Posts
Tuesday
Historically Tibetan Buddhism has had both a religious and a political influence. The temples own land and have their own bonded farmer-servants. Since the liberation the temples must be financially self-sufficient and depend on the offerings and the work of the monks to support their operation. We pray for all of the believers in Tibetan Buddhism whether in Tibet, Quinghai, or Sichuan. Many would consider them to be "hard soil" and even inferior ethnically. We pray for removal of their ethnic pride and genuine compassion for lost souls in this vast region where spiritual darkness prevails.
Wednesday
In general the life of the average Tibetan has improved in recent years and giving to the temples has greatly increased as well. With an increase in tourism and more interest in their religion, Tibetan Buddhism has experienced a financial resurgence and a greater exposure to people of the world. There is a long-standing feeling of strain between Han Chinese and Tibetans which is compounded by the Han Chinese people's sense of cultural and ethnic superiority over the Tibetans. Let us pray for all Chinese believers since we all need to be humble and thankful before God and cultural pride has no place in our outreach to ethnic minorities and people of other cultures.
Thursday
Officially, 100 million Chinese have various mental illnesses, most commonly anxiety and depression. Less than half of the afflicted know about their illness and even fewer receive help for it. From those with severe mental illnesses, only one in four have received any formal treatment. China churches are really not equipped to handle the myriad of mental and psychiatric problems of their believers. Churches have little resources; few pastors have any training to cope or counsel their afflicted. Let us pray for those who are suffering psychologically and their families and churches who must cope and deal with them.
Friday
Juvenile delinquency has been on the rise in China. In Guangdong, minors account for 10% of criminal cases, mostly robberies and thefts. A new law went into effect in 2009, imposing that minors must go home to sleep. Breaking the law, internet and game addiction, smoking, drinking and loitering are problems facing China youth today. Many Christian parents are at a loss of how to discipline their only child. Let us pray for wisdom, love, patience and divine guidance in raising up children for God.
Saturday
Taoism does not have as many followers as other major religions in China, but its influence is pervasive in the Chinese society. Much of the superstitious practices and worship of spirits are tied to Taoism. Once strictly forbidden, today these superstitious practices have roared back to life. We pray for many believers who have relatives who practices these superstitions and mixed-Taoism practices, warding off evils, fortune-telling. May the Lord give them good witness and courage to share the Good News and Peace of God with them.
Sunday
Gambling is a rampant problem for both the city residents and farmers alike. There are plenty of gambling avenues from legal lotteries to illegal gambling houses. Not only the rich are gambling, the poor are in it too. Chinese work hard and they gamble hard too. We pray for believers who have family members who are addicted to gambling, especially those wives who could no longer trust their husbands and must protect themselves from the debts and debt collectors.
Monday
It is estimated that China has about 83 millions handicapped people. Government provides little medical subsidies, their communities often have no facilities for handicapped persons. Being a handicap in China is a literally a "burden" on the family, there is no employment and must depend on family members to survive. We pray for believers who are crippled or bedridden, may the Lord comfort them and bring them joy. We too pray for those who care for their handicapped parents or children, may the Lord grant them patience and strength, knowing He is pleased by their sacrificial love.
星期二
歷來藏傳佛教是採用「政教合一」制度，上層僧侶在宗教及政治上都具有很大的影響力。經濟上，寺廟擁有大量土地和農奴。自從解放後，西藏寺廟實行以寺養寺，依靠外來的捐獻和僧人的生產來營運。 很多人視藏族為福音硬土，讓我們爲西藏、青海及四川各地的藏傳佛教徒禱告，求神除去各人的種族優越感，以仁愛和憐憫爲着這班被黑暗勢力所籠罩、失喪的靈魂代求。
星期三
近年來，一般藏民的生活已有所改善，捐贈寺廟的佈施也與日俱增。由於旅遊業的增長及世人對藏傳佛教興趣的提昇，藏傳佛教不單在財政收入上大幅飆升，且更廣泛為外界所認識。長久以來，漢族和藏族之間都存在着張力。再者，漢人常認爲自己的文化和民族較藏人優越。譲我們爲身為漢人的弟兄姐妹禱告，譲我們都懂得在神面前謙卑感恩。不要譲民族自豪感成爲向少數民族和其他不同文化族群傳福音時的絆腳石。
星期四
據官方統計，大約一億中國人患有各式各樣的精神疾病，其中最常見的是焦慮症和抑鬱症。然而，只有不到一半的患者了解自己的病情，而能得到幫助的患者則更少。在那些有嚴重精神疾病的患者中，只有四分之一的人正式接受過某種形式的治療。目前教會實際上沒有什麼資源，也幾乎沒有牧師受過任何應付和輔導精神疾病患者的正式培訓。不具備處理其所牧養會眾在精神和心理方面問題的專業知識及能力。讓我們為那些正在承受精神和心理痛苦的基督徒以及需要面對和照顧他們的家庭和教會禱告。
星期五
青少年犯罪率一直在上升之中。在廣東，未成年人犯罪，主要是搶劫和盜竊，占到了刑事案件的10 ％。最近有一項2009年正式生效的新法律，規定未成年人必須要回家睡覺。今日的中國青少年，正面臨著違法、上網、玩遊戲成癮、吸煙、酗酒和遊蕩等諸多問題。許多基督徒父母在如何教育約束自己的獨生子女上已不知所措。讓我們禱告求神賜給基督徒父母們智慧，愛心，耐心和從神而來的引導，為榮耀上帝的緣故來用心養育子女。
星期六
道教雖沒有像其他各大宗教那樣在中國有眾多的追隨者，但其在中國社會中的影響力卻十分深廣。許多的迷信活動和鬼神崇拜都和道教有關。這些活動在過去被嚴格禁止，但今天這些迷信做法又迅速發展起來，重新回到中國人的日常生活中。讓我們為有親戚在進行與道教相關的迷信活動的基督徒們禱告，求神使他們能抵擋邪惡和算命等行為，並賜給他們有好的見證和勇氣向親人分享福音及從上帝而來的平安喜樂。
星期日
對中國城市居民和農民而言，賭博都是一個十分嚴重的問題。現在賭博有從合法彩票到非法的地下博彩在內五花八門的渠道。不僅富人在賭博，連窮人也參賭，中國人努力工作，同時也努力地賭博。讓我們為那些有家庭成員染上賭癮的基督徒，特別是那些不能再繼續信任自己丈夫而必須保護自己免受債務和債主纏累的妻子們禱告。
星期一
據估計，中國大約有八千三百萬殘疾人。政府向殘疾人所能提供的醫療補貼，非常缺乏。社區中也往往沒有方便殘疾人的設施。殘疾人實際上被視為家庭的「負擔」，就業的機會幾近於無，必須仰賴其他家庭成員來存活。讓我們為那些殘疾或臥床不起的基督徒禱告，求主親自安慰他們，帶給他們喜樂。我們也為那些正在照顧有殘疾的父母或孩子的基督徒禱告，求神賜給他們耐心和力量，知道神喜悅看重他們這份「如同做在主身上」的犧牲的愛。
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Prayer Request 3/24 - 3/30
Tuesday
The Taiwan baseball team lost to China again and was eliminated in the World Baseball Classic series. The sentiment that is pervasive in Taiwan these days is, "If we can't even win in baseball, what other way can we beat China?" The coach of the Taiwanese team conceded, "China is getting better quickly while we are stagnated." Will churches in China be helping the churches in Taiwan some day? We pray that believers can worship and praise God together and encourage one another in the near future.
Wednesday
China traced and captured twelve hundred corrupt officials who escaped the country in 2008. At home there were a total of 41,179 corrupted officials who were brought to justice last year--a ten percent increase over 2007. Since the mid 1990's twenty thousand corrupt officials have fled China. Corruption is getting worse despite the government's repeated efforts to educate people and stop it. We pray that the Holy Spirit will constantly remind believers and church workers alike of their need for purity and that He will keep us all from greed. May the Lord give our church leaders integrity and humility.
Thursday
Now that the Beijing Olympics are but a memory, the spotlight is moving to Shanghai as she gears up to host the 2010 World Expo. With an anticipated seventy million visitors and two hundred participating countries, this six-month long World's Fair promises to be enormous by any measure. Shanghai is mainland China's most cosmopolitan city but historically churches there have been subdued. There are many open churches which have unique ministries to migrant and factory workers. Let us pray for revival of the churches in Shanghai and especially those fellowship groups of Christian businessmen.
Friday
Yu dan, a lady Beijing professor is a household name because she put her modern spin to the ancient Confucius literature. Her televised talk shows and books made the obscure Chinese texts of ethics understandable and relevant to common Chinese. Admittedly, non-believers will be lost listening to most of the sermons preached in churches in China. Let us pray for wisdom of all the Chinese preachers and their ability to make Biblical principles applicable to their congregation.
Saturday
Yu dan was superbly successful in making old Chinese classic popular, because she managed to make the writings of Confucius (551-479 B.C.) and Zhuangzi (369-286 B.C.) understandable, relevant and even entertaining to laymen with "colloquial re-wordings and vivid short stories". Many Chinese pastors are lost in how to connect with their audience in a personal and transparent way. Often, messages become "same and stifled". We pray for powerful preaching of God's Word across China, convicting hearers, turning believers from hearers to doers.
Sunday
China has many of the Western-styled women and men magazines; they appealed to the wealthy, fashion-conscious urban middle class. While pornography is illegal in China; these magazines walk the fine line of being racy and sex-appealing. In a way, they push the cultural boundary of timidity and taboo of display of body. China churches usually take a condemning or unhealthy negative view about sex. We pray for guarding of hearts against sexual temptation, but a healthy and Biblical appreciation of sex and a more open discussion of marital problems of believers.
Monday
Many children of migrant workers are not able to afford the extra fees levied by the local schools. Although government has prohibited those charges but other obstacles kept these children from getting the adequate education. Unable to afford the basic education and facing discrimination. Families of migrant workers are "second class citizens" in their own country. We pray for all the rural pastors who entered into cities to minister to mingong and urban churches caring especially the rural workers in their communities.
星期二
世界棒球經典賽中（WBC）台灣隊又再一次輸給中國隊(上一次是2008 北京奧運)。「如果連棒球都輸了，台灣還有什麼能贏大陸的呢？」這句話，顯示出台灣對大陸複雜的心理情緒。總教練賽後說：「中國棒球隊的進步很快，我們卻停滯不前。」中國教會會有幫助台灣教會的一天嗎? 讓我們禱告在不久的將來兩岸弟兄姊妹能一同敬拜讚美上帝，能在主裏彼此鼓勵。
星期三
2008年中國檢察機關共抓獲在逃職務犯罪嫌疑人1,200名。全年受審的貪污官職人員共41,179人，比去年上升10%。自90年代中期以來，約2萬貪官潛逃外國。儘管當局致力肅貪，但腐敗問題卻越趨嚴重。讓我們禱告求聖靈能不斷提醒教會同工和信徒追求聖潔、遠避貪婪，願神保守教會領袖們持守正直、謙卑。
星期四
北京奧林匹克運動會剛成為歷史，全球焦點又集結於上海即將舉辦的2010世界博覽會。屆時預期有超過２００個國家，或７千萬人會參加長達六個月的世界貿易會，規模之大前所未見。上海乃中國最具時代感的城市，但歷代所有教會在這地方都無法興旺。很多公開的教會都有專為民工及工廠而設的外展事工。讓我們為上海教會復興禱告，尤其記念當地的基督徒商人團契。
星期五
北京師範大學的一位女教授 – 于丹，現在在中國家喻戶曉，因為她對孔子的古典文獻“論語”作出了她自己的現代化詮釋。她的電視訪談節目和書籍，使原本艱深難解的中國古典道德著作，變得讓普通中國老百姓容易理解並覺得與自身息息相關。誠然，現在中國教會中的許多講道信息常常讓非信徒感到茫然不知所云。讓我們禱告求神賜給傳道人智慧和能力，使聖經的原則容易被理解並且被應用在生活中。
星期六
于丹將中國古典著作在當代流行推廣上做得非常成功。因為她通過「口語化的重新措詞和添加生動的短篇故事」的方式，使孔子（主前551-479年）和莊子（主前369-286年）的著作，對外行人而言，變得易於理解並與切身相關，甚至頗具娛樂性。許多中國牧師在與其會眾建立互動關係、以及透明的聯繫方式不知所措，使其講道信息常讓聽眾感到「老調重彈和令人窒息。」我們禱告神讓真道在中國大地能得到強有力地傳講，使聽眾認罪歸主，能從聽道者變成行道者。
星期日
中國現在有許多西方風格的女性和男性雜誌，讀者主要是一些富裕且具有時尚意識的城市中產階級。儘管色情業在中國是非法的，這些雜誌卻在活潑和性吸引力上大打擦邊球（遊走灰色的地帶）。從某種意義上說，他們在身體展示方面突破了膽怯和禁忌的文化邊界。中國教會在性的問題上，通常採取譴責性或不健康的負面態度。我們禱告神保守我們的心遠離性的誘惑，同時也求神讓我們對性有一個健康、合乎聖經教導的認識，能更加開放地討論信徒的婚姻問題。
星期一
隨父母進城的農民子女，入讀城市學校面對的是一道道高牆。儘管當局已下令面授農民工子女的借讀費，但還有其他登記入學的要求，擋住了城市農民工子女的入學之門。農民工遷居城市，不但供應不了兒女的基本教育，還備受歧視，成了自己國家的二等公民。有些農村教會的同工到城市牧養農民工，也有城市教會派同工專門牧養和支援農民工信徒。讓我們為這些事工禱告，求神大大賜福、使用。
The Taiwan baseball team lost to China again and was eliminated in the World Baseball Classic series. The sentiment that is pervasive in Taiwan these days is, "If we can't even win in baseball, what other way can we beat China?" The coach of the Taiwanese team conceded, "China is getting better quickly while we are stagnated." Will churches in China be helping the churches in Taiwan some day? We pray that believers can worship and praise God together and encourage one another in the near future.
Wednesday
China traced and captured twelve hundred corrupt officials who escaped the country in 2008. At home there were a total of 41,179 corrupted officials who were brought to justice last year--a ten percent increase over 2007. Since the mid 1990's twenty thousand corrupt officials have fled China. Corruption is getting worse despite the government's repeated efforts to educate people and stop it. We pray that the Holy Spirit will constantly remind believers and church workers alike of their need for purity and that He will keep us all from greed. May the Lord give our church leaders integrity and humility.
Thursday
Now that the Beijing Olympics are but a memory, the spotlight is moving to Shanghai as she gears up to host the 2010 World Expo. With an anticipated seventy million visitors and two hundred participating countries, this six-month long World's Fair promises to be enormous by any measure. Shanghai is mainland China's most cosmopolitan city but historically churches there have been subdued. There are many open churches which have unique ministries to migrant and factory workers. Let us pray for revival of the churches in Shanghai and especially those fellowship groups of Christian businessmen.
Friday
Yu dan, a lady Beijing professor is a household name because she put her modern spin to the ancient Confucius literature. Her televised talk shows and books made the obscure Chinese texts of ethics understandable and relevant to common Chinese. Admittedly, non-believers will be lost listening to most of the sermons preached in churches in China. Let us pray for wisdom of all the Chinese preachers and their ability to make Biblical principles applicable to their congregation.
Saturday
Yu dan was superbly successful in making old Chinese classic popular, because she managed to make the writings of Confucius (551-479 B.C.) and Zhuangzi (369-286 B.C.) understandable, relevant and even entertaining to laymen with "colloquial re-wordings and vivid short stories". Many Chinese pastors are lost in how to connect with their audience in a personal and transparent way. Often, messages become "same and stifled". We pray for powerful preaching of God's Word across China, convicting hearers, turning believers from hearers to doers.
Sunday
China has many of the Western-styled women and men magazines; they appealed to the wealthy, fashion-conscious urban middle class. While pornography is illegal in China; these magazines walk the fine line of being racy and sex-appealing. In a way, they push the cultural boundary of timidity and taboo of display of body. China churches usually take a condemning or unhealthy negative view about sex. We pray for guarding of hearts against sexual temptation, but a healthy and Biblical appreciation of sex and a more open discussion of marital problems of believers.
Monday
Many children of migrant workers are not able to afford the extra fees levied by the local schools. Although government has prohibited those charges but other obstacles kept these children from getting the adequate education. Unable to afford the basic education and facing discrimination. Families of migrant workers are "second class citizens" in their own country. We pray for all the rural pastors who entered into cities to minister to mingong and urban churches caring especially the rural workers in their communities.
星期二
世界棒球經典賽中（WBC）台灣隊又再一次輸給中國隊(上一次是2008 北京奧運)。「如果連棒球都輸了，台灣還有什麼能贏大陸的呢？」這句話，顯示出台灣對大陸複雜的心理情緒。總教練賽後說：「中國棒球隊的進步很快，我們卻停滯不前。」中國教會會有幫助台灣教會的一天嗎? 讓我們禱告在不久的將來兩岸弟兄姊妹能一同敬拜讚美上帝，能在主裏彼此鼓勵。
星期三
2008年中國檢察機關共抓獲在逃職務犯罪嫌疑人1,200名。全年受審的貪污官職人員共41,179人，比去年上升10%。自90年代中期以來，約2萬貪官潛逃外國。儘管當局致力肅貪，但腐敗問題卻越趨嚴重。讓我們禱告求聖靈能不斷提醒教會同工和信徒追求聖潔、遠避貪婪，願神保守教會領袖們持守正直、謙卑。
星期四
北京奧林匹克運動會剛成為歷史，全球焦點又集結於上海即將舉辦的2010世界博覽會。屆時預期有超過２００個國家，或７千萬人會參加長達六個月的世界貿易會，規模之大前所未見。上海乃中國最具時代感的城市，但歷代所有教會在這地方都無法興旺。很多公開的教會都有專為民工及工廠而設的外展事工。讓我們為上海教會復興禱告，尤其記念當地的基督徒商人團契。
星期五
北京師範大學的一位女教授 – 于丹，現在在中國家喻戶曉，因為她對孔子的古典文獻“論語”作出了她自己的現代化詮釋。她的電視訪談節目和書籍，使原本艱深難解的中國古典道德著作，變得讓普通中國老百姓容易理解並覺得與自身息息相關。誠然，現在中國教會中的許多講道信息常常讓非信徒感到茫然不知所云。讓我們禱告求神賜給傳道人智慧和能力，使聖經的原則容易被理解並且被應用在生活中。
星期六
于丹將中國古典著作在當代流行推廣上做得非常成功。因為她通過「口語化的重新措詞和添加生動的短篇故事」的方式，使孔子（主前551-479年）和莊子（主前369-286年）的著作，對外行人而言，變得易於理解並與切身相關，甚至頗具娛樂性。許多中國牧師在與其會眾建立互動關係、以及透明的聯繫方式不知所措，使其講道信息常讓聽眾感到「老調重彈和令人窒息。」我們禱告神讓真道在中國大地能得到強有力地傳講，使聽眾認罪歸主，能從聽道者變成行道者。
星期日
中國現在有許多西方風格的女性和男性雜誌，讀者主要是一些富裕且具有時尚意識的城市中產階級。儘管色情業在中國是非法的，這些雜誌卻在活潑和性吸引力上大打擦邊球（遊走灰色的地帶）。從某種意義上說，他們在身體展示方面突破了膽怯和禁忌的文化邊界。中國教會在性的問題上，通常採取譴責性或不健康的負面態度。我們禱告神保守我們的心遠離性的誘惑，同時也求神讓我們對性有一個健康、合乎聖經教導的認識，能更加開放地討論信徒的婚姻問題。
星期一
隨父母進城的農民子女，入讀城市學校面對的是一道道高牆。儘管當局已下令面授農民工子女的借讀費，但還有其他登記入學的要求，擋住了城市農民工子女的入學之門。農民工遷居城市，不但供應不了兒女的基本教育，還備受歧視，成了自己國家的二等公民。有些農村教會的同工到城市牧養農民工，也有城市教會派同工專門牧養和支援農民工信徒。讓我們為這些事工禱告，求神大大賜福、使用。
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Prayer Request 3/17 - 3/23
Tuesday
The government says that more than 20,000,000 "ming gong" or about fifteen percent of China's 130,000,000 migrant workers have returned to their homes because of the economic downturn. These rural jobless people are of special concern socially to the government, especially those migrant workers who have lost their farmland to development. It is hard to pray for millions of unemployed people while we also face financial pressure. Let us pray for His kingdom and His righteousness first as Jesus taught us. May we all grow stronger in our faith and dependence on Him, and pray especially for the unwavering faith of the millions of rural believers in China.
Wednesday
Gambling was re-introduced in China in the form of a Sports Lottery in 1984 with about a third of the proceeds going toward the building of sports arenas in various cities. Today it is the most popular lottery and even acts as a large charity. The concept of non-governmental organizations (NGO) and charity has gained attention since the Sichuan earthquake. Although the government does not recognize Christian charities, let us pray for those Christians who remained in Sichuan doing counseling and community building.
Thursday
College students in China shape the direction of society. In the famed Tiananmen Square, they were anti-government. Recently, they were leading the nationalistic and patriotic movement, from protecting the Olympic torch relay to volunteering en mass in the rescue effort in the recent Sichuan earthquake. College student ministry is a huge part of the missions effort in China. Connecting college students who accepted Jesus on campus with a local church once they graduate is a big problem. Let us pray specifically for those who were baptized in college but are no longer attending churches.
Friday
Why does the youth of China still harbor so much hatred toward Japan? On the Internet, the anti-Japanese sentiment is readily palpable and is being stoked periodically. In 2001, an actress's career was devastated because her clothing resembled the Japanese flag. "Angry youth" (fen qing) is the term coined for anti-Japanese Chinese youth. The rise of nationalism is also easily felt among the churches and some even speak of the end of the Western missionaries to China. We thank the Lord for his abundant blessing in the past 30 years; yet we must pray for true humility and unity of spirit for all believers.
Saturday
In 1972 - 1974 Mao sent millions of students to the countryside to "reform" them. Farmers taught these young people how to plant and cultivate crops. Now the government wants to lure 100,000 college grads to the countryside to help the villagers with health care, new farming methods,and forest fire prevention. Many will choose to go to work in rural areas because of the government incentives and a lack of jobs in the cities at this time. We pray for those who are involved with rural churches, for their personal and family needs (education of their child, loneliness). May the Lord richly reward their sacrifices.
Sunday
In China Shanghai, Hangzhou, Wuxi, Beijing, Dongguan, Tianjin, Sengzhen, Suzhou, Jinhua, and Ningbo are considered the ten most desirable cities in which to live. Beijing, however, tops all of them in terms of "quality of life".We should pray for the people who live in these cities because prosperity and comfort often make people in the churches lose their fervency and burden for mission. Churches in most of thse cities need much prayer for revival and that they will return to their first love for Christ.
Monday
"Shan zhai" , literally bandits in the mountains, is a new phrase popularized to euphemistically describe whatever is an imitation, pirated copy, or fake. Anything "shan zhai" is a cheaper, without-innovation version of a product， an idea，a movie, a novel, a song, or even a celebrity. Many are proud of owning something that is "shan zhai". Chinese believers are also drawn to the "name it and claim it" type of preaching. Many seek God merely for the blessing of wealth and health they think it will bring. We pray for a return to lives that are more deeply rooted in the Word of God and the practice of holiness for all believers.
星期二
政府表示，中國1.3億民工人口中的百分之十五，相等於2000萬人，因金融危機失業返鄉。失業農民工引發許多社會問題，尤其是那些農地被征用作發展用途而失去耕種用地者。當我們自身也面對金融危機的同時，要為數以百萬計的失業人口獻上禱告實不容易。讓我們遵守耶穌的教訓，先求祂的國和祂的義，對祂有更深的信賴，更大的倚靠，尤其要為數以百萬計的農村信徒信心不動搖代禱。
星期三
博彩在1984年以體育彩票之名在中國重現。「體彩」是當前最受歡迎的博彩項目，甚至成了大規模的慈善事業。目前有三分之一體彩的收益，已作各城市體育場館發展建設之用。四川地震以來，非政府組織及慈善團體這種概念日漸受到注目。雖然政府不承認基督教所舉辦的慈善團體，但我們仍要為留守在四川進行輔導工作及社區建設的基督徒志願者禱告。
星期四
大學生們對社會的發展方向具有巨大的影響力。從過去著名的天安門事件，到最近從保護奧運火炬接力的順利進行，還有大規模志願到四川地震災區進行救援工作，大學生們一直領導著民族主義愛國運動。大學生事工在中國宣教事工中占一個十分重要的部分。大學生們在校園裡接受耶穌基督後，如何使他們畢業工作後與工作所在地教會掛鉤是個大挑戰。讓我們特別為這群信徒禱告。
星期五
在互聯網上反日的情緒是顯而易見的，並且還定期地被引發。為什麼今天許多中國青年仍對日本懷有那麼深的仇恨？在2001年，一位女演員的職業生涯被毀，就因為她穿的衣服很像日本的國旗。「憤青」一詞就是為反日的中國青年所量身訂造的。崛起的民族主義情緒也很容易在教會中感受到，甚至有人主張禁止西方宣教士到中國宣教。我們感謝神在過去30年來對神州大地豐富的賜福，同時我們也求神讓中國的基督徒有從上帝而來的謙卑，能與信徒互為肢體、彼此聯合的精神。
星期六
1972-1974年，毛澤東派出數百萬的學生「上山下鄉」幫助農村公社。現在政府推出各種優惠措施，希望吸引十萬大學生到農村提升農民健康醫療、農耕方法、和防林火的知識。在嚴峻的就業情勢下，這個計劃吸引了很多年輕人。讓我們禱告記念所有到農村幫助教會和福音工作的基督徒，為他們個人和家庭的需要，包括孩子的教育以及家人可能面對的孤單，向神求恩。求主大大的獎賞他們在主裏的忠心擺上。
星期日
中國前十大理想居住的城市依次是上海、杭州、無錫、北京、東莞、天津、深圳、蘇州、金華及寧波。若單論生活水平的品質，則北京人高居榜首。大城市的繁華絢麗和舒適的生活容易叫人迷失生命的方向，信徒也容易變得不冷不熱，忘卻福音使命。讓我們多多為城市人禱告，特別祈求神的靈火復興這些城市的教會，讓基督徒們能向主重燃起初的愛心。
星期一
「山寨」，就是賊寇強盜據山為王，現在它卻成了抄襲、仿造、假冒或盜版產品的代名詞。山寨產品包括概念、電影、小說、歌曲、甚至名人明星。許多年輕人還以擁有山寨產品為傲。很多信徒被「成功神學」的教導所吸引–「明確告訴神：你要甚麼，就能夠得到甚麼。」因此很多人尋求神的動機，只為得到健康和財富的祝福。讓我們禱告這群人能回歸耶穌基督救贖的根本，與天父建立更深、更密切的關係，靠著聖靈過著以神為中心的聖潔生活。
The government says that more than 20,000,000 "ming gong" or about fifteen percent of China's 130,000,000 migrant workers have returned to their homes because of the economic downturn. These rural jobless people are of special concern socially to the government, especially those migrant workers who have lost their farmland to development. It is hard to pray for millions of unemployed people while we also face financial pressure. Let us pray for His kingdom and His righteousness first as Jesus taught us. May we all grow stronger in our faith and dependence on Him, and pray especially for the unwavering faith of the millions of rural believers in China.
Wednesday
Gambling was re-introduced in China in the form of a Sports Lottery in 1984 with about a third of the proceeds going toward the building of sports arenas in various cities. Today it is the most popular lottery and even acts as a large charity. The concept of non-governmental organizations (NGO) and charity has gained attention since the Sichuan earthquake. Although the government does not recognize Christian charities, let us pray for those Christians who remained in Sichuan doing counseling and community building.
Thursday
College students in China shape the direction of society. In the famed Tiananmen Square, they were anti-government. Recently, they were leading the nationalistic and patriotic movement, from protecting the Olympic torch relay to volunteering en mass in the rescue effort in the recent Sichuan earthquake. College student ministry is a huge part of the missions effort in China. Connecting college students who accepted Jesus on campus with a local church once they graduate is a big problem. Let us pray specifically for those who were baptized in college but are no longer attending churches.
Friday
Why does the youth of China still harbor so much hatred toward Japan? On the Internet, the anti-Japanese sentiment is readily palpable and is being stoked periodically. In 2001, an actress's career was devastated because her clothing resembled the Japanese flag. "Angry youth" (fen qing) is the term coined for anti-Japanese Chinese youth. The rise of nationalism is also easily felt among the churches and some even speak of the end of the Western missionaries to China. We thank the Lord for his abundant blessing in the past 30 years; yet we must pray for true humility and unity of spirit for all believers.
Saturday
In 1972 - 1974 Mao sent millions of students to the countryside to "reform" them. Farmers taught these young people how to plant and cultivate crops. Now the government wants to lure 100,000 college grads to the countryside to help the villagers with health care, new farming methods,and forest fire prevention. Many will choose to go to work in rural areas because of the government incentives and a lack of jobs in the cities at this time. We pray for those who are involved with rural churches, for their personal and family needs (education of their child, loneliness). May the Lord richly reward their sacrifices.
Sunday
In China Shanghai, Hangzhou, Wuxi, Beijing, Dongguan, Tianjin, Sengzhen, Suzhou, Jinhua, and Ningbo are considered the ten most desirable cities in which to live. Beijing, however, tops all of them in terms of "quality of life".We should pray for the people who live in these cities because prosperity and comfort often make people in the churches lose their fervency and burden for mission. Churches in most of thse cities need much prayer for revival and that they will return to their first love for Christ.
Monday
"Shan zhai" , literally bandits in the mountains, is a new phrase popularized to euphemistically describe whatever is an imitation, pirated copy, or fake. Anything "shan zhai" is a cheaper, without-innovation version of a product， an idea，a movie, a novel, a song, or even a celebrity. Many are proud of owning something that is "shan zhai". Chinese believers are also drawn to the "name it and claim it" type of preaching. Many seek God merely for the blessing of wealth and health they think it will bring. We pray for a return to lives that are more deeply rooted in the Word of God and the practice of holiness for all believers.
星期二
政府表示，中國1.3億民工人口中的百分之十五，相等於2000萬人，因金融危機失業返鄉。失業農民工引發許多社會問題，尤其是那些農地被征用作發展用途而失去耕種用地者。當我們自身也面對金融危機的同時，要為數以百萬計的失業人口獻上禱告實不容易。讓我們遵守耶穌的教訓，先求祂的國和祂的義，對祂有更深的信賴，更大的倚靠，尤其要為數以百萬計的農村信徒信心不動搖代禱。
星期三
博彩在1984年以體育彩票之名在中國重現。「體彩」是當前最受歡迎的博彩項目，甚至成了大規模的慈善事業。目前有三分之一體彩的收益，已作各城市體育場館發展建設之用。四川地震以來，非政府組織及慈善團體這種概念日漸受到注目。雖然政府不承認基督教所舉辦的慈善團體，但我們仍要為留守在四川進行輔導工作及社區建設的基督徒志願者禱告。
星期四
大學生們對社會的發展方向具有巨大的影響力。從過去著名的天安門事件，到最近從保護奧運火炬接力的順利進行，還有大規模志願到四川地震災區進行救援工作，大學生們一直領導著民族主義愛國運動。大學生事工在中國宣教事工中占一個十分重要的部分。大學生們在校園裡接受耶穌基督後，如何使他們畢業工作後與工作所在地教會掛鉤是個大挑戰。讓我們特別為這群信徒禱告。
星期五
在互聯網上反日的情緒是顯而易見的，並且還定期地被引發。為什麼今天許多中國青年仍對日本懷有那麼深的仇恨？在2001年，一位女演員的職業生涯被毀，就因為她穿的衣服很像日本的國旗。「憤青」一詞就是為反日的中國青年所量身訂造的。崛起的民族主義情緒也很容易在教會中感受到，甚至有人主張禁止西方宣教士到中國宣教。我們感謝神在過去30年來對神州大地豐富的賜福，同時我們也求神讓中國的基督徒有從上帝而來的謙卑，能與信徒互為肢體、彼此聯合的精神。
星期六
1972-1974年，毛澤東派出數百萬的學生「上山下鄉」幫助農村公社。現在政府推出各種優惠措施，希望吸引十萬大學生到農村提升農民健康醫療、農耕方法、和防林火的知識。在嚴峻的就業情勢下，這個計劃吸引了很多年輕人。讓我們禱告記念所有到農村幫助教會和福音工作的基督徒，為他們個人和家庭的需要，包括孩子的教育以及家人可能面對的孤單，向神求恩。求主大大的獎賞他們在主裏的忠心擺上。
星期日
中國前十大理想居住的城市依次是上海、杭州、無錫、北京、東莞、天津、深圳、蘇州、金華及寧波。若單論生活水平的品質，則北京人高居榜首。大城市的繁華絢麗和舒適的生活容易叫人迷失生命的方向，信徒也容易變得不冷不熱，忘卻福音使命。讓我們多多為城市人禱告，特別祈求神的靈火復興這些城市的教會，讓基督徒們能向主重燃起初的愛心。
星期一
「山寨」，就是賊寇強盜據山為王，現在它卻成了抄襲、仿造、假冒或盜版產品的代名詞。山寨產品包括概念、電影、小說、歌曲、甚至名人明星。許多年輕人還以擁有山寨產品為傲。很多信徒被「成功神學」的教導所吸引–「明確告訴神：你要甚麼，就能夠得到甚麼。」因此很多人尋求神的動機，只為得到健康和財富的祝福。讓我們禱告這群人能回歸耶穌基督救贖的根本，與天父建立更深、更密切的關係，靠著聖靈過著以神為中心的聖潔生活。
Monday, March 09, 2009
Prayer Request 3/10 - 3/16
Tuesday
At the annual National Party Congress session, the premier of China offered a "modest olive branch" to Taiwan without a tone of hostility. It signaled the support of the leadership in China for a series of economic measures that negotiators from Beijing and Taipei are already discussing. Beijing will also implement a huge fiscal stimulus package to achieve an 8% growth in the GDP. The global economic crisis is affecting the church and giving for missions so that much of the mission and outreach efforts will most likely be scaled back this year. Let us pray for all those who are missionaries in China and depend on faithful giving from outside. May the Lord free us from anxiety and help all of us to fix our eyes on Him.
Wednesday
Many of the farmers who went to the cities to work are laid off now, but they have no more land to cultivate when they return home. Some of them have leased the land to factories, some have sold them to the local government. Living in a village without works or land and living off saving present a bleak prospect for many. Let us pray for rural churches so they will have wisdom in how to minister to these ever increasing number of unemployed congregation.
Thursday
Are today's Chinese children the loneliest people on earth? Their parents are the product of the "one-child policy." These children not only do not have siblings but they also do not have cousins. For 90% of the young generation, the cell phone is their best friend. China churches face a huge task in reaching out to the young people who know little about "sacrifice and sharing." The sole aim of many parents is to please their only child. Let us pray for wisdom for the Christian parents and for their resolve to raise their only child for God.
Friday
Over half of the population of China lives in the countryside and nearly ten percent of them are illiterate. Although there is a basic availability of schooling for nine years, there is a lack of both qualified teachers and resources so only 4.3 percent have a high school education and 86.2 percent have a grade school or junior high education. Poor education will continue to hurt the rural churches in China in many ways, particularly in the quality of the workers and their teaching of believers. Let us lift up all those who serve in the rural churches. May the Lord add to their strength, lift them from despair, and reward them with fruit for their faithful services.
Saturday
Although there are nine years of free education readily available in the countryside in China, its quality is shockingly poor. Many students drop out, especially girls, because their families are so poor and many farmers still feel that education is useless. Unfortunately many rural Christians and even preachers still play down the need for correct Biblical interpretation and application. Faith is often based on sentimentalism as well as "signs and wonders". Let us pray for a hunger for the Word of God and an ability to defend the faith from the savage attacks of cults.
Sunday
AIDS is now the number one killer infection in China with about one death per hour. Unsafe sex is now the leading cause of the spread of HIV/AIDS. Since millions of farm laborers left home to work in the cities, the attitude toward sex has changed remarkably and prostitution and premarital sex are very common. We all need to flee form sexual temptations. Let us pray for guarding of the hearts of all believers, especially those who are away from home working or on business trips.
Monday
China recently reported a huge surplus of foreign exchange which implies that she as a market is still attractive to foreign investors. This month China made world news by acquiring substantial natural resources abroad with huge investment and unprecedented terms of purchases. Many will ask if China still needs our prayers. The answer is obvious! The nation is strong but the people will perish without Jesus. Let us affirm the call to pray for China's churches and her millions of believers, many of whom are struggling spiritually and financially.
星期二
在今年的全國人民代表大會政府工作報告中，關於台灣和兩岸關係的內容是多年來最祥和的，沒有絲毫對抗的色彩。這顯示中國領導人支持兩岸正在商討的一連串經濟措施。北京將落實巨額刺激經濟方案以保持國內生產總値可達百分之八增長。全球金融危機正逐步影響教會及宣教工作。很多原定今年推行的宣教及外展項目估計也需縮減規模。讓我們爲差派到中國的宣教士和所有依靠國外援助的人士禱告，願主除掉憂慮，讓我們定睛仰望祂。
星期三
許多民工當初出售或出租了田地到城裏工作，最近紛紛失業返鄉，回到家裏，卻已無田可耕。很多人就這樣只靠微薄的積蓄，茫茫然無所事事地在農村裏生活。讓我們為農村教會禱告，在失業會友人數急劇增加的當兒，求主使牧者們有智慧來帶領牧養，並處理教會的需要。
星期四
今天的中國兒童是地球上最孤獨的一群？他們的父母是「一胎化政策」的產品。這些孩子們不僅沒有兄弟姐妹，也沒有表（堂）兄弟姐妹。對90 ％年輕一代的人來說，手機就是他們最好的朋友。中國的教會在關懷這些對「犧牲和分享」知之甚少的年輕人，任務十分艱鉅。許多家長教育孩子的唯一目的，就是讓他們的獨生子女高興。讓我們求神讓基督徒父母們有智慧和決心，為蒙上帝的賜福，願遵其誡命來教養他們唯一的孩子。
星期五
中國農村人口佔全國總人口的54.3 ％；在農村就業人口中，文盲佔9.5 ％ ，小學及初中文化程度人口佔86.20 ％ ，高中以上學歷人口僅佔4.3 ％ 。九年義務教育在中國農村已基本普及實行，但農村教育的質量急待提高，合資格的農村師資亦十分缺乏。教育落後將影響中國農村教會多方面發展，尤其是教會同工的質素和信徒培育。讓我們把所有在農村教會事奉的同エ交托主，求主加添他們力量不喪志，並悅納、賞賜他們的忠心。
星期六
九年義務教育在中國農村已基本普及，但教學水平低劣。農村學童輟學率較高，尤以女童爲甚。一方面因農村家庭貧窮，另一方面因部分農民仍抱有「知識無用」的觀念。許多農村的基督徒，甚至傳道人都不着重解經的嚴謹性及應用屬靈原則的必要性。信仰往往建基於感情和「神蹟奇事」上。讓我們一起為所有農村教會禱告，求主使它們渴慕聖經話語，懂得爲真理抗辯，有能力敵擋異端。
星期日
愛滋病已成為中國第一號傳染病殺手，平均每一小時就有一人死於愛滋病。感染的主因是透過不安全的性行為。中國社會對性的態度轉變非常大。大量農民工從家鄉遷徙到城市，娼妓也就應運而生，婚前性行為也甚爲普遍。讓我們爲所有信徒禱告，願神保守每個人的心，能遠離性方面的誘惑。特別是那些要離鄉別井到城市打工的或是要到各地出差的。
星期一
中國現有大量的外匯盈餘，意味著中國市場對外資仍有很大的吸引力。中國企業在本月更成爲國際新聞的重點，它們以巨額併構或投資海外頗具規模的天然資源企業。「中國還需要我們的禱告嗎？」答案是不容置疑的–『當然！』。縱然國家再強大，但人若沒有耶穌基督仍是死路一條。譲我們有決心繼續爲中國教會和千千萬萬中國的信衆禱告。與他們每日不斷地在經濟上和屬靈的爭戰裡並肩作戰。
At the annual National Party Congress session, the premier of China offered a "modest olive branch" to Taiwan without a tone of hostility. It signaled the support of the leadership in China for a series of economic measures that negotiators from Beijing and Taipei are already discussing. Beijing will also implement a huge fiscal stimulus package to achieve an 8% growth in the GDP. The global economic crisis is affecting the church and giving for missions so that much of the mission and outreach efforts will most likely be scaled back this year. Let us pray for all those who are missionaries in China and depend on faithful giving from outside. May the Lord free us from anxiety and help all of us to fix our eyes on Him.
Wednesday
Many of the farmers who went to the cities to work are laid off now, but they have no more land to cultivate when they return home. Some of them have leased the land to factories, some have sold them to the local government. Living in a village without works or land and living off saving present a bleak prospect for many. Let us pray for rural churches so they will have wisdom in how to minister to these ever increasing number of unemployed congregation.
Thursday
Are today's Chinese children the loneliest people on earth? Their parents are the product of the "one-child policy." These children not only do not have siblings but they also do not have cousins. For 90% of the young generation, the cell phone is their best friend. China churches face a huge task in reaching out to the young people who know little about "sacrifice and sharing." The sole aim of many parents is to please their only child. Let us pray for wisdom for the Christian parents and for their resolve to raise their only child for God.
Friday
Over half of the population of China lives in the countryside and nearly ten percent of them are illiterate. Although there is a basic availability of schooling for nine years, there is a lack of both qualified teachers and resources so only 4.3 percent have a high school education and 86.2 percent have a grade school or junior high education. Poor education will continue to hurt the rural churches in China in many ways, particularly in the quality of the workers and their teaching of believers. Let us lift up all those who serve in the rural churches. May the Lord add to their strength, lift them from despair, and reward them with fruit for their faithful services.
Saturday
Although there are nine years of free education readily available in the countryside in China, its quality is shockingly poor. Many students drop out, especially girls, because their families are so poor and many farmers still feel that education is useless. Unfortunately many rural Christians and even preachers still play down the need for correct Biblical interpretation and application. Faith is often based on sentimentalism as well as "signs and wonders". Let us pray for a hunger for the Word of God and an ability to defend the faith from the savage attacks of cults.
Sunday
AIDS is now the number one killer infection in China with about one death per hour. Unsafe sex is now the leading cause of the spread of HIV/AIDS. Since millions of farm laborers left home to work in the cities, the attitude toward sex has changed remarkably and prostitution and premarital sex are very common. We all need to flee form sexual temptations. Let us pray for guarding of the hearts of all believers, especially those who are away from home working or on business trips.
Monday
China recently reported a huge surplus of foreign exchange which implies that she as a market is still attractive to foreign investors. This month China made world news by acquiring substantial natural resources abroad with huge investment and unprecedented terms of purchases. Many will ask if China still needs our prayers. The answer is obvious! The nation is strong but the people will perish without Jesus. Let us affirm the call to pray for China's churches and her millions of believers, many of whom are struggling spiritually and financially.
星期二
在今年的全國人民代表大會政府工作報告中，關於台灣和兩岸關係的內容是多年來最祥和的，沒有絲毫對抗的色彩。這顯示中國領導人支持兩岸正在商討的一連串經濟措施。北京將落實巨額刺激經濟方案以保持國內生產總値可達百分之八增長。全球金融危機正逐步影響教會及宣教工作。很多原定今年推行的宣教及外展項目估計也需縮減規模。讓我們爲差派到中國的宣教士和所有依靠國外援助的人士禱告，願主除掉憂慮，讓我們定睛仰望祂。
星期三
許多民工當初出售或出租了田地到城裏工作，最近紛紛失業返鄉，回到家裏，卻已無田可耕。很多人就這樣只靠微薄的積蓄，茫茫然無所事事地在農村裏生活。讓我們為農村教會禱告，在失業會友人數急劇增加的當兒，求主使牧者們有智慧來帶領牧養，並處理教會的需要。
星期四
今天的中國兒童是地球上最孤獨的一群？他們的父母是「一胎化政策」的產品。這些孩子們不僅沒有兄弟姐妹，也沒有表（堂）兄弟姐妹。對90 ％年輕一代的人來說，手機就是他們最好的朋友。中國的教會在關懷這些對「犧牲和分享」知之甚少的年輕人，任務十分艱鉅。許多家長教育孩子的唯一目的，就是讓他們的獨生子女高興。讓我們求神讓基督徒父母們有智慧和決心，為蒙上帝的賜福，願遵其誡命來教養他們唯一的孩子。
星期五
中國農村人口佔全國總人口的54.3 ％；在農村就業人口中，文盲佔9.5 ％ ，小學及初中文化程度人口佔86.20 ％ ，高中以上學歷人口僅佔4.3 ％ 。九年義務教育在中國農村已基本普及實行，但農村教育的質量急待提高，合資格的農村師資亦十分缺乏。教育落後將影響中國農村教會多方面發展，尤其是教會同工的質素和信徒培育。讓我們把所有在農村教會事奉的同エ交托主，求主加添他們力量不喪志，並悅納、賞賜他們的忠心。
星期六
九年義務教育在中國農村已基本普及，但教學水平低劣。農村學童輟學率較高，尤以女童爲甚。一方面因農村家庭貧窮，另一方面因部分農民仍抱有「知識無用」的觀念。許多農村的基督徒，甚至傳道人都不着重解經的嚴謹性及應用屬靈原則的必要性。信仰往往建基於感情和「神蹟奇事」上。讓我們一起為所有農村教會禱告，求主使它們渴慕聖經話語，懂得爲真理抗辯，有能力敵擋異端。
星期日
愛滋病已成為中國第一號傳染病殺手，平均每一小時就有一人死於愛滋病。感染的主因是透過不安全的性行為。中國社會對性的態度轉變非常大。大量農民工從家鄉遷徙到城市，娼妓也就應運而生，婚前性行為也甚爲普遍。讓我們爲所有信徒禱告，願神保守每個人的心，能遠離性方面的誘惑。特別是那些要離鄉別井到城市打工的或是要到各地出差的。
星期一
中國現有大量的外匯盈餘，意味著中國市場對外資仍有很大的吸引力。中國企業在本月更成爲國際新聞的重點，它們以巨額併構或投資海外頗具規模的天然資源企業。「中國還需要我們的禱告嗎？」答案是不容置疑的–『當然！』。縱然國家再強大，但人若沒有耶穌基督仍是死路一條。譲我們有決心繼續爲中國教會和千千萬萬中國的信衆禱告。與他們每日不斷地在經濟上和屬靈的爭戰裡並肩作戰。
Monday, March 02, 2009
Prayer Request 3/3 - 3/9
Tuesday
Two rare bronze sculptures were sold at an astronomical price recently. The two disputed bronze fountainheads--that of a rat and a rabbit--had disappeared from China's Summer Imperial Palace in 1860. Although they are not considered to be artistic masterpieces, nationalistic pride and shame are connected with the lost of these two treasures. The rise of nationalism and patriotism have the effect of a double-edged sword on the Christian churches since they are still connected with Western thinking and even the imperialism of the past. Let us pray for the softening of the hearts of our kindred toward the gospel and that more intellectuals will come to truly know Jesus Christ.
Wednesday
It is estimated that the population of Henan province will reach 100,000,000 by 2010. Every day there are 3200 children born and although family planning is strictly enforced, the average birth rate is 1.65 child per family there with the peak coming in 2012. In terms of population, Henan leads China with five million more people than in Shangdong province. Henan is also the bastion of house churches in China but they have suffered a great decline due to divisions, cult attacks, and the loss of young people. We uplift all the Henan believers for their growth, an unwavering faith in the Lord, and revival in their churches.
Thursday
A criminal indictment in Beijing shows that even the officials in the lowly garbage collection services can be very corrupted. Recent arrests show a trend that corruption is even worse in mid or low level. In fact, anyone who handle money can easily be corrupted. Offering and use of money among most of the Chinese church are handled by "trusted" leaders, with little transparency or accountability. We pray for guarding of hearts against greed for all who handles money in church. May the Lord also protect us from all temptations.
Friday
Churches in China literally divide among various theological beliefs. Furthermore, Chinese believers can be put into four generalized groups. The first (which we will mention today) is the "submitting" type who easily accept political realities and official mandates. They insist that the Bible teaches us to submit to those who are over us. Let us pray for favor for all churches in the eyes of the officials, the police, and those in charge of religious affairs. We realize that the officials know well all the meeting points but often leave the worshippers alone. We pray the good testimonies of believers will continue to give them a good relationship with the officials.
Saturday
A second major category of Christians in China is those who choose to be "low-profile". They heartily believe that only the gospel of Jesus can change people and society but they prefer not to become involved in politics and even refuse to dialogue with the officials. They would rather merely preach the Word of God. Let us pray particularly for these churches. May the Lord strengthen their leaders with a strong bond of fellowship and joy in training a new generation of leadership to continue their ministries as they preach what the Bible teachers.
Sunday
A third category of Chinese Christians is the "constructive" type who are mostly from urban churches and believe that Christians must be part of the society and community. In addition to evangelism they are involved in relief, rural community health care, and outreach to families through education. We pray that this group of believers will lead the churches of China forward in the coming years so that people can see the love of God for them and Christians will also have more love for their neighbors. May the Lord give us more believers who are willing to live out their faith and be light and salt in the earth.
Monday
The so-called "prophetic" type is the fourth category of Chinese Christians. This group strongly believes that change does not come from the heart alone but the social and political systems must also change. They are often frustrated with the status quo. We uplift our brothers and sisters who feel frustrated that there are few or very slow changes happening in the national policy toward religion and faith. We commit them into God's hand and pray for wisdom knowing that God is in control and He will give us His wisdom.
星期二
圓明園在戰爭時被掠奪的獸首拍賣激起了民族主義義憤。這兩個銅製鼠與兔形「水龍頭」的藝術價值，雖達不到「國寶」級別，但這些文物背負著的歷史和文化含義，使它們格外受人關注，以致「因為國恥而成為國寶」，價格暴漲成天文數字。 民族和愛國主義的崛起對中國教會是把雙刃劍，因為在一般百姓心中，基督教仍與西方，甚至過去帝國主義相關聯。求主軟化中國百姓對福音抗拒的心態，也讓更多的知識分子有機會明白基督信仰的真義。
星期三
預計2010下半年，河南將成為中國第一個人口過億的省份。河南省每天出生3,200多人，在強制執行的一子政策之下，其平均生育率仍高達每戶家庭1.65個小孩，且預計將在2012年到達頂峰。目前河南省是中國人口最多的省份，比排名第二位的山東省多520萬人。 河南是家庭教會的大本營，近年因內部分裂、邪教入侵和年輕人外流等等問題，使教會的增長及屬靈情況日走下坡。讓我們為河南的信徒禱告，求主堅立他們走在純正的信仰真道上，幫助他們常在主裏，活在祂的愛中，質和量能漸見增長，教會得著復興。
星期四
最近北京一份職務犯罪案件的調研顯示，即便是清潔隊隊長這類「芝麻」小官員，也能幹下百萬千萬的貪污大案。從最近的逮捕行動看來，中低層官員的貪腐情況更為嚴重。任何人只要有機會經手財務，便能輕易貪污。多數中國教會的金錢管理，全憑對教會領袖的「信心」，奉獻收入和支出沒有明確的賬目記錄和透明度。我們求神保守所有管理公賬者的心，不起貪念。求主保守我們不遇見試探。
星期五
中國教會在神學路線上看法出現分歧，中國的基督徒大致可歸納為四種類型。第一類屬「順服派」，非常接受中國現今的政治實況及官方明文規定，堅持聖經要基督徒「順服在上掌權者」的看法。讓我們禱告眾教會能在官員，警察和統管宗教事務的有關人員面前蒙恩。很多官員雖對聚會點的情況瞭如指掌，卻不予干涉。讓我們禱告信徒所作的美好見證，使他們繼續跟官員保持良好關係，也求神保守他自己聚會的平安。
星期六
第二類屬「低調派」的基督徒, 相信惟獨福音能改變人心和社會。他們一心相信只有福音能改變人與社會，故不願太多參與政治,甚或拒絕與官員保持對話，寧願單單傳講神的話語。讓我們繼續為這些教會禱告.願上帝堅固這些領袖，在傳講聖經的同時，能與新一代領袖保持緊密聯繫,樂意培育他們接棒，作主事工。
星期日
第三類屬「建設派」的基督徒，較多來自城市教會，認為基督徒必須參與社會並與社區保持聯繫。除積極傳福音外，他們也參與賑災、扶貧、農村社區醫療工作，並透過教育工作接觸家庭，向他們傳福音。我們祈求「建設派」的信徒能帶領中國教會在未來日子邁步向前，建立更強壯、愛神愛人愛同胞的教會.願上帝賜下更多願意活出信仰，在世界作鹽作光的信徒．
星期一
第四類屬「先知派」的基督徒，他們大多認為社會的問題不能單靠改變人心，而必須改變人的價值觀和政治制度；在現實環境中，他們碰釘的機會也最多。讓我們為那些因國家有關宗教信仰政策改革進度緩慢而感到頹喪的信徒禱告．我們把他們交託神手中，求上帝賜下智慧，讓我們相信祂在掌權，祂也是智慧的源頭．
Two rare bronze sculptures were sold at an astronomical price recently. The two disputed bronze fountainheads--that of a rat and a rabbit--had disappeared from China's Summer Imperial Palace in 1860. Although they are not considered to be artistic masterpieces, nationalistic pride and shame are connected with the lost of these two treasures. The rise of nationalism and patriotism have the effect of a double-edged sword on the Christian churches since they are still connected with Western thinking and even the imperialism of the past. Let us pray for the softening of the hearts of our kindred toward the gospel and that more intellectuals will come to truly know Jesus Christ.
Wednesday
It is estimated that the population of Henan province will reach 100,000,000 by 2010. Every day there are 3200 children born and although family planning is strictly enforced, the average birth rate is 1.65 child per family there with the peak coming in 2012. In terms of population, Henan leads China with five million more people than in Shangdong province. Henan is also the bastion of house churches in China but they have suffered a great decline due to divisions, cult attacks, and the loss of young people. We uplift all the Henan believers for their growth, an unwavering faith in the Lord, and revival in their churches.
Thursday
A criminal indictment in Beijing shows that even the officials in the lowly garbage collection services can be very corrupted. Recent arrests show a trend that corruption is even worse in mid or low level. In fact, anyone who handle money can easily be corrupted. Offering and use of money among most of the Chinese church are handled by "trusted" leaders, with little transparency or accountability. We pray for guarding of hearts against greed for all who handles money in church. May the Lord also protect us from all temptations.
Friday
Churches in China literally divide among various theological beliefs. Furthermore, Chinese believers can be put into four generalized groups. The first (which we will mention today) is the "submitting" type who easily accept political realities and official mandates. They insist that the Bible teaches us to submit to those who are over us. Let us pray for favor for all churches in the eyes of the officials, the police, and those in charge of religious affairs. We realize that the officials know well all the meeting points but often leave the worshippers alone. We pray the good testimonies of believers will continue to give them a good relationship with the officials.
Saturday
A second major category of Christians in China is those who choose to be "low-profile". They heartily believe that only the gospel of Jesus can change people and society but they prefer not to become involved in politics and even refuse to dialogue with the officials. They would rather merely preach the Word of God. Let us pray particularly for these churches. May the Lord strengthen their leaders with a strong bond of fellowship and joy in training a new generation of leadership to continue their ministries as they preach what the Bible teachers.
Sunday
A third category of Chinese Christians is the "constructive" type who are mostly from urban churches and believe that Christians must be part of the society and community. In addition to evangelism they are involved in relief, rural community health care, and outreach to families through education. We pray that this group of believers will lead the churches of China forward in the coming years so that people can see the love of God for them and Christians will also have more love for their neighbors. May the Lord give us more believers who are willing to live out their faith and be light and salt in the earth.
Monday
The so-called "prophetic" type is the fourth category of Chinese Christians. This group strongly believes that change does not come from the heart alone but the social and political systems must also change. They are often frustrated with the status quo. We uplift our brothers and sisters who feel frustrated that there are few or very slow changes happening in the national policy toward religion and faith. We commit them into God's hand and pray for wisdom knowing that God is in control and He will give us His wisdom.
星期二
圓明園在戰爭時被掠奪的獸首拍賣激起了民族主義義憤。這兩個銅製鼠與兔形「水龍頭」的藝術價值，雖達不到「國寶」級別，但這些文物背負著的歷史和文化含義，使它們格外受人關注，以致「因為國恥而成為國寶」，價格暴漲成天文數字。 民族和愛國主義的崛起對中國教會是把雙刃劍，因為在一般百姓心中，基督教仍與西方，甚至過去帝國主義相關聯。求主軟化中國百姓對福音抗拒的心態，也讓更多的知識分子有機會明白基督信仰的真義。
星期三
預計2010下半年，河南將成為中國第一個人口過億的省份。河南省每天出生3,200多人，在強制執行的一子政策之下，其平均生育率仍高達每戶家庭1.65個小孩，且預計將在2012年到達頂峰。目前河南省是中國人口最多的省份，比排名第二位的山東省多520萬人。 河南是家庭教會的大本營，近年因內部分裂、邪教入侵和年輕人外流等等問題，使教會的增長及屬靈情況日走下坡。讓我們為河南的信徒禱告，求主堅立他們走在純正的信仰真道上，幫助他們常在主裏，活在祂的愛中，質和量能漸見增長，教會得著復興。
星期四
最近北京一份職務犯罪案件的調研顯示，即便是清潔隊隊長這類「芝麻」小官員，也能幹下百萬千萬的貪污大案。從最近的逮捕行動看來，中低層官員的貪腐情況更為嚴重。任何人只要有機會經手財務，便能輕易貪污。多數中國教會的金錢管理，全憑對教會領袖的「信心」，奉獻收入和支出沒有明確的賬目記錄和透明度。我們求神保守所有管理公賬者的心，不起貪念。求主保守我們不遇見試探。
星期五
中國教會在神學路線上看法出現分歧，中國的基督徒大致可歸納為四種類型。第一類屬「順服派」，非常接受中國現今的政治實況及官方明文規定，堅持聖經要基督徒「順服在上掌權者」的看法。讓我們禱告眾教會能在官員，警察和統管宗教事務的有關人員面前蒙恩。很多官員雖對聚會點的情況瞭如指掌，卻不予干涉。讓我們禱告信徒所作的美好見證，使他們繼續跟官員保持良好關係，也求神保守他自己聚會的平安。
星期六
第二類屬「低調派」的基督徒, 相信惟獨福音能改變人心和社會。他們一心相信只有福音能改變人與社會，故不願太多參與政治,甚或拒絕與官員保持對話，寧願單單傳講神的話語。讓我們繼續為這些教會禱告.願上帝堅固這些領袖，在傳講聖經的同時，能與新一代領袖保持緊密聯繫,樂意培育他們接棒，作主事工。
星期日
第三類屬「建設派」的基督徒，較多來自城市教會，認為基督徒必須參與社會並與社區保持聯繫。除積極傳福音外，他們也參與賑災、扶貧、農村社區醫療工作，並透過教育工作接觸家庭，向他們傳福音。我們祈求「建設派」的信徒能帶領中國教會在未來日子邁步向前，建立更強壯、愛神愛人愛同胞的教會.願上帝賜下更多願意活出信仰，在世界作鹽作光的信徒．
星期一
第四類屬「先知派」的基督徒，他們大多認為社會的問題不能單靠改變人心，而必須改變人的價值觀和政治制度；在現實環境中，他們碰釘的機會也最多。讓我們為那些因國家有關宗教信仰政策改革進度緩慢而感到頹喪的信徒禱告．我們把他們交託神手中，求上帝賜下智慧，讓我們相信祂在掌權，祂也是智慧的源頭．
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