Hope for the Persecuted in Orissa

I received an e-mail this morning about something Gospel for Asia is doing to help the thousands of Christians who were attacked by Hindu extremists last year.  They are building homes and churches to help replace the ones that were destroyed.  Check out this slide show, and consider giving to this cause as a way to express brotherly love and compassion to fellow believers (1 Peter 3:8) who have stood for the name of Jesus regardless of the cost.   

Persecution Continues

My heart continues to break for our brothers and sisters in Orissa, India.  As you may recall, Hindu extremists have been heavily persecuting any and all Christians since August, when their leader was assassinated (by Maoists communists, not Christians).  By persecuting I mean murdering, raping, burning down houses, attacking orphanages, destroying vehicles, forcing thousands to escape into the forest and try to find hide, though these enemies of Christ sometimes even track down those who have fled and attack them even after they have left the villages.

Click to read more or to donate to help those suffering

Church, we need to be in serious prayer about this.  Please share this with other believers and "remember those who are in in prison as if you were their fellow prisoner, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering" (Hebrews 13:3).  These attacks have been going on for more than a month!  Thankfully we know that Jesus and our church fathers promised that those who are in Christ will face suffering for His name, so this does not mean that God is not with us when we are attacked or even killed for being followers of Christ.  But that doesn't mean we shouldn't pray for deliverance.  God is the God who saves.  He delivered Israel from Egypt, He delivered Daniel from the lion's den, He delivered the jews from Haman's annihilation in the book of Esther, He offers deliverance from death and deliverance from separation from Himself thru His Son Jesus.  

Lord your will be done, Your Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.  Please send Your presence and deliverance to your children in India, as well as Iraq and the many other places in the world where those who are called Your children of light are being attacked because they name You as Saviour and God.  Would you comfort them with the words you spoke through Peter? "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed." Lord make us all willing to carry our crosses and follow you, wherever you lead. Amen.