My friends from Global Ark emailed to inform us that they are now finding groups standing against them when they show the "Jesus Film" and hold crusades. (This is the same area where we freely held crusades just a few years ago!) Many in Orissa have reconverted to Hinduism in order to escape the persecutions. One Christian organization states that 54 have been killed, 432 injured, and 27,000 now live in refugee camps!

A friend sent me an update from YWAM in Orissa. They report that the homes of 5,000 Christian families have been burned, and many believers have been slaughtered in the streets.

Our friends from Hopegivers sent out a statement that one of their churches has been burned, militants are stopping worship services, and even policeman who try to halt the violence are being killed.

Dear friends, these are our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being attacked for their faith. As they are being faithful to stand firm in the fiery trial of persecution, let us be found to stand firm with them. Let us (1) pray for the endurance of believers, defeat of the enemy, advancement of the Gospel, and salvation of the persecutors, (2) fast at least one meal a day for the next 7 days on their behalf, (3) spread the news to others, and (4) if given the opportunity, encourage the saints in India!

Due to these varied reports of persecution, I have meditated for several days on the purposes of God in allowing these trials to fall upon His people. I have found at least 20 reasons. I hope to post them soon.