Imprisoned But Not Silenced

Imprisoned But Not Silenced For 90 days last fall, Pastor Makset Djabbarbergenov lived in a Kazakh prison cell under threat of deportation to his native Uzbekistan to face almost-certain harsh jail time. His alleged crime: leading small Christian house churches without official registration. His journey to the confines of his cell began years earlier. An evangelist at heart, he knew that he had to follow the Lord and do whatever was asked of him… including doing something that was considered illegal in Uzbekistan. By 2007, Pastor Makset’s activities had made him a wanted criminal. Fleeing Uzbekistan with his family to escape arrest, they crossed the border into neighboring Kazakhstan. By 2009, they received refugee status from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, but the Kazakhstan government refused to recognize it. Then, in 2012, Uzbekistan bumped-up Pastor Makset’s crime to include charges of terrorism. They demanded that the Kazakh government return him home to face trial, and a potential 15-year prison sentence. When it seemed as if all hope was lost, God set this pastor free, three months after his initial arrest. Still fearful of repatriation, the family lived not knowing what each day would bring. Finally, in January 2013, they were allowed to leave Kazakhstan and start a new life in Sweden. One With Them Today, I will be One With Them in praise to God for the miracles He has done for Pastor Makset, his family and others like him. I will also pray for those who are still in prison for their faith, that He would bring them comfort, strength and peace. One With Them CHALLENGE Click here to receive prayer updates so that you can pray each week for urgent requests. 4/13/2013