By Linda Jones
12/7/2017 Washington, DC (International Christian Concern)- Christian persecution continues to prevail in many African nations without any form of repercussions for the perpetrators. Islamic groups like Boko Haram, Fulani militants and al-Shabaab, among others, have carried out several attacks targeting Christians and their communities with the purpose of eradicating Christianity. These jihadist groups seek to impose not only their religion, but the strict rules that come along with it. Nigeria is one of the countries that has served as their battlefield to accomplish this mission. Thousands of Christians are brutally murdered and persecuted in Nigeria, while authorities repeatedly fail to protect the victims.
Despite the chaos that Nigerian Christians face, many of them are still committed to carrying on the Great Commission and sharing the Gospel with non-believers. This was the case for Moses Ibrahim and his family who converted to Christianity after befriending a public school teacher in Bauchi state, a Muslim-dominated community. Unfortunately, some of the neighbors were displeased with the family’s decision and decided to plot against them.
On January 14, 2016 a group of Muslim radicals attacked Moses inside his house and tried to kill him. The perpetrators shot him and cut off his left hand and right thumb with a machete. The victim was rushed to the hospital by the pastor of a local church and miraculously survived the incident after several operations. This event affected Moses and his family tremendously because Moses’ main source of income comes from farming. However, with his hand and thumb injuries, he is no longer able to handle the work anymore.
After several interactions with the family, International Christian Concern (ICC) proposed and implemented a project to assist this Christian family. Thanks to the support of generous donors, we were able to help Moses set up a small general store in addition to covering his rent for two years as a form of relief for the family.
Moses and his family are very appreciative for the assistance that we were able to provide and have expressed their gratitude.
“When I recall the attack, I get emotional. I never knew that I would survive that attack, but God in His mercy has made me live. I am so thankful. I am grateful for the people of God who have cared for us. I am short of words of gratitude. May the Lord bless those who sent this assistance! Please pray for us that God will continue to guide us. That the Gospel will continue to make impact in that community. Conversions to the Christian faith have continued to happen. I have carried the Cross of Christ and there is no going back. Pray that God will grant me wisdom and understanding in all. We are grateful for the love that has been shown to us,” said Moses
Please remember to keep this family in prayer so that God can heal and provide for them. Pray for the family’s strength, wisdom, and spiritual journey and that they can be an example to others who so desperately need to come to Christ.
