Day 8
Iran
For the first time, an Iranian court has given a death sentence to a protestor accused of setting fire to a government building. For more than two months a citizen protest movement has swept Iran. Despite cracking down violently and shutting down the internet to attempt to stop communication about protests, the movement remains. For such a time as this, Jesus was born into our broken world, bringing with Him light into the darkness, victory over death itself. Pray that many Iranians will find Jesus this Christmas season. Pray for restraint and genuine change to sweep into Iran’s government and authorities (The Bible, John 1:5).
Source: Iran Issues First Known Death Sentence for Protester (Wall Street Journal)
Formerly known as Persia, Iran retains its identity as one of the greatest empires of the ancient world. They have maintained their language, culture, and Shia interpretation of Islam. In recent years there has been an increasing internal divide between hard-line and moderate Muslims. Internationally backed US sanctions have taken a significant toll on the economy resulting in protests on the street and greater dissatisfaction with the Islamic clerics. Protests were brutally squashed, only fuelling the tensions. The COVID-19 virus has ravaged the nation, further exposing the government to criticism, however, elections that took place this year returned a hard-line government to power. The evangelical church has continued to see incredible growth. House churches carry great influence and their growth has resulted in ongoing arrests and restrictions on Christians.
