Day 27
Turkey
Five years ago, an attempted coup resulted in the deaths of 251 people, more than 2000 wounded, and 150,000 public officials dismissed from their jobs. Almost 300,000 people have been arrested in the five years following, and arrests continue to this day. Last month 229 soldiers and military cadets were arrested. Many who have been found innocent were not given back their jobs. In this uncertain environment, many Turks are increasingly open to the Gospel. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters in Turkey, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain (The Bible, 1 Corinthians 15:58).
Source: ‘Still not over’: Emotions high 5 years after failed Turkey coup (Al Jazeera)
Once the land of Paul’s missionary journeys, Turkey is now predominantly Muslim. In response to a failed coup in 2016, Turkey has continued to clamp down on anyone President Erdogan deems an enemy. Anyone seen to be anti Erdogan can be arrested or removed from their positions, increasing the atmosphere of state control. Dozens of long-term Christian missionaries have been deported or refused entrance. The COVID-19 impact has been significant across the nation, both on the health care system and the economy.
Day 27
North Korea
The best evidence seems to indicate that North Korea has managed to keep the COVID-19 virus out by closing its borders and keeping them tightly closed for the last 18 months. However, the cost is great. Economic disaster looms, food shortages are increasing, and with no COVID-19 vaccinations at all, the nation is facing hard times in epic proportions. In our prayers today we raise up a battle cry for the people of North Korea. Have mercy, Lord, have mercy. May Christian Believers in this nation sense the Lord’s ever-present help in their time of need. We contend for change to come in North Korea, in Jesus’ Mighty Name (The Bible, Psalm 46:1).
Source: Kim Jong Un grapples with the worst crisis in his reign so far (ABC)
One of the most repressive nation on earth for the past couple of decades, historic meetings between North Korea, South Korea and USA leaders prompted hope for change, but none have been forthcoming. Hundreds of thousands of prisoners are held in concentration camps. Experts estimate up to 70,000 of them are Christian Believers. The regime enforces a religion that worships its leaders. Christians face death if found meeting together, even saying the name “Jesus” or possessing a Bible.
