Fighting on Our Knees

If you know your history, you probably drew some eerie parallels between Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and Adolf Hitler’s annexation of the Sudetenland. But these days, World War II plays in black and white. What’s going on right now is in high-def color. Here’s one of the reasons it’s so vivid: Because of numerous international ministry opportunities over the past couple of decades, many of us have good friends who work with Christian organizations and churches in both countries in conflict. I think particularly of those connected to the European Association of Urban Missions. I spent last night checking in with colleagues in Kiev and Lutsk, and also St. Petersburg. They are praying and comforting those who are afraid. Others have relatives who are being called upon to bear arms, and that is bringing so much angst.

Our own ministries need our attention. But people in Ukraine and Russia need our fervent prayers. As Citygate Network’s president, I’m calling on you and other member CEOs to be on our knees for Christ followers in Ukraine and Russia who have both a spiritual and now physical battle raging around them.

1. Pray for their safety and protection.
2. Pray that they will not be persecuted for their faith and the openly gospel-focused work they are doing.
3. Pray that they will be used in amazing ways by God to care for those who are fearful, injured, grieving, or have lost everything.
4. Pray for those in Russia who are horrified and ashamed by their leaders’ decisions; and pray that they can find solutions to make a difference inside their own country.
5. Pray for those with friends and relatives on the opposite side of the border who are facing internal conflict.
6. Pray for the world leaders who are trying to stop the conflict.
7. Pray that this doesn’t escalate and draw in other countries.
8. Pray that there may be a miraculous and quick end to this war.

Moments ago, as I was writing this, I received via text a brief video of a church group in Ukraine worshiping together. This verse is so appropriate: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:28 – 29, NIV).