Day 8
Iran
Many churches in Iran hold Christmas services and events during the Christmas season. Pray for their safety and protection. Pray that they can meet in peace to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Pray also that there will be deep encouragement for Believers in prison because of their faith. Pray for their family members to know the peace and presence of the Lord even though their loved ones are in jail. Pray for grace and favor on the Church in Iran as it continues to expand in a country that is struggling to find peace and stability. Ask God to bless Iran with freedom from the chains of Islamic leadership (The Bible, Isaiah 58:6).
Source: WIN
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.
