Posts from — August 2010

Eleven years ago, I traveled to Pakistan and met some believers who made a lasting impact on my life.  I experienced hospitality like never before and was so impressed with the way these people opened their homes to us and shared all that they had with no hesitation.  They showed me what it means to love wholeheartedly.  And, I love them dearly for that.
I recently reconnected with our hosts, who now live in the UK.  Faisalabad, our host’s  hometown (I spent 3 nights with our group in his parent’s home there), has been brutally attacked by a militant muslim group.  Two pastors were murdered and businesses owned by Christians were burned and vandalized.  My friend is working to raise money for his family and friends to rebuild their businesses.  Here is an excerpt out of the email he sent:

“Later after murdering two brothers who were much involved in community development and Sunday school ministry locally, Muslims from three different sides surrounded the area and started shouting, screaming and making calls to shoot all Christians who live in Pakistan.”

Pastors Rashid and Sajid Emmanuel

“They burnt shops, local businesses and kept throwing stones, fireballs and attacking anyone coming in their way. Police were present there but doing nothing. I was on the phone with one of my cousins who was on the roof top hiding himself while other family fled from the area earlier. I could hear their shouts and shooting. This the area where I spent 20 years of my life, built our family house and started my ministry life. Many of the families I know have lost their income resources.”

“We’ve indentified five local people (who I know from childhood) to help
raise funds for them so that they can re-open their only income sources.
We need to help raise funds for two grocery stores, a salon, tailors shop
and for a widow who owned a local small eating corner.”

Total amount needed: $8500.00

And, get this……they are halfway there!  The dollar goes much further in Pakistan.  So, a small amount goes a long  way.

I know that it can be so incredibly easy to feel disconnected from things like this.  It’s across the world from us in a land we do not understand.  Let me just tell you all that I have been to this land, and these Christians in Pakistan love like no other people I have ever met. Let’s show them our support by pooling our resources.  If you hesitate because you can’t give more than $5, just give $5!  Every amount counts and, remember, the dollar goes much further in Pakistan!