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WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
10/40 Window Prayer Focus: THE IMPACT OF TERRORISM ON CHILDREN
PRAISE REPORT: IRAN- Christians Rally in Support of Converts to Oppose Apostasy Law
February 2009 Edition
PRAISE REPORT: ORISSA- Supreme Court orders protection of Christians in Orissa State
WindowKids™: SENEGAL- Hymnie’s Prayer Request for God’s Children in Senegal
PRAYER POINTS FOR EVERY 10/40 WINDOW NATION
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February 2009
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THE 10/40 WINDOW REPORTER : FEBRUARY 2009
THE IMPACT OF TERRORISM ON CHILDREN
5 PRAYER POINTS FOR EVERY 10/40 WINDOW NATION
7 PRAISE REPORT: IRAN
14 PRAISE REPORT: ORISSA
15 WindowKids™: SENEGAL
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February 2009
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T
errorism is a global problem. At one time it was isolated to certain pockets of the world, but today nearly every child in the world is growing up under its shadow. The 10/40 Window contains nearly two-thirds of the world’s population. It is also the home of four out of the five countries that actively sponsor terrorism. And it is in this area that the terrorist do their recruiting and carry out their campaign of slaughter against the innocent. And it is the children who suffer most. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reports that an estimated 90% of global conflictrelated deaths since 1990 have been civilians. And roughly half of those deaths were children. Today, nearly 20 million children have been forced to flee their homes because of conflict and human rights violations, and more than 6 million have been permanently disabled or seriously injured. Those that do survive may even find themselves caught up in the conflict. According to UNICEF, the latest estimates suggest that more than 250,000 children worldwide are serving as child soldiers, many against their will as a result of forced recruitment. In Somalia, since the collapse of the central government in 1991, nearly 200,000 children have either carried a gun or been part of a militia. In Afghanistan and Pakistan, schools funded by oil-rich extremists were used to brainwash and recruit this decade’s generation of Islamic terrorists.
Pray for: ✚ Pray for the safety of children in the 10/40 Window who are at risk from terrorist attacks. Pray that the terrorists would be caught and brought to justice. ✚ Pray that the children recruited as soldiers would be rescued and reintegrated into society based on Biblical principles, and that God would bring His terrible judgment on the men trying to turn them into killers. (Mark 9:42) ✚ Pray that Christians would show their outrage against the attacks on children and that they would reach out through their political representatives and through aid organizations to help the child victims of terrorism. ✚ Pray that God would bring physical and spiritual healing to the children in conflict areas, and that He would draw them to Him and they would find healing in Him. ✚ Pray for the future leaders of the 10/40 Window who are children now, that they will lead with Godly principles, and will allow the Gospel of Jesus Christ to be preached in their land. Sourced: UNICEF, Compassion International
To turn children into killers is a terrible crime, and the Bible speaks against such acts of corruption (Mark 9:42). It also speaks of the importance of protecting and ministering to children, and the importance of standing up for the weak (Psalm10:17-18). It is more important today than ever that Christians take a stand against the acts of terrorists against children. All Believers everywhere need to pray, and then to take action to protest this worldwide injustice.
February 2009
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PRAYER Points February 2009
Day 1
Day 4 India - India government is having an election this year to elect and form a new government. Please pray for people to be placed in positions of authority according to the will of Almighty God, and that wicked and immoral leaders will be wiped out. According to a new international survey, India is the number one most corrupt country in the world. Pray that all corruption in this land will cease and that Jesus will be magnified in this land.
Mauritania – Pray that Mauritania will continue its full diplomatic relations with Israel, which it has had since 1999. Pray that this nation would be a stronghold to help establish democracy in the Middle East rather than relying on more extreme Islamic countries for aid and support. Pray that the Kingdom of God will be established here. Day 2
Japan – Even though there is an economic crisis in this land, pray that the Japanese people would look to our Heavenly Father to supply their need according to His riches in Glory (Philippians 4:19) rather than continue to look to material possessions and wealth as the source of their fulfillment and happiness. Guinea-Bissau - Pray for Guinea Bissau’s new Prime Minister, Carlos Gomes Jr. who is taking on innumerable challenges facing the country; including inability to pay the salaries of civil servants, the fight against insecurity and crime, the paralysis of the education system as a result of the repeated strikes and the boosting the health sector. Pray that the Lord will give the Prime Minister Divine wisdom to being stability, growth, and true religious freedom to this land. Day 5
Sudan – Pray that the Sudanese government would stay firmly committed to implement the Darfur Peace Agreement (DPA) in order to boost security and stability in the western Sudanese region. Pray for divine wisdom over government officials in their dealings with rebel groups. Pray for protection and provision for Believers in this nation.
Bhutan – Pray for this nation where there is no mandatory education.` The nation defends it’s decision on the grounds that Western learning is not the only path to happiness, and there are other equally important indicators of human happiness to judge their country by. Pray that they will realize the only path to happiness is through Jesus Christ, and that everyone in their nation should be educated.
Afghanistan – Pray that God will answer the prayers that have been lifted up to him to bring the crisis in this nation to a peaceful resolution. Pray that all terrorist planning and training will come to a complete halt. Pray that God will be glorified in Afghanistan, and that His Kingdom will be firmly established in this land.
Saudi Arabia – Pray for freedom for Saudis to choose their own religion. Islam is the only officially recognized religion, and conversion to any other religion is punishable by execution. Pray that the Saudi government will allow true religious freedom in this land, and that all persecution of Christians will come to a complete halt.
Day 3
Day 6 Kuwait – Pray that the Kuwaiti government would have divine wisdom in their dealings in foreign relations. Pray that the Church will grow, lead their nation to Christ, and that the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in Kuwait.
Bangladesh - Pray for Sheikh Hasina, the country’s new prime minister. His election as Prime Minister ended two years of rule by an armybacked interim government. Pray that this new administration will rule and govern based on Biblical principles.
February 2009
Guinea - Pray for this nation, for a new military junta took leadership and arrested several military leaders who had been forced into retirement after a coup last month. Pray for a call for elections ran based on Biblical principles, a new leader who will fear God, value freedom of religion, and that the Lord will show him strategies to return Guinea to civilian rule. Thailand – Pray for Thailand’s newly appointed Cabinet ministers as they oversee an economy shaken by the global economic slowdown, political protestors, and months of political instability. Pray that the King of Thailand will come to know the Lord, and that he will share Christ with others, and that millions of Thais will come to know Jesus as Savior and Lord.
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Day 7 Niger – Pray that the rebels in this nation would have no hold over Niger and that all abductions would cease. Pray those who have been captured illegally will be set free unharmed. Pray for God’s Kingdom to quickly be established in Niger as it is in Heaven. (Matthew 6:10) Kyrgyzstan - Pray fervently that Kyrgyzstan’s president would not sign legislation that has been said will severely restrict religious freedom in the Central Asian country. The new law would restrict religious freedom by raising the minimum number of members required for church registration, banning unregistered communities, and restricting children’s education and missionary activity. Pray that religious freedom will greatly abound in this land, and pray that multiple millions will come to know Christ as Savior and Lord.
the Harvest will provide all of the needs of the poor, and that they will come to know Him as Savior and Lord. Indonesia – Pray protection over this nation as a series of strong earthquakes and aftershocks struck eastern Indonesia’s West Papua province at the beginning of 2009. The quakes left several buildings badly damaged. Pray for the protection of the Believers in this land, and that they will continue to reach share the Good News of the Gospel with their neighbors. Day 11 Laos - Pray for wisdom of the Laotian government in using the grant aid worth $1.2 billion to help boost its economy, and to minimize adverse impacts of the global economic crisis. Pray that the human rights of the Laotian people will no longer be violated, and that there will be true religious freedom in this land.
Day 8 Iran - Pray for the complete end of human rights violations in Iran; including the arrest or detainment of innocent citizens, and the closing of the Center for the Defense of Human Rights. Pray that Iranian authorities would allow this and similar civil society organizations to operate free of oppression. Pray for the resources needed to keep organizations open that are leading the Iranian people to our dear Lord.
Western Sahara - Pray for an end to the delay of the dispute over Western Sahara. Pray for God’s hand to be on every person and entity involved in the resolution of this dispute, and that the Lord will continue to provide for those who have lived in refugee camps in the extreme heat of the desert. Pray that the Kingdom of God will be established in this land. Day 12
Burkina Faso – Pray that the hearts of the Sama people will remain open to Jesus Christ, and the will receive Him as Savior and Lord - despite their animistic background and the intensive pressure from Muslims. Pray that they will be fervently endeared to the Gospel of Christ. Pray Acts 26:18 over these beloved people.
Egypt – Egypt is increasingly being looked to by the international community as the only state capable of mediating indirect contacts on a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. It was Egypt that brokered a six-month cease-fire last June between the two, but the unwritten calm expired on Dec. 19, 2008 giving way to current fighting. Pray that God will use this nation as an instrument of peace, and that true freedom of religion will be practiced here/
Day 9 Mali – Pray that Malian President Amadou Toumani Toure would continue his fight to halt the spread of Islamic radicalism in this nation. Pray the Lord will give him divine strategies to rule Mali based on Biblical principles. Pray the Kingdom of God will be established in this land. Azerbaijan – Lift this nation in prayer as it severely restricts freedom of religion and now is limiting freedom of speech through its ban of international radio stations from broadcasting on local stations that began January 1, 2009. Pray that the LORD of Hosts would open up this nation to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pray that the Church will be empowered by the Holy Spirit lead the lost to Christ in this land as never before.
Uzbekistan – Pray for the end of all persecution and detainment of Christian Believers in Uzbekistan. There are several cases of Christians being tried for teaching religion without official approval, and for attending prayer gatherings in a private home. Pray for complete freedom of religion in this nation. Pray that multiple thousands will come to know the Lord within the next thirty days. Day 13
Day 10 Benin – Pray that all corruption and immorality would be wiped out from this nation. Government-run “micro-loans to the poorest” programs have been found to be taking bribes from borrowers and exploiting the poor. Pray that the Lord of
February 2009
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Nepal - The Maoists, who emerged as the biggest political party in elections this year and now head a coalition government, recently attacked one of the country’s biggest publishing houses. Pray that political factions won’t resort to violence or terrorism but pray for lasting peace in this nation. Pray also for the protection of Believers as they share the Gospel with others in this nation.
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UAE – Pray that the UAE will be an example to the world in advancing religious freedom, just as they are setting an example to the world of their economic development model. Pray that all persecution of Believers in this land will halt. Pray that those who have been doing the persecuting will be brought to justice. Day 14 Albania – Pray that as Albania, one of Europe’s poorest nations and a mainly Muslim country, considers joining the EU, it will be compelled to grant complete freedom of religion to its people. Pray that the Lord will supply all of the needs of His people on earth as it is in Heaven. (Philippians 4:19) Morocco – Pray for continued wisdom for Moroccan leaders as they guide the economy of their nation. Morocco has now emerged as one of the top 10 countries in the world in the off-shoring services, despite only entering the field a handful of years ago. Off-shoring activities are also expected to significantly boost the Moroccan job market. Pray for the salvation of the Moroccan people, and pray that they will be instrumental in advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the 10/40 Window. Day 15 Iraq – Pray for unity among the Christian churches especially in the North Kurdistan area. Praise God for His protection over the Christians in ministry in spite of the harsh circumstances of the country. There were recently elections in Iraq. Pray for this nation as it experiences a change in various government officials. Pray for true religious freedom to flourish in this land. Sri Lanka – There is a major move of God taking place in this nation. An unprecedented gathering of all denominations and mainline churches was held September, 2008, and all pastors and their congregations in Southern Sri Lanka held a 21-day fast to hear from God in mid November. Pray that the unification of the Church will continue, and that this nation will look to the King of kings and the LORD of lords for direction in everything. Day 16 Israel – Pray that Hamas and all terrorist attacks will be exposed and thwarted in Israel. Pray for secure borders in Israel. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Tajikistan – There was renewed activity recently in Tajikistan’s parliament on a religious law, which has many religious communities concerned. Pray that parliament will not write any bills that will threaten religious freedom in this land. Pray that true religious freedom will be enforced in Tajikistan. Pray that God will surround Christians in Tajikistan with His shield of protection and will send angels to minister to them as heirs of salvation. (Psalm 29:11, Hebrews 1:14) Pray that the church will grow here in record numbers, and that the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land.
February 2009
Day 17 China – China Aid Association has learned that from the end of September through early November, large numbers of police were dispatched to raid house church gatherings in Beijing and in areas near college campuses in Hangzhou. More than 400 Christian college students were arrested and interrogated. Pray that the world would speak out on the issue of human rights violations and that the Church would not be silent to speak of the bad things happening to persecuted Christians. Pray that members of the underground church have wisdom to know how and where to meet. Pray that they find creative ways—“God ideas”—to safely share their faith in a hostile environment. (Psalm 112:6- 8) Thank God for the rapid growth of the Church in China. Djibouti – Pray that pirates in the region will be thwarted and held with increased accountability for their actions. Pray for effective security to be provided by the Djibouti army and police, so that citizens will not have to take the law into their own hands. (Proverbs 10:9) Pray for the Kingdom of God to be established in Djibouti. Day 18 Yemen – Yemen appears to have claimed a rare victory against Al Qaeda with help from a country in the West, but analysts and diplomats warn that militants still pose a threat in a country where arms are plentiful and sympathy for the Al Qaeda network’s holy war against the West runs high. Pray for Yemen to be more consistent and proactive in putting down Al Qaeda-linked Islamic militants and local extremists. Pray for the government to have the resources to prevent terrorism financing. Yemen is one of the least evangelized countries in the world. Pray that the Gospel be preached to everyone in this land, and that they will accept Christ as Savior and Lord. Vietnam – In violation of Vietnam’s new religion policy, authorities in Lao Cai Province in Vietnam’s far north are pressuring new Christians among the Hmong minority to deny their faith, and to re-establish ancestral altars, according to area Church leaders. Pray that members of the Vietnamese underground Church have wisdom to know how and where to meet. Pray that they find creative ways—“God ideas”—to safely share their faith in a hostile environment. (Psalm 112:6- 8) Pray for true religious freedom in this land. Day 19 Taiwan – Pray for religious freedom to remain strong in Taiwan. So far, the people of Taiwan have been slow to respond to the Gospel. Pray that revival will break out in Taiwan with multiple millions of them coming to the Lord this year. Pray the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land. Bahrain – A country in the West and Bahrain delegates recently had an in-depth discussion about terrorism, the rapid production of weapons, and enhanced
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maritime security and defense in the Persian Gulf. Pray for the government of Bahrain to be steadfast in combating and financing terrorism. Pray for Bahrain to continue to actively monitor terrorist suspects. Pray for Bahrain to abolish Shari’a law. Pray for revival to spread in this nation like a rushing mighty wind, with multiple thousands coming to the Lord in the next thirty days.
discrimination against Christians. Pray for God’s protection and favor to be upon Christians as they do their part to expand the Kingdom of God in this land. Day 23 Chad – Pray for peace and calm for eastern Chad. Pray that the churches in Chad would grow and mature in their faith and discipleship. Many congregations mix Christianity with other ideas and beliefs that can be legalistic. Pray that the Holy Spirit would be working to bring true freedom in their lives, and for the salvation of all of the people of Chad.
Day 20 Brunei – Pray for the Brunei government to continue its support to fight against terrorism. Proselytizing by faiths other than the officially sanctioned branch of Islam is not permitted. There are no missionaries reported working in this country. Pray for true religious freedom in Brunei. Pray for everyone to come to the Lord, and to know Him as their personal Lord and Savior. (John 3:16) Lebanon – Pray that the demonic forces that are using terrorists groups Al Qaeda and Fatah Islam like puppets will be toppled, and that the people will be set free to worship the Lord. Pray that their leaders will experience conversion to Christianity. (1 Timothy 2:1–4) Pray for the protection of the Believers as they share the good news of the Gospel with others.
Algeria – Algerian lawmakers on November 12, 2008 overwhelmingly approved a controversial revision to the nation’s constitution that lifts the limit on presidential terms, which would allow President Abdelaziz Bouteflika to stand for a third five-year term in April 2009—a contest he is widely expected to win. Pray for the salvation of President Bouteflika and other government leaders. Pray that President Bouteflika will rule justly for the benefit of all citizens. Pray for increased and true religious freedom in Algeria. Pray for revival to spread in this land with multiple millions of Algerian coming to know the Lord this year, and to be discipled in His Way.
Day 21
Day 24 Qatar – Although telling Muslims about Jesus is strictly forbidden, Christians from other countries are allowed to meet together to worship. Pray for Muslims to encounter Jesus in their dreams. Pray that they would grow as disciples in Christ, and that revival will spread in this land with multiple thousands of new Believers would be added to the Kingdom of God in the next 30 days.
Turkmenistan – Protestants have told Forum 18 that lower level harassment continued through the year, though pressure is increasing again. Protestants in Serdarabad district near the northeastern town of Turkmenabad (formerly Charjew) in Lebap region have again come under pressure from local imams in November. Forum 18 said the pressure on local Protestants increased after a senior religious affairs official visited the region from Ashgabad. Pray for true freedom of religion in Turkmenistan. Pray for the salvation of the imams and other political and spiritual leaders. Pray for incredible growth of the Church and for new converts to be discipled in the ways of Christ.
Libya – The Foreign Affairs Department of a country in the West, appointed an ambassador to Libya in November for the first time in 36 years, further normalizing relations between the two countries. Pray that Libya will continue to be diligent in its counterterrorism efforts. Praise God for the openness being displayed by the Libyan government, and pray that it will lead a great improvement in true religious freedom and human rights. Pray that the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land. Malaysia – Pray that the terrorist group Jemaah Islamiah and all other terrorist groups will be thrown into confusion, and will not be able to re-group, recruit, or have the capacity to be disruptive. Growing Islamic culture in Malaysia could make it harder for Malay Muslims to hear the truth about Jesus. Pray that Christians will share the Gospel with non-Believers in this land, leading them to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Day 25 Oman – Pray that the spiritual principalities and powers that have kept the Muslims in bondage will be broken forever. Ask the Holy Spirit to supernaturally reveal Jesus to Oman Muslims as the way to true peace and eternal Salvation. Pray that multiple thousands of new Believers will come to know the Lord in the next 30 days.
Day 22 Ethiopia –Pray that Christians would continue to have a real passion for evangelism. Pray also for real spiritual growth and discipleship in the Church. Pray for 100% of the Ethiopian people to be reached with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Myanmar – Pray for Myanmar’s peace and for the country to turn to Jesus as Savior and Lord, especially Myanmar’s leader, Than Shwe. The military regime actively promotes Buddhism and there is much
February 2009
Kazakhstan – A Kazakh draft law passed by parliament that tightens control over nontraditional religious activities is causing heated debate in Kazakhstan. Yevgeny Zhovtis, chief of the Kazakh Bureau on Human Rights, said on December 2, 2008, that if President Nursultan Nazarbaev signs
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the legislation, the country would return to an era of totalitarian control. Pray that President Nazarbayev will not sign the draft law. Pray for complete religious freedom in Kazakhstan. Pray for the Kingdom of God to be firmly established in this nation. Day 26 Tunisia – Pray that the government of Tunisia would govern justly and with wisdom. Pray that Tunisian society openly accepts Tunisian Christians. Pray that revival will break out in this land, and everyone will come to know the Lord, and they will be properly discipled in the Way of the Lord. Cambodia – Pray that justice will be done in the prosecution of those involved in the mass killings during the Khmer Rouge regime. Pray for continued healing for Cambodia from the genocide. Pray that God would strengthen the Church leaders in Cambodia, and that they would be innovative in discipling new Believers in the Way of the Lord. Day 27 Turkey – Turkish constitution includes freedom of religion, worship services are only permitted in “buildings created for this purpose,” and officials have restricted the construction of buildings for minority religions. Pray for opportunities for Christians in Turkey to share the truth of who Jesus is with those around them. Pray all restrictions will be lifted, and Believers will be able to freely worship in this land. North Korea – The North Korean border patrol reportedly have a “shoot-on-sight” order for North Korean refugees (NKRs) trying to cross the border illegally into China. Widespread house-to-house checks by Chinese police in border areas were administered to ferret out NKRs in Chinese households over the past few months. Pray for North Koreans who live in squalor and whose lives are threatened by mere attempts to provide food and other necessities for their families. Pray for God to send necessary forces to rescue these people from harm. Pray the Lord will provide all of their need according to His riches in Glory. (Philippians 4:19) Pray for the regime of North Korean leader Kim Jong-Il to fall and totally collapse this year. Day 28 Somalia – Pray that God will use the witness of Christian martyrs to win many Somalis to Christ. Pray for the protection and safety of those delivering vital food aid and medical care to Christians. The Somali church has been driven totally underground; some leaders have been named on a hit list for execution. Pray that God would protect them, they would remain strong in the Faith, and lead unprecedented numbers of people to Christ, and disciple them in His Way.
were now terrorizing Peshawar, the capital city of North West Frontier Province (NWFP). The Church in NWFP is greatly at risk, according to Christian groups in the area. Pray for God to protect Christians in NWFP, and all of Pakistan. Pray the Believers would stand firm in the authority of Jesus and have the courage to share their faith and lead others to Christ despite the troubles they may face. Day 29 Nigeria – Following local elections, hundreds of people were killed and an estimated 7,000 to 10,000 fled their homes in two days of rioting that started November 28, 2008 between mainly Muslim Hausa people and mainly Christian Berom people in Jos, the capital of Plateau State, Nigeria. Christian leaders in Jos believe that the riots were coordinated and planned, and that the political events were used as a pretext for anti-Christian violence. Psalm 91 protection for Believers in Jos, and throughout Nigeria, who are targeted by Muslims. Pray for Christian leaders in Nigeria to remain strong in the Lord, and that they will have proper direction to minister and disciple the Believers who have been displaced. Maldives – Pray for total religious freedom in Maldives. Pray that the Lord will save key Maldivian leaders who will boldly declare the Gospel to their own people. Ask God to strengthen, encourage, and protect the small number of Maldivian Christians, and that their will be a revival in this land with multiple thousands of new Believers coming to the Lord in the next 30 days. Jordan – Jordan and the European Union on December 3, 2008 launched a project to boost the kingdom’s efficiency in fighting terrorism and organized crime. Pray for Jordan to continue to cooperate in anti-terrorism and anti-organized crime measures. Pray for Christian refugees residing in Jordan that they be anointed with fresh courage and strength. Pray that the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land. Senegal – Despite progress, Senegal remains a poor country, with an average yearly income of about $850 per person. Poverty has dropped from 68 percent in 1994 to about 50 percent today. But such poverty remains widespread, limiting opportunities for many Senegalese. Especially hard hit are the extremely young: One out of every four children under age 5 is malnourished. Pray for the end of poverty, and for malnutrition among children to be eliminated. Pray that God will open the hearts of Senegal’s governmental leaders to the Gospel, they will receive Jesus as Lord, and they will govern the people based on Biblical principles.
Pakistan – Al Qaeda and Taliban jihadists have captured most of the northwest Federally Administered Tribal Areas, and
February 2009
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Day 30 Eritrea – Eritrea’s government has launched a fresh crackdown on Christians with reports that at least 110 evangelical believers have been detained since mid-November 2008. The Christians were arrested in all parts of the country except for the capital, Asmara. Already some 2,000 Christians are detained in Eritrea, including in controversial prisons, police buildings, military camps and even metal containers. Some have been held for years without a fair trial. Pray that Eritrea would finally
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implement its 1997 constitution, which provides for religious freedom. Pray for God to sustain and protect Christians in prisons, who are said to have insufficient food. Pray that the Believers will evangelize those who are also imprisoned with them, and that revival will break out in this land. Tibet – The use of torture in the restless Chinese region of Tibet is widespread and routine and officials regularly ignore legal safeguards supposed to be in place to prevent it, a new report said on December 10, 2008. Even when detainees are released, they may die of their injuries, be scarred for life mentally or physically and not be able to afford medical treatment or be denied it completely. Pray for the end of the use of torture in Tibet. Pray for all persecution and torture to stop immediately. Pray for the protection of all Believers in this land. Pray that the peoples would find total freedom in following Jesus. Pray that the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land. Syria – A Western country and the European Union said on November 28, 2008 that they were disturbed by apparent Syrian efforts to “sanitize” sites United Nations inspectors want to examine in a probe into alleged covert nuclear activity. The Western nation accused Damascus of adopting Iranian tactics to impede a nuclear watchdog investigation into what officials say was a secret atomic reactor that could have made plutonium for atom bombs, if Israel had not bombed the site last year. Pray that Syria will stop any nuclear bomb plans. Pray that tensions across religious and ethnic lines be removed. Pray for the Salvation of all Syrians, and that they would be properly discipled in the Ways of Christ.
to reach the 10/40 Window nations with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Gambia – Pray for the salvation of President Jammeh and all other government leaders. Take authority over the spiritual principalities and powers that are keeping the Gambian people bound to Islam, and pray that all Gambians will accept Jesus as Savior and Lord. Pray for revival to break out in The Gambia with multiple thousands coming to the Lord within the next 30 days. West Bank & Gaza Strip – Israel reopened its crossings on December 9, 2008 with Gaza to shipments of humanitarian aid and fuel since fighting erupted on November. 5. The violence has left a recently formed truce in doubt. Iran’s former president, Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, said Muslim anger over the siege of the militant Hamas-run Gaza Strip will eventually explode and “burn” Israelis. Pray that all of the terrorist and persecution plots of all terrorist groups will not happen, and those who have done bad things to Christian Believers will be brought to justice. Pray for peace, calm and a fair resolution to the Gaza Strip siege. Pray for the safety and protection of all Christians in the West Bank and Gaza, and that the Kingdom of God will be firmly established in this land. Window International Network
Mongolia – Chinese top legislator Wu Bangguo and Mongolian Parliament Chairman Damdin Demberel vowed on December 10, 2008 to step up inter-parliamentary cooperation in fields such as trade, energy and natural resources. Pray for the salvation of President Nambaryn Enkhbayar and other government leaders. Praise God for the Church in Mongolia. Pray for the translation, production and vast distribution of Christian literature, commentaries, devotional and teaching books, and the revision of the Bible.
Pray that the $70,000 matching grant being donated to WIN by a major foundation, will be matched before 28, February, 2008.
Day 31 East Timor – Thank God that 93 percent of East Timor’s population are Christian. There are three ethnic groups and 20 different languages in East Timor. Pray for unity and godly leaders who will rule according to Biblical principles. as their young country develops. Pray the Lord will give them strategies
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PRAISEreport:IRAN Christians Rally in Support of Converts to Oppose Apostasy Law
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oice of the Martyrs reports that two Iranian Christians who had been imprisoned for apostasy have been released. Apostasy, or conversion to another religion, is considered a crime in many Islamic nations. Many believers were afraid because of an impending law that would make death the listed punishment for conversion. Such laws make witnessing a difficult and dangerous thing in countries like Iran. The two men met with a judge and were released from prison, though some people suspect it may have been an attempt by Iran to save face by avoiding an apostasy conviction or to delay punishing the men until the law became official. International outcry has been important before in preventing Iran from punishing believers for their conversion, and Christians have been vocal in speaking out against the new law. Believers everywhere should continue to pray for the repeal of laws punishing Christians for their religion and rejoice that the Lord is working in people’s hearts to resist the further persecution of believers.
Praise for: ✚ Thank God for the release of the imprisoned Christians. ✚ Rejoice for the efforts of Christians to raise awareness about Iran’s apostasy law. Pray for: ✚ The continued safety of the men who were released and their families. ✚ Pray that God would continue to embolden the believers of Iran to share their faith and that they would be provided with the Bibles and other resources they need to spread the gospel. ✚ Pray that the government of Iran would stop persecuting Christians and that their influential leaders would come to Christ. Sourced: Persecution.com, votsc.org
February 2009
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Supreme Court orders protection of Christians in Orissa State
I
n a major answer to prayer by intercessory groups, including Window International Network (WIN), the Supreme Court of India ordered authorities in Orissa on January 5, 2009 to provide security to thousands of Christians who fled their homes after some of the worst religious violence in decades last year, Reuters reported. “We will not accept the persecution of minority,” Justice Markandey Katju said. “If the state government is unable to protect them it should resign. We have to protect the minorities. … No minority community should be insecure in the country.”
Christian leaders at the time accused Hindu nationalist groups of targeting Christians for political gain, while rights groups accused the state government and police of not doing enough. Hindu nationalist groups have denied their involvement in the clashes that left at least 38 people dead and scores wounded. Tens of thousands of Christians fled to government relief camps and into forests. This prompted Christian leaders to file a petition seeking court intervention after local authorities failed to provide adequate security and attacks continued.
Praise Report
However, scared Christians in Orissa have said they were afraid to return to their villages, despite intervention by
The Supreme Court also asked the Orissa government to reconstruct the churches damaged during the violence. The ruling appeared to back criticism from Christian leaders that the state government had failed to provide enough security for scared Christians still living in camps and forests, according to Reuters. The Evangelical Fellowship of India welcomed the ruling of the Supreme Court.
the court, Reuters reported. “We have decided not to go home,” said Banita Pradhan, a 27-year-old woman who lives in a slum in Bhubaneswar, Orissa’s capital. “The situation I don’t think will improve ever. We are settling down here.”
The top court also barred the state government, run by a coalition of a regional party with Hindu nationalists, from withdrawing troops from riot-infested zones without permission of the central government.
Christian leaders say at least 25,000 people could still be living away from their homes. “They are not sure of their safety as they may be attacked any moment,” Cuttack Archbishop Raphael Cheenath said on January 5.
Violence broke out on August 23, 2008 after the murder of a local Hindu leader and over the controversial issue of conversions in poor tribal areas of Orissa last year.
India is ranked No. 30 on Open Doors’ 2008 World Watch List of nations where Christians are persecuted for their faith. According to WIN’s Praying Through
February 2009
www.WIN1040.com
The Window 9 prayer calendar, the day of prayer for India is on day 1. Praise for: ✚ Praise God for the Supreme Court ruling that calls for the government to protect Christians. ✚ Praise God that the ruling asked the Orissa government to reconstruct the churches damaged during the violence. Pray for: ✚ The government to be more forceful in terms of justice and protection for Christian Believers. ✚ The protection and provision for thousands of Christians in Orissa who remain homeless. ✚ Healing and comfort for all the victims of the violence in Gaza and Israel. ✚ All Christian ministries and churches in India to boldly continue to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in spite of the Hindu extremist attempts to weaken and bring fear among Christians. ✚ Pray against the spirit of darkness, which covers India in order that the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ will go forth and bear fruit. Sourced: Reuters, Open Doors USA, International Christian Concern
The 10/40 Window Reporter 15
~GETTING TO KNOW SENEGAL~ o many boys in Senegal beg on the streets of Dakar, xpecting to find enough to eat just for that day. ot all Senegalese children have heard about Jesus, specially those in the Islamic religious schools. enerally, when parents send their children away to these schools, they re looking for someone else to care for their children, because a ot of them can’t afford to provide for their needs.
H
ello, Friends! My name is Hymnie and I just returned from a tour of West Africa in the 10/40 Window. As a hummingbird, I get to see so many amazing things
from a “bird’s eye view.” Have you ever been to Africa? This beautiful continent has tall grasslands for countless safari animals, scorching deserts (too hot for hummingbirds like me), tropical rain forests (much more refreshing!), and charming coastlines. While the natural landscape of Africa was almost too beautiful to describe, the urban landscape of the big cities was also amazing. The tall, modern buildings reminded me that there are so many different needs of the lovely people in the 10/40 Window. Do you know what made my heart smile, though? No matter if the children lived in a growing metropolis or a little old village, the smiles on children’s faces were priceless. The children find ways to play games, sing songs, and dance. Sadly, though, many are not well in their bodies and desperately need to know that Jesus can heal their hearts and their bodies. They need fresh water and nutritious food, and many want to learn how to read and write well. Jesus loves the children of West Africa so much. Will you help me pray for the wonderful African children that God has created?
Hymnie’s Prayer Request for God’s Children in Senegal Friends, let’s pray for three things when we think of the children in Senegal: 1. The young Islamic students will come to know the Truth of God’s Word 2. The children living in the rural areas will have access to fresh water 3. A better education for these children so that they will have the skills to know how to read the Bible. Lord Jesus, we pray for the children of Senegal today. Psalms 34:15 says, “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their cry.” There are so many young children, especially boys, who have to work very hard just to find food and shelter. We pray that they would come to know You as their Lord and Savior, and that they would cry out to You for help. Thank you, Jesus, for your faithfulness and your love for them. In Jesus’ mighty Name, amen.
HYMNIE’S CHALLENGE: BASKET OBSTACLE COURSE NUMBER OF PLAYERS:
1 or more
MATERIALS:
Basket to carry on head, yams
February 2009
Many Africans carry fruits and vegetables to and from the markets in bowls or baskets balanced on their heads. Try out this balancing act by filling a small basket with a few yams. Let each child try to walk across the room while balancing the basket on his head. Set up an obstacle course where the children will need to walk around, under, through, and between objects and furniture.
www.WindowKids.com
The 10/40 Window Reporter 16