Imprisoned pastor Saeed Abedini will mark his 35th birthday on Thursday, the same day as the National Day of Prayer. Charisma News reports this will be the third birthday Abedini has spent imprisoned in Iran for his Christian faith.
The pastor was recently able to visit with a family member and deliver an open letter to be read by Christians across America in anticipation of the National Day of Prayer.
Abedini wrote that he was praying for revival in the United States.
“As an American and as a prisoner for Christ I have spent many hours praying and crying out to God for revival for this great nation. We all hope for the success of our nation and for America to be blessed, but without revival there can be no true success or blessing. As Ezra's cried out to God in repentance and the Israelites joined him in weeping bitterly and turning from their sin, I would like to ask you to join me in repenting and praying for revival. Me from inside of these prison walls and you on the outside.”
He continued, “Change starts with us. Revival starts with us. The first step to revival is praying together in unity as a nation. The National Day of Prayer is a great opportunity for us to come out and use the freedom that we have been given. So many Christians around the world are imprisoned and martyred for their faith in Jesus. You have the freedom to gather across the United States at your state capitol to pray. Please use this opportunity. Please use your freedom for the kingdom of God.”
Abedini finished his letter, writing, “Remember my chains in your freedom and chain together in unity for our beloved America. Know that I am chained with you in prayer on that day in seeking God for America.
“There is no other way but to be crucified with Christ so that we may experience the power of His resurrection in our beloved country.”
Publication date: May 5, 2015