Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: March 4, 2023
Jesus replied, ‘Do what you came for, friend.’ Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus, and arrested him. (Matthew 26:50)
This Lent, we are reflecting on how our faith inspires us to stand up for injustice, illustrated through Jesus’ own experiences. The story of Easter is a powerful reminder of hope breaking through – even in the darkest of situations.
Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), knows what it is to endure pain and suffering. He is not far-removed from the cases of injustice we are advocating for. We know that when we pray, we are praying to a God who knows what it is to be betrayed, falsely accused, harassed and worse.
This week, we received the long-awaited news that Pastor Nadarkhani has been released from prison in Iran! He was most recently imprisoned on trumped-up charges in 2018, but has faced over a decade of harassment and repeated unjust imprisonments. His release is a real answer to prayer - thousands of you have prayed and campaigned for him over the years. Thank you.
As we reflect on this joyous news, allow it to inspire you to keep persevering in prayer for the freedom of others unjustly detained.
Please keep praying…
- For the release of others arbitrarily detained, like Pastor Lorenzo in Cuba and Pastor Keshav Raj Acharya in Nepal. Use the words of Isaiah 61 to guide your prayers: ‘…He has sent me to…proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.’
- For Pastor Nadarkhani and his family as they rejoice, and reflect on this ordeal. Pray for them as they settle back into life as a reunited family, for their safety and for Pastor Nadarkhani to be able to enjoy his freedom without fear.
- Pray for those who are ‘left behind’ when their loved ones are imprisoned in connection with their religion or belief. Pray for individuals like Maridilegnis, the wife of Pastor Lorenzo, who must carry on with their lives in the midst of great suffering. Pray that God will be their comfort and strength, today and always.