Just after my joyful posting yesterday, I checked my email and read two seperate stories of people suffering for being followers of Jesus… I post them here for our consideration…
from Iran:
about three weeks ago, two Iranian Christian women, E. and R. , were arrested by the Iranian security forces. Their only crime is that they are committed Christians who follow the teachings of Jesus. They are being unfairly labeled as ‘anti-government activists’, because of the hostility of the government towards practicing Christians.
Their shared apartment was searched and personal belongings confiscated. They were hand-cuffed and first taken to the Police and Security Station. Then they were taken to the National Security Section of the Revolutionary Court. Afterwards, several sessions of interrogation took place. Finally, after appearing at the Revolutionary Court, they were sent to the notorious Evin Prison where they are being held without charge.
They have been told they could be freed on a bail of $ .4 million. This excessive bail level is unrealistic and is designed to intimidate and make the release impossible. The families have subsequently been told on several occasions a judge is not available to discuss the case.
Both women are allowed just a one minute telephone call every day to their immediate families. Both are unwell and in need of urgent medical attention. During their last call three days ago one of them said that she was suffering from an infection and high fever. She said ‘I am dying’.
There has been a noted increase in government intimidation of the Christians. Last year they were over 50 known cases of arrests and imprisonment. They were some cases of torture. Iranian Christian leaders from around the world are calling for the immediate and unconditional release of these women. We ask world governments to put pressure on Iran to ensure freedom of religion. Prayers are being offered for their safe release. We ask Christians around the globe to continue to pray.
This is no April fools joke, this, my friends, is what many followers of Jesus experience today and have been experiencing through the ages.
tomorrow – from Turkey
kingdom travelin' 