In the two weeks following the June ceasefire with Israel, at least 21 Christians were arrested in several Iranian cities. Some relate to the alleged possession of Bibles, but other details are yet unknown, although evangelical Christians are often accused of being spies or “Zionists.”
In addition, the well-being and whereabouts of some of the Christians transferred from Evin Prison after Israel’s air strike are unknown. News sources say the attack killed five prisoners (but 75 staff and military), and the thousands moved to other locations now face overcrowded cells, limited toilets, insect infestations and other difficulties. Furthermore, a heatwave in Iran has brought on energy and water shortages due to temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees Celsius (104-122 Fahrenheit).
Aida Najaflou, 43, said she and other transfers from Evin now suffer, “entangled and helpless,” in unsanitary conditions without clean water, proper food, or air conditioner. “Aida was one of five Christians recently charged with ‘gathering and collusion’ and ‘propaganda against the Islamic Republic of Iran’ in an indictment that referred to ordinary Christian acts such as praying and performing baptisms as examples of their alleged crimes. The indictment also referred to the Bible as a ‘prohibited book,'” writes Article 18 (July 10).
Conversion to Christianity is punishable by death in 98% Muslim Iran, ranking them as the eighth most dangerous country in the world for those who seek to follow Christ, but first as far as the fastest growing underground church.
Lord, please be near to Aida and the others in prison. Protect them from illness or harm. Wrap them in Your arms and let them feel Your presence. Speak to them tenderly and encourage them in the toughest hours. Provide for all their needs and make the way for their release. Use them as mighty witnesses, sharing Your love with other prisoners. Fill them with forgiveness and grace, empower them with Your message of truth, and draw many lost Muslims to You through them. When they and other Christians are brought before the authorities and interrogated, give them the words to say. Shine so brightly through them, their persecutors tremble in fear of the Lord and are drawn to You by the glory in their faces.
Sustain every Christian in Iran, Lord. Lift them up to soar over every trial on Your Eagle wings. Be a Shield around them, hiding them from those who wish to do them harm, and give them favor with all their neighbors and those in authority. Bring to them those who are seekers, longing to know the God of Love in the midst of so much hatred and violence their culture has known. Help believers know who is truly seeking and who is a plant placed there to spy on the church. Hide underground churches from those who wish Your people harm, but make them easy to find for those who truly want to know You. Grow Your church in Iran by the millions. Awaken every Muslim to hunger for You, Lord. May Your Kingdom come to every village, every home, every people group, every Islamic extremist, every person in government, every heart. Visit the lost in their dreams to tell them who You are. Don’t let even one more person die without hearing the truth about Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. May they know once and for all that You alone are the Way, the Truth and the Life. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
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