Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: October 9, 2021
The disciples were amazed. ‘Who is this man?’ they asked. ‘Even the winds and waves obey him!’ (Matthew 8:27 NLT)
When Jesus calmed the storm on the Sea of Galilee, he demonstrated His power and authority to his disciples. It also reminds us that He is Lord over every storm that rages around us, and He is right beside us in the boat; an ever-present help in times of trouble.
Use this passage to inspire your prayers for Chinese human rights lawyer Chang Weiping this week.
Cruel and inhuman treatment
Following a meeting with his lawyer on 14 September – the first allowed since his detention in October 2020 – it emerged that Chang has been subject to torture during his imprisonment. This includes prolonged sleep deprivation, lack of adequate food, and being forced to sit in a ‘tiger chair’ for up to six days at a time, facing round the clock interrogations.
It is shocking, but sadly not surprising that Chang has been forced to endure such cruel and inhuman treatment in retaliation for his vital human rights work. Before his arrest, Chang courageously and peacefully defended the rights of some of the most vulnerable people in China, including the right to freedom of religion or belief.
He is currently being held on charges of ‘subversion’, which can carry a punishment of up to life imprisonment, and it appears that the authorities are preparing for trial.
'Scared to the point of insomnia’
Chang’s wife, Dr. Chen Zijuan, has campaigned tirelessly for her husband’s freedom throughout his detention. As a result, the authorities have harassed and threatened Dr. Chen and her young son, who is ‘scared to the point of insomnia... He even asks what he would do if the police hold a gun to his head.’
Join us in lifting up the whole family in prayer.
In summary, please pray:
- Asking God to protect Chang Weiping from further cruel and inhuman treatment as his trial approaches.
- For increased international pressure that leads to the immediate, unconditional release of this brave human rights defender.
- That God will protect Dr. Chen Zijuan and their young son from further harassment, and fill their home with His perfect peace.