Pray for the terrorists

We read the bible and say we want to follow Christ's teaching, but do we? For myself there are some things in the bible that I find hard, and I mean very hard.  The whole concept of praying and caring for those who persecute you is for me, a difficult task.  This is not something I am naturally inclined to do.

When the U.S started taking military action in the middle east there was a massive prayer support for the troops.  Most Churches displayed the flag.  A presidential prayer team was formed.  Organizations sprang up that formed prayer support chains for the troops.  A church that I was once part of even has a special prayer group just for the nations warriors.

I really have no problem praying for our soldiers, they are after all in harms way.  Lets also be honest, not every soldier supports invading Iraq.  But a soldier obeys orders and follows, even if they don't agree with the conflict.

Some of these prayer meetings have given me troubled thoughts.  On occasion I hear people praying that the terrorists be "killed".  Somehow this does not reconcile with biblical practice.  It  does fore-fill a natural  desire  for vengeance  and destruction of evil.   

I think the response must be to pray for the terrorists.  Cruise missiles cannot end the conflict in Iraq. This is not a battle that involves weapons, but a battle of ideologies. It is a battle for hearts and minds. If we want to change the region it will not be with smart bombs but by the gospel of Christ.  So I find myself now praying for the terrorists.  What a witness to the world it would be seeing men committed to killing  repent and be disciples. Does that shock you? Do you think it impossible?  Wasn't Simon a Zealot (Matt 10:4)?

There is a group that is committed to praying for terrorists to see the video click HERE

To find a terrorist to pray for click HERE

 

Comments

[Mark R]

Too true, first commandment stuff!!! Thanks Mike.

[Art]

I think it is perfectly acceptable to pray for terrorists. Moreover, I'd say it is required of us if we're serious about following Jesus!

[Deborah Taggart]

I like it...thanks for the reminder!

Wasn't Saul something like a terrorist before he met Jesus, became Paul, missionary and NT author? ;)

[joan]

we also pray for the terrorists here, (and a number of years ago i met one who was saved who HAD been a terrorist. GLORIOUS!)but i don't believe that Saul was a terrorist. terrorism is indescriminent. there really IS a difference.