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IDOP 2011 THEME: Victorious in Christ
This year’s IDOP Canada theme is Victorious in Christ, based in based in Revelation 2:3 & 7:
3You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.
7Whoever has ears, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.
The word “Victory” may not be the first thing we think of when we consider the increasing tide of Christian persecution around the world. In fact, to many in the Western World – it is difficult to think of “victory” when thinking about “persecution”. As we take time to pray and consider those who are mistreated for taking a stand in Christ, may we remember what scripture has to say about persecution. The enduring of hardship for the name of Christ reaps the rewards of heaven. Endurance is the story of every Christian who is threatened with personal and physical harm, and still stands for Christ.
This year, as we remember our brothers and sisters who are suffering for their faith in Jesus, let us pray earnestly for their safety and for their freedom. Let’s pray for increased freedom to express their faith without persecution. And as we do so, may we also allow ourselves to be inspired and changed by their examples of faith and courage.
What difference do our prayers make? Persecuted Christians when asked what believers in the West can do for them, answer “pray”. They aren’t seeking to be rescued or removed from their situations. They seek the support of fellow Christians through prayer. Our prayers give spiritual and emotional support to suffering believers. Our prayers move the hand of God and change circumstances. Intercession through prayer helps the persecuted and those around them hold on to the peace and victory of Jesus.