Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: June 12, 2021
‘Now all glory to God who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.’ (Ephesians 3:20 NLT)
Let Paul’s words to the Ephesians inspire you to pray boldly for the transformation of Myanmar/Burma this week, as violent clashes continue to spread throughout the country.
Until now, Myanmar’s Kayah (Karenni) state had avoided the worst of the violence caused by the 1 February military coup. Over the past few weeks, however, the situation has changed dramatically, with violence erupting between military forces and youth civilian militia on 21 May, followed by the military launching its first airstrikes in Kayah (Karenni) state on 31 May.
An estimated 70,000 people have been displaced, many of them fleeing to hastily constructed camps which are now at risk of being swept away by seasonal monsoons.
They are in desperate need of food and medicine, yet the army is stopping at nothing to obstruct incoming aid: blocking roads, burning bridges – even opening fire on aid supplies, killing several volunteers and arresting others.
Our hearts break to hear the extent of the suffering inflicted by Myanmar’s military regime on ordinary civilians. Compared to the scale of the crisis, our prayers can sometimes feel inadequate, and it can be hard to find the words at all.
However, we hold on to the truth of Ephesians 3:20 that God can do immeasurably more than all we ask – more than we can even imagine! Please pray urgently for the people of Myanmar.
In summary, please pray:
- For the provision of food, medicine and safe places of refuge for the tens of thousands who have been displaced by violence.
- That God will be a shield around aid volunteers, protecting them from all harm as they ensure that essential supplies reach those in need.
- For immediate, effective action to end the violence and prevent the humanitarian crisis from escalating further.