13 Nov: Remember the Persecuted Church
SUNDAY, 13 Nov 2011 is designated as the International Day of Prayer (IDOP) for the persecuted church worldwide. This global event remembers Christians around the world who suffer for their faith. They face beatings, imprisonment, discrimination and even death. This day is set apart for us to remember these brothers and sisters, simply because they profess Jesus Christ as Lord.
Churches are encouraged to develop special programmes for their Sunday services to highlight the persecuted church on this day. For resources, visit the official website at www.idop.org. Links to prayer kits and even children's resources can be obtained through this site. Another website, www.onewiththem.com has free downloadable videos of testimonies by persecuted Christians that churches can use to inspire and move their congregations.
What difference can our intercession make? It has been observed that whenever persecuted Christians are asked about what other believers could do for them, their answer is always "pray". They don't asked to be rescued or removed from their situations, because the reward for being persecuted for Christ is the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:10). They ask only that they can endure.
As Malaysians, we enjoy freedom of religion to a large extent even if this space appears to be gradually eroding. But on this day, let us remember those who suffer far greater trials for their faith and draw strength from their examples as we lift them up in prayer.
"You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry." - Psalm 10: 17 |
