Photo: Wikimedia / Nikhil More (CC)
Three years ago, "Sameer" (whose name has been changed for security reasons) came to faith in Jesus after witnessing his wife's miraculous healing from a life-threatening health condition. "That day, we knew the love and power of God," he recounts, "and we gave our lives to Christ." Following their decisions, however, the new believers began to experience opposition from unapproving members of their community.
On September 27th, Sameer's mother came to the couple trembling. She had overheard other villagers plotting to kill the converted believers in an effort to make the village "Christian-free." The concerned mother urged the endangered couple to leave the area immediately. A few minutes later, Sameer's brother warned him to do the same. That evening, the Christian man quietly left the village, while his wife remained at home.
The next morning, Sameer received a call from his brother with devastating news. A mob had gathered at the couple's home, demanding: "Will you deny Jesus or let your house be destroyed?" When Sameer's wife refused, the militants mocked her and ordered that she leave the village. With little choice, the Christian woman fled the area, and their house was subsequently destroyed along with everything they owned.
The couple is now living with fellow Christians in a town located nearly 80 kilometres from their home village. Despite the ordeal, Sameer remains firm in his faith. "I will continue to follow Jesus, no matter what," he proclaims. "It may be difficult to return to my village because the people there have vowed to make the entire village Christian-free, but I know God is with me. I need to start my life from scratch.... God will help me as I trust in Him for love and care."
This incident reflects the experience of many Christian converts in India, particularly those in rural villages. To read previously published reports addressing similar acts of persecution, visit our country profile.
- Please intercede for Sameer and his wife as they consider their next steps, praying that they will receive peace of mind, divine guidance and the necessary provisions to rebuild their lives in a new village.
- Praise God for sustaining this couple's faith in the midst of persecution and the resulting consequences by providing them strength and courage – in keeping with His promises to all who call upon Him.
- Pray for the couple's family members, along with the opposing villagers who destroyed their home, asking that all those who have yet to surrender their lives to Jesus would be drawn to Him through the testimony of these two faithful believers.
Population
