One of the challenges our partners face in parts of Kyrgyzstan is the growth of Islam, especially among the younger generation. In some areas, teens and young adults are expected to recite parts of the Quran before they’re allowed into one popular fast-food restaurant.
While most people who are passingly familiar with Islam know that its holy book is the Quran, far fewer are aware of the expansive library of hadith that usually accompany the Quran.
The gospel of Matthew details an odd story about a failed healing being brought to Jesus. A man pulls out of the crowd and says to Christ, “‘Lord, have mercy on my son, for he has seizures and he suffers terribly. For often he falls into the fire, and often into the water. And I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him.’” (Matthew 17:15-16, ESV).
In Central Asia, there is a story about a weaver who imprudently fell in love with a princess, but then many great loves seem ill advised to those on the outside.
The heart of the church and their discipleship movement is to always keep your eyes open for people in need around you, always look for God’s hand on people and listen to his voice as you interact with others.
Chances are good that if you’re a parent, you can quote Ephesians 6:1-3 by heart. “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ (this is the first commandment with a promise), ‘that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.’”
Kyrgyzstan is a country of astonishing history and breathtaking landscapes.
On the northwest border of China, its soaring peaks rival Switzerland’s mighty Alps. Here several branches of the ancient Silk Road met, and Persian, Turkish, Russian and Asian cultures blended.
The first or second Sunday of November—the date depends on your church or denomination—is considered an international day of prayer for the persecuted church, and the believers in India could certainly use our prayers.
In a country in Central Asia, a center for young adults buzzes with joyful activity. 15 young men and women are occupied in productive crafts—sewing, making jewelry, repairing electronics. One cuts hair and does manicures. Some have found vocations, earning diplomas outside the center—in massage therapy, cooking and wood-burning.