Christian women are particularly vulnerable to rape and public shaming by the extremists of this Muslim-majority country. In a recent incident, three young Christian women were purposely hit by a car for refusing the sexual advances posed to them by a group of Muslim men.
The young women -- Kiran (17), Shamroza (18), and Sumble (20) -- were walking home together when four Muslim men in a car confronted them, uttering lewd suggestions. Because the girls refused their advances, the men became enraged to the point that the driver targeted them with the car. As a result of the crash, two of the girls received severe injuries and broken bones. The third victim, Kiran, unfortunately did not survive. Having landed on the hood of the car, which had increased in speed before coming to an abrupt halt, caused the teen to be catapulted through the air before falling to the ground.
Such inhumane acts of violence in this southern Asian nation often include the mistreatment of women and children, ranking Pakistan eighth on the World Watch List of countries where Christians face severe persecution. When the country initially upheld the death sentence of Asia Bibi, a young Christian mother who was falsely accused of blasphemy, the case prompted international outrage. More information on persecution in Pakistan, including previously posted updates on Asia's case, is available at the Pakistan Country Report.
May the 'peace of God that surpasses all understanding' bring needed comfort to the surviving young women, as well as ministry to their families, as He surrounds them with His healing presence and lovingly guides them to wholeness and renewed hope. Pray that they be especially comforted after witnessing the tragic loss of their dear friend. Please also remember Kiran's loved ones who are understandably grieving over what seems to be the premature loss of such a young and vibrant life. Ask the Lord to make His comforting presence known to them as well. In a country where believers are subjected to accusations of blasphemy, severe punishment by law, life-threatening danger, and so many other awful acts of persecution, may the Righteous Judge render true justice by convicting the hearts of their persecutors and bringing them to repentance...miraculously using their wrongdoings for greater good (Romans 8:28).
