.
Other children in North Korea are called kotjebis, a derogatory North Korean word for "wandering swallows." Abandoned by their parents these kotjebis mostly have only one set of clothes, and no shoes. Forced to live on the streets they struggle to survive. Timothy shares his story:
Like so many children, I was separated from my parents. My father had to flee the country in a hurry. For years, I lived on the streets. Every day, I had to manage to find food. I only slept for a few hours each night and tried to stay awake in order not to die of hunger. I survived by helping to carry luggage at stations. But after some time, I realized that I had no future in North Korea. So I wanted to flee. By then, my father was also trying to get me out of the country by means of human traffickers. While fleeing to China, I was detained by the border police. They took me back to North Korea where the guards tortured me severely. I kept praying to stay alive, because I had discovered that there was a God. After two weeks, I was sent home. Because of all the torture, I was no longer able to sit or to stand. Then my grandmother paid a woman to carry me across the river into China on her back. In the end, I gained freedom and I was reunited with my father. Whatever situation you are in, do not give up, but keep praying!
God will work in history to reverse Satan's plan for destruction of North Korea's children. God will heal and protect His "precious ones" and will use them as His ministers…His priests…His missionaries among the nations.
PRAY
As you pray, imagine the children of North Korea. Many are malnourished, sick, even dying. But now imagine them as God has destined them to be, His blessed missionaries to the world. Each child is precious in His sight whose names He called before the foundation of the world. Pray for them by name! Here are just some of them: Eunkyu, Kangchul, Kinam, Sangnyo, Hyewon, Okja, Daewon, Inchul, Suji, Nanhee, Kyungsuk, Sungme, Minhee, Minshul, Bongsoo, Soran, Yosep, and Sanghwa.
Then their offspring will be known among the nations, and their descendants in the midst of peoples. All who see them will recognize them because they are the offspring whom the Lord has blessed! Isaiah 61:9
Can you imagine the sorrow of not being able to pass on your faith to your children? In North Korea this simple and natural act is dangerous for both believers and their children. Parents sometimes tell their children stories from the Bible as though they are fairy tales just so they can impart some of their faith to them. And they live out their lives as an example. But if caught overtly sharing their faith, they can be sent to prison…and their children with them. As soon as parents are arrested, their children are sent with them to the same prison camps where they then face an abysmal existence. They are forced into hard labor, and often their little bodies succumb to the physical toll. Not many children survive the prison camps, and any who do remain alive are severely traumatized.
Other children in North Korea are called kotjebis, a derogatory North Korean word for "wandering swallows." Abandoned by their parents these kotjebis mostly have only one set of clothes, and no shoes. Forced to live on the streets they struggle to survive. Timothy shares his story:
Like so many children, I was separated from my parents. My father had to flee the country in a hurry. For years, I lived on the streets. Every day, I had to manage to find food. I only slept for a few hours each night and tried to stay awake in order not to die of hunger. I survived by helping to carry luggage at stations. But after some time, I realized that I had no future in North Korea. So I wanted to flee. By then, my father was also trying to get me out of the country by means of human traffickers. While fleeing to China, I was detained by the border police. They took me back to North Korea where the guards tortured me severely. I kept praying to stay alive, because I had discovered that there was a God. After two weeks, I was sent home. Because of all the torture, I was no longer able to sit or to stand. Then my grandmother paid a woman to carry me across the river into China on her back. In the end, I gained freedom and I was reunited with my father. Whatever situation you are in, do not give up, but keep praying!
God will work in history to reverse Satan's plan for destruction of North Korea's children. God will heal and protect His "precious ones" and will use them as His ministers…His priests…His missionaries among the nations.
PRAY
As you pray, imagine the children of North Korea. Many are malnourished, sick, even dying. But now imagine them as God has destined them to be, His blessed missionaries to the world. Each child is precious in His sight whose names He called before the foundation of the world. Pray for them by name! Here are just some of them: Eunkyu, Kangchul, Kinam, Sangnyo, Hyewon, Okja, Daewon, Inchul, Suji, Nanhee, Kyungsuk, Sungme, Minhee, Minshul, Bongsoo, Soran, Yosep, and Sanghwa.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
The Lord Will Glorify His Church in North Korea
Day 2:
And I shall glorify My glorious house. Isaiah 60:7b
In the midst of any crisis across the globe, Brother Andrew challenges us to ask the question "Is there a church?" In the midst of the current tension on the Korean peninsula, and in the wake of the announcement of heir-apparent Kim Jong-Un as the expected successor to the ailing current president, Kim Jong-Il, we ask, "Is there a church in North Korea?"
Currently, there is a church of approximately 400,000 believers in North Korea, but it is far different from the church you and I know. The church there is persecuted mercilessly with approximately 50,000 to 70,000 Christians in labor camps because of their faith. It is risky to worship with other believers and to share one's faith, even with family members. Singing and praying out loud or owning a Bible can result in death or severe punishment.
Despite virtually no freedom of religion in North Korea, the government has four "show" churches to demonstrate to tourists that there is freedom of religion in the country. There is one Catholic Church, one Orthodox Church and two Protestant churches in Pyongyang. North Koreans must receive permission to attend these churches and, according to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) report titled "Thank You, Father Kim Il Sung," the waiting list is very long.
The church in North Korea may be thought of as "desolate" because of its suffering and lack of visible strength. Our hope is that church in North Korea will once again be a place of light, beauty and glory. As we intercede for North Korea in faith we will see His beauty unfolding. His glory being revealed. His light dispersing the darkness. Yes, there is a church in North Korea…and she is faithful.
READ AND PRAY
Read aloud Isaiah chapter 60 and pray for North Korea by using the Scripture as your prayer.
From Open Doors
And I shall glorify My glorious house. Isaiah 60:7b
In the midst of any crisis across the globe, Brother Andrew challenges us to ask the question "Is there a church?" In the midst of the current tension on the Korean peninsula, and in the wake of the announcement of heir-apparent Kim Jong-Un as the expected successor to the ailing current president, Kim Jong-Il, we ask, "Is there a church in North Korea?"
Currently, there is a church of approximately 400,000 believers in North Korea, but it is far different from the church you and I know. The church there is persecuted mercilessly with approximately 50,000 to 70,000 Christians in labor camps because of their faith. It is risky to worship with other believers and to share one's faith, even with family members. Singing and praying out loud or owning a Bible can result in death or severe punishment.
Despite virtually no freedom of religion in North Korea, the government has four "show" churches to demonstrate to tourists that there is freedom of religion in the country. There is one Catholic Church, one Orthodox Church and two Protestant churches in Pyongyang. North Koreans must receive permission to attend these churches and, according to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) report titled "Thank You, Father Kim Il Sung," the waiting list is very long.
The church in North Korea may be thought of as "desolate" because of its suffering and lack of visible strength. Our hope is that church in North Korea will once again be a place of light, beauty and glory. As we intercede for North Korea in faith we will see His beauty unfolding. His glory being revealed. His light dispersing the darkness. Yes, there is a church in North Korea…and she is faithful.
READ AND PRAY
Read aloud Isaiah chapter 60 and pray for North Korea by using the Scripture as your prayer.
From Open Doors
Monday, April 25, 2011
Special Week of prayer for North Korea
Day 1: God's Spirit Will Never Leave North Korea
As for Me, this is My covenant with them," says the Lord: "My Spirit which is upon you, and My words which I have put in your mouth shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your offspring, nor from the mouth of your offspring's offspring," says the Lord, "from now and forever. Isaiah 59:21
Around 1780 a Korean man, Yi Pyok, learned about Christianity through Christian literature and, along with a friend, began living out this new faith. They gained many followers and the Christian faith grew quickly in Korea. Soon, though, a law was established that forbid Koreans from following Christ and in 1786 ancestor worship became law. Five years later, the first 400 Christians were executed for refusing to worship their ancestors. In 1793, six preachers and 300 more Christians were killed.
In the mid 1800s, missionaries from France and Scotland came to the Korean shores, and though these missionaries were executed, the church began to grow quickly. When Scottish missionary Robert Thomas was executed, his Bible fell into the hands of his executioner. The seed of the Word that fell that day bore fruit when the cousin of the executioner later helped translate the Bible into Korean.
In 1945, before the Soviet Union took over North Korea, the city of Pyongyang was known as the "Jerusalem of the East" with 13% of its population being Christian. But under the leadership of Kim Il Sung, 2,300 Christian congregations vanished. In total, 300,000 Christians were arrested and 260 church buildings were destroyed.
The meaning of history is that God is creating a people with whom He can dwell. The process of history is still being worked out in all the affairs of man. The timing of when God will restore North Korea is unknown. But the fact that He will restore His people there is certain.
God has poured out His Holy Spirit on Korea. On the surface, the fruits of God's work are not evident in North Korea today…yet His Spirit is there…He is working in silence. His power is being made perfect.
PRAY
Open our eyes Lord to see You walking in blazing glory and splendor among the ashes of Your people, rekindling the healing holy fire of Your power. We join today in prayer for a mighty, overwhelming outpouring of Your Spirit all over the Korean peninsula, believing as we come to You on our knees, and petition on their behalf, that the next great revival in Korea will cover the entire nation, both North and South. Amen.
As for Me, this is My covenant with them," says the Lord: "My Spirit which is upon you, and My words which I have put in your mouth shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your offspring, nor from the mouth of your offspring's offspring," says the Lord, "from now and forever. Isaiah 59:21
Around 1780 a Korean man, Yi Pyok, learned about Christianity through Christian literature and, along with a friend, began living out this new faith. They gained many followers and the Christian faith grew quickly in Korea. Soon, though, a law was established that forbid Koreans from following Christ and in 1786 ancestor worship became law. Five years later, the first 400 Christians were executed for refusing to worship their ancestors. In 1793, six preachers and 300 more Christians were killed.
In the mid 1800s, missionaries from France and Scotland came to the Korean shores, and though these missionaries were executed, the church began to grow quickly. When Scottish missionary Robert Thomas was executed, his Bible fell into the hands of his executioner. The seed of the Word that fell that day bore fruit when the cousin of the executioner later helped translate the Bible into Korean.
In 1945, before the Soviet Union took over North Korea, the city of Pyongyang was known as the "Jerusalem of the East" with 13% of its population being Christian. But under the leadership of Kim Il Sung, 2,300 Christian congregations vanished. In total, 300,000 Christians were arrested and 260 church buildings were destroyed.
The meaning of history is that God is creating a people with whom He can dwell. The process of history is still being worked out in all the affairs of man. The timing of when God will restore North Korea is unknown. But the fact that He will restore His people there is certain.
God has poured out His Holy Spirit on Korea. On the surface, the fruits of God's work are not evident in North Korea today…yet His Spirit is there…He is working in silence. His power is being made perfect.
PRAY
Open our eyes Lord to see You walking in blazing glory and splendor among the ashes of Your people, rekindling the healing holy fire of Your power. We join today in prayer for a mighty, overwhelming outpouring of Your Spirit all over the Korean peninsula, believing as we come to You on our knees, and petition on their behalf, that the next great revival in Korea will cover the entire nation, both North and South. Amen.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Thailand to Close Burmese Refugee Camps
Thailand to Myanmar Refugees: Drop Dead
By Joshua Kurlantzick
According to reports by AFP and other news agencies, Thailand’s National Security Council head, Tawin Pleansri, told reporters after a meeting of the council that Thailand wants to close the refugee camps for over 100,000 Burmese refugees, who have fled the country over the past twenty years.
Most of the Burmese refugees live in camps on the western Thailand-Burma border; their housing is basic, but it is better than living in eastern and northeastern Burma, where they are prey to regular campaigns of attacks and even mass rape by the Burmese military, and retribution attacks by armed ethnic militia groups. In one comprehensive report, a group focusing on Chin State in Burma documented the use of rape as a weapon of war by the Burmese military.
Thailand has never really wanted to house the Burmese refugees, but over successive administrations Bangkok has tolerated the refugee presence. Undocumented Burmese also frequently enter Thailand itself, providing a source of cheap and easily exploitable labor for many Thai companies.
Now, however, Bangkok appears willing to use the fiction that Burma had a real election last fall to repatriate these refugees, most of whom will return against their will. Though the election last year may improve the quality of governance in Burma marginally, it was hardly a free or fair poll, or suggestive of the kind of dramatic change on human rights that would make it safe to return refugees.
By Joshua Kurlantzick
According to reports by AFP and other news agencies, Thailand’s National Security Council head, Tawin Pleansri, told reporters after a meeting of the council that Thailand wants to close the refugee camps for over 100,000 Burmese refugees, who have fled the country over the past twenty years.
Most of the Burmese refugees live in camps on the western Thailand-Burma border; their housing is basic, but it is better than living in eastern and northeastern Burma, where they are prey to regular campaigns of attacks and even mass rape by the Burmese military, and retribution attacks by armed ethnic militia groups. In one comprehensive report, a group focusing on Chin State in Burma documented the use of rape as a weapon of war by the Burmese military.
Thailand has never really wanted to house the Burmese refugees, but over successive administrations Bangkok has tolerated the refugee presence. Undocumented Burmese also frequently enter Thailand itself, providing a source of cheap and easily exploitable labor for many Thai companies.
Now, however, Bangkok appears willing to use the fiction that Burma had a real election last fall to repatriate these refugees, most of whom will return against their will. Though the election last year may improve the quality of governance in Burma marginally, it was hardly a free or fair poll, or suggestive of the kind of dramatic change on human rights that would make it safe to return refugees.
Friday, April 15, 2011
World-wide day of Prayer For Turkey. Monday 18th April
The World day of prayer for Turkey is on April 18th (Monday). This day is being set aside by the Turkish church to pray for their country. April 18th is significant because it is the anniversary of the deaths of three believers in Malatya. Necati (pastor from the church in Malatya), Ugur (elder from the church in Malatya) and Tillman (German missionary working with the church in Malatya) were murdered for their faith on April 18, 2007. This event has been very significant in the life of the church in Turkey.
Lets join is praying that God would move in a mighty way and bring many to Himself and strengthen His church in that unreached country.
There is a web-site that was set up to give those desiring to pray more information and even a video to watch in order to be better informed. www.prayforturkey.com
Lets join is praying that God would move in a mighty way and bring many to Himself and strengthen His church in that unreached country.
There is a web-site that was set up to give those desiring to pray more information and even a video to watch in order to be better informed. www.prayforturkey.com
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
What is the 4/14 Window?
On April 14, 2011, Christians around the world will be praying for the 4/14 Window.
What is the 4/14 Window?
It refers to the demographic group from age four to fourteen years old. Approximately 1.2 billion children and youth comprise this segment of the world population (70% of them living inside the 10/40 Window). It is during this ten-year window that people are most open and receptive to spiritual and developmental input.
"In God's hands," says the 4/14 Global Initiative, "this enormous and largely ignored people group can become agents of transformational mission under the headship of Jesus Christ."
The goal of 4/14 Prayer Day is to mobilize focused, fervent, united intercessory prayer in every part of the globe. April 14 has been set aside as a special day to fast and pray for the raising up of a new generation.
Based on Esther 4:14, the 4/14 Prayer Day calls for fasting and prayer for:
1. the protection of 4/14ers
2. their deliverance from the evil one
3. the raising up of a new generation to transform the nations
"For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (The Bible, Esther 4:14)
As suggested by the International House of Prayer, pray for:
• believers to see the heart of the Father for the new generation and focus on discipling this generation. Malachi 4:6
• the Lord of the Harvest to send a new army of laborers to serve this emerging generation. Luke 10:2
• for the Lord to help the global prayer movement and global missions to labor together for the 4/14 Window. I Corinthians 3:9
• for the Lord to supply and multiply the seed for the sower and bread for the eater. II Corinthians 9:8-11
• a one hundredfold fruit that remains for His glory Matthew 4:20
SOURCE: 4/14 Window Global Initiative, International House of Prayer
What is the 4/14 Window?
It refers to the demographic group from age four to fourteen years old. Approximately 1.2 billion children and youth comprise this segment of the world population (70% of them living inside the 10/40 Window). It is during this ten-year window that people are most open and receptive to spiritual and developmental input.
"In God's hands," says the 4/14 Global Initiative, "this enormous and largely ignored people group can become agents of transformational mission under the headship of Jesus Christ."
The goal of 4/14 Prayer Day is to mobilize focused, fervent, united intercessory prayer in every part of the globe. April 14 has been set aside as a special day to fast and pray for the raising up of a new generation.
Based on Esther 4:14, the 4/14 Prayer Day calls for fasting and prayer for:
1. the protection of 4/14ers
2. their deliverance from the evil one
3. the raising up of a new generation to transform the nations
"For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (The Bible, Esther 4:14)
As suggested by the International House of Prayer, pray for:
• believers to see the heart of the Father for the new generation and focus on discipling this generation. Malachi 4:6
• the Lord of the Harvest to send a new army of laborers to serve this emerging generation. Luke 10:2
• for the Lord to help the global prayer movement and global missions to labor together for the 4/14 Window. I Corinthians 3:9
• for the Lord to supply and multiply the seed for the sower and bread for the eater. II Corinthians 9:8-11
• a one hundredfold fruit that remains for His glory Matthew 4:20
SOURCE: 4/14 Window Global Initiative, International House of Prayer
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Revolution Hijacked?
REMARKABLE TURNOUT FOR REFERENDUM
From a friend in the region
On March 19th, Egyptians turned up in unprecedented numbers and great enthusiasm to vote on a referendum for suggested changes to the Egyptian constitution. These changes were intended to make it possible to elect a new Parliament and Senate and eventually a President under terms that would be more democratic than in the past.
By voting "Yes", elections for Parliament, Senate and Presidency would take place in the very near future. The majority of those who lobbied for the “yes” vote were right wing Islamic groups headed by the previously banned Muslim Brotherhood. Since they already have nationwide grass roots networks they are organized and ready to propose viable candidates from their party across the nation. Others, who do not yet have such a network, have little chance of having enough viable candidates in time for Parliamentary elections in September.
By voting "No", these elections for would be delayed and thus allow some new parties to form and build their infrastructure in time to provide a fair choice for Egyptians. Many believed this was the only way to allow the revolutionaries’ dream for a truly secular state to be realized.
Most of the youth and demonstrators who led the Revolution, plus just about every Christian in the country voted "no".
UNEXPECTED RESULTS
The discouraging result of a 78% “yes” vote and a 22% “no” vote shocked Christians and all those dreaming for a country where religion would not determine political affiliation. What made things worse was that many vocal Muslim spokesmen publicly declared that this “yes” vote was a clear affirmation that the majority of Egyptians want an Islamic State!
Eighteen million people voted and four million of these said "no". Of these four million, probably about half were Christians. This means that open-minded Muslims voters in Egypt are possibly no more than 2 million. Though this is a large number, it still is a small minority of the voting public.
FEAR OF A MUSLIM TAKEOVER
For many of us, the referendum was a lithium test to determine how strong the Christian and the open-minded elements in the country really are. It is clear from the result that we represent a significant but small minority surrounded by a grassroots majority of Egyptians who probably seek a more distinctly Muslim nation.
Before the revolution hardly anyone used to vote as elections were mostly rigged. This time most Christians were motivated to vote and are now very discouraged at the result. Their dream - and that of many who were behind the Revolution - for a truly democratic secular state, has been put in question. Many wonder if their efforts and hard work to faithfully participate in the electoral process were in vain.
PRAYER REQUESTS
I am therefore writing to ask for your prayers:
1. That all those who voted “no” may not give up on democracy in Egypt but will continue to be involved in the upcoming elections as much and even more than they were in this referendum.
2. That Christians in Egypt may believe that God is still in control even though their recent attempts to influence the political process met with few tangible results.
I personally believe that greater freedom in society, while certainly welcome, would not necessarily result in deeper faith. Working under tighter constraints (in a more Islamic Egypt) may actually make Christians more committed to their faith and their Lord. For example, in spite of the remarkable freedom in Western countries it's not necessarily easier for Christians there to be on fire for the Lord. Let us never forget that the Apostle Paul's deepest yearning was " to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings" (Philippians 3:11). We often want the former and forget the latter.
So even though I was personally discouraged by the results of the referendum, I have a deep conviction that God is in control. I also have much hope that - whatever political changes take place in Egypt - the Gospel will flourish, as it has for centuries past under many oppressive regimes.
Thank you for your prayers and support during these turbulent days in Egypt, the Middle East and North Africa.
From a friend in the region
On March 19th, Egyptians turned up in unprecedented numbers and great enthusiasm to vote on a referendum for suggested changes to the Egyptian constitution. These changes were intended to make it possible to elect a new Parliament and Senate and eventually a President under terms that would be more democratic than in the past.
By voting "Yes", elections for Parliament, Senate and Presidency would take place in the very near future. The majority of those who lobbied for the “yes” vote were right wing Islamic groups headed by the previously banned Muslim Brotherhood. Since they already have nationwide grass roots networks they are organized and ready to propose viable candidates from their party across the nation. Others, who do not yet have such a network, have little chance of having enough viable candidates in time for Parliamentary elections in September.
By voting "No", these elections for would be delayed and thus allow some new parties to form and build their infrastructure in time to provide a fair choice for Egyptians. Many believed this was the only way to allow the revolutionaries’ dream for a truly secular state to be realized.
Most of the youth and demonstrators who led the Revolution, plus just about every Christian in the country voted "no".
UNEXPECTED RESULTS
The discouraging result of a 78% “yes” vote and a 22% “no” vote shocked Christians and all those dreaming for a country where religion would not determine political affiliation. What made things worse was that many vocal Muslim spokesmen publicly declared that this “yes” vote was a clear affirmation that the majority of Egyptians want an Islamic State!
Eighteen million people voted and four million of these said "no". Of these four million, probably about half were Christians. This means that open-minded Muslims voters in Egypt are possibly no more than 2 million. Though this is a large number, it still is a small minority of the voting public.
FEAR OF A MUSLIM TAKEOVER
For many of us, the referendum was a lithium test to determine how strong the Christian and the open-minded elements in the country really are. It is clear from the result that we represent a significant but small minority surrounded by a grassroots majority of Egyptians who probably seek a more distinctly Muslim nation.
Before the revolution hardly anyone used to vote as elections were mostly rigged. This time most Christians were motivated to vote and are now very discouraged at the result. Their dream - and that of many who were behind the Revolution - for a truly democratic secular state, has been put in question. Many wonder if their efforts and hard work to faithfully participate in the electoral process were in vain.
PRAYER REQUESTS
I am therefore writing to ask for your prayers:
1. That all those who voted “no” may not give up on democracy in Egypt but will continue to be involved in the upcoming elections as much and even more than they were in this referendum.
2. That Christians in Egypt may believe that God is still in control even though their recent attempts to influence the political process met with few tangible results.
I personally believe that greater freedom in society, while certainly welcome, would not necessarily result in deeper faith. Working under tighter constraints (in a more Islamic Egypt) may actually make Christians more committed to their faith and their Lord. For example, in spite of the remarkable freedom in Western countries it's not necessarily easier for Christians there to be on fire for the Lord. Let us never forget that the Apostle Paul's deepest yearning was " to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings" (Philippians 3:11). We often want the former and forget the latter.
So even though I was personally discouraged by the results of the referendum, I have a deep conviction that God is in control. I also have much hope that - whatever political changes take place in Egypt - the Gospel will flourish, as it has for centuries past under many oppressive regimes.
Thank you for your prayers and support during these turbulent days in Egypt, the Middle East and North Africa.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
From Cape Town to Cairo.
Africa is in the news every day at present. The entire continent seems to be on the move. Africa really is in the valley of decision. There is a call for an International Day of Pray for Africa on 9 April 2011 under the title “From Cape Town to Cairo”. Please set the day aside as a personal day of intercession at home or perhaps in your church fellowship, too. Pray for each individual country in Africa. Proclaim the Lordship of Jesus over Africa. Release the will of the Lord over the nations of Africa. Pray for the political leaders of each nation by name. Ask God to save the souls of those who do not know Him. Pray that God will reveal His love to the political leaders of this continent. Pray the that the people of Africa will return to God with all of their hearts. Wait on God in prayer and release the words of God as inspired by the Holy Spirit over this continent.
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