…those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles… Isaiah 40:31

In the last month, there has been a terrible outbreak of violence in the state of Orissa in eastern India. In that region, we have seen the most serious spate of anti-Christian attacks since India gained independence.

Extremist Hindus, emboldened by the lack of response from the Indian government, have also incited and carried out further violence in other parts of India, but the attacks in Orissa are considerably and noticeably worse than what has previously happened to Christians in India.

Christian leader’s house burning - Photo AICC
 
At least 50,000 people have been displaced. 50 people have been reported killed, although the actual number is probably higher. Thousands of homes have been destroyed. Brutal violence has been carried out by mobs incited by radical Hindu nationalists. All of the victims are Dalits and tribals, and the violence is being instigated by extremist Hindu nationalists.

As Christians, we have the privilege to stand in solidarity with those who are persecuted for their faith.  8 November 2008 is the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP), and this year we are focusing on ‘hope’.  Sign up to receive our free youth and student worker pack that is full of ideas for getting your young people involved in IDOP.

As we pray hope into suffering, we look forward to seeing the weary given strength, the weak given power and Christians around the world soaring on wings like eagles.