Greetings from James
I’ve just started the Book of James for my morning devotions, and when I can I’d like to share the thoughts that come to me from reading through it. …It opens like this: James 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings.
The Apostle James, (blood brother to Jesus), is thinking of, praying for and writing to Jewish Christians who fled their home after the persecution that broke out after the stoning of Stephen in Acts 8. They fled first to Judaea, then to Samaria and then to Jewish communities around the Mediterranean. However instead of finding refuge where they fled, they very often only experienced further persecution. They suffered even more in Gentile communities, ending up homeless and destitute. Being a Christian then, in that part of the world was anything but easy.
And being a Christian today, in certain parts of the world is not easy. Can I ask us as a church to keep the Afghan church in our prayers. Today brings news of the fall of Kabul to the Taliban. What will this mean for the church in Afghanistan. One church leader in Afghanistan told Release International, (a Christian charity), that Christians there are living in great fear.
Release warned that anyone identified as a Christian could be killed for their faith, and that they risk betrayal or falling victim to an honour killing by their own family members. Paul Robinson, Release CEO, is asking Christians to pray for Afghanistan. …Let’s take up his challenge. …Perhaps you could join me in prayer right now.
Dear Heavenly Father we bring our brothers and sisters in Afghanistan before you now. We pray that you would draw near to each fearful heart and grant to them the peace that surpasses all understanding. Give wisdom and courage to each Believer, strengthening them to endure this trial that have come upon their land. Protection and deliverance come from you and so cover your church with your mighty hand we ask in Jesus Name. …And where your sovereign will extends to a laying down of a life for the sake of the gospel, we pray that you would give boldness in the face of suffering and death. Lord be with your people. Amen.