Sojourn into marvelous light

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2012-01-20T10:02:00.000-05:00

Pakistan—Evicted Couple Stands Strong
Source: VOM Contacts

Micah 5:2
“ But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,
Though you are little among the thousands of Judah,
Yet out of you shall come forth to Me
The One to be Ruler in Israel,
Whose goings forth are from of old,
From everlasting.”

A Pakistani couple who have endured several years of persecution from villagers and local authorities remain strong in faith even after losing their home and possessions. Arif, 35, used to spend evenings in his small village visiting friends and neighbors, sharing the gospel and praying. But in 2009, several men began to harass Arif, trying to compel him to deny Christ. He was beaten seven times, and police continued the beatings for 13 days after arresting him on Sept. 27, 2009. When Arif refused to return to Islam, he was imprisoned on false robbery charges. Arif was released four months later when his wife paid his bail. But that same evening, the village leader confiscated their livestock and home and told them to leave. They left with $2 in their pockets. Last month, a VOM staff member met with the couple for several days to pray through the events with them. Arif prayed, “O God, we thank you because you have not left us. … But [now] we have seen and experienced that you never leave us. … Lord, we are ready to obey you.” Praise God for the testimony of Arif and his wife.

Israel—University Forbids Contact with Messianic Jews
Sources: VOM Contacts, Ariel University of Samaria, IsraelNationalNews.com

John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.

One of the largest universities in Israel has made it clear that Christian students will have their visas revoked if they work with or fellowship with Messianic Jews, according to VOM contacts. Many Christian students have submitted to Ariel University’s stipulations. “Believers allow their God-given freedom of choice and worship to be taken away in order to spare themselves,” wrote a VOM contact. Ariel University of Samaria, which serves more than 11,000 students, is located in the West Bank city of Ariel. Every student at the university is required to take classes in Judaism, Jewish heritage or Land of Israel studies. The VOM contact continued, “May God give us the strength when the time comes to cling to the words of Yeshua, ‘Greater love has no man, than to lay down his life [or his self-interest or his ministry] for his brother.’” Pray for the body of Christ in Israel.

Comoros—Believer Imprisoned for Faith
Source: Compass Direct News

2 Corinthians 5:20
Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.

The simple act of reporting a burglary cost a Comoros man his family and eight months in jail. After Musta Kim reported a burglary at his home, police officers investigating the burglary discovered a Bible and a copy of the “JESUS” film at his home. Police then arrested Musta for practicing a forbidden religion and locked him in jail. After being held eight months without a trial, Musta appealed for his freedom. He was finally granted his freedom, but his family rejected him and he could not return to his home. Musta now suffers from a skin disease that he contracted in prison. Pray for Musta and other Christians in Comoros who suffer for practicing a “forbidden” religion. May they be ambassadors for Christ in these tiny islands.

Voice of the martyrs prayer update

2012-01-08T12:38:00.001-05:00

Pakistan—Bibi Urges Christians, Use Your Voices
Source: Jihad Watch

Matthew 6:14: “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

An American journalist, recently given the opportunity to talk to Asia Bibi about her arrest and current living conditions, reported that Bibi has forgiven those who put her and her family in their current situation. In prison, Bibi frequently prays and fasts for her family and other persecuted Christians. Although she misses her daughters, she sees her family one hour each week. She lives in a confined cell, permitted to go outside for 30 minutes each day. Bibi told the reporter she completely trusts God and accepts His will. She requested Christians around the world to continue fighting for persecuted Christians and acting as the voice for the voiceless.

Iran—Christians Request Prayers
Source: Middle East Concern, FCNN, Mohabat News

Ecclesiastes 3:1: To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven:

Iranian Christians asked for prayer after an officially recognized church was raided during a service on Friday, Dec. 23, 2011. All those present were detained, including children. Mobile phones, the church’s audio-visual equipment and Christian literature were confiscated. Although most of those detained were released after a few hours, the church’s pastor, his wife and two other church members are still being held. Their whereabouts are unknown; please pray they will remain strong in the Lord. Iranian Christians feared that pressure and Christian persecution would increase during the Christmas season, specifically against Christians from a Muslim background. Pray for the officials involved, that they will love mercy, act justly and recognize their need for Christ.

Nigeria—Extremists Bomb Church
Source: The Washington Examiner

Joshua 1:9: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Boko Haram, an extremist Muslim sect, bombed St. Theresa Catholic Church in Madalla, Nigeria during a Christmas service, killing 35 people and wounding 52. Many Christians were left in pools of blood and dust while local authorities struggled to get emergency medical personnel to the scene. The coordinator of Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency could only send a text asking for more ambulances. Because of limited resources, the wounded Christians were taken from the church steps and placed on the cement floor of a nearby government hospital. Boko Haram often targets Christians in their attacks.

Unrequited love

2011-12-28T10:31:00.002-05:00

Put this post up a couple of days ago, then thought I best remove it because of its potential to be misconstrued. But upon further reflection I'm re-posting it now as I think its an important word, both for others and regarding a degree of helpful self-disclosure:

Through the prophet Jeremiah (chapter 3) God told Israel:

Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love;
Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.

This is such a potent statement, of the only God of the universe describing his love as "everlasting". The implications are catalytic to the human experience in the deepest ways possible. We all want to be loved; indeed, we were fashioned in such as way that to receive love is basic to our composition. It can be argued persuasively that most of the dilemma within the bosom and theatre of fallen man is our desire to be desired. It causes wars and rumors of wars of every scale. To be sure, money and power are quests for broken man as well to establish himself as immortal and/or worthwhile. But the broader base and deepest well we have, both to fill and from which to give others' drink, is love.

Moving further, the overarching goal of Christlikeness to a lover of God (Gal. 4:19) means there are occasions when He draws us to a dynamic to feel deeply what He feels. This is inevitable, like prayer, to be posed in such a way as to come to a deeper knowledge of Christ. And knowing Him is the literal definition of eternal life, (John 17:3). Its in the place of being with Him and experiencing, for the purpose of this message particularly, unrequited love that brings you to a fellowship with Him and adoration of Him and amazement at Him much more transforming than the casual or pleasant exchange with Christ.

I'm writing this to offer assurance for those servants of God who will inevitably be taken in some measure through such a route to the depths of Christ so that you might respond with faith and hope and love. The affections of God Himself for you will lead you through (which includes to) adversity. But the gospel that should be preached is not man-centered... at its very center it is for God's glory, that you would see and marvel at the love within God Himself, (John 17:24) which also abounds towards you. If you but identify with Him in His suffering, you will find Him as one closer than a brother, (Prov. 18:24), and you will find Him carrying you to the other side... though the darkness may endure for a night. And your fellowship with Him shall be sweet if you but lean your head upon Him - and not upon your own understanding.

As we turn the page of the Gregorian calendar year, I pray for everyone reading this: may you live and move and have your being with Jesus in every high and every low. In prosperity and famine. In joy and in sorrow. And if we build our lives upon Him and His word we will not be shaken, (Matt. 7:24ff).

2011-11-04T10:20:00.002-04:00

Oh come, let us sing to the LORD! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. Psalm 95:1–2

North Korea—Millions Listen to Illegal Christian Radio—VOM Contacts

1 Kings 19:13
So it was, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him, and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

Experts on North Korea say that up to 20 percent of the North Korean population listens to illegal foreign radio broadcasts, and an estimated 2 million regularly listen to VOM-sponsored Christian programs, according to VOM’s partners working in North Korea. Radio broadcasting is one of the most effective ways not only to bring the gospel and the voice of true freedom to the people of North Korea but also to communicate with and influence North Koreans. This month on the “Freedom in Christ” program, our partners are sharing stories from the Gospel of Luke as well as eight plays from the “Hardship of Christ.” A special speaker also shared a message of encouragement with North Korean listeners and promised to continue praying for them. “We intentionally focus on broadcasting the biblical gospel through testimonies of believers, leadership training, and equipping resources for this support of the North Korean church,” wrote our partner. The foreign radio broadcasts are understandably hated by the North Korean government. Please pray that the government’s attempts to jam the broadcasts will be futile and that North Koreans who tune in will be sensitive to the truth of the gospel.

Iraq—Christians Murdered in Kirkuk—Release International

Psalm 61:1–3
Hear my cry, O God;
   Attend to my prayer.
From the end of the earth I will cry to You,
   When my heart is overwhelmed;
   Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
For You have been a shelter for me,
   A strong tower from the enemy.

Two Christians have been murdered recently in Kirkuk, and Iraqi Christians have asked officials to improve security in the area. Thirty-year-old restaurant worker Bassam Isho was shot to death on Sunday, Oct. 2. And one day earlier, the body of 60-year-old Hanna Polos Emmanuel was found by the side of a road on the outskirts of the city. Middle East Concern reports that local Christians interpret the attacks as a deliberate effort to destabilize their community. “The attacks on Christians continue, and the world remains totally silent,” an anonymous Christian told AsiaNews. “It’s as if we’ve been swallowed up by the night.” Tensions in the region have increased as religious and ethnic minorities, especially Christians, have increasingly become targets of kidnapping and extortion. Three Assyrian Christians and a Turkman Muslim were kidnapped as they returned from a hunting trip on Sept. 21. They were released after their ransom was paid. Please pray that authorities will take decisive action to improve security in the area.

Belarus—Pastor Fined for Worshiping in House—Forum 18

Acts 5:42
And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.

Belarusian pastor Aleksei Abramovich was fined an amount equal to several weeks’ wages in September for leading unregistered religious worship. Churches in Belarus are required to register with the state, but Abramovich belongs to a church that refuses to register on principle. “We don’t interfere with state policy,” Abramovich wrote in a letter to Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko. “Our worship meetings are purely religious. It’s not a crime if believers worship in my house.” Authorities say the church, in Zhodino, near Belarus’s capital city of Minsk, broke the law. Meanwhile, several independent Protestant churches have given up on trying to gain state registration after their attempts repeatedly failed. Please pray that God will give churches in Belarus the strength needed to overcome these difficulties.

The International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP) is on November 13, 2011. Will you pray for your brothers and sisters in Christ? Visit http://www.persecution.com/idop to learn more.

Three tiers

2011-11-02T08:22:00.001-04:00

Here is what I promised, the dream I had over 2 weeks ago. It was crystal clear, replete with meaning (though much of that came in succeeding days).

When the dream began, I was somehow elevated and was looking out over a framework of gears and pulleys within a steel metal framework. It had a low tier, then a second/higher tier, and I was even with the third tier of the 'machine' (for lack of a better description). The purpose of the machine was to move things on a conveyer belt. The bottom tier by itself could deliver 'goods' but it potentially could elevate its packages at at point to the second/higher tier. There, as on the first tier, 'goods' could be maneuvered around and directed or, potentially, to be elevated to the third tier which was in front of me.

As I looked over the system in front of me, I had a sense of satisfaction immediately upon entering the dream that I had recently built the third tier. So I was enjoying the moment when, to my surprise, the conveyor belt starting moving. As I watched, a package appeared into view on the conveyor belt and was moving towards me. It stopped and I (of course) opened what appeared to be a white box, kind of like a small cigar box. In the box I found a 50 dollar bill and a newsletter that was folded many times over.

I closed the box and took a step, pivoting to my right. Immediately I was on solid ground and walking towards a man who had his back to me. In the dream, I knew who he was and even what His answer was going to be regarding the question I was about to ask. This person was an acquaintance of mine - a ministry leader I have met - but I am not on familiar terms with him. Yet in the dream we spoke to each other like we were long time friends. I asked him, "Did you give this to me?" He turned around and had a big smile on his face as he replied, "Yes, I did!" And there the dream ended.

I'll not give the full interpretation here, but here is some of what I believe the Lord would have me understand: the first tier was about our work in the 90s in California with Harvest Evangelism; the second tier was about or Charlotte years, our work with the Zadok House of Prayer; the third tier is what is next. The 50 dollar bill conveys the "year of Jubilee" which was a biblical concept in the Old Testament regarding the forgiving of debts and the returning of inheritance. The folded newsletter represents the promise of revelation and understanding God will give me regarding the next assignment.

Feel free to leave comments. Polite ones, anyway. May the Lord be praised.

"... forgetting what lies behind, and straining towards what is ahead..." - Phil. 3:13

I am the rose

2011-10-27T10:11:00.001-04:00

Wow, sorry to not post for so long. I'll be posting soon about a dream I had last week that was deeply encouraging. In the meantime, here is a two part entry. The first is Matt Chandler's excellent message he gave a few years ago called: 'Jesus wants the rose'. The second part is Tim Rheimherr's excellent song called "More than Ashes". If you listen to them in tandem, first Matt then Tim, you can get the point of this entry... because in a profound way I am the rose. I am the lily. (Song of Solomon chapter 2) And so are you. And there is, truly, a wedding of all weddings coming.

The nature of the battle in the unseen realm

2011-09-29T08:19:00.000-04:00

We've passed the one year mark of our time in Virginia. Truth be told, it has been challenging. I expect struggles when a family relocates, but the some of the ones here have been both unexpected and from disappointing sources and/or participants. So with that in mind the adjustments accordingly have taken time and due process. I'm pleased to note that we're getting out of the proverbial woods concerning said adjustments, and I personally am breathing easier. There is no question that God Himself has truly been pastoring us, carrying us at times and diligently leading us in the other times. So I'm grateful, thankful to know experientially that He is not just Lord of mountaintops - but of every valley, (1 Kings chapter 20).

On the redemptive side of our process this year, I am seeing the nature of the unseen battle with real clarity. We have discovered gaps personally, seeing the Lord address things in our family in these months. And, further, to have seen strongholds and issues surface within the corporate Church this year has been informative and of great potential help for the road ahead. Its helpful because the Lord wants to lay some tracks for spiritual breakthrough in the region, and the biggest obstacles are in the Body of Christ (which is not unusual). This perception is key to pursuing spiritual vibrancy and attaining an overcoming spirit. So pray for me... for open doors and favor as I intend to respond to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Its been a time in the wilderness, of temptation and weakness. A qualifying through identifying with and joining ourselves to the struggles of the local Church this past year. But there's ground to be taken and a harvest to gather.

⁸ Now the king of Syria was making war against Israel; and he consulted with his servants, saying, “My camp will be in such and such a place.” ⁹ And the man of God sent to the king of Israel, saying, “Beware that you do not pass this place, for the Syrians are coming down there.” ¹⁰ Then the king of Israel sent someone to the place of which the man of God had told him. Thus he warned him, and he was watchful there, not just once or twice.
¹¹ Therefore the heart of the king of Syria was greatly troubled by this thing; and he called his servants and said to them, “Will you not show me which of us is for the king of Israel?”
¹² And one of his servants said, “None, my lord, O king; but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in your bedroom.”
¹³ So he said, “Go and see where he is, that I may send and get him.”
And it was told him, saying, “Surely he is in Dothan.”
¹⁴ Therefore he sent horses and chariots and a great army there, and they came by night and surrounded the city. ¹⁵ And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?”
¹⁶ So he answered, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” ¹⁷ And Elisha prayed, and said, “LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.” Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. (2 Kings chapter 6)

2011-08-19T08:44:00.002-04:00

Saudi Arabia—House Church Christians Released—BosNewsLife

1 Corinthians 3:9: For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building.

On July 24, two Indian Christians were unexpectedly released from prison in Saudi Arabia, and the men are now returning to their homes in India. Vasantha Skhar Vara, 28, and Nese Yohan, 31, were detained in January for organizing a Bible study. After Vara and Yohan were arrested and charged with proselytizing, they were held in a police station for 45 days before being transferred to jail without a trial. The jail was reportedly so overcrowded that the men could barely sleep. An elder of the men’s 70-member church told BosNewsLife that the men were forbidden to pray openly or read the Bible. Vara was pressured to convert to Islam, but he refused. “If I have to die for my God, I will die for him here,” Vara reportedly said. Yohan was allegedly denied medical treatment for tuberculosis. Thank God for the release of Vara and Yohan, and pray for Christians in Saudi Arabia who must worship secretly.

Tanzania—Churches Burned—Compass Direct News

Joshua 1:9: Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation.

Muslim extremists burned two churches last month on Zanzibar Island, located off the Tanzanian coast in east Africa. On Saturday, July 30, extremists burned the Evangelical Assemblies of God-Tanzania church as they shouted, “Away with the church — we do not want infidels to spoil our community, especially our children.” Three days earlier, on July 27, extremists burned the Free Evangelical Pentecostal Church. The attacks have frightened members of both churches. “We request prayers at this trying moment,” said a pastor of one of the burned churches. In predominantly Muslim Tanzania, it is becoming extremely difficult for Christians to worship or otherwise publicly exercise their faith. Christians on other islands in the Zanzibar archipelago have also experienced attacks. Pray for the members and leaders of the two churches, and pray that the Christian community in Zanzibar will remain firm in faith.

Sudan—Ongoing Conflict in Border Region—Persecution Project Foundation

Psalm 23:4: Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation.

While South Sudan celebrates its independence, people living near the border in Sudan’s Nuba Mountains face regular attacks from Sudanese military forces. The government has cut supply routes into the Nuba Mountains and has begun a daily bombing campaign to terrify the Nuba people into abandoning their crops and homes. “They are not bombing our military,” said Amar Amoun, a Nuban member of parliament. “They are bombing our civilians; they are terrorizing our people.” Because the Nubans reside on Sudan’s southern border, they are seen as threats to Sudan’s control of valuable resources like arable land and oil. “Please continue to pray for the persecuted people of the Nuba Mountains,” asked Brad Phillips, VOM project worker and president of the Persecution Project Foundation.

Definitions for consideration on the road ahead

2011-08-15T19:00:00.006-04:00

strat·e·gy

noun /ˈstratəjē/
strategies, plural

A plan of action or policy designed to achieve a major or overall aim

- time to develop a coherent economic strategy
- shifts in marketing strategy

The art of planning and directing overall military operations and movements in a war or battle

A plan for such military operations and movements

tac·tic

noun /ˈtaktik/
tactics, plural

An action or strategy carefully planned to achieve a specific end

The art of disposing armed forces in order of battle and of organizing operations, esp. during contact with an enemy

ex·e·cu·tion

noun /ˌeksiˈkyo͞oSHən/
executions, plural

The carrying out or putting into effect of a plan, order, or course of action

- he was fascinated by the entire operation and its execution

Lessons from a Colt

2011-08-12T18:07:00.000-04:00

I love Colt McCoy, the Cleveland Browns' second-year quarterback. He is fiery without being arrogant, though I bet his critics cannot help but equate the two due to their misunderstanding good leadership. You see a number of things about him that are good indicators of these qualities in this video.

One of the interesting backstories to even such a short NFL career is that his first head coach a year ago was pretty set on undermining his opportunity to play in the NFL. Colt doesn't much elaborate on it, but there is enough reference to it in this article here, including this tidbit:

When McCoy arrived in the spring, ready to work out, a source familiar with the situation says, his new coaches barely spoke to him.

When the season began, the other quarterbacks got the weekly game plan on Monday. McCoy didn’t see his until Wednesday. No explanation provided; it was as if he didn’t exist at all.

You'd like to think it would truly be a case of "best player plays" or, minimum, get behind him enough so that he develops into the QB you envisioned when he was drafted. Yet the world rarely works that way; politics and other agendas some times hold sway rather than the pursuit of excellence: integrity, servanthood, sacrificial living.

The coach who dealt with him eventually was shown the door. God is just and has a way of making things work out. As the scripture says:

"For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless." - Psalm 84:11

I'm banking on it, and so should you. Clinging to the Lord as "good to His word" is critical to seeing God's hand in negative circumstances.

Take Your Place

2011-08-07T12:33:00.000-04:00

For about a week I've had this song going through my head like a music player set on "loop". Jon Thurlow's song "Take Your Place":

My soul

longs for

You, Lord

in a

dry and

weary land...

It was made for You,

Only You can fill it

A time to cry out

2011-08-07T11:46:00.005-04:00

Proverbs chapter 2 is ripe for the picking. If ever there was a time for Christians to be calling upon the Lord for discernment and understanding, today is that day.

3b ... if you call out for insight
   and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver
   and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD
   and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the LORD gives wisdom;
   from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He holds success in store for the upright,
   he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
8 for he guards the course of the just
   and protects the way of his faithful ones.
9 Then you will understand what is right and just
   and fair—every good path.
10 For wisdom will enter your heart,
   and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
11 Discretion will protect you,
   and understanding will guard you.

Jesus, the very thought of thee

2011-07-31T11:54:00.000-04:00

Jesus, our only joy be Thou,
As Thou our prize will be;
Jesus be Thou our glory now,
And through eternity.

O Jesus, King most wonderful
Thou Conqueror renowned,
Thou sweetness most ineffable
In whom all joys are found!

When once Thou visitest the heart,
Then truth begins to shine,
Then earthly vanities depart,
Then kindles love divine.

O Jesus, light of all below,
Thou fount of living fire,
Surpassing all the joys we know,
And all we can desire.

Jesus, may all confess Thy name,
Thy wondrous love adore,
And, seeking Thee, themselves inflame
To seek Thee more and more.

Thee, Jesus, may our voices bless,
Thee may we love alone,
And ever in our lives express
The image of Thine own.

- Bernard of Clairvaux

A prayer from Virginia

2011-07-30T09:28:00.000-04:00

Thoughts from this morning:

O that Christ would use my life

to write upon, and through,

    a love story
which tell of a gracious life.

Having known verses wherein I
    took pleasure in listening,
    in following.
Learning of His meekness.
And, beyond this,
    when Love teaches me to
    bend with the Remover to remove.
For the time comes to stand,
    to speak of boundaries;
    to forbid that which is shallow,
    or hollow...
what is not whole and leads to death.

This is a grace-filled life
    which can prove
    a Creator redeeming,
    a Savior speaking,
a life increasing in His beauty

forever.

- Greg Burnett
Newport News, Virginia

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2011-07-29T09:31:00.002-04:00

Uzbekistan—Police Harass Pastor—VOM Sources

Galatians 5:1: Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.

On July 9, security police harassed a pastor and confiscated his laptop while he was waiting for his wife at a market. As Pastor Salavat waited for his wife in their car, two men in military uniforms approached the pastor and asked him to step out of the car. The men grabbed Salavat and treated him roughly. Salavat demanded to see their IDs, which they showed him before searching his car without permission or cause. “It looked as though they were looking for something specific,” Salavat said. It soon became clear that they were searching for his laptop, which they confiscated without offering a warrant or receipt. Ten days later, Salavat’s laptop was returned without explanation. Pray for Salavat and his family, and pray for all Uzbek Christians who aren’t able to worship freely.

South Sudan—Christians Remain at Risk—VOM Canada, Middle East Concern

2 Timothy 1:7–12: For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began, but has now been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, to which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.

South Sudan officially gained independence from Sudan on July 9, becoming a new nation. The secession follows a long history of violent conflict, including two civil wars between the largely Islamic north and the Christian and animist majority in the south. Christians, in particular, have endured severe oppression. Although many have expressed hope for a more peaceful future, it is clear that Christians on both sides of the new border remain at risk. Violence erupted in several areas in the months leading to South Sudan’s independence. Government agents and Islamic militants looted churches and killed Christians in parts of South Kordofan state. Many are concerned that churches in Sudan may face further restrictions on freedom of worship if the government implements a strict form of Islamic law. As Christians continue to flee to South Sudan, it is also feared that believers who remain in the north may be especially vulnerable to violence, pressure and accusations of defaming Islam. Pray that Christians in both Sudan and South Sudan will continue to entrust themselves to Christ, knowing that he is sovereign over kings of the earth.

Nigeria—Maiduguri Christians Face Extremist Threat—Release International, Compass Direct News

2 Corinthians 5:18: Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation.

Christians are fleeing the northern city of Maiduguri amid threats of further large-scale attacks by Islamic extremists. Most churches in Maiduguri have been boarded up and are under police or military guard as rumors spread that Boko Haram militants are planning a “massive attack” for the end of July. The widely anticipated assault would mark the two-year anniversary of the death of the group’s founder, Mohammed Yusuf, who died in police custody. Church attendance in Maiduguri has reportedly fallen dramatically following a series of bomb attacks on churches there. Leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria have advised churches to suspend or reschedule services, and several have changed service times to try to outwit potential attackers. Church leaders fear that this extremist threat could deepen the divide between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria. “This Boko Haram has to be dealt with before they plunge the entire nation into a very serious crisis,” a church leader in Maiduguri told Compass Direct. Pray for the safety of Christians in Maiduguri, and pray that Muslim extremists will see that they can be reconciled to God only through Jesus Christ.

Christian City

2011-07-24T11:09:00.001-04:00

In 1980, Bethany House Publishers published a small book by Robert Burnell called Escape From Christendom. Its an allegory, rather self-explanatory, on the distinction between emphasizing the exterior expression of religion as opposed to a sincere, interior giving of one's life to follow Christ. It has come to mind recently and offers some food for thought. Here is an excerpt:

"Is this the City of God?" I hear the traveler ask a woman at the information booth in the central square.

"No this is Christian City, "she replies.

"But I thought this road led to the City of God!" He exclaims with great disappointment.

"That's what we all thought when we arrived," she answers, her tone sympathetic.

"This road continues up the mountain, doesn't it?" He asks.

"I wouldn't know, really," she answers blankly.

I watched the man turn away from her and trudge on up the mountain in the gathering darkness. Reaching the top, he starts out into the blackness; it looks as though there is nothing, absolutely nothing, beyond. With a shudder he retraces his steps into Christian City an takes a room at a hotel.

Strangely unrefreshed, at dawn he arises and follows the road up the mountain again; in the brightening light of the sun he discovers that what seemed like a void the night before is actually a desert--dry, hot, rolling sand as far as the eye can see. The road narrows to a path which rises over a dune and disappears. "Can this trail lead to the City of God?" He wonders aloud. It appears to be quite deserted and rarely traveled.

Indecision slowing his steps, he again returns to Christian City and has lunch in a Christian restaurant. Over the music of a gospel record, I hear him ask a man at the next table, "That path up the mountain, where the desert begins, does it lead to the City of God?"

"Don't be a fool!" his neighbor replies quickly. "Everyone who has ever taken that path has been lost... swallowed up by the desert! If you want God, there are plenty of good churches in this town. You should pick one and settle down."

After leaving the restaurant, looking weary and confused, the traveler finds a spot under a tree and sits down. An ancient man approaches and begins pleading with him in urgent tones, "If you stay here in Christian City, you'll wither away. You must take the path. I belong to the desert you saw earlier. I was sent here to encourage you to press on. You'll travel many miles. You'll be hot and thirsty; but angels will walk with you, and there will be springs of water along the way. And at your journey's end you will reach the City of God! You have never seen such beauty! And when you arrive the gates will open for you, for you are expected."

"What you say sounds wonderful," the traveler replies. "But I'm afraid I'd never survive that desert. I'm probably better off here in Christian City."

The ancient one smiles. "Christian City is the place for those who want religion but don't want to lose their lives. The desert is the territory of those whose hearts are so thirsty for God that they are willing to be lost in Him. My friend, when Peter brought his boat to land, forsook all and followed Jesus, he was being swallowed by the desert. When Matthew left his tax collecting and Paul his Pharisaism, they too were leaving a city much like this to pursue Jesus out over the dunes and be lost in God. So don't be afraid. Many have gone before you."

Just as I am

2011-07-20T11:04:00.002-04:00

"I remember one night in the hospital, I thought I was dying. And my whole life came before me. And I didn't say to the Lord, "I'm a preacher, I've preached to many people." I said, "Oh, Lord, I'm a sinner. I still need Your forgiveness... I still need the Cross."

- Billy Graham

The response

2011-07-14T17:06:00.003-04:00

Returning to your first love

2011-07-14T08:27:00.001-04:00

"O my Lord, with what strictness did You chide me. A useless glance was checked as sin. My inadvertent faults cost me so many tears! Like a father tenderly forgiving a child who makes mistakes, You made me know Your love for me. The sweetness of Your love after my falls caused me pain. I regretted having departed from You." Madame Guyon

The Hammer

2011-07-12T08:27:00.001-04:00

"If you, O God, had spared the strokes of Your hammer, I could never be formed to be an instrument for Your use. Some of your children, O God, can be faithful. As for me, I cannot. I owe all to You." -Madam Guyon

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2011-07-08T08:53:00.005-04:00

West Bank—Muslims Oppose Christian Youth Center—VOM Sources

John 1:8: He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

A Christian mission in Bethlehem faces opposition from neighbors and city leaders over a youth center it has established in a Muslim neighborhood. Pastor Steven Khoury of Holy Land Missions (HLM) said his father, Naim Khoury, was summoned to the courthouse recently and warned that carrying out Christian work in the town of Shepherd’s Field would lead to trouble. But the trouble had already begun. Muslim extremist neighbors of an HLM youth center have verbally attacked two youth leaders and vandalized the building’s locks. They also threatened to attack Pastor Naim and said they would “break the legs” of anyone who enters the youth center. Outreach and prayer meetings are scheduled to begin at the youth center next week. Pray that God will protect those working at the youth center as well as those who attend. Ask God to make the center a shining light in a dark region.

China—Millions Attend Religious Festivals—China Aid Association

1 Thessalonians 1:2–3: We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father…

China Aid recently reported that a Shouwang Church member who works for the Christian ministry World Vision faced possible dismissal for her participation in the unregistered church’s activities. Shouwang Church has attempted to hold outdoor worship services for the past three months, in protest against government interference of the church’s worship sites. Church member Xia Xiaoqiu was detained several times in recent weeks after attending Shouwang’s outdoor worship services. Xia said the government was urging her employer, the Beijing office of World Vision, to pressure her to quit her job with the ministry. Recently, World Vision contacted China Aid, assuring them that Xia’s “job position is secure and that World Vision has not been under pressure by the government of China to change that in any way.” Pray for Xia and other Chinese Christians who are under great pressure for choosing to worship at unofficial churches.

Egypt—Copts and Muslims at Odds Over Kidnapping Case—Assyrian International News Agency, www.thedailynewsegypt.com

1 Chronicles 16:35: And say, “Save us, O God of our salvation;
   Gather us together, and deliver us from the Gentiles,
   To give thanks to Your holy name,
   To triumph in Your praise.”

Persecution against Christians in Uzbekistan increased last month — from raids to fines to literature confiscation — underscoring the need to remember the nation’s believers in prayer. Tohar Haydarov, 27, has been imprisoned since his arrest in March 2010 and is currently serving a 10-year prison sentence for the “illegal sale of narcotic or psychotropic substances in large quantities.” It is widely believed that the charges were fabricated as a means of punishing Tohar for his religious activity. At last report, he had appealed the prison sentence but there had been no indication of progress. Pray that comfort and peace will reign in Tohar as he suffers for his faith. Pray that he will be assured that he is not forgotten, but that he is loved and remembered by God and His people. Pray that the charges against Tohar will be dropped and that he will be released.

Legacy of today

2011-07-05T11:54:00.001-04:00

I think the apostolic example in the New Testament was given, in one sense, to point all the saints towards living in reference to the judgement seat of Christ... to know that there is actually, literally an account we all (both the redeemed and the lost, albeit to different ends) give to Him for the life we have lived on the earth. From that perspective then I can state my decisions and bearing are in light of serving His church to the best of my ability. Not being swayed by the opinion of man nor of seeking my own rights or demanding "my way", but living for the Man Christ Jesus and living in clear conscience of how He is leading today and what He is building upon. If I were, then, to be taken today my conscience is clear for I have endeavored to be at peace with all men even while requiring for myself and others biblical standards ... particularly in the current season as it pertains to an excellence concerning leadership. Not hedging on heart standards, biblical literacy and emotional resilience as it pertains to servanthood, (ie. longsuffering, gentleness, goodwill) and a diligence to lead others towards Christlikeness.

I am determined to aim high for myself and those I am to run with, even while understanding leaders are broken people as well - growing in their gifting and calling. But there are nonetheless minimum requirements and these are in sharp contrast to the manipulation and personal agendas man might have without the Holy Spirit to posture themselves as looking wise or godly. This simply cannot be tolerated. God is looking for leaders who can work well with others in the cause of Christ and lift the standards of the endeavor at hand. And for this very reason the cross is coming to many ministry platforms in our day to verify their fruit: if they are authentically Christ-centered and not self serving. Some months ago I was actually belittled by a "pastor" through personal comments he made to me privately following a message I had given on the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ. I was not offended that that he might not care for me personally... but to be sharply critical of a sincere effort to honor the Son of God in a preaching context was staggering, both then and now.

1 Corinthians 12:2 - "For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified." Amen, and amen.

2011-07-04T10:34:00.001-04:00

The way forward for the western Church is to discover true community. As the shakings escalate economically, we are going to need each other and need to be able to lean on one another. We need to shake off "American independence" in its wrong expression and embrace John 13:35. It will be difficult but one of our finest hours. ++ God, may You bless America by teaching us Your ways and giving us a love for Your Son and each other. ++

JHOPing

2011-06-30T16:50:00.002-04:00

For those of you who are tracking with me via this blog, there are some interesting developments. One is our involvement with the Justice House of Prayer in Williamsburg, VA. Ryan McAdams has been waiting on the Lord and listening for months and months, and we have struck up a friendship in recent weeks. Turns out he has even been to a Harvest Evangelism conference in Argentina.

He has patiently followed a strong sense of the God's leading and now is calling for the building of night and day prayer in Williamsburg. In response to his requests I will be providing some training in the next couple of months, and also will start leading a prayer set. So thats been an invigorating development for me personally.

He asked Lou Engle and Chris Berglund to come and help christen the ship, so to speak, this last weekend. I thought it was a solid beginning with a day of prayer and fasting on Saturday. Ryan asked the chief of the Chikahominy tribe to come, and there he requested a blessing from the host nation as the ministry started and expressed sorrow for the body of broken treaties between the American government and the native American peoples. It was a profound exchange and I thought it gave an important start to this new house of prayer community. And having Lou there to frame a sense of priority and values for the HOP was profoundly helpful and affirming to those already responding to the call.

As for me, I felt like I am gaining new and deep friendships... ones I will take forward literally into the age to come. So I'm amazed and, at a deep level, moved and grateful to be a part of something God is doing in our day. On a hunch, a couple of days ago I searched the internet for any recent development regarding supernova 1987a and was "wowed" to find there actually has been something reported. (You would have to look at previous posts to understand the significance of this sign in the heavens to me, confirmation of a commissioning that took place back in February of 1994). It turns out that since June 9 this supernova has been brightening. Also interesting: a friend texted me Friday about a dream they had that I was graduating, moving on to a new level. So I'm intrigued... lead on, O King Eternal. Build Your house of prayer, and save a people for Yourself... be glorified in the praise and honor and love of the saints... we are yearning for the kingdoms of this world to become the Kingdom of our God and of His Christ. Amen, and amen.

Voice of the Martyrs prayer update

2011-06-24T08:43:00.000-04:00

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

Nepal—Criminal Code May Prohibit Evangelism—Compass Direct News, VOM Canada

1 Timothy 2:1-2: Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.

Five years after it abolished Hinduism as the state religion, Nepal is considering a new criminal code that would make it illegal to “convert a person or abet him to change his religion.” Article 160 of the proposed code would prohibit any action or behavior that could cause someone from a caste, community or creed to lose faith in his or her traditional religion or convert to a different religion. Offenders could be imprisoned for up to five years and fined as much as $685. Protracted political battles have caused delays in the first complete draft of the new constitution, and the Nepali Congress was recently forced to extend the tenure of the Constituent Assembly responsible for the draft. Pray for the church in Nepal as well as for those in power. Pray that Nepal’s new criminal code will allow Christians to share their faith.

Nigeria—Pastor Killed in Borno State—Release International, Compass Direct

Philippians 4:7: and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

A Nigerian pastor and his secretary were murdered by Islamic militants recently in the northeastern town of Maiduguri. Pastor David Usman, 45, and his church secretary, Hamman Andrew, were shot to death on June 7 by members of the Islamist group Boko Haram. Boko Haram has been blamed for several recent attacks, including a series of bombings on June 7 that killed three people and the bombing of an army barracks in Maiduguri on May 29 that killed 15 people. Pastor David, described as a gentle and jovial man, and Hamman Andrew were killed in an area of Maiduguri called the Railway Quarters. Boko Haram had previously targeted Pastor David’s church, which belongs to the Church of Christ in Nigeria. In July 2009, militants killed several church members and set fire to the church building. Another pastor in Maiduguri, Rev. Titus Dama Pona, told Compass Direct News that the recent violence has increased fear among Christians. “We no longer feel free moving around the city,” Rev. Titus said, “and most churches no longer carry out worship services for fear of becoming targets of these unprovoked attacks.” Pray that Christians in Borno state will experience the peace of God, and pray that Boko Haram members will come to know the peace of God in their hearts.

Uzbekistan—Christian Fined and Threatened by Police—Forum 18 News Service

Isaiah 40:31: But those who wait on the LORD
   Shall renew their strength;
   They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
   They shall run and not be weary,
   They shall walk and not faint.

A Protestant Christian, Anvar Rajapov, was threatened by police after challenging a large fine that he received for his religious activities in Tashkent. Police raided Anvar’s home on April 14 and confiscated 250 Christian books, including Bibles. The state’s Religious Affairs Committee then ordered the books destroyed, and Anvar was fined 80 times the minimum monthly wage. Anvar appealed the fine in court, but a judge upheld the fine. Court officials warned Anvar that he would be further penalized if he did not pay the fine by June 15. On May 25, police summoned Anvar to the police station. Three police majors and an inspector spoke with Anvar and threatened him. One of the police majors, Zufar Rashidov, reportedly said, “I have prepared an axe for you, which will be flying after you, observing you, and if need be get you.” Pray that God will protect Anvar and give him strength and wisdom