Open Doors
|
Supporting persecuted Christians My wife Lynda and I have for many years supported Open Doors, an organisation that represents, protects and helps Christians around the world who are persecuted because of their faith. Some of you may have heard of Open Doors and may already appreciate how widespread and awful this persecution is – others may be less familiar. Begun in the 1950s by a young man from Holland known as 'Brother Andrew' who smuggled Bibles behind the 'Iron Curtain' in his VW Beetle, Open Doors continues in its avowed aim to support persecuted Christians. As well as continuing to bring Bibles to those desperate to read God's word for themselves, many other services are provided. These range from general awareness raising through media bulletins and prayer materials, to specific 'on the ground' help including provision of 'safe havens', trauma counselling and legal representation. A web site, 'persecution world map', monthly prayer diary and weekly 'email prayer alerts' keep other Christians informed. Having received these updates for many years Lynda and I continue to be horrified and saddened at the repression experienced by many of our Christian brothers and sisters, and in awe of the courage often shown by these dear ones living out their faith under the threat of many sufferings – including organised rape, imprisonment and even public execution. These are not pleasant matters to think about, but for many Christians they are the reality of living in our world today. Prayer is a key way in which we can all contribute to their protection. Lynda and I use the information in our daily quiet times, and the church where we worshipped prior to our recent arrival at St Andrews has a specific weekly 'prayer spot' for Open Doors. We are in a privileged position in this country in being able to hold to our Christian faith without the risks described above. Even here however, there are increasing instances of Christians being limited in what they can say or do – well publicised recent UK examples include a Christian flight attendant banned from wearing a crucifix, and a nurse disciplined for offering to pray with a sick patient. Using the freedoms still available to us, it is good to remember our less fortunate brothers and sisters in our prayers. They have much to teach us – would we be brave enough to openly live out our faith in Jesus under their circumstances? To learn more about Open Doors please ask Lynda or myself for a sample prayer letter, or visit their website at www.opendoorsuk.org.
David Deeks |
