persecution.com

Murder by Prayer

The three Christians stood in disbelief as police clapped them in handcuffs. They were going to jail, simply for praying for a sick woman.

Surjan, Kolah and Krishna were typical members in a village church in eastern India. They hadn’t been openly sharing the gospel in the streets, which would certainly draw persecution. They had simply prayed for the wife of a friend who was ill. But instead of getting better, the woman died, and the villagers blamed the three Christians who had prayed for her. Suddenly the three men were in handcuffs and had no idea when they would see their families again.

Kolah mostly worried about 27-year-old Krishna. The young man had only been a Christian for a month. What would time in prison do to his young faith?

Help Persecuted Christians in India

In prison, guards called the three men the “Halleluiah people” — followers of a strange religion. Surjan, Kolah and Krishna met every morning for prayer and to encourage each other. As the months passed, they shared the gospel with fellow prisoners; 13 came to know the Lord.

A VOM-sponsored lawyer was able to get the three Christians released on bail after 11 months in prison, but they still face a trial. They may yet face life in prison for the crime of “murder” by prayer.

And as for Krishna? Jail couldn’t kill the growing love he has for Jesus. He continues to worship with his church and yes, even pray.

Stand with Indian Christians