“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.  This is good, and pleases God our Savior,  who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:1-4)

I was reminded today of the need to continue praying for peace and protection for our brothers and sisters in India.  While India doesn’t rank near the top of the list of countries with extreme persecution of Christians, believers there do face pockets of trouble ranging from general harassment to outright attacks.

There is a tendency to think that in a country like India which is the world’s largest democracy with a booming economy that tolerance and peace would be a given.  Not necessarily so.  While India prides itself on its diversity and tolerance, anywhere radical Hinduism takes hold, Christians are targeted. Radical Hindus generally contend that to be Indian is to be Hindu.  Any other religion is seen as a foreign intrusion and not truly Indian.  So much for tolerance.

If you are interested in reading about some of the incidents of persecution of Christians in India, here are some sources of information:

• Christian Persecution India
• Jesus Saves. But Not In Karnataka
• Hindu Extremists Force Orphans to Pay Idol Worship Fee

While we tend to want a political solution to this type of problem, I believe Jesus is calling us to turn fully to Him, to seek Him and to trust Him to work in these situations.

So let’s remember to intercede and plead in the Throne Room on behalf of our Indian sisters and brothers. And may He get all the glory when they are rescued!

“Continue to remember … those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” (Hebrews 13:3)