christians under persecution

On Sunday, November 13 it is International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Christians. Thousands of believers will be setting time aside to pray for their brothers and sisters in Christ who daily feel threats, battle fear & loneliness, have been torn away from their loved ones, experience hunger, pain, discomfort, and live in horrid, unimaginable circumstances. We also pray that our brothers and sisters experience God's abounding grace so that they become bold and dare to witness, as well as learn the joy of forgiveness.
During the month of November, I am going to focus and write about the Persecuted Church and what it means to be "chained with prisoners - those who are mistreated as if we ourselves are beside them" - Hebrews 13:2.

Behnam Irani lives in Iran where 98.64% of the population is Muslim and 0.51% professes Christ. He is a 41 year old church leader. Behnam was in his home in April 2010 leading 10 young men who were newly converted in Bible Study. A raid took place and Behnam was arrested and sentenced to one year in prison for "propaganda against the regime." A few weeks ago, 3 days before his release the sentence was extended by 5 more years. There is concern that he might be charged with apostasy.
The reality is that this is happening all over the world.
Mothers & fathers are abruptly forced from their homes, at times even beaten or shot in front of their children. Families are followed and watched. Neighbours can become sources of information.  Churches are burned to the ground while crowds cheer and chant "death to the Christians." Children watch their parents being snatched away and are left to defend for themselves. Those who help these poor children also risk their lives. I can write on and on. This is what is happening and we are called to take action.
I hope and pray that during these next few weeks that you will stay with me. There are ways that we can encourage -(pour courage into) those who are bound with chains.