Day 22 of 30
By Karamat from Mahabba’s Network Team
Inspired by today's entry in the 30 Days of Prayer booklet, but with a UK twist!
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Daily verse
“When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. You must treat the foreigner living among you as native-born and love him as yourself, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God.”
Thought for the day
Conditions apply
A journalist contact of mine recently summed up Pakistan in these words: “it’s not inclusive of all its citizens. We are Pakistani by birth but conditions apply. Certain sects, women, religious and sexual minorities, artistes, entertainers and of course the poor are constantly let down. Only a particular ideology and mindset is accepted as Pakistani -- by the state and even by the people at large. But as a woman, there is no doubt in my mind that both the Pakistan and Islam of today have little room for women as free individuals. If I was a Christian or Hindu girl, I could have been abducted. If I had run away with a lover, I could be killed for honour. If I were raped, I would be expected to stay silent while the perpetrators would have impunity.” There is some hope with the recent change of government led by Imran Khan.
In the context of Britain, many towns and cities have a significant Pakistani community, with the largest being in Birmingham where there are up to 200,000 of the community. The vast majority of the community come from Azad Kashmir, the disputed territory under Pakistani control. The community is one of the most deprived of ethnic groups. If they are employed this will be in low paid jobs, in cheap restaurants, the retail trade and driving taxis. They follow their religion, Islam. Few have become followers of Christ. It would be fair to say they are the ‘Samaritans’ of our times.
Prayer for the day
Pray for the nations of Pakistan and Kashmir, for religious freedom and protection of minorities. In the British context pray that the community prospers and are open to the message of the Gospel.
Daily action
Pakistanis make up the largest minority in UK. Watch this video: BBC "How Pakistani city of Mirpur became Little England." Get to know your Pakistani neighbours. Check where they live. Consider prayer walking in an area near you (maybe near the mosque in your area) and praying and interceding as well as visiting shops and talking to people. It's fun…
Your turn
Let us know how it went! Leave a comment below, or tag us on social media with the #lovefast hashtag on social media. You can find us on Facebook and Twitter!
Resources
Do you want to involve your church in blessing Muslim people through prayer and friendship?
There are new 30 Days of Prayer church resources available for you:
Pray Together as a Congregation
Small Group Session
Night of Power Prayer Meeting
Prayer Walk Guide
What’s your next step after 30 Days? There are loads of resources to help you on your journey.