A Prayer a Day for EAST ASIAN PEOPLES

Home , East Asian people, Henry Appenzeller

2020 PRAYER CALENDAR POWERFUL AND PREVAILING PRAYER FOR PEOPLE, PLACES, AND PERSONNEL “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The urgent request of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect” (James 5:16).

The prayers of righteous people are “powerful,” which comes from a Greek word meaning, “in its working.” Where there is no or little prayer, there is no power to effect change. We have to continually put forth the energy and our prayers must keep working if they are going to be powerful. The prayers of righteous people are also effective—they are strong, energetic, and able to accomplish much.

We need powerful and effective prayers to unmask the deception of the evil one so that the light of the glorious gospel will penetrate the darkness among East Asian peoples. We need powerful and effective prayers to demolish strongholds of resistance so that no obstacle will impede the progress of the gospel.

I want to compel you to pray with a burden for the people of East Asia. Labor with us for their salvation.

Standing in the gap,

Steven M. Ellis Affinity Group Leader East Asian Peoples DIRECTIONS Entries in this calendar come from the prayers of many workers in East Asia. As you pray you will learn about

holidays celebrated among East Asian people groups,

strongholds that hopelessly bind people (monthly Day of Prayer and Fasting),

birthdays of workers among the East Asian peoples (names changed),

major countries where East Asians live, and

people groups that are currently unengaged with the gospel.

As you journey in prayer with us, may your heart be broken for the lost and may you rejoice in what God is doing among East Asians. If you would like more information on people groups, places, or prayer, email us at [email protected].

All Scripture references are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible, unless otherwise noted. Mongolia

South Korea

China Japan

Taiwan POPULATIONS ¨ China: 1.41 billion (2019) ¨ Japan: 127.1 million (2019) ¨ Mongolia: 3.09 million (2019) ¨ South Korea: 51.1 million (2019) ¨ Taiwan: 23.7 million (2019) WEDNESDAY THURSDAY JANUARY JANUARY 1 2020 2 2020 As a new year dawns, many East Asians Many East Asian countries acknowledge will try to fulfill new hopes and dreams, January 1 as a holiday, but in South only to find that these are constantly Korea, people celebrate with unique changing and difficult to satisfy. Many will traditions. On this day Koreans greet each do what they can to find peace within other with, “Many blessings be upon you family, in the world, and with the spirits. in the new year,” and eat tteokguk (sliced Yet peace remains just beyond their rice cakes in soup). The younger gener- reach. Offerings made to various gods ations bow before their grandparents, and ancestors may bring temporary parents, and older relatives in a traditional feelings of peace, but they must be Korean style known as sebae and are repeated monthly or annually. blessed with good wishes and words of wisdom. Children and the elderly receive Pray that this year a multitude of East gifts of money. Friends and family also Asians will find true hope in Jesus, the play games like yutnori, a traditional only source of lasting peace. Pray they Korean board game for all ages. will do whatever it takes to make this truth their own. Pray Korean Christians will share the message of eternal salvation in Jesus Christ with family and friends as they gather to celebrate the new year. Pray the Korean Church will be a blessing to the nations.

Karen, Carly Lee, Anna, Yi, Steven FRIDAY SATURDAY JANUARY JANUARY 3 2020 4 2020 In 1 Corinthians 3:5 Paul writes, “What “I tell you, now is the time of God’s then is Apollos? And what is Paul? They favor, now is the day of salvation” are servants through whom you believed, (2 Corinthians 6:2b NIV). Join us as we and each has the role the Lord has given.” pray for 2020 to be the year of God’s I despised being assigned to a middle seat favor on the people of East Asia. on a budget airline. It had been a long day and I was exhausted—I just wanted Pray: Sing a new song to the Lord! to read comfortably. However, by the Sing his praises from Japan to western Father’s providence, Julia* sat on my left China! Sing, all you who sail the seas, and was extremely open to the gospel. and live in distant coastlands or high The following morning the Father con- on the mountains. Join in the chorus, victed me of despising the “middle seat” you megacities and rural villages. and scorning the divine appointment he Rejoice! Let the East Asian peoples sing had arranged for me—his servant—an for joy, let them shout praises from instrument to lead people to saving faith. every corner of the earth! Let them say to their idols, “You are not our gods,” Pray the Lord will help you be faithful as they cast them aside and join in the to the opportunities he sends your way. praises to the God of heaven.

* Name changed

Ahn, Pyung, Joy none SUNDAY MONDAY JANUARY JANUARY 5 2020 6 2020 Christians in East Asia must often Many Chinese Christians are zealous separate from family and friends. They to reach the world with the gospel but can face loneliness and anxiety as they have overlooked the twenty-two million try to reconcile filial piety and following Muslims inside their own country. The Jesus against the wishes of parents. racial barriers between the Han and Chinese Muslims are great. But one thing Pray East Asian Christians will cast is certain: God cares deeply for these their anxieties on God because he unique people groups and longs for them cares for them. Pray they find rest in to know about his love for them. He has God alone and trust him to supply their not forgotten them. every need as their “Father of mercies and God of all comfort” (2 Cor 1:3). Passionately pray for the salvation Pray they experience his presence, of Chinese Muslims. Pray God will call kindness, compassion, and abounding his people to plant their lives among mercy. Pray Christians will run to God these who have yet to believe. Ask God for answers and not seek temporary to build his church among them. fixes when they face doubt, indecision, weakness, or fear.

Bonnie none TUESDAY WEDNESDAY JANUARY JANUARY 7 2020 8 2020 The fifteen million Hui are the largest Village Christians hiked into the moun- and most widespread of China’s Muslim tains and met a woman feeding hogs. She nationalities. They are the third largest asked the visitors to sit and rest with her. minority group in China, and only .0001 When they asked if she wanted to hear a percent of Hui know Christ. You can often story, she said, “Of course.” The woman recognize the men by their prayer caps listened intently to an MP3 recording of and the women by their head scarves. the gospel story. She shook her head with Very few Christians are intentionally worry when she heard about Satan tricking planting their lives among the Hui to tell the woman in the garden, laughed when them about Christ. More Hui people are she heard about Jesus feeding thousands dying daily than are hearing the gospel. with just a few fish and loaves, and was They are in desperate need of more quiet when she heard about Jesus dying laborers to boldly proclaim the gospel and on the cross. When the story was fin- reap the harvest that God has prepared. ished, she asked, “Can Jesus really speak my language?” The woman received the Pray the Hui will hear of God’s gift of MP3 as a gift and eagerly asked family and salvation through Christ that is offered friends to listen with her. to them, believe, and grow deep in their faith. Pray many villagers throughout the mountains will receive God’s message.

Bruce, Max, Dana, Hanna, Garrett, Joy Jene, Jane, Abraham, Mirian, Barb THURSDAY FRIDAY JANUARY JANUARY 9 2020 10 2020 Missions College is an annual opportunity Our children have grown and moved for pastors and church members to learn away from home but as their parents, more about the missionary task, share we are still concerned about their health experiences, and encourage one another. and well-being. We often pray that our For four days they gather in Virginia, to children will have mature Christian friends dialogue, receive training, and network. who will encourage them in their walks with the Lord. When they face challeng- This year at least seventy-five attending circumstances, we pray God will teach ees are East Asia-focused. Pray they and guide them. It is very difficult to be will be ready and willing to bring the so far away from them when they walk Good News to the 1.7 billion East through hard times. Asians living throughout the world. Pray those attending will be challenged Please remember to pray for as well as encouraged, and that these missionaries’ families—specifically efforts will be multiplied as churches their children who live in America— begin to practice what they learn. to be strong in the Lord.

none Shannon, Curtis, Virginia, Elaine SATURDAY SUNDAY JANUARY JANUARY 11 2020 12 2020 Coming of Age Day is celebrated annually Lord, we come before you today and in Japan on the second Monday of January. pray that your glory will appear in East This national holiday was established Asia for all of humanity to see. We in 1948 as a day to congratulate and pray the valleys will be lifted up, the encourage young people who have mountains leveled, the uneven ground reached the age of maturity, consid- made smooth, and the rough places, a ered to be 20 years old, within the past plain (Isaiah 40:4-5). God, illuminate calendar year. Women celebrate by hearts in East Asia, awaken sleeping wearing kimonos with long sleeves rather souls that have become numb to your than the short-sleeved ones married and calling. Draw them into your presence, “mature” women wear. Cities and towns wrap them in your love. Stir revival throughout the nation hold ceremonies fires in the lives of your children—fires for these young people, welcoming them that will burn brightly throughout the into adulthood. year, melt cold hearts, and burn away years of lies and deception. We will As young people prepare for this do our part to pray, trusting you for big day on Monday, please join us in the results. praying, “Lord, draw young adults to yourself and help them to realize becoming mature doesn’t have to do with being able to vote, drive a car, drink, or smoke but making the wise decision to follow you.”

Dan, Mack Grace, Owen MONDAY TUESDAY JANUARY JANUARY 13 2020 14 2020 Day of Prayer and Fasting: Idol Worship In Takasaki, Japan, a church plant has Ancient civilizations like those in East Asia been steadily growing. The church meets are often bound by ancient strongholds. in the office of a local Christian’s business Across Japan, Korea, China, and into the but is beginning to outgrow the space. East Asian Diaspora, lies have deceived The church is encouraged by the interest the hearts, minds, and souls of the of the Japanese locals and they trust that majority of people. We see one form of God will continue to draw more. However, idol worship in the golden replicas of they will not be able to meet in this venue gods. The Bible asks the question, “Who for much longer. The local believers want but a fool would make his own god” to study Scripture more deeply and share (Isaiah 44:10 NLT). Their eyes are closed more with their neighbors, family, and so they cannot see and their minds are friends, as well as have a place of worship shut so they cannot think that the thing to which they can invite them. they worship is just a block of wood covered in gold. Yet God is calling them Ask that God will provide a new place out of darkness into his glorious light. for the church plant to meet. Pray the church leaders, Japanese Christians, Pray their eyes will be opened to the and missionaries will have wisdom and truth that God knows them, loves endurance through the next phases of them, and has paid the price to set the church plant. them free.

Bob Selah WEDNESDAY THURSDAY JANUARY JANUARY 15 2020 16 2020 Tibetan Buddhism is an animistic practice A famine threatens millions of an un- with a layer of Buddhism placed over reached people group. It's estimated that it. Tibetans acknowledge the Buddhist 40 percent of the population is already concepts of karma, reincarnation, and impacted. Natural disasters caused a the “Four Noble Truths:” suffering exists, serious reduction in crop harvests. arises from attachment to desires, ceases when attachments to desires cease, and is Pray for the people who complain that binding unless the “Noble Eightfold Path” they can't think clearly during the day is practiced. However, most of their time and fall asleep hungry at night. Ask for is spent seeking to appease the host of healthy crops and a bountiful harvest spirits, demons, and impersonal forces this year. Pray the authorities will that plague their daily existence. Tibetans allow increased assistance from live in wall-less prisons as fears hold outside organizations with food and them captive. medical aid. Please also pray these people will have the opportunity to Pray they hear and believe that Jesus hear the gospel and find hope in came to declare freedom for the Jesus Christ. prisoner and to set the oppressed free. Pray many will be set free from the chains that bind them and find the freedom to enjoy life with God.

Lis David, Gabriel, Emily, Mark, Peter FRIDAY SATURDAY JANUARY JANUARY 17 2020 18 2020 When Baptist churches in Tokyo began The Pingdi Yao, or the “Yao of the flat- after World War II, some reached out to lands,” live in areas not often visited by students, some started kindergartens to outsiders. In generations past, they were reach young families, and others offered forced to these remote places where a place to practice English with native today they are rice farmers. The Pingdi speakers. Today, churches there still Yao believe in a god of creation, but they draw students, families, and children. do not know the Creator God. They have One holds a second evening worship stories of a great flood but don’t know service, one uses music to connect with the God who caused and calmed the senior adults, and one hosts a monthly flood. Of the 1.6 million Pingdi Yao, only medical café for those who have expe- 400 are Christians. rienced cancer or known someone with cancer. Another church opens its doors Pray for people to tell them about the to businessmen once a month to talk God who parted the sea, brought the about various topics. The kindergarten flood, rules the world with great pow- of another church continues to bring in a er, and loves them with an everlasting new generation of children. love. God’s arm is not too short, nor is he hard of hearing. Pray the Pingdi Yao Pray all these churches will experience will cry out to him today, turn to him, the leading of God’s hand. Ask the Lord trust in him, and be saved. for new visions for the pastors as they seek to share the gospel throughout the city.

Brad Jinwoo, Reggie, James, Youing SUNDAY MONDAY JANUARY JANUARY 19 2020 20 2020 “Life is so busy—how can I minister to As she explored a World Heritage Site, people when I can hardly get a moment a man handed her a Bible in her own to commune with God myself? Churches language. This year, 150 million East are being persecuted all around me—how Asians will travel worldwide as tourists, can I stand strong for those I lead, and students, and workers. Imagine what suffer well? I have so much to learn—how could happen if everywhere they went am I supposed to teach when I still feel Christians welcomed them, shared the so inadequate?” Pastors in East Asia are Good News with them, and equipped inundated with questions about the souls them with their own Bibles. This is the of men, overwhelmed with the task, vision of the Southern Cross Project. and burdened for the lost around them. There’s so much at stake. Pray many East Asians will come to faith as missionaries and volunteers Pray for the Bible-saturated develop- work together to hand out Bibles and ment of these precious servants of Christian literature. Pray God will give God. Ask that the Father will supply wisdom about how and where to best and meet every one of their needs in engage the lost who are traveling to Christ Jesus their Lord. Ask that God countries with religious freedom. Ask will give them eyes of faith and hearts that as we go, we will usher in John’s of courage to stand for the kingdom revelation of a vast crowd, too great to and win souls. count, from every nation, tribe, people, and language truly worshiping before the Lamb.

Jenna Charles TUESDAY WEDNESDAY JANUARY JANUARY 21 2020 22 2020 Mongolia is a peaceful country with a The Kalmyk-Oirat are a branch of the distinctive culture. Geographically, it sits Mongolian people who follow a reli- atop China and south of Russia. Mongolia gion that is a mix of Tibetan Buddhism, is the most sparsely populated country Taoism, and ancestor worship. Forms of in the world—nearly 73 percent of the black magic have been practiced for population lives in major cities. The hundreds of years, and every New Year remaining 27 percent are rural people their prayers are offered up to Okeen who earn a living through livestock, Tenger, their female spirit protector. agriculture, or mining. Many follow a Less than .5 percent are Christians. nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyle. The Major community activities include Mongolian church has a vision to take the dancing, a tradition that is being passed gospel to every country that was a part of on to the youth within the family or Genghis Khan’s great Mongolian Empire. through apprenticeship.

Pray God will call men and women to O Lord, your Good News is veiled to go into the harvest fields of Mongolia the Kalmyk-Oirat who are perishing. and beyond. As they take God’s light The god of this world has blinded their into the world, pray for an unwavering minds. Open their eyes to see your glo- commitment to preach the Word and ry. Raise up mature Christians who will that they may joyfully finish the course pass their faith to the next generation. and ministry they have received from the Lord Jesus (Acts 20:24).

James, Grace, Grae, Lee, Liz none THURSDAY FRIDAY JANUARY JANUARY 23 2020 24 2020 Shamanism is a belief in gods, demons, Today is Lunar New Year’s Eve, which and ancestral spirits. It was the religion of occurs annually between late January ancient Korea and is still one of the major and late February. It is a family-focused religions in South Korea. In the 1970s and holiday celebrated by Koreans and 1980s, the South Korean government set Chinese who typically travel to their anti-superstition policies that forbade hometowns at least for the eve and the traditional religion. But recently shaman- first day. For traditional families, it is a ism has resurged and grown in popularity. busy time for the women as they prepare Related to shamanism is fortune-telling, meals, beginning with dinner on the eve. or divination, which includes tarot cards, They also prepare food for the ancestral gwansang (fortune telling through facial rites on the first morning of the new year. characteristics), and saju (the prediction Many use the long holiday to go overseas of one’s future based on birthdate). Tarot for vacation. card and saju readers can easily be found in the regions of Hongdae and Sinchon, Pray for the many broken and hurting where Korean young people commonly families in China and Korea as they hang out. gather for this holiday. Pray they will find healing and solace in our Cry out to the Lord to open the spiritual Lord Jesus Christ. Pray Christians eyes and ears of Koreans to see the will model Christ-like forgiveness light and hear the truth. Pray Koreans and reconciliation. will be redeemed for his inheritance and possession.

Rosalie, Jay Naomi, Becca, Eul Sook SATURDAY SUNDAY JANUARY JANUARY 25 2020 26 2020 In many countries with large Chinese Chen Tao*, the pastor of an urban house populations, today is the first day of church, carries a huge burden. His fledg- the Lunar New Year and the beginning ling congregation looks to him to provide of Spring Festival. In Korea they call it wisdom, counsel, and encouragement. gujeong. For many it is a time for new Sometimes the expectations feel too clothes, clean houses, an abundance of high and the load too heavy. He needs food, and hong baos, or gifts of red help, not just for the care of the flock, but envelopes with money inside. One for his personal life. He and his wife, Xu common tradition during the weeklong Mei*, have argued almost every night this holiday is to paste new couplets—red past week. His kids often disobey. Their banners with good thoughts written on home is cold, devoid of joy, laughter, and them—around the front door, very much intimacy. Chen Tao and Xu Mei are not like the Israelites did with lamb’s blood at alone—national pastors often complain the first Passover. about being overworked and desperate, both for the people they are leading and Pray for Chinese throughout the world for themselves. to know that these good thoughts will never protect them and cannot guar- Pray for pastors and their families to antee peace. Pray they will place their experience revival and transformation. faith in Jesus, whose blood still covers Pray they will find the help and resources us and who is our peace. they need to bring their marriages and families in line with biblical truth.

* Name changed

Jeremiah, Baibai Daniel MONDAY TUESDAY JANUARY JANUARY 27 2020 28 2020 Southern Taiwan is known for its beautiful The small northern Japan towns of waterfalls and white sand beaches. Kamaishi and Otsuchi were devastated in However, it is also known for the many the 2011 tsunami. Hundreds of Christians large and elaborate Buddhist and Daoist joined in the recovery efforts immedi- temples. Ninety-five percent of people ately after, and for more than eight years living in southern Taiwan follow after Christians from all over the world have false gods or ancestor worship. The showered God’s love on the people who churches are small with few youth attend- live there. Yet the traditional Japanese ing. There is a desperate need for God’s Buddhist traditions remain especially Spirit to move in his people and compel strong—the people cannot imagine them to reach out to their neighbors with being anything other than Buddhist. the love of Christ. There are forty univer- God is stronger, and we rejoice as two sity campuses in southern Taiwan with people were baptized this past summer. students who seek truth. Today’s students Currently two groups meet monthly to are key to Taiwan’s next generation of hear a Bible message. People have gospel Christian leaders. conversations and receive prayer during home visits. A few ladies meet to read the Please pray that God will reveal himself Bible together. to these students and that they will follow him. Pray that one day a great Praise God that because of recovery multitude of peoples in southern Tai- efforts many have heard the gospel wan will give all glory and worship to message. Pray that these efforts in Jesus Christ. bringing the gospel to these dear people will now bear much fruit.

none Catherine WEDNESDAY THURSDAY JANUARY JANUARY 29 2020 30 2020 “It’s my duty,” is often said in East Asia. East Asians live in many places through- People sell homes in other countries and out North and South America, Europe, move back to care for parents because, Africa, the Middle East, and South and “It’s my duty.” People follow the beliefs Central Asia. Most of these people have and customs of their parents and worship never heard of how they can have a idols and ancestors because, “It’s my duty.” life-saving, personal relationship with God Christian daughters-in-law help prepare through faith in Jesus Christ. food for ancestral offerings because, “It’s my duty.” Unfortunately, Christians also Pray to the Lord of the harvest to bring this attitude into their relationship send out more workers into this ripe with God. They read the Bible and pray harvest field. Pray for those already because they have been told it is their making disciples among East Asians, duty. But duty is often something done that they will be faithful and fruitful, grudgingly and will never create thirst for and will persevere in the work of the God. Thus, reading his Word and praying gospel. Pray new Christians will share is not a delight but a chore. the gospel with locals where they live. Pray they will become effective disci- Pray Christians will discover the joy of ple-makers across cultures, especially God’s presence, and the fullness of among unreached peoples. Pray East life and freedom that his presence Asian youth will respond to God’s call brings. Pray they will rest in him and to make disciples of all peoples. not be shaken.

Jan, James Oscar FRIDAY SATURDAY JANUARY FEBRUARY 31 2020 1 2020 Community is something we long for, Jeju Island is located south of the Korean and it is often good. But community can peninsula. It is home to South Korea’s also keep us trapped in traditions and highest mountain, Hallasan, a shield volcano superstitions, like those the Ga Mong 1.95 kilometers (6,400 feet) high. The people believe. Nearly every home has Gotjawal Forest has a unique ecology an altar where they make offerings and and contains the main water source for pray to ancestors and family spirits. The the island’s residents. With its exquisite Ga Mong people consider any action that beaches, waterfalls, nature trails, lava may offend ancestors a serious offense tubes, and a moderate climate, Jeju Island that could bring disaster on a household. is a “must-go” holiday destination for Following a new belief like Christianity both Korean and foreign tourists. The could be one such action. The pull of 660,000 local residents speak a language community is strong but God’s Spirit is distinct from Korean. Native female divers stronger, and he has placed the desire for known as haenyeo harvest oysters, abalone, an eternal community in our hearts. clams, and seaweed. The majority of the people here are shamanistic. Pray for many Ga Mong to find new community in Christ while still being a Pray the people in Jeju will awaken positive witness to their families. Pray spiritually to worship the Creator God this true community will bring a peace who deserves to be praised for all his and freedom that is visible to all to see. awesome works on the island.

Hannah Esther SUNDAY MONDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 2 2020 3 2020 A policewoman asked her neighbors to Plans are underway for a coffeehouse teach the Bible to her son who was having tent that offers free iced coffee and an emotional breakdown. As a detective, conversation with both Japanese and she had observed that Christians are loving foreign volunteers for the Tokyo 2020 and willing to serve the hurting. Police Summer Olympics. Preparation includes officers in China are often confronted securing a venue in an opportune location with darkness, not only in society, but also for the right price. God knows the exact in the lives of their coworkers and their place that this coffeehouse tent will be, families. Some of these men and women and he will open the right doors to the are searching for meaning and are being planning committee. drawn to the light. At the same time, some are being forced to persecute and Pray the coffeehouse venue will allow arrest Christians. Christians to have many gospel- centered conversations with guests. Please pray that police officers in Pray the location will be found quickly, China will be moved by the faithful and that the needed funds to obtain witness of Christians and would be this venue would be given through the drawn to Christ. Pray those who are existing Lottie Moon Challenge. seeking after God will be given faith and courage to follow him no matter the cost.

none Kristi, Chloe TUESDAY WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 4 2020 5 2020 Unprecedented natural disasters that Japanese people sometimes consider caused injury and death in East Asia left anyone who talks to them about religion the people of one community afraid. to be a cult member. To confront this They began to pray, even though many issue, Jonah* has been reading the Bible of them claim no religion. However, they weekly with one of the leaders of a local weren’t praying to God. One worker cult that teaches Jesus is an angel, not recalled Paul's words: “What you worship God. Through these readings and discus- in ignorance, this I proclaim to you. The sions, Jonah has shared the gospel with God who made the world and everything the cult leader who wants to learn more. in it . . . has made every nationality to live over the whole earth . . . so they might Pray the Lord will reveal to him the seek God, and perhaps they might reach true meaning of the gospel through out and find Him’” (Acts 17: 23b-27). these weekly meetings of Bible reading. Pray he will choose to follow the Please pray for the salvation of this Jesus of the Bible and escape the hold community. Pray the people will turn of this cult that misleads him and from fear-motivated prayers to an many others. unknown god, to peace-motivated prayers to the Creator God through his * Name changed Son, Jesus Christ.

Mike, Isaac, Jacob none THURSDAY FRIDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 6 2020 7 2020 God’s Word has yet to produce much Praise God for a new Tibetan brother visible fruit among the Northern Dong. who chose to follow Christ! After years of Prior to 1949, Christians shared the truth faithful prayer and evangelism, this young and built churches, but the gospel never man has begun to openly share that he took a firm hold. God promises that his is a Christian. He is regularly studying Word that goes from his mouth always the Bible, learning to pray, and sharing accomplishes what he desires (Isaiah his faith. When Tibetan Christians share 55:11). We might not know who currently their testimonies, many describe a long struggles with the decision to take up and difficult journey to faith. They often his cross and follow Jesus, but we know must overcome persecution from their God’s Word is at work. communities and families, the loss of connection with their traditional culture Pray this year the gospel seeds that and beliefs, and the challenges of under- were planted will take root and grow. standing the Bible in their own language. Pray the heart struggle will be over, The angels rejoice each time the Holy and the Lord’s victory will be evident Spirit breaks through the many barriers in the lives of many. Pray this is the to save another Tibetan. year of salvation for the Northern Dong people. Pray this young man will continue to faithfully walk with Jesus. Ask that he will be the fragrance of the gospel in his family and community.

Addison, Bo-Bae Grace, Rebecca SATURDAY SUNDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 8 2020 9 2020 The Bai people of southwest China cele- “The Lord of Hosts says this: ‘In those brate the Third Month Festival on the 15th days, men from nations of every language day of the Chinese lunar calendar. The will grab the robe of a Jewish man tightly, origins of the holiday are unclear, but the urging: Let us go with you, for we have Bai people are happy to claim it as one of heard that God is with you’” (Zechariah the distinctive elements of their traditional 8:23). Christians in East Asia often have culture. Third Month Festival is similar to difficulty being different from the world. a local fair. Merchants from as far south It is much easier to be like everyone else. as Myanmar, all the way up to Tibet, It is easier to be quiet than to speak out descend on Dali to sell their indigenous for Jesus. This obviously affects their wit- products and showcase their cultural arts. ness and causes people to wonder what For one week the streets overflow with exactly it means to be Christian. people from morning to midnight. As this is the largest annual gathering of Bai Pray Christians will resemble Jesus so people, this is an excellent time for local others will notice and desire him for Christians to share the gospel. themselves. Pray their peace, love, and joy is contagious to those around Please pray they will have the burden them. May people truly say to these and the boldness to share the Good Christians, “Let us go with you because News throughout this special holiday. God is with you.”

Tama, Jonathan Ellie MONDAY TUESDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 10 2020 11 2020 Day of Prayer and Fasting: Materialism The Dzalakha (“Za-la-ca”) people of As disposable incomes increase across Bhutan worship lifeless idols. They East Asia, the obsession with “more” is continue to work for something with no plain to see. The Bible teaches in Mark sure guarantee of receiving it when what 4:19 that the cares of the world, the they desire—eternal forgiveness—is being deceitfulness of riches, and the desires offered freely to them. Why? Perhaps it for other things enter in and choke the is because of habit, customs, or fear of Word, which causes Christians to become the unknown. In one town, the Dzalakha unfruitful. Satan has blinded many to believe that if you make it to the top of a think that they will be content if they just certain mountain, the sins you have com- have more of whatever they are chasing. mitted to that point will be forgiven. Few Materialism is the opposite of content- have ever heard of Jesus, who died for ment because human desire is never their past, present, and future sins. They satisfied (Proverbs 27:20). Only God diligently pursue fleeting peace when can truly satisfy. lasting peace is a heart change away.

Pray Christians will put God’s kingdom Pray they will understand that Jesus first, trust in his provision, and set a offers what they are seeking, turn to good example by loving God with all him, and be saved. their heart, soul, mind, and strength. Pray people will be released from materialism’s grip and set free to hear from God.

none Olivia WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 12 2020 13 2020 I was on a bus in a large East Asian city Ethnic East Asians live around the world traveling in the direction of the city as immigrants. Matthew 24:14 states, financial center. Most of the people in “This good news of the kingdom will be their forties and fifties wore well-known proclaimed in all the world as a testi- designer brands of professional business mony to all nations. And then the end attire. Virtually everyone on the bus was will come.” This is an exciting promise looking down at a smart phone. Some coupled with a huge responsibility. people seemed to be playing games, others were texting, and many were Pray missionaries will intentionally reading the news. invest in, teach, and encourage East Asian immigrants. Pray Christians Pray these professionals will bow will disciple them to obey Christ in all their heads more often for prayer things, including the call of God to share to their Creator than to look at their the gospel. Ask that the Lord, who phones. Pray Christian apps will point created and subsequently scattered professional businessmen and women these people around the world, will to Christ. also instill in them the urgency and joy of joining him in his Great Commission with a vision to reach the nations in our lifetime. Pray, too, that the Lord of the harvest will raise up these dispersed peoples to become the largest missionary-sending movement in history.

Melissa, Esther Andy FRIDAY SATURDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 14 2020 15 2020 Praise God for the partnership developed I grew up in the city. As a result, I am very with Vincent*, a brother whose family is accustomed to Han Chinese people and working to plant churches among the their ways. In fact, many of my friends Chinese in Hong Kong. This community are Han. Although my husband is Hui, has formed from those who, like Vincent, his mother is Han. I do not wear a head moved to Hong Kong from China, and covering and honestly do not think much now find themselves living in a land of about my religion. Of course, I do not eat more religious freedom where they pork, and I enjoy celebrating our Muslim finally have an opportunity to hear the holidays. I have heard about Jesus and Good News. They need more people like what Christians believe. If I believed this, Vincent and his wife who have a vision to even though my family is not very devout, engage them with the gospel. they would disown me. I was born a Muslim, and therefore must stay a Muslim. Please pray for the church that has started meeting in Vincent’s home. Pray Hui people who are indifferent to This small gathering is the first Islam will see their need for a Savior Mandarin-speaking house church in and turn to Jesus. Pray they will count their neighborhood. They hope to the cost and know that following Jesus reproduce churches throughout Hong is worth losing everything. Kong as they seek to ensure that the ever-growing number of new Chinese residents have an opportunity to hear and receive the Good News.

* Name changed

Anita Simeon, Aaron SUNDAY MONDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 16 2020 17 2020 Leaders of nations can hinder or help The state of Johor in Malaysia has approx- their people to know, love, and follow imately one million East Asians who are God. When King Josiah hears the words only 2 percent reached with the gospel. of the law in 2 Kings 22, he tears his All the major cities here lack churches. robes and cries before God. He knows Limited laborers present the greatest his nation has not loved and obeyed the obstacle to starting new ministry oppor- Lord and understands the consequences tunities among this massive population. of their parting from his commandments. However, God is not limited in power or Immediately, King Josiah responds with resources. Our obstacles become small faith and action and leads the people back when given to him to resolve. to God. Pray workers will sow gospel seeds and Pray for East Asian country leaders faithfully gather the harvest. Pray God who hinder their people from knowing will open the hearts of East Asians to God and hearing the gospel. Pray these receive Jesus and that he will provide leaders will miraculously hear or read the needed resources for them to grow the gospel and respond with faith and in the knowledge of who he is. Pray action like King Josiah did and lead for soft hearts among the East Asians their people to love and obey God. living in Johor so they can experience freedom in Christ.

Amy none TUESDAY WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 18 2020 19 2020 Christians advocated for a people group A couple who had recently arrived in to receive the basic education they their new home looked for a place to eat desperately needed. The local officials as they walked down the village street said they lacked the resources and at dusk. The wife excitedly recognized couldn’t help. The Christians kept asking some familiar produce—tomatoes. This God to provide for the educational and led to them meeting the Tibetan couple spiritual needs of the people. These selling the produce. The Tibetan couple workers and their partners felt led to find now considers them family. They heard a place where they could provide the the stories of creation, the rainbow, necessary instruction. God blessed this Christmas, and our risen Lord. The Tibetan plan and now the local officials have husband asked his wife, “Are you going to formally recognized the center as an believe in Jesus?” She is thinking deeply educational facility for the people about this decision, the effect it will have group. Hallelujah! on her family, and the ostracism that may come from their community. The Pray for God’s wisdom, guidance, and cost is definite. safety for the workers, their partners, and the students. Ask for the Lord’s Please pray for this family and others continued provision to keep this like them. Pray for God to remove unique school operational so people any faith-blocking hindrances to the both young and old can study basic gospel and open their eyes to see the educational subjects as well as learn power of our eternal life-giving Father what it means to be a Christian. through the sacrifice of Jesus.

none Evelynn, Enoch THURSDAY FRIDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 20 2020 21 2020 One of the greatest challenges for Chinese US missionary Dr. Horace Allen arrived to Christians is learning how to deepen their Korea in 1884. Then, Horace Underwood, relationship with Jesus through a daily Henry Appenzeller, and Mary Scranton quiet time. Daily prayer and study of the arrived in 1885. Allen and Underwood laid Scriptures is essential to the growth of the foundation for Severance Hospital young faith, yet many never learn how to and Yonsei University, which are both well have a quiet time. Thus, young Chinese respected today. Appenzeller founded Christians feel unable to study the Bible Paichai University. Scranton is the found- on their own and often remain confused er of the highly-ranked Ewha University, about how to pray to God as a Christian. the world’s largest women’s university. These institutions still hold to Christian Pray Chinese pastors will be convicted values and can have a tremendous posi- of the need to train their flock in basic tive impact for the gospel, even though Bible study skills and Christian prayer. cynicism toward the church grows among Pray mature Christians will pursue young people. opportunities to model these spiritual disciplines. Pray God will burden the Pray for the good work of these hearts of Chinese Christians to know him institutions and many like them. Ask deeper through daily quiet time. that the leaders will continue on in the spirit of the founders to proclaim God’s love.

Sally, Lamar Jack, Mindy SATURDAY SUNDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 22 2020 23 2020 Mongolians have celebrated Tsagaan Sar, The Emperor’s Birthday is celebrated in which literally means, “White Moon,” or, Japan on this day each year. The birthday “White Month,” since the 13th century. of the reigning emperor has been a They believe that all negativity passes national holiday since 1868. It is one of away with the previous year and the the most important holidays for Japanese coming year is “white” and “clean.” This citizens. The Imperial Palace, where the holiday also signifies the beginning of emperor and empress live, is restricted spring on the lunar calendar. Two very to the general public except on this day. important traditions surrounding Tsagaan The emperor will often say a few words of Sar are honoring elders and showing gratitude from his balcony to the thousands hospitality. During the three-day holiday, who gather to wish him a happy birthday people who visit homes are served and wave miniature Japanese flags. an abundance of dairy products and steamed dumplings filled with meat. Gifts Pray as countless Japanese are able to are also exchanged. enter into the presence of their emperor without restriction on his birthday, As families and friends gather, ask God that millions of Japanese will rapidly to give Christians boldness to share the make their way to the throne room of gospel, and for hearts to be open to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. receive their witness. Pray God will Pray they will joyfully seek his presence reveal that only he can truly make through faith in Jesus Christ. things white and clean, and that salvation is found only through Jesus.

Dennis, Victoria, Paul, Christine, Sandy Brian MONDAY TUESDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 24 2020 25 2020 Losar, the Tibetan Lunar New Year East Asians are everywhere in the Eu- celebration, is one of the most widely ropean Union. They include immigrants celebrated Tibetan holidays. From a who arrived years ago looking for a better religious perspective, the arrival of a new life, recently relocated workers with year represents casting off bad memories big national companies, small business from the past year and chasing away evil entrepreneurs, students, and a great spirits to ensure good luck in the coming host of tourists that come every year. In year. Lucky symbols and propitious France, England, Spain, Germany, Italy, activities are important to Tibetans and Greece, Mandarin-speaking evan- during this time. gelical churches are well established and continue to slowly multiply. Many of Please pray that their eyes will open these churches have hearts for missions to see the Lord who holds the future. and desire to be involved in missions but Pray they will understand that if the take little action. Second-generation East Creator of the universe is on their side, Asians in Europe prefer local languages, they have nothing to fear. which presents both a challenge and an opportunity to the ethnic churches since they have already crossed language and culture barriers.

Pray East Asian Christians, and especially second-generation Christians, will boldly and effectively be witnesses for Jesus Christ all over Europe, among their own people, and cross-culturally.

Tony, Lily, Michael May, Ashlynn, Angela, Judy, Tarum WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 26 2020 27 2020 At least four volunteer teams will partner It is increasingly difficult to receive biblical with Japanese churches in Fukuoka for training in countries where it is illegal to outreach events and ministry in 2020. evangelize. In response, church leaders This may include outdoor BBQs, sports, need creative ways to gain the resources game booths, coffee booths, craft tables, they need to effectively minister to the and music performances. These events all churches they serve. require the right people to lead and serve. Pray that through various venues, our Pray Japanese Christians will be en- Christian brothers and sisters who couraged and spurred on to do good face such difficult opposition will be works and be faithful witnesses. Pray refreshed, encouraged, and equipped God will be glorified through many to boldly face spiritual battles. Pray new connections with locals. Ask that they will be faithful to teach others, the events will have a lasting impact and that hundreds of thousands of on all seekers whose hearts the Lord church leaders will be equipped and has prepared. Pray many will hear remain faithful to the call of God on and understand the gospel. Pray God their lives. Ask God to give wisdom will make his name known and a great and good health to those who host and harvest will be gathered. teach as they plan events. May a hedge of protection surround students and teachers alike.

Patricia Sydney FRIDAY SATURDAY FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 28 2020 29 2020 Karl Marx, who is well known for his theories The church in Outer Mongolia desires to about capitalism and communism, taught take the gospel to the places Genghis Khan that in life, the ruling class suppresses the conquered. With a common language, working class. To correct this, he said that culture, and worldview, Outer Mongolians economic needs should be considered can go to Inner Mongolia (in China) and while providing for everyone’s well-being. effectively reach the nearly seven million Students and civil servants in China still have spiritually lost people there. God surely to study courses in Marxism and Leninism. has great things planned for Mongolians as their passports allow them to travel Pray the Chinese people will see the visa-free to countries like China, Russia, emptiness in any thought or belief that Cuba, Myanmar, and Indonesia. exists outside of the Bible. Pray they will actively search for truth in this Pray Outer Mongolians will gain a world and that God will reveal himself vision for reaching Mongolians outside to them and bring them into salvation. their home country. Pray God will provide the training, financial resources, and team structures needed to send them. Ask for strategic ways to engage in the lives of Inner Mongolians and for work options that can provide Outer Mongolians visas to live there. Pray the church will grow in depth so that many will be equipped to work in God’s harvest fields.

Rita Jessie

SUNDAY MONDAY MARCH MARCH 1 2020 2 2020 My local church led a camp for Taiwanese The developing city of Changde sits nes- aboriginal children who are very active tled between the Yuan River and Dongting and often lack adult supervision as their Lake in northwest Hunan province. Far parents work a lot to make ends meet. from China’s dynamic megacities, Chang- We wanted to show them the love of de is a quiet city known for its poetry. Christ as we taught the story of creation. Locals and tourists often visit the Chang- However, we spent much of the time de Poetry Wall, which is covered in a variety separating fights, leaving little room for of poems, mostly from ancient China. one-on-one interactions. It was difficult The wall stretches for 3 kilometers (1.9 work, but by the week’s end, many of the miles) along the Yuan River, protecting kids hugged their leaders and thanked the downtown area from seasonal flooding. them for coming. Most of the camp Han Chinese intermingle with ethnic helpers had never been on a ministry trip, minorities, most notably the Tujia people, so this was a growing experience for this who are native to this area. In previous new church. years, Christian workers lived here, bringing the Good News to Changde. Pray for the church to gain proficiency in leading their members to minister Pray God will call out missionaries and share the gospel. Ask the Lord to from the Chinese church to invest draw the aboriginal children of Taiwan their lives for Christ in Changde. to himself and provide a heart change Pray that one day poems of praise to that their culture does not naturally Jesus will be written on the Changde teach. Poetry Wall.

none Jude TUESDAY WEDNESDAY MARCH MARCH 3 2020 4 2020 Billions of dollars and countless hours Brian* is a Christian who, like Paul in have been spent as Japan prepares for 1 Corinthians 9:22, is becoming all things the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. A growing to a certain people group so that they number of volunteers from around the might be saved. Brian looks, sounds, and world are interested in working with local dresses exactly like them. Even though churches and missionaries. Effective and some are initially resistant to the gospel creative ways of outreach are needed and suspicious of him when they first to reach both the Japanese and those meet, it doesn’t take long for them to see coming to participate in or watch the that he is genuine in his good intentions. Summer Olympics. Brian shows God’s love by providing food, clothing, and other basic necessities. Pray for Japan’s churches as they These good works have led several to make preparations for all the national- trust him and some have even become ities who will visit their country during Christians. the Olympics. Pray for the numerous details that must be worked out in Please pray that these new Christians order to handle such a broad focus will be the first of many from this and opportunity. people group. Ask God to watch over Brian and his family and pray he would have God’s wisdom for the direction of his ministry. Please pray that others would soon join Brian in his work.

* Name changed

Sean, Karla Grant THURSDAY FRIDAY MARCH MARCH 5 2020 6 2020 Millions of Miao have never heard Jesus' The Mashan Miao people of China speak name and know nothing of the freedom four distinct languages, none of which he offers them. They live in fear of the are spoken in other areas. Some of these spirits, and traditions keep them from languages may have gospel recordings allowing God’s Word to be planted in available, but none of them have trans- their hearts. However, it is believed that lations of Scripture or The Jesus Film. long ago they had knowledge of the Legends vary among the groups, but one Creator, and had stories of the great thing remains the same: they all work flood, the Tower of Babel, and the division hard to appease the spirits and believe of peoples. Miao communities have that sickness, droughts, poor harvest, and tight-knit family bonds and friendships. a myriad of other problems are caused by If just one person believed, they could unhappy spirits. Among the four groups, make a great difference if they were some have no known Christians, while willing to stand strong in their faith. others have a handful of Christians.

Pray Miao Christians will have courage Pray that as God calls out to them, to lay down tradition and follow God their hearts will burn within them and alone. As they share with others, pray they will worship the God who is Alpha that every stronghold keeping them and the Omega, the One who is, who from God's love will be torn down, was, and who is coming, the Almighty allowing the seeds of the gospel to (Rev 1:8). take root in their hearts and grow unto salvation.

Grace, Mike Rachel SATURDAY SUNDAY MARCH MARCH 7 2020 8 2020 Connect 2020 started a year before the "We have no godly examples of what a scheduled 2020 Summer Olympics as an marriage should look like." A young pastor initiative to connect Japanese people to in China knows what the Bible says about God, connect Japanese churches to each marriage and raising children. He and other, and connect the Japanese church his wife want to honor the Lord in their to the world. Olympic pin trading is a family relationships but often have ques- popular tradition. With the main theme tions about what a Christian marriage of connecting, a bridge utilizing the five looks like. For the many first-generation colors of the Olympic rings is the first of Christian couples in China, their closest six pins that will be available as conver- models for marriage and family life are sation starters. Other pins will feature their non-Christian parents. In addition, different Japanese images and the five cultural examples of wholesome marriages colors of the salvation bracelet. This gives are often lacking. volunteers the opportunity to share the full gospel story. When all of the pins are Pray the Lord will magnify his glory collected, they can be arranged to mimic through Christian couples in China. the Olympic rings. Pray he will give them wisdom as they raise their children. Pray their children Pray for all the ministry trainings and will turn to the Lord and follow the outreach events that will take place godly examples of their parents when over the next year. Ask that God they begin marriages of their own. will honor these plans and use these efforts to connect many Japanese people to himself.

Egbert, Sara Sam, Doug MONDAY TUESDAY MARCH MARCH 9 2020 10 2020 Day of Prayer and Fasting: Fear The Butter Lamp Festival arrives each Like in Isaiah 41:10, the Bible overflows year in Lhasa fifteen days after the Tibetan with verses telling us to not be afraid. New Year. Tibetans celebrate this winter As Christians, we have nothing to fear, festival by making and burning butter but many of the 1.7 billion East Asians lamps in windows of houses and through are deaf to the voice of God who tells the streets of the city. Traditionally, these us to fear not. They fear the spirits of lamps are handmade with yak butter and ancestors and gods. They fear letting go come in a variety of shapes such as flowers, of what they have always known in order trees, animals, or gods. After sunset, to grab hold of God. They fear what their Tibetans will fill the streets of the Barkhor family will say. They fear they have not District around the Jokhang temple in done enough. They fear this year and Lhasa to gain merit by walking in circles they will have fear again next year. They around the temple. are bound by their fears and there is no way out—except through Jesus. Pray for Tibetans as they celebrate this Buddhist festival. Ask that God would Pray they will hear and believe the reveal Jesus as the light to the nations. words, “Fear not, I bring you good Pray God will draw Tibetans away from news of great joy. A Savior has been idol worship to give him the glory due born to free you from your fears.” his name (Isaiah 42:6-8).

none none WEDNESDAY THURSDAY MARCH MARCH 11 2020 12 2020 Most Christian Inner Mongolians are Seoul is the capital of South Korea and is between the ages of eighteen and a huge metropolis with a population of thirty-five, and many heard the gospel as more than eleven million. It is located in students or young professionals. Each of the northwest, 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) them has a family—maybe a rebellious from the North Korean border. The city younger brother, a hard-working mother, is characterized by modern skyscrapers an older sister with a career, or a father and western-style church buildings, who has struggled with alcoholism—that ancient Buddhist temples and palaces, needs to hear the gospel. Unfortunately, and traditional street markets. The city many Inner Mongolian Christians are has widespread Wi-Fi access and fast afraid to boldly share the truth with their internet connections. Although Seoul has families. Every year, approximately fifty a high concentration of Christians, the thousand Mongolians in Inner Mongolia majority are first-generation Christians die and go to a Christ-less eternity. and elderly. A very small percentage of college students and young professionals Pray Inner Mongolian Christians will are Christians. Most of the young people share the truth with their families and face strong family and social pressures to live out their spiritual transformation succeed in their education and career. in a way that their families can see the power of God. Pray God will protect Pray for the young people in Seoul to those who share boldly and that family hunger for Christ more than social members will have hearts that are and economic success, and to boldly open to the truth of the gospel. choose to pursue that which is eternal.

John, Karla, Stuart, Andrew, George, Jack John FRIDAY SATURDAY MARCH MARCH 13 2020 14 2020 Jesus counted the Eastern Xiangxi Miao Several individuals from an unreached righteous when he bore their sins, yet people group took a trip to another centuries later, they still try to pay the country where they were exposed to a price themselves. They worship Pan Hu, a new lifestyle. Christians hosted the group dragon dog god, whom they believe gave and freely lived out their faith before their birth to their race. They offer sacrifices visitors. However, they were careful about and pray to gods, searching for what only what they said because they knew their Jesus can offer. guests would be questioned when they returned home. What the guests under- Pray their eyes will open to the glorious stood of their experience isn’t known, but truth of the gospel and their hearts will they had the opportunity to experience be freed from the chains that hold them what only God could have arranged. down. Pray that as they are set free, they will carry this Good News to the Please pray that this group of non- next family, house, village, and mountain. Christians will have more chances in the future to meet other Christians and be exposed to the gospel message. Pray many of these people will understand and believe God’s truth and experience changed lives.

Briana Emma SUNDAY MONDAY MARCH MARCH 15 2020 16 2020 “I felt no fear. I felt God-strong, even People across East Asia continue to courageous. The police asked questions search for the fulfillment of their desires about my church and . . . what I believed . as they follow the gods of their ancestors. . . . I shared the entire gospel story. They They chase after the next god, master, listened carefully . . . . When I finished, I or “dollar,” thinking it will solve their asked the policemen if they wanted to problems or make them happy. Even believe. They didn’t answer, so I continued: Christians are tempted to run to false ‘My life is secure in Christ . . . . I will spend gods they previously worshiped when eternity with him. I have nothing to fear. troubles come. Can you say the same thing? . . . Only through Jesus can you find true life.’ I God, rescue them from the snares of decided if police were going to question the world that have blinded them to me, I would use the chance to spread the your goodness, provision, and glory. gospel . . . . Isn’t that what the apostles Help them to forsake all other gods taught us do . . . ?” and means of finding life, that they may discover everlasting life in you. Praise God for how he continues to Plant your truth deep in the hearts of strengthen village churches and give Christians so that they will look to you boldness to church leaders who are only. Plant them by streams of water, not afraid to suffer for the gospel. so they will produce fruit until old age.

Shannon, Henry Pearl TUESDAY WEDNESDAY MARCH MARCH 17 2020 18 2020 Taiwan, the Ilha Formosa (Beautiful For twenty years, a diligent Christian Island), delightfully blends old and new, has been passionately evangelizing an mountains and ocean, city and country- unreached people group. Through God’s side. This nation is the fifteenth most grace, several churches were started. densely populated country in the world, This Christian nurtures the leaders and with more than twenty-three million inspires others in the area who are doing people. They frequently worship a variety similar outreach. One of these leaders of gods through offerings of food, money, was recently explaining to a woman from and incense. Paul’s message (Acts this people group the concepts of repen- 17:22-28) could be preached in today’s tance and faith in God. She responded Taiwan: “Men of Taiwan! I see that you are that this was the first time she’d heard extremely religious in every respect. For about Christianity with a detailed explana- as I was passing through and observing tion of the gospel. Sadly, this is the case the objects of your worship, I even found for most members of this people group— an altar on which was inscribed: TO AN they rarely, if ever, hear the gospel. UNKNOWN GOD.” Pray for more Christians like these Pray that, like Paul, many will proclaim two faithful workers who are diligently to the Taiwanese the God who made sharing the Good News. Ask for God to heaven and earth, does not live in make a way for others from this people shrines made by hand. He gives us group to hear, understand, and believe life and is not far from us. Pray their the gospel. searching hearts will find their home in Christ.

Kirklynn Ted, Hana, Joelliane, Debbie, Hana THURSDAY FRIDAY MARCH MARCH 19 2020 20 2020 A generation is being lost. As East Asians Tianjin is a city of fifteen million. Unlike enter new cultures and countries, parents other megacities, Tianjin still feels like a want to meet the educational needs of small city. It has been a major seaport and their children. Some return to their home gateway to Beijing for a long time. Tianjin country because of the few educational has four distinct seasons and a climate options available to them. When they do that is quite dry. Christians constitute less stay, their children often attend secular than 2 percent of the city’s population. schools where they don’t speak their Local brothers and sisters gather weekly mother tongue, so the language of their and worship with other Christians. new country becomes their child’s heart However, they must be cautious to avoid language. This creates a disconnect being shut down. between the parents and the children and leaves a huge void as Christian parents Pray for encouragement, strength, and often feel incapable of communicating protection for local Christians. Pray spiritual truths to their children. brothers and sisters will have faith to stand firm for the Lord. Ask God to Please pray Christian parents will be provide others who will come alongside intentional to “teach their youth about these local Christians and love, serve, the way [they] should go” (Proverbs and equip them to preach the gospel, 22:6). Pray they will set an example make disciples, and plant churches. in life and godliness and disciple their children in his Word, regardless of where they live.

Susie, Howard, Marisa Jeff, Ted SATURDAY SUNDAY MARCH MARCH 21 2020 22 2020 Nestled high in the Himalayas, around Persecution across China of various thirteen thousand feet, people live isolat- church leaders has been well documented ed from the rest of the world. Despite the since new religious laws were put into small population and extreme remoteness effect in 2018. China’s increased surveil- of these villages, a number of prominent lance techniques have aided in learning monasteries have been built in the last of Christian leaders, organizational fifteen years. This growth shows both the structures, and networks. This has led to investment and prioritization of the local sophisticated multi-pronged strategies people and outside funding for the further that target key pastors and church leaders perpetuation of Buddhist dominance along with their partners. Consequently, among this people. There are no known many foreign Christian workers have been Christians in these villages as well as forced to leave China with sudden notice, no Scripture or other biblical materials and national leaders must deal with harass- in their language. Monks there have ment that can lead to long incarceration. received copies of the New Testament in Families are faced with great upheaval and a similar dialect. feel a sense of loss on many levels.

Pray God will open the hearts of those Please pray that the peace of God that who have access to a Bible to be surpasses all understanding will be receptive to the truth. Pray Scripture present in the hearts of those who are will soon be translated into this remote impacted. Pray those who experience language, for all to hear. persecution will not only see it as a badge of honor, but also what propels the gospel to powerfully go forth.

Penny, Kevin, Allison, Skip Jake, Jonathan, Shawna, Dalia MONDAY TUESDAY MARCH MARCH 23 2020 24 2020 I live in an extremely crowded city. When A saying in China translates, “Think highly I walk out the front door of my apart- of boys and lightly of girls.” One Chinese ment building, the street is teeming with woman tried to commit suicide by drink- people, buses, taxis, motorbikes, and cars. ing household cleaner when she was a I feel overwhelmed some days, but most girl after her little brother fell and hurt of the time I think about the lostness that himself while she was watching him. She surrounds me. When I walk to the market knew he was the household treasure and or the park, I pass many temples and was sure that her life would be unbear- stores that cater to the worship of false able if anything happened to him. Another idols. On special “auspicious” days, the friend was one of three daughters. Her sidewalks are covered with offerings for grandparents and neighbors publicly beat the spirits to be refreshed with the foods and shamed her mother for not bearing a they enjoyed when living on earth. My son. Relatives threw one of the children, team shares Bible stories and the gospel then a baby, into a waste-water ditch, with people in our neighborhood. Many but the child was rescued by her mother. have become Christians and encourage Many women in China, especially in their their families to believe. thirties and older, have lasting scars from painful episodes like these. Pray for a church to begin soon in this area so these lost souls will have even Pray Chinese women will know their more opportunities to hear about Jesus. value in the heavenly Father and find their true identity and worth in Christ.

none Brad, Jane, Clayton WEDNESDAY THURSDAY MARCH MARCH 25 2020 26 2020 The Olympic torch relay, with the theme Today the Zhuang celebrate the Song “Hope Lights Our Way,” will begin in Festival, “San Yue San,” or third month, Fukushima on March 26, 2020. After the third day. This holiday is focused on earthquake and tsunami of 2011, this worshiping ancestors. Families travel long location was a staging ground for battling distances to their hometowns to sweep the nuclear meltdown. Now named the their ancestors’ tombs and burn incense, J-Village, it has been revived to its original firecrackers, and paper gifts to the spirit form. The torch relay will travel to all forty- world for their ancestors. Zhuang people seven prefectures in Japan, showcasing celebrate by dancing and singing traditional the varied cultural and scenic attractions folk songs. of each region for 121 days before arriving in Tokyo on July 24. Pray that one day the folk songs of the Zhuang will be transformed into music Pray God’s light will shine in churches that worships the one, true, and living all across Japan and that pastors and God. Pray the Zhuang will be stripped lay leaders will look for ways to open of the power of ancestor worship and the doors of their churches to those that their eyes will open to see the who need to experience Christian love glory of Jesus Christ. Pray Zhuang and fellowship. Ask the Father to use Christians will return home during the his children to share the wonderful San Yue San festival to share the Good news that he has a bright future with News of Jesus Christ with all of the hope for all who come to faith. lost in their villages.

Patti Daniel FRIDAY SATURDAY MARCH MARCH 27 2020 28 2020 Darla* was a welcoming and talkative vol- It’s been said that language learning is the unteer who enthusiastically invited us into most humiliating and personal endeavor the visitor’s center of a city garden. She undertaken by man. Entering a new cul- changed topics from the garden to the re- ture often means a missionary’s inability ligious chant she has practiced all her life. to communicate leaves them feeling She believes that saying the tongue-twist- utterly incompetent. Yet God, in his ing chant will bring her positive karma goodness and grace, has called Christians and that doing good actions will bring to the world. For some, learning a new her blessings from the universe. We took language can be an exciting prospect. advantage of the opportunity and told But the reality is, language fluency always her about Jesus, the greatest blessing requires hard work, humility, and count- from the God who created the universe. less hours of study and practice. Each of We told her that as Christians we do these components of language compe- good not to earn favor but because we tency demands intense and intentional represent Jesus, who is completely good. sacrifice and a support structure that She listened attentively, but her trust in enables the student to make progress. the chant seemed unchanging. Please pray East Asian missionaries will Please pray for Darla, and the many humbly value others above themselves lost people in Malaysia who trust in and look to the interests of others. their own efforts. Ask God to free Pray they will have the same mind as them to find the only way to salvation: Christ, who humbled himself, taking on Jesus Christ. the very nature of a servant—specifically as it relates to language competency * Name changed (Philippians 2:1-8).

Trixie, Ellie Joo-Chan, Frances, Asher, Dora SUNDAY MONDAY MARCH MARCH 29 2020 30 2020 Bill* has pastored a small church of “Pure and undefiled religion before our mostly minority people groups for many God and Father is this: to look after years. Last year, his private business was orphans and widows in their distress and forcibly closed, and he wasn’t sure what to keep oneself unstained by the world” to do without his family’s only source of (James 1:27). Pray for starving children income. That same week, another Chris- in orphanages among an unreached tian’s business began, and Bill was able to people group in East Asia. Twice a day, become its local manager on the same one to two thousand children receive day he shut the door to his business. Now special food to address and help prevent he and three other local Christians work malnutrition. Sadly, the number of chil- together to teach and share the gospel dren needing this special nutritional food with families in their community. Bill is seems to be increasing. able to spend adequate time preparing for his sermons. When his people have Pray the authorities will allow this needs, he is able to take off from work important assistance to freely continue and minister to them, and he no longer and will offer more food and medical has to worry about providing for his aid. Ask that the Christians who serve family. He works amazingly hard at the the children will find ways to com- shop and even harder for his church. municate God’s love, hope, and faith through Jesus although Christianity is Pray the seeds these men are sowing not allowed there. Pray the children will come to fruition. will hear, understand, and believe the gospel message and find hope for today * Name changed as well as eternity.

Adam Julia, Aaron, Dick TUESDAY WEDNESDAY MARCH APRIL 31 2020 1 2020 “At that time you were without the Most of the world’s population is in their Messiah, excluded from the citizenship of early twenties or younger. We are in the Israel, and foreigners to the covenants of midst of an unparalleled opportunity to the promise, without hope and without reach the next generation—tomorrow’s God in the world” (Ephesians 2:12). leaders and decision makers—with the The Lupanshui Miao people of China are gospel. Students are coming to Christ predominately hardworking farmers who across university campuses, in massive worship spirits. They live in places that global cities, and even in far-flung villages are difficult to reach and remain in physi- that dot the East Asian landscape. God cal isolation and spiritual darkness. Many is using students to reach students. Due young people flock to cities in search of to their shared experiences via social work and a better life. There they are media and the internet, this generation influenced by Chinese and communist of students has more in common with culture, and many Lupanshui Miao youth people their age from other countries abandon the beliefs of their parents and than they do with their elders from their turn to atheism. They live without God or own country. There is an unprecedented hope and desperately need the gospel to opportunity to leverage this shared “glob- set them free from the bondage of sin. al” mentality of today’s students to reach East Asians with the gospel. God, above the city noise, we pray they will hear you calling to them and will Pray students across the US will heed seek you. Christ’s call to go and proclaim the Good News to the peoples of East Asia.

Kate, Kurt Gil, Tyler, Katherine THURSDAY FRIDAY APRIL APRIL 2 2020 3 2020 During a visit with a biblical counselor, a Many young people hang out in Hongdae ministry partner introduced the counselor and Sinchon in western Seoul to watch to his friend who was struggling with street performers, known as buskers. depression. During a subsequent coun- Most buskers perform to sharpen their seling session, the counselor and partner skills and have a shot at being scouted by were amazed as they witnessed the professional agencies. Some can attract a friend’s healing and transformation. The crowd of more than one hundred, while friend testified that he felt renewed in his others, just a handful. Evangelistic busking mind and spirit and credited it to God and is uncommon but seems like an opportune his Word. Later, the partner shared about and creative avenue to attract the attention his recommitment to the work God gave of young people, since most of the crowds him, and the counselor joyfully reflected who stop to listen and watch are in their on God’s amazing grace in action. Months twenties and thirties. later, the friend volunteered at a camp where some young people became Pray Christian groups that desire to do Christians and others made recommit- evangelistic busking will have the right ments. How beautiful and fruitful it is strategy and effective performances. when God heals someone through his Pray Hongdae and Sinchon will be Word and love. saturated with gatherings of young people praising and worshiping God. Pray for these three Christians as they share the gospel and their lives with an unreached people group.

Lucy Mee, Barnard SATURDAY SUNDAY APRIL APRIL 4 2020 5 2020 Qing Ming Festival, or Tomb-Sweeping April 2020 marks the two-year anni- Day, is celebrated by Chinese people in versary of the Love of Jesus Church in many countries. They travel to the tombs Yokohama, Japan. The church focuses on of their ancestors to clean the areas, pray discipleship and being discipled to make to their ancestors, and make offerings disciples. Since their first meeting, mem- in the form of incense, food, or spirit bers have humbled themselves before the money. This day is often thought of as Lord through consistent prayer and sub- honoring the deceased and is based on mission to the Word, and God has made the reverence of ancestors in the Chinese his presence clearly known. Excitement culture. For Christians, this is a difficult and determination continue to grow as time as cultural traditions and Christian these brothers and sisters step out in values clash. Often, Christians pray silently faith and obedience to share the gospel. to God while others make their offerings. Boldness increases as the Lord works It is especially difficult for new Christians in and through them to draw people to who face parental disappointment in the himself. The church will transition to local fact that they, as Christians, will not carry leadership this year. on these traditions when their parents pass away. Pray the church members will keep their focus firmly on the Lord during Pray Christians will stand firm in their this time of transition. faith during this holiday and find ways to honor their ancestors without worshiping them.

Joseph, Avery, May none MONDAY TUESDAY APRIL APRIL 6 2020 7 2020 The Laba people of China have access to Sam* was unable to reach a specific numerous Christian resources, yet less minority group for a long time. Recently, than 1 percent follow Christ. They speak he was approached by a local Christian Mandarin, the official language of China, woman who also has a burden for this but have a distinct ethnicity from people particular people group. She is finishing groups around them. Christian work be- up missionary training and will then go gan among the Laba in 1899, and gospel to one of the villages where this minority recordings were made one hundred years people group lives. later. But the gospel has yet to take root among these people. They worship the Pray for many areas in East Asia where spirits of their ancestors and have been work is just beginning among people known to sacrifice cows because they groups who have yet to hear the gospel believe their ancestors eat the meat in or read a Bible in their own language. the afterlife. Pray East Asian churches will send out many members to labor faithfully in Pray the Laba will see the futility in difficult places. Pray they will allow repeated animal sacrifices and will every inconvenience and hardship to accept the once-for-all sacrifice that be used for God’s glory. Jesus made. Pray their only sacrifices will be those they offer to God—offer- * Name changed ings of praise made with their lives.

April, Jace Ruth, Mark WEDNESDAY THURSDAY APRIL APRIL 8 2020 9 2020 Theological training is often seen as a Big cities in China are famous for unique daunting task that yields little visible tourist activities, vibrant economies, growth. People observe that it provides diverse job opportunities, and good food. knowledge but wonder if it changes Thus, in a little more than fifteen years, leaders’ hearts or transforms their lives. the former fishing village of Qingdao has To address the need, a program was started transformed. Now offering new malls, a to help nationals to not only deepen subway system, and a new airport, it’s no their understanding of basic doctrinal wonder this city has hosted a global lead- truths, but also grow in their love of ership conference. Local churches have and obedience to the Word. Instructors thrived in this city; however, as one leader meet regularly with each student to give lamented, “Everyone is too busy to care counsel and care. As a result of this pro- much about church.” Another Christian gram, many local Christians have begun to said, “Sometimes church feels more like practice spiritual disciplines as well as lead a meeting for work rather than a day of their family members to obey God’s rest.” Last summer, several fellowships Word more regularly. Churches have hosted teenage retreats. Afterward, a grown in unity and depth as they have leader said, “I was surprised at the willing- studied the Bible. ness of students sharing openly about sex and transgender issues.” In addition Praise God that his Spirit is teaching to worldly pressures, the church also and leading these students toward faces persecution. further holiness. Pray these brothers and sisters will continue to grow in Please read through this again and after their knowledge of and obedience each sentence, pray for this great city. to him.

Lela, Keith Beth, Jack, William, Nora FRIDAY SATURDAY APRIL APRIL 10 2020 11 2020 The 2020 Olympics in Tokyo will begin “But the one who looks intently into the once the final torchbearer runs into perfect law of freedom and perseveres the new Olympic stadium to light the in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but cauldron. Around ten thousand people one who does good works—this person will participate in the torch relay across will be blessed in what he does” (James Japan, with each runner set to run about 1:25). God is blessing, Mark*, an effective 200 meters. As Japan wants the games doer of the Word. His genuine love and to showcase its recovery from the 2011 good deeds for an unreached people earthquake, tsunami, and Fukushima group so impressed a person in govern- nuclear crisis, the final torchbearer could mental authority that they gave Mark per- be a young person or emerging athlete mission to meet and interact with more from the devastated northeast. Olympic people of this group. This is unprecedent- organizers will not reveal the identity ed. Despite health issues, Mark continues of the final torchbearer until the torch to minister to the poorest of the people arrives in the stadium. in a variety of ways and always looks for more opportunities to meet needs and Pray Japanese people will learn the share the gospel. name of Jesus before their life is finished. Pray Japanese Christians will Pray for Mark and the other Christians become as excited to introduce their that collaborate with him. Ask for Savior to family and friends as they are God’s wisdom, direction, and protection to share the name of the final Olympic as they serve and share the gospel. torchbearer. * Name changed

Matt, Marissa Samantha, Robert, Saundra SUNDAY MONDAY APRIL APRIL 12 2020 13 2020 In much of East Asia, Resurrection Sunday Day of Prayer and Fasting: Idolatry is simply another day. Millions have yet God made our hearts for worship, but to hear of the One who not only died often what we worship creates barriers for their sins, but rose again, conquered between us and our Creator. We tend to death, and fulfilled God’s redemptive plan idolize money, status, knowledge, and for the world. Some have heard but don’t position. We give our loyalties to leaders, believe. Some Christians will gather in teachers, and friends, even if they take secret while others will meet with their us from God. We pour ourselves into churches to celebrate this day. They may relationships, school, and work, and have sing, “Because He Lives,” and greet one little energy left for him. When we finally another with, “He is risen.” think about God, our hearts have grown cold. Our passions for the things of the As you celebrate today, ask God to world rob us of what God offers, yet he reveal himself to the billion-plus East promises to take care of our needs when Asians who still rely on man-made we seek first his kingdom and his righ- religions to find peace, forgiveness, teousness (Matthew 6:33). and purpose. Some of them simply don’t know any other way, while Pray East Asian Christians will lay all others fear letting go of what has of their idols at the foot of the cross been practiced for generations, even and look to Jesus. Pray they will if it does not fulfill. Pray their longing fully commit to God who promises to hearts will find rest in Christ. strengthen them (2 Chronicles 16:9).

Ann, Cathy Krystal TUESDAY WEDNESDAY APRIL APRIL 14 2020 15 2020 History reveals flawed East Asian leaders At the end of Daniel 4, King Nebuchad- who received undying loyalty from their nezzar states, “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, followers. People willingly laid down ev- praise, exalt, and glorify the King of heav- erything—even to the point of death—for en, because all His works are true and His leaders who selfishly pursued power and ways are just. He is able to humble those fame. In contrast, we serve a perfectly who walk in pride” (Daniel 4:37). He unselfish God who died for us and asks proclaims this testimony after a dramatic nothing more from us than what he experience. Earlier in his reign, the king himself did. What if we gave all? What if a does not acknowledge God. He is so multitude, or even just a handful, of Chris- proud that he erroneously thinks his power, tians began to follow God in this way? wealth, and influence are the products Could we turn the world upside down? of his own doing. Then God humbles the king through unexpected hardships. Pray for Christians throughout East Asia to say, “Wherever he leads, I’ll Pray for the leaders of East Asian go. I am willing to surrender all for the countries who don’t acknowledge God sake of his call.” and pride themselves on their abilities and accomplishments. Pray God will dramatically turn their hearts and minds like he did for King Nebuchadnezzar, so they will have faith in God through Jesus and declare powerful testimonies of God’s greatness to the world.

Amanda, Sandra, Solomon Molly THURSDAY FRIDAY APRIL APRIL 16 2020 17 2020 Taichung City is located in the center of Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, the island nation of Taiwan and is the continues to grow rapidly. Education, third largest city with a population of economic opportunities, and a rich 2.8 million people. The majority of the English-speaking heritage make the population follows a blend of Buddhism, city a regional hub. Its unique history Taoism, Confucianism, and ancestor wor- blends Malay, Indian, Chinese, and British ship. Evangelical Christians make up less cultures. With an estimated fourteen than 3 percent of the population. million annual tourists, Kuala Lumpur is the second most-visited city in all of Pray for more Taiwanese Christians East Asia. Forty-three percent of Kuala to share the gospel with their friends Lumpur residents have Chinese ancestry and neighbors, especially among the but take pride in having a distinct ethnic working class that is less than 0.5 culture. Fewer than 3 percent of Chinese percent Christian. Pray for the chains Malaysians in Kuala Lumpur know, love, of idol worship, superstition, and false and follow Jesus. religion to be broken by the power of Jesus. Pray for more pastors and Pray the Lord will raise up healthy, re- churches to meet the need for the producing, ethnic churches in Malaysia. gospel among the lost in Taichung City. Pray that this unique, multicultural city Pray for generous giving in the churches will enable Chinese Malaysians to evan- to support local ministry. gelize others—some of whom are almost completely unreached. Pray the local seminary will continue to train God-honoring pastors and missionaries to take the gospel to the ends of the earth.

Nick, Jon Anna, Helen SUTURDAY SUNDAY APRIL APRIL 18 2020 19 2020 The innkeeper and her son are very A pastor was detained and questioned engaging, although they do not follow before going on a cross-cultural mission Jesus. They often invite guests into their trip. Despite the challenges that followed, inn, which is located at the top of a hill in he and his flock have flourished. The a quaint, cozy, small Tibetan village. The persecution he faced strengthened not innkeeper and her son introduce guests only his faith, but that of the brothers and to their many friends and family. God sisters in his church. has opened doors and hearts to hear his Good News in this small village where Pray for East Asian Christians who face there are no known Christians. Through persecution to be steadfast in hope this innkeeper’s hospitality, hundreds of and patient in affliction. Pray the Lord gospel seeds have been sown. will grant them the strength and power to love those who appear to be their Pray God will open the eyes and hearts enemies and to boldly share the gospel of those who worship the mountain as with everyone the Lord places in their a part of their Buddhism. Pray these circles of influence. dear people will know Jesus’ saving grace. Pray they will look away from the mountain and up to the God who made it, for he is steadfast in truth and in the hope of his glory.

Heidi, Stephen, James Kate, Nathan, Cambell, Meredith MONDAY TUESDAY APRIL APRIL 20 2020 21 2020 There are more than three thousand Praise God for multiple partnership break- UUPGs (Unreached, Unengaged People throughs with various Baptist conventions Groups) in the world. They have no in East Asia. We have specific commit- access to the gospel, which means they ments from conventions and churches to lack Scripture, a church, gospel mate- provide theological, pastoral, family and rials, and people who speak their heart marriage counseling, and other leadership language and can share the love of Christ training among unreached peoples and with them in a way that they can truly cities. Many East Asian Baptist conven- understand and believe. These people tions are also leading short-term mission groups generally live in hard-to-reach trips to prayer walk, train in evangelism locations, but God has opened the door and discipleship, and plant new churches for East Asian Christians to live in places or strengthen existing churches all around that are closed off to other ethnic groups. the world. In areas without organized con- God knows all of these people groups and ventions, God is burdening local churches their heart languages. with the need to work together.

Pray for God to clearly lead, guide, and Pray the Lord will shape the DNA in protect East Asian missionaries as they these new conventions to select, send, venture to engage these UUPGs. Pray and support missionaries. Pray for that in partnership with the Holy Spirit, continued growth and vision as we soon there will be no more UUPGs work together with Korean, Malaysian, because they will all have been reached Taiwanese, Singaporean, and Hong by the gospel. Kong Baptist conventions to make Christ’s name known in this part of the world.

Lance none WEDNESDAY THURSDAY APRIL APRIL 22 2020 23 2020 Four young Korean ladies have commit- It is common for a newly-married couple ted to tell the story of Christ to ethnic to live with one set of parents in China. Chinese university students in Malaysia Under these circumstances, it can be for six months. As they make friends, challenging for the newlyweds to leave invite non-Christians to outreach events, their mothers and fathers and bond to and plan to share their personal testimo- each other (Genesis 2:24). Add in the nies of transformation, they are following cultural value of honoring one's parents, Jesus’ Great Commission to “‘Go and and you have the potential for much make disciples of all nations, baptizing frustration and conflict. When the young them in the name of the Father and of the couple has children, the possibilities for Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them conflict multiply. to observe everything I have commanded you’”(Matthew 28:19-20a). Pray for peace in the homes of Chinese Christian families. Pray for healing in Pray for these ladies as they navigate families where there has been deep the culture, language, and customs of hurt. Pray that Christian couples will a new country and invite the lost to bond to each other even as they seek come to faith. Ask our Father to help to honor their parents. Pray that Chris- them meet students seeking the one tian marriages and families will display true God. Pray that the thirty thousand the glory of God to a watching world. students at the university will have a chance to know and believe in Jesus Christ.

none Jennifer FRIDAY SATURDAY APRIL APRIL 24 2020 25 2020 For most Hui people, Ramadan is the “Some take pride in chariots, and others most important time of year. They make in horses, but we take pride in the name significant changes to their lives for thirty of Yahweh our God” (Psalm 20:7). King days to faithfully follow Islam. Most do David wrote this psalm from his experience not eat or drink anything during daylight of leading soldiers in battle. He and his hours but still go to work every day. After soldiers knew it wasn’t their ability that sunset and prayers, they finally can eat. held power but their faith in God. To this They believe that participating in Rama- day, countries still trust in military strength dan helps them get to heaven. During this rather than God. For many, the military holiday, Muslims desire to follow what exists to protect their people and maintain they believe is truth. They pray for visions peace with other nations. But for some from God. What better time is there for countries, the military seems less about Christ-followers to dedicate a month to protection and peace and more about praying for God’s Spirit to move in mighty power acquisition and intimidation. ways among Muslims? Intercede for East Asian countries that Pray God will provide opportunities pour resources into their militaries to for spiritual conversations with Hui, to the detriment of their citizens’ welfare. direct them to Jesus and the salvation Pray the gospel will flood into these he alone provides. Pray God will give countries and be used by God to change Hui people visions of Jesus. lives so that his peace will reign in the hearts of the leaders and their people.

Emma, Cassie James, Kendall SUNDAY MONDAY APRIL APRIL 26 2020 27 2020 Melissa* is a Christian who consistently Most of my students came from affluent and lovingly ministers to an unreached families with fathers who traveled a lot people group. She learned about them for work. One day I asked them, "Which fifteen years ago and eventually was able would you choose—for your father to to minister among the people and point give you more money and stuff, or for them to God to meet their spiritual and him to spend more time with you?" After physical needs. Gospel proclamation is some discussion, the students replied, at the heart of these activities. Through "We want our fathers to spend more time God’s blessing, many people have become with us." It was nearly unanimous. In this Christians, new churches have been start- culture, being a good father does not carry ed, and others are maturing. Melissa now a lot of weight—it doesn’t earn respect focuses on church leadership training but with other men the way that money, power, has a dream for the gospel to reach all or status does. But it matters to God. the people of this particular group. Sadly, most are inaccessible. Pray that godly men will demonstrate what a husband and father should Praise God for how he has answered be. Ask the Lord to turn the hearts of prayers for this unreached people fathers toward their children. Pray the group. Join Melissa and other Chris- Lord will glorify his name as his people tians in asking God to open new doors submit their marriages and families of access for them to take the gospel to him. to these people.

* Name changed

Gwen Max, Sarah, Meghan TUESDAY WEDNESDAY APRIL APRIL 28 2020 29 2020 Busan is South Korea’s second largest It’s difficult to access the more than five municipality with a population of 3.5 million Tibetans living throughout western million. Its port on the southeastern coast China. They live in the region’s rugged is Korea’s busiest and the world’s sixth mountains and high plateaus, tucked into largest. It is nearer in distance to Fukuoka, valleys and on hillsides in small villages. Japan, than to Seoul. During the initial Tibetan culture is resistant to the gospel, months of the Korean War, many people so Christians endure significant persecution pursued refuge in Busan, which was one as they share their faith. Tibetans across of two cities not captured by the North China believe in working for a better Korean army. Today, the city is highly reincarnation, which makes it difficult to popular for international conferences and comprehend that Jesus gives salvation as festivals. It is also known for its beaches, a free gift. Many of the region’s different mountains, and temples. The majority of languages and dialects need their own Busan’s people are Buddhists and Sha- translations of the Bible so the people can manists. Few are Christian. understand the stories.

Pray Busan “will be as full of the Pray God will send more workers from knowledge of the Lord as the sea is the Chinese church into the harvest. filled with water” (Isaiah 11:9b). May Pray God will call Tibetan Christians to his kingdom come, and his will be done share the gospel with their people and in the hearts of the people of Busan. take responsibility for making disciples among their families and communities.

Charlotte Bethany THURSDAY FRIDAY APRIL MAY 30 2020 1 2020 I prayed for six months that God would I grew up in a single-parent home. My open a door to begin an English activity mom is Hui, and she raised me to be group in the community where a young Muslim. My mom worked all the time, so church had started. Out of the blue, she was not always able to pick me up the local principal asked me to start an from school, help me with homework, or English class for parents in her school. At feed me. A Christian family volunteered the same time, a colleague in town asked to help. Through their witness, I came to if I knew of any English venues where she believe in Jesus. I attended a church and could help teach. More than fifty parents met other Hui Christians. I tried to share signed up for this class, and many heard about Jesus with my grandfather, but he about Christ. just wanted to make sure I still go to the mosque and celebrate Islamic holidays. I Pray for the hundreds of activities all only go to the mosque when I’m home to over China that are run by Christians appease my mom. who seek opportunities to share truth. Pray they will find favor in the eyes Praise God for drawing Muslims to of officials and be able to continue to himself. Pray young Christians will turn use these meetings to tell students from all Islamic practices and trust about Jesus. Jesus alone, even when that means they will be persecuted by family.

Liza, Barb, Sharon, Lucy, Junia Sarah, Penny, Durand SATURDAY SUNDAY MAY MAY 2 2020 3 2020 “The fool says in his heart, ‘God does not Kenya has an East Asian population of exist.’ They are corrupt, and they do vile roughly ten thousand people. Many of deeds” (Psalm 53:1). We often see that them are sent there by government- when God’s existence is denied, corrup- owned companies for infrastructure tion, vileness, and foolishness prevail. construction projects and leave when People do what furthers their cause, no a project is completed. Some are small matter the cost to others. With no God business owners who come with their there is no moral standard, no absolute families. Once their children reach school truth, and the line between right and age, many move back to their home wrong shifts. In such a world, to stand for country. There are two East Asian churches what is right is difficult and not popular. and one fellowship group. An average of thirty people attend each gathering. Pray Christians will hold fast to the truth of God’s unchanging Word. Pray Pray for East Asians to have an open they will choose the higher path when heart to hear the gospel as they asked to be dishonest. Pray they will live and work in this predominately seek God’s strength to do the right Christian country. Pray for pastors to thing when tempted. Pray they will have perseverance and a Great Com- turn the other cheek and press on mission vision despite the transient when mocked. nature of church members. Pray the children who study and come to faith in Kenya will develop the mindset of reaching the nations with the gospel.

Teresa, Maggie Leigh MONDAY TUESDAY MAY MAY 4 2020 5 2020 Praise the Lord for the partnerships that Children’s Day is celebrated in Japan on East Asia has had over the years with May 5 every year. This national holiday various Baptist State Conventions in the was established in 1948 to promote United States. Numerous churches have family unity and the equality of males and sent short-term teams to East Asia to females. Up until this time, there was a help reach the lost. Other volunteers have separate holiday for boys and girls. On come to meet needs during missionary Children’s Day, and for some time before retreats or conferences, especially in it, families who have a son in their home the area of childcare. Pastors have taken often fly carp-shaped banners outside vision trips to various locations within their homes and may display a samurai East Asia. As a result of these vision trips, warrior’s helmet or a samurai doll inside some churches are now helping engage their homes. Everyone consumes special those who’ve yet to hear the gospel rice cakes made for this particular holiday. throughout East Asia. “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the Pray that as these partnerships kingdom of heaven belongs to such as continue, many new churches will these’" (Matthew 19:14 NIV). commit to serve in East Asia. Thank God with us for our church and state Lord, we ask that parents and others convention partners. in Japan will not place obstacles in the way of hundreds of thousands of children coming to you.

none Norman, Buddy WEDNESDAY THURSDAY MAY MAY 6 2020 7 2020 “For our battle is not against flesh and During a parenting class, a young mother blood, but against the rulers, against the asked how she could effectively help her authorities, against the world powers of four-year-old daughter become well- this darkness, against the spiritual forces behaved. Her young child is living with her of evil in the heavens” (Ephesians 6:12). grandparents in a distant city. According When God’s Word takes hold, oppo- to the grandmother, the child has been sition often follows. Zhengzhou is the “acting out” recently and is almost out capital city of Henan province and home of control. Today many families in China to several church networks. Because choose to have their children live with many churches did not agree to sign their grandparents so they have childcare government documents on how they will while the parents work. Children are often operate, they are under severe scrutiny separated from their parents, and some- and persecution. Churches are being de- times husbands and wives choose to stroyed, doors barred, and Bibles burned. live separately for work-related and logistical reasons. Pray for these persecuted churches and Christians. Many Christians are Pray these families will come to know terrified, while others are bravely the Lord and realize God has a differ- standing up for the Lord in this difficult ent plan for them. Pray the Lord will time. Pray that they will not be discour- help them see that time with their aged but continue to be courageous. family should be a priority. Pray they will allow God to heal these broken family relationships.

none none FRIDAY SATURDAY MAY MAY 8 2020 9 2020 Trisha* and Ken* are good friends—so A new Christian called to say her husband, much so that Ken was willing to travel sev- a nominal Christian, had divorced her due eral hours by car and perform in a music to his father telling him to divorce her. We concert at Trisha’s invitation. Ken is a pub- talked, prayed, and went back to God’s lished singer-songwriter, but good music teaching that marriage is for life and that wasn’t Trisha’s only motivation for inviting she and her husband needed to come him. Trisha is a Christian, and during a together in obedience. As a Christian, she meal with other Christians, Ken heard the needed to stand firm in her conviction gospel. He didn’t become a Christian that that marriage was a lifetime commitment day, but there was something remarkable worth fighting for. Later, she wrote and about that encounter because he had an said they had come back together and unexpected understanding of the gospel. that he and his father were both attend- This is uncommon for people of his culture ing church. who usually have had no exposure to the Word and struggle to comprehend its truth. Pray for Christians in East Asia to faithfully bear witness for Christ each Join Trisha in praying that Ken will day, no matter the challenges that become a Christian singer-songwriter come their way. Pray the Lord will for God, like King David of the Bible, use their faithful witness to inspire and bring the gospel to the people of their lost family and friends to seek his culture. the hope that endures when all other hopes fade. * Names changed

Kwang-Sun, Justin Anna, Peter SUNDAY MONDAY MAY MAY 10 2020 11 2020 Kunming is the capital of Yunnan, a Day of Prayer and Fasting: province in southwest China that borders Lack of Exposure Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar. It doesn’t China is approximately the same size take long to recognize that Kunming’s as the United States, so it is easy to dialect sounds very different from other understand how difficult it is to travel to dialects in China. This is because the every village, valley, and mountaintop. majority of Yunnan’s population consists Due to an atheist government, fear, of different minority groups. Of these and tradition, the gospel has still not minority groups, many are still unreached reached everyone. The complete Chinese and have no Christians workers focused translation of the Bible has existed for on bringing the gospel. one hundred years and shorter Scripture passages for nearly a thousand. Howev- Pray the Lord will bless and strengthen er, many people do not have access to a the churches in Kunming and Yunnan Bible. “But how can they call on Him they to rise up and reach out to people have not believed in? And how can they groups with different lifestyles. Pray believe without hearing about Him? And the church leaders will recognize the how can they hear without a preacher” needs among these lost people groups, (Romans 10:14)? Someone must go, but pray for their salvation, share the until they do, we call out to the one who Good News, and establish churches can deliver them. among them. God, please make your name known to China’s millions.

Monica Chris, Lucy, Mike, Naomi Fisher TUESDAY WEDNESDAY MAY MAY 12 2020 13 2020 Bob* and Betty* have been struggling with Cheonggyecheon Stream is just under their marriage for the past ten years. Both seven miles long and runs through down- work and they have a three-year-old boy. town Seoul, South Korea, before flowing Unfortunately, their primary focus is on into the Han River. The stream was once making more money, and their child often hidden under an elevated highway when feels insecure because his parents are not the country was focused on economic home. Because of these misplaced prior- redevelopment after the Korean War. The ities, Bob and Betty also have problems elevated highway was removed in 2003 as with their own relationship. part of an urban renewal project of downtown Seoul, and Cheongyecheon Stream Pray the Lord will restore and heal was restored to its present condition. The the many families in China who are banks of the stream are now popular with struggling because their focus is on both tourists and locals for evening out- the things of this world. Pray that ings and strolls. Jesus has promised, “‘The these struggling families will come to one who believes in Me, as the Scripture know the Lord as they seek help, and has said, will have streams of living water that they will realize the only true help flow from deep within him’” (John 7:38). comes from the Savior. Intercede for spiritual awakening and * Names changed restoration for Koreans. Pray Koreans will seek and believe in Jesus and experience the outflowing of rivers of living water in their lives.

Ruth, So-Rae Bert THURSDAY FRIDAY MAY MAY 14 2020 15 2020 My first thoughts upon entering Xinjiang Proverbs 29:18 warns us, “Without Province was that everything seemed revelation people run wild, but one who different—the architecture, music, lan- listens to instruction will be happy.” guage, food, and faces of the people. Was I still in China? Xinjiang is home to the Pray for East Asian people to read and Uyghur (“We-ger”) people, one of China’s internalize God’s Word so as to gain Muslim minorities. The Uyghurs account wisdom for life and godliness. Pray for half of the population in this area of they will hear from God and eagerly northwest China, but Uyghurs live in cities join him in his big vision for reaching throughout the country, often running those around them and the nations. restaurants that sell traditional foods Pray they will not be distracted by like flatbread, lamb kebobs, and noodles. worldly cares or worries, seek selfish Their faith has come under attack— ambition, or fall prey to the deceptive mosques are being forced to close, and lies of the evil one that tempts them to people are being detained and sent away believe they are not worthy or capable to camps. of being used by the Almighty God. Pray they will see with spiritual eyes, When they feel abandoned, may they serve with sacrificial hearts, and carry know God has not forgotten them. As out the vision he has clearly command- they face times of deep despair, pray ed of us: “‘Go, therefore, and make dis- they will know the light has come, and ciples of all nations’” (Matthew 28:19). his name is Jesus. Pray Uyghurs will turn to and trust in him, and display his glory.

none Marilyn SATURDAY SUNDAY MAY MAY 16 2020 17 2020 Over half of the people got up and left There was a “cruel winter” during during the Lord’s Supper. They knew that, Chairman Mao’s rule from the 1950s to as non-Christians, they were unqualified 1970s in China when an entire generation to partake of this ordinance representing of church leadership was martyred. In Christ’s atoning sacrifice. And yet, these the ’80s and ’90s, rapid church growth lost East Asian people return to that occurred in rural China. However, these church week after week. They depend on newer Chinese churches have found relationships for survival. themselves lacking the necessary skills to equip their church leadership. The rural Pray that as they gather together for church leaders were not trained by the food, fun, and fellowship, they will previous generation of leaders because of hear and respond to the hope of the the spiritual vacuum left after Mao’s rule. gospel. Pray they will be committed to Moreover, they are unable to train the the Word and their new spiritual family newer church leaders of the 21st century with the love and truth of the gospel. because of their own lack of training. Pray they will be faithful to the task of encouraging and equipping one another Pray for those who will help mend to live out the gospel so that their the generational leadership gap by in- neighbors will also encounter the gifts vesting in Chinese pastors. Pray these of Christ’s love and forgiveness—mak- younger pastors will learn how to be ing an eternal difference in the nations. faithful, skillful, and humble servants of God who train the next generation of church leaders.

none Jennifer, Audra MONDAY TUESDAY MAY MAY 18 2020 19 2020 Our family traveled far from our home af- Nancy* became a Christian through the ter surrendering our lives to share Christ. witness of a traveling pastor. A Christian We did not expect that God would allow commuted across town to have Bible the challenges and heartache of cancer. study with her and introduce her to However, we learned that our good God other Christians. This resulted in Nancy’s is faithful in all things and desires our baptism. These new friends live in a dif- complete surrender and dependency on ferent city, and because Nancy is the only him. Through battling cancer, he did a Christian of her people group in her city, hard work in me and my family to further she could not find a church to attend. refine us and make us ready to serve him. However, her new Christian friends are He brought us through this trial, did not willing to have a worship service at her allow cancer to overtake me, and now business. Unfortunately, they can only after a year of treatment, we look forward come once a month. to sharing about God’s faithfulness with Chinese Muslims. Pray for Nancy’s spiritual growth— she loves God and is burdened for the Praise God that he has healed my salvation of her family and friends. cancer and strengthened our family’s Pray she becomes like a bright light faith. Praise God for being the un- that illuminates her city with the changing one, even when everything Good News. around us feels unsure. Praise God for providing a way for us to minister * Name changed among Chinese Muslims.

Avril, Vivian, Jacob, Kate, Robert Gideon, Hadley WEDNESDAY THURSDAY MAY MAY 20 2020 21 2020 Tokyo Metro Community is a ministry It is shocking how many Chinese Christians reaching out to people in the business don’t know how to start a gospel conversa- world. The gatherings are called “Eccle- tion, what a full gospel presentation entails, sias,” because more than simply facilitat- or how to defend their faith when presenting Bible study, the goal is Christ-centered ed with common challenges. Whenever community through meaningful relation- someone interested in the gospel appears ships and prayer. There are groups meet- in a church or in a Christian’s personal life, ing together in five locations throughout the non-Christian is almost always referred Tokyo. Participants desire to see God’s to a pastor. presence spread from inner-city Tokyo to the far reaches of the nation. Partici- Pray evangelism training will spread pants have found the fellowship to be an among Chinese churches. Pray more oasis in the desert of their city. One was and more Christians will be confident so moved that he began a group for his and competent in presenting the full colleagues in his office. Another member gospel well. spearheaded the opening of a new group near his work location.

Pray for the tremendous potential for gospel impact that is inherent to this particular group. Lift up church planting initiatives within business communities.

Ashley none FRIDAY SATURDAY MAY MAY 22 2020 23 2020 I was told that the resources of the king- Learning a foreign language is a challenge dom are found in the harvest. Little did I for most people. For some Christian realize, the number of Chinese Christians workers, having competency in more than all around me are those resources the two languages is necessary to commu- Father is using to draw Chinese Muslims nicate the gospel to certain unreached to himself. Yet they need to be equipped people groups. This is often the case for to cross cultures. Many hours have been people ministering in East Asia. They must spent creating culturally relevant trainings communicate in three languages due to that will help Chinese Christians contextu- their job, location, and the people group ally engage Chinese Muslims with the gos- they serve. Typically, these workers are pel of Jesus. However, crossing cultures is fluent in one language, capable in another, very difficult and unnatural. and studying the third. Gaining competency will enhance their ability to proclaim Pray a project to help equip Christians the gospel, improve their communication will soon be completed and will be use- with national partners, and increase their ful for those God is calling out among effectiveness to train others. the Chinese to reach Chinese Muslims. Pray those who are trained will boldly Pray for proficiency in second and third step out of their comfort zones for the languages. Ask God to encourage these sake of the gospel and share their faith workers as they study and bless them with Chinese Muslims. for the sake of his kingdom.

Bethany, Ryan, Spencer Sidney SUNDAY MONDAY MAY MAY 24 2020 25 2020 Chinese Muslims celebrate Eid Al Fitr, The Tusu love to participate in festivals breaking the fast, at the end of Ramadan. because they provide opportunities to The community gathers for a meal of relax and forget about the hardships of mutton, lamb, and beef. Some Chinese life. Festivals are a time to reconnect Muslims travel to their relatives’ graves with family and friends, eat, dance, and to clean the tombs, which is similar to a even do business. Many Tusu observe a Chinese festival. ceremonial washing, which they believe cleanses the past year’s sins. They long to Pray Christians will be invited to break be freed from their sins, so they continue the fast with Chinese Muslims and that in their traditions. Who will go and tell they will boldly share the gospel. Pray them that there is a God they don’t yet Chinese Muslims will be exposed to worship, but should? How will they know Christian communities and Christ-like that Jesus has already paid the price for fellowship. Pray for Muslim background their sins? believers—those who were Chinese Muslims who chose to follow Jesus— Thank God that recently an evangelism this can be a lonely time as the festival tool was translated into their language is closely tied to their cultural identity. and Tusu Christians are sharing the Pray they find Christian community gospel with others in their people and true fellowship with other followers group. Pray the Good News will travel of Jesus. throughout the Tusu people this year and many Tusu will turn to Jesus and be saved.

Phillip, Brianna, Phillip none TUESDAY WEDNESDAY MAY MAY 26 2020 27 2020 According to Korea World Missions Please join us in praying the “three Association (KWMA) statistics, 27,993 opens” for East Asian peoples: pray Korean missionaries were deployed in 173 that God will open the door to the countries in 2019. The Korean church has gospel, Christians will open their been steadfast in their missions focus. mouths to clearly share the Word, Korean missionaries were sent to Shan- and God will open the hearts of the dong Province, China, as early as 1913. people to receive his truth. Even though the church was poor after the Korean War, they still heeded the Each step of this prayer is crucial. We Great Commission and sent missionaries believe the same God who parted the Red to Thailand, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Mexico, Sea and set an entire people group free and Brazil. The Korean church revival from slavery, who broke down the walls movement peaked in the 1980s, resulting of Jericho and accomplished what he in the deployment of a great number promised, who freed Peter from prison of missionaries. A current concern is so he could go on to pen his eyewitness the slowing down of the deployment of account of God’s power, who turned Korean missionaries. One key factor is the Paul’s heart from persecuting Christians decline of Christianity in Korea. to a man whose life was marked by proclaiming the gospel, is able. In faith, Pray for revitalization of the Korean we pray doors once sealed shut to gospel church and for Korean Christians revelation will be opened wide for gospel to have a biblical understanding proclamation. of missions.

Raul Helen THURSDAY FRIDAY MAY MAY 28 2020 29 2020 Many Chinese Christians sense a call to Athletes all over the world competing for reach Muslims in Central Asia, South Asia, the title of 2020 Olympic champion in and the Middle East, along with the Bud- their specific sports are now preparing dhists and Hindus of Southeast Asia and themselves with rigorous schedules and South Asia. These Chinese missionaries dedicated discipline. Christian athletes are often struggle with a support structure among these who plan to come to Tokyo that can help them be effective in their to compete. work in a sustainable way, due to the fact that such entities would be viewed Like the famous Christian Olympic run- as illegal in China. Even if such a struc- ner, Eric Liddell, who said, “. . . when ture existed, there would be challenges I run, I feel his pleasure,” pray these with selecting viable candidates because athletes will feel God’s pleasure as they cross-cultural missions is a relatively new compete. Pray they will see themselves ministry in China. Still, China’s number as God’s ambassadors to other coun- of Christians suggests it is the greatest tries’ athletes as they interact in the source of workers for the harvest field. games and in the Olympic Village. Ask the Lord to keep them strong in mind Pray God will show how to select, send, and spirit, as well as in their bodies, support, and sustain missionaries so they don’t fall into temptation. May from China. they continue to run the race that is set before them as Christians, knowing that who is waiting at the finish line is also running beside them.

Winona, Sean Ky, Lillian, Andy SATURDAY SUNDAY MAY MAY 30 2020 31 2020 My wife and I are from a minority group in We are asking the Lord to start five new China. During college, we heard the gos- healthy churches in the city of Osaka in pel and believed. We were discipled and the next five years. To plant these church- learned about unreached people groups. es, we need Japanese Christians and God called us to live among the Hui in healthy disciples. As we partner with China. Our small house church raised nationals and volunteers, we are asking money to help us get started, but for the the Lord to lead us to those who seek last four years, we’ve met our own needs. hope. Volunteers have helped with We opened two businesses. Our kids go English Bible camps for children, prayer to local schools, but it is not easy. Stu- walked, evangelized on the street, and dents are told to tattle on any classmates whatever else was requested. In Novem- who have a religion or celebrate Christ- ber 2019, a two-year course in biblical mas. The education system is designed to counseling began. This contributed to teach children that all religions are super- the development of healthy disciples and stitious. How do we protect our children? healthy churches in Osaka. This course How do we teach them to love Jesus and requires the commitments of time and endure the mocking they receive daily? energy outside of normal working hours, which is a scarce commodity in Japan. Pray for Chinese Christians who live among the Hui. Pray God will fill them, Pray the city of Osaka will be saturated encourage them, and give them with the gospel. Pray the Lord will fruitful ministry. continue to shine in the midst of the darkness.

Lydia, Saul, Sang-mu Kathryn MONDAY TUESDAY JUNE JUNE 1 2020 2 2020 Today China celebrates International Every June, China comes to a standstill Children’s Day. Schools host special activ- for two days as high school seniors take a ities. Parents may take their children to a college entrance exam. This test is called park or movie and will often treat them the “GaoKao” and literally means, “higher to a special meal. Increased government examination.” A student’s earned mark scrutiny makes it difficult for churches determines future opportunities and to hold activities that honor children. In money-earning potential. This score is the China, it is illegal to share the gospel with most important number in any Chinese anyone who is under the age of eighteen. student’s life and is the result of years of Children are trusting and have pliable memorization, study, and constant stress. hearts yet are restricted from hearing the best news ever. Pray high school students will find their worth not in their exam scores Pray parents, aunts, uncles, other but in Christ. Pray local Christians will relatives, neighbors, and teachers will find ways to encourage students and share the gift of God’s love with Chinese their families during this incredibly children while they are young. Pray stressful time. Ask God to help these that Chinese Christians faithfully share families see and understand that our the gospel with each generation. lives have worth only because of Christ.

Colt, Rachel Beatrice WEDNESDAY THURSDAY JUNE JUNE 3 2020 4 2020 Summer is a time for fireworks, festivals, One church in a large city meets in a mall, brightly-colored kimonos, dragon boat so church members always carry tracts to races, grilled squid on a stick, and ice- share in the stores and with customers. As cold noodles. Summer among East Asian a result, they shared the gospel more than peoples also brings scores of US students thirteen thousand times in a six-month who give up their typical summer breaks period, and fifty-five people accepted to share the gospel with those who have Jesus during a single evangelistic service. yet to believe. Students come for a week, Because of security concerns, the church or even their entire breaks, to serve recently multiplied into four locations, alongside teams across East Asia. Their but church members continue to share mere presence attracts new contacts the gospel. and their verbal witness plants seeds of salvation. Pray God will continue to bless and protect this church and make its As students come and share, pray for members fruitful for his kingdom. open doors to spread the gospel, open mouths to boldly speak truth in love, and open hearts to receive and believe. Ask that God will use this generation of students to reach students and take the gospel to every nation.

none Steve FRIDAY SATURDAY JUNE JUNE 5 2020 6 2020 Saga Dawa, the Month of Merits, is Japanese churches have more senior adult recognized as the time of Buddha’s birth, members than young families, students, or enlightenment, and death. During this children. Many Japanese people have not month, Tibetan Buddhists believe that heard about Jesus, met a Japanese Chris- meritorious acts like walking around a tian, or been given the opportunity to read religious building, giving alms to monks, the Bible. Senior members of one church lighting butter lamps, or abstaining from are learning how to share their testimonies meat will gain extra “brownie points” for and how this impacts their lives. Christians karma. Some have even said the value and other senior adults gather to sing and of these good works is multiplied by as listen to one another’s testimonies—an much as one hundred thousand times evangelistic outreach that any church can this month. do to encourage people of this age group. In addition, senior adults can get into day Pray Tibetan Buddhists will realize that care facilities and nursing homes with ease. no amount of good works can erase a person’s sin because sin is not an Pray this kind of evangelistic thinking action but a heart condition that will permeate churches in Tokyo. Pray results in actions. Pray they will find more pastors will see the potential of true and complete forgiveness senior adults in their churches and en- through Jesus. courage them to reach outside church walls. Ask the Father to add more senior adult Japanese to his kingdom.

none Tama, Rachel SUNDAY MONDAY JUNE JUNE 7 2020 8 2020 Bao Ni* is passionate about reaching Day of Prayer and Fasting: minority peoples with the Good News. He Government Restrictions wants everyone in his small church “God arises. His enemies scatter, and to grow in their understanding of the those who hate Him flee from His pres- gospel and grasp the importance of using ence” (Psalm 68:1). Paul states in Philip- people’s heart languages to reach the pians 3:18, “That many live as enemies of surrounding villages. This church hosts the cross of Christ.” These people aren’t several annual outreach events, but Bao necessarily evil but oppose Christian Ni desires that each disciple shares his values, God’s Word, and God. We should faith more regularly. Six hundred thou- expect this, as people who also once op- sand people live in their city and many posed Jesus. How then can Christians tell more in the surrounding area. Bao Ni them about the cross, the way to heaven, often feels ill-equipped to lead and help and God’s love? others reach spiritual maturity. Pray for access to the billion-plus Pray Bao Ni will grow in boldness and people of East Asia. Ask God to give allow the Holy Spirit to lead him as he Christians creative ways to live among leads others. Pray mature Christians the lost, necessary language skills to will help with discipleship and evan- communicate clearly, and favor with gelism. Pray church leaders will use governments. Many Christians today reproducible methods of discipleship influence leaders like Daniel did with and evangelism and that the church King Nebuchadnezzar. May today’s will grow in its passion to see the entire enemies become tomorrow’s county reached with the gospel. Christ-followers.

* Name changed

James Lynn, Bethany, Janeen, Anna TUESDAY WEDNESDAY JUNE JUNE 9 2020 10 2020 The very identity of an ethnic Tam* person Our vision is to see a spiritual revival in is equal to being a Buddhist, which makes South Korea and the re-vitalization of him historically resistant to the gospel. Korean churches. Only a small percentage Tam people reject outsiders because of of college students claim to be Chris- the political tension of previous decades. tians, and the majority of the population Recently, however, God has opened doors indicates that it has no religious affiliation. on two important fronts. With Bible We long to see this changed. storying, many non-Christian Tam people are learning and studying stories from Pray for the realization of our goal to Scripture, and some are even becoming make disciples and plant multiplying followers of Christ. With online distribu- urban churches among college students tion of stories and songs, the gospel is and young professionals. As we partner spreading all across the mountains where with South Korean Christians and Tam people live. One recent indigenous churches for the Great Commission praise song had five hundred thousand hits task, pray for creative but meaningful in just a few weeks. Christians are excited work among young people. Pray to share the gospel in these ways, but national church planters will be willing many challenges and roadblocks remain. to go to regions where there are very few Christians. Pray for the protection of these avenues, the boldness of Christian witnesses, and the openness of Tam hearts so that many more will be saved.

* Name changed

Chris none THURSDAY FRIDAY JUNE JUNE 11 2020 12 2020 It can be a challenge to share the gospel “Wherever he leads me, I will follow. with family and friends. This is especially Whatever he feeds me, I will swallow.” true in areas where practicing Christians This simple and sometimes lighthearted face persecution. Yet the need is so great missionary creed speaks directly to—and for non-Christians within these dangerous proactively against—the human desire for areas to hear the gospel message. This a earthly comfort. People find their home desperate and dangerous situation that culture most comfortable. Yet Jesus, our needs prayer. Eternal salvation hangs in perfect example of an incarnational wit- the balance for these non-Christians. ness, forsook his perfect home—all the comforts and glory due his name—and Pray God will lead Christian workers made his home with us, as a servant. who live in safe places to Christians who live outside of their people group’s Pray East Asian missionaries and perilous areas. Pray these national missionaries to East Asians will Christians will be encouraged to share sacrificially love the people and God’s Word with their family and friends cultures they seek to engage with who live back home in unsafe areas. the gospel. Pray they will desire the Pray many churches will be formed. salvation of souls more than earthly or home culture comforts.

Joy, Dolores, Max, Rachel, Na, Joy Christine, Grace, Robert, Celeste, Yolanda SATURDAY SUNDAY JUNE JUNE 13 2020 14 2020 “How can you be so sure you will go to A small church plant south of the city of heaven?” my Christian friend asked me. I Sendai began out of the rubble of the couldn’t believe that we were having this 2011 tsunami. The group meets in a small conversation once again. We had studied farmhouse in the middle of rice paddies. the Bible together for more than a year, Previously, another church used the yet this very basic question reemerged. farmhouse as a relief distribution center. How can Christians march forward when Through the Lord’s providence, on the they’re unsure of the goal? How can they very day that this church was praying put on spiritual armor that they don’t about the center’s future, IMB missionar- know they need? ies visited and arranged to use the building to start a church. Many volunteers God, give East Asian Christians a have helped fix up the house, distribute hunger for your Word and an insatiable tracts, and host community events. thirst to drink deeply from your well Nearby, people who lost everything in the every day. Hide your truths deep in tsunami live in newly built communities. their hearts so they will know beyond This area is steeped in Japanese tradition. a shadow of a doubt that you are their The church has been blessed by a handful provider, protector and God. Chase of salvations and a few baptisms. away the doubt that arises and plant an unshakable faith in its place so they Pray a rich harvest for the Lord will may strengthen others. be gathered as the church leaders disciple young Christians and teach them to evangelize.

none none MONDAY TUESDAY JUNE JUNE 15 2020 16 2020 More and more East Asians are moving The 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, to other Asian countries for business or Japan, start on Friday, July 24, and end work. Hundreds of thousands of others on Sunday, August 9. The Paralympics fol- travel for vacation or retirement. Though low from August 25 to September 6. All it is common for cultural traditions to be of these events occur during the hottest tightly held when in a new country, even- time of year in Tokyo. Event planners are tually, relocated East Asians grow weary concerned about the effect of the heat in their search for something more. When on the athletes as well as spectators. they give up following their ways, they are ready to listen God. Pray event organizers will have wisdom now about what needs to be done in Pray the Lord will open doors to allow preparation for the heat. Pray God will Christian workers to partner with prepare a way for the Connect 2020 Southeast Asian churches to bring the team to provide space for spectators gospel to the East Asian people living to sit, talk, and enjoy a cool drink. As among them. Pray more laborers will Jesus was offered a drink from the well be ready to share truth with the lost by a woman, pray that many will reach when they are ready. Pray East Asians out to those visiting Tokyo during will find meaning and purpose in Christ. these international events.

Marcus, Victoria Gina WEDNESDAY THURSDAY JUNE JUNE 17 2020 18 2020 China has more cities with a population As Song* Christians gathered to write lyrics over one million than any other coun- in their own language, they discussed many try. In the past four decades, its urban issues within their church, including the population has grown from 170 million topic of funerals. Christians faced perse- to more than 800 million. Christians and cution when they did not follow the local Muslims have recently been targeted animistic customs after someone died. and encouraged to rethink their beliefs. They decided to write a song to address Churches face restrictions and their this issue. Several months later, Christians Christian activities are closely moni- and non-Christians gathered for the funer- tored, if even allowed. Foreigners are al of a Song believer. Instead of inviting the less welcomed and less trusted than ever shaman to perform rituals to appease the before. However, God is not restricted by spirits, the Christians sang the funeral song. governments or afraid of being seen. In Amazingly, a very unusual cloud pattern fact, he encourages people everywhere formed in the sky in the clear shape of a to seek him. God has placed a longing for giant cross. Many of the non-Christians him in every human heart. wondered aloud, “Your God must be a true God.” Pray this longing will drive people to call out to God. He is not far from the Pray the non-Christian family members Chinese, and he has promised them who attended this funeral will fully that they will find him when they seek know God. Pray for boldness as the with all their hearts (Jeremiah 29:13). Song church uses music to deal with cultural issues and glorify God.

* Name changed

Wade Song, Tessa FRIDAY SATURDAY JUNE JUNE 19 2020 20 2020 China is home to more than four hun- “Remember the prisoners, as though dred people groups, many of which are you were in prison with them, and the unreached and unengaged. As the govern- mistreated, as though you yourselves were ment makes efforts to remove foreign suffering bodily” (Hebrews 13:3). Pray for Christians, Chinese Christians sense the the persecuted Christians of an unreached need to do even more to effectively people group who are targeted and incar- reach all of these people groups. Beyond cerated solely because they are Christians. ethnocentrism, they face significant Many eventually die in prison due to poor other challenges in crossing cultures. To diets and physical mistreatment. address these concerns, organizations are providing mentoring, coaching, and Pray for these brothers and sisters in training for cross-cultural workers to help Christ to know God's love and comfort. them effectively plant churches in some Ask that they will miraculously remem- of China’s most remote locations. ber Scripture and thus strengthen their faith so they can remain spiri- Pray God will protect the organizations tually strong despite constant oppo- that are training these cross-cultural sition. Pray they will courageously workers so that the lost people groups avoid providing the authorities with in East Asia will have the opportunity any information that can put others in to hear and respond to the gospel harm’s way. Ask that they will boldly unencumbered. share God’s message of love and hope with their fellow prisoners and guards. Pray many will come to know salvation through them.

none none SUNDAY MONDAY JUNE JUNE 21 2020 22 2020 A Japanese house church leader named Xi’an has a history of more than 3,100 Gaki* recently changed his method in years and has been the capital for thirteen spreading the gospel message in the city different dynasties. Although Nestorian of Kobe, Japan. He used to eagerly go to history says Christianity was first intro- the streets and proclaim God’s Word to duced to China through Xi’an in the year anyone who would listen. While con- 635, it is still one of China’s unreached tinuing to preach to the small Japanese cities with fewer than 322,000 Christians church, he has also created a farm where out of a population of 12 million. locals regularly volunteer. He grows many types of vegetables at the farm that he Pray local believers and churches will gives to needy families and makes many not only persevere in the midst of re- new relationships with the volunteers. cent persecution from the government but will also grow stronger and more Pray the Lord will continue to use Gaki mature in their faith. Ask the Lord to to lead the Japanese church and use save more people in the city than ever his farm to build relationships with before. Plead for God’s grace and pray other Japanese in order to share the he will use Xi’an as a gateway city to gospel with them. reach out to the northwest area of China and beyond with the gospel.

Wayne, Oscar, Clara, Chuck, Tracey, Heather Rex, Thomas TUESDAY WEDNESDAY JUNE JUNE 23 2020 24 2020 More than one million Chinese people, The Yi are China’s seventh-largest ethnic including over sixty-eight thousand minority group with nine million people. students, reside in South Korea. While They live primarily in mountainous areas there, they have freedom to go to church, of the rural southwest. Most Yi believe investigate Christian beliefs, and grow in they came from the same ancestor. Like their faith. Furthermore, every year mil- many minority people groups, the Yi are lions of Chinese people visit as tourists. accomplished musicians, and have several Given the broad scope and immense task festivals and traditions that draw tourists of reaching all of them with the gospel, to their area. Their traditional religious we covet your prayers for their salvation belief is a form of animism, which means and discipleship. they worship many deities and spirits, though some Christians exist in different Pray for projects that focus on subgroups. Most Yi believe that angry reaching out to tourists through Bible gods cause storms and bad spirits cause distribution. Pray for the training of sickness and crop failure. They also wor- international students through uni- ship ancestors. versities and Christian professors. Pray for effective networking among Pray the Yi will know the God who churches in South Korea. calms storms, raises the dead, and gives new life. Pray for churches in their language to dot the mountains where the Yi live, offering them a chance to hear, believe, and begin to really live.

Gordon, Doris, Paul, Jan, Angela, Leia, Samantha, Jack, Radford Denise, David THURSDAY FRIDAY JUNE JUNE 25 2020 26 2020 Much of East Asia celebrates Dragon Boat Korea Baptist Theological University/ Festival on the fifth day of the fifth lunar Seminary (KBTUS) is the theological in- month, which is today. This holiday’s stitution of the Korea Baptist Convention. commonly-believed origin relates to the It is located in Daejeon, south of Seoul. death of Qu Yuan in 278 BC. Qu Yuan was It began in June 1953 as the Baptist Bible a poet and statesman, as well as a loyal Institute, became Korea Baptist Seminary minister to the king. When the king allied the following year, then finally took its with another kingdom, people jealous of current name in 1993. Currently, KBTUS Qu Yuan’s wisdom and intellect accused has about 1,500 undergraduate students him of conspiracy and exiled him. Due to and 800 in graduate programs. The his sorrow over the state of his people, undergraduate program offers majors in Qu Yuan drowned himself at the age of liberal arts and education as well as fine sixty-one. People searched desperately arts. The graduate program offers both for him and threw rice into the water to master’s and doctoral courses. Affiliated keep fish from eating him. Today they cel- with KBTUS is the World Missions Train- ebrate by having dragon boat races and ing Center, which was established to train eating rice dumplings, or zongzi. missionaries, pastors, and lay people.

Pray Chinese people will hear the truth Pray the students will acquire a deep of Jesus who also sorrowed over his love for God and share his heart for people and died for them that they the lost. May they stand firm and grow might live. in their faith in Jesus and be light and salt wherever they go.

London Joshua SATURDAY SUNDAY JUNE JUNE 27 2020 28 2020 The joy of seeing people come to faith and Missionaries in Osaka planted gospel then grow in that faith is priceless. How my seeds and discipled local Christians but heart sang for joy when I heard Larry* and were unable to plant a church for several Diane* talk about the new church they had years. Their hearts were burdened to started. Just a year ago, they wondered see God’s church serve as a light in one what they would do when their previous of the most densely populated districts church was closed. How could they meet of the city. As more Christian workers with others? How would they grow joined the team and God connected them spiritually? It was a difficult year, but God’s to local Christians with a shared vision, faithfulness saw them through. he answered prayers and a church was planted in 2019. In their first year, they Pray for Larry and Diane as they reach experienced the joy of gathering weekly out to others, preach the Word, and to worship the Lord, grow in obedience, disciple. May they see Christians multiply share testimonies, pray together, and in cities that have little gospel witness. proclaim the gospel. An ongoing need is Pray God will strengthen weak hearts to secure a sufficient meeting space near and faith and turn more East Asian the train station. Gideons into mighty warriors (Judges 6:12). Pray God will meet the need for this gathering space and that this church * Name changed will be a light that brings his hope to this community.

Jenifer, Hannah Stewart, Clyde, Jennice, Peter MONDAY TUESDAY JUNE JUNE 29 2020 30 2020 Nearly twenty-eight million people attend The Word of God will accomplish what universities in China—that’s 20 percent he desires and achieve the purpose for of college students worldwide. The exam which he sent it (Isaiah 55:11). Among of their lifetime awaits each student at a group of 1.5 million people, God will the end of their high school education. use 300 known Christians to tell their Those who achieve the highest scores people group about him. The Bible in within each province are then vaulted into their mother tongue has reached them the world of higher education. Although through digital methods and MP3 players. many study away from their hometowns, For example, Christians left an MP3 player they still feel pressure to succeed for the loaded with Scripture, Bible stories, and sake of their families. In this collective spiritual songs with a group of Christians society, honor for the family is of utmost so they could take turns listening to it in importance, so identity can be tied to their heart language. Christians now share whether they succeed or fail. Bible stories with unbelieving friends and family members. For the first time, many As many university students grapple who live in villages are hearing the gospel with the daily pressure to succeed, and that God speaks their language. pray that God will give them an opportunity to hear about a loving heavenly Pray that every person on every moun- Father who sent his Son to die to pur- taintop will hear the gospel and that chase their souls. Pray this truth will a thousand new churches will start change them into sons and daughters among this people group. who find their identity in God alone.

Louise, Emily Jon

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY JULY JULY 1 2020 2 2020 In Japan, less than 1 percent of 126 “Unless the Lord builds a house, its million people are Christian. Many neigh- builders labor over it in vain; unless the bors, friends, and coworkers of Christians Lord watches over a city, the watchman are not followers of Christ and may never stays alert in vain” (Psalm 127:1). The have heard the gospel. Surrounded by Lord is building his house in East Asia. We others who do not share their faith and do not labor or pray in vain. God watches families that may not be supportive, many over East Asians and desires for them to Japanese Christians feel pressure to blend know him. As you pray, is God calling you in. Most Japanese churches are small, to organize a prayer group or mission trip and the average attendance is around from your church? thirty-five. Many of these churches are located in neighborhoods with Shinto or Ask him, “What is my role? As part of Buddhist neighbors. the body of Christ, what do you want me to do?” The task may seem too Pray for believers of Jesus in Japan to daunting, the people too many, the take opportunities to grow as disciples needs too great. Our God is greater and boldly share their faith with others. and sends us out in his power. Ask him Pray for Japanese churches to have to equip you to do what he is calling hearts that love those around them you to do. Don’t wait, just obey. Don’t with the love of Christ. Pray this love fear, just believe. will compel them to find ways to minister and share the gospel with those in their communities.

Curtis, Robert, Gary John FRIDAY SATURDAY JULY JULY 3 2020 4 2020 Seven years ago, Christians prayed fer- Faithfully investing in the people of a vently over a local valley of villages that new culture involves learning the host was in utter spiritual darkness. Then, two language to a high proficiency. One Christians from another country visited couple felt quite discouraged about this and shared with a man whom the Lord challenge and wondered how they might had prepared. He believed but didn’t succeed. They prayerfully launched into a know how to follow. Two years later, a learning program, then intentionally Christian noticed a sign, “The Lord Bless engaged every person around them. this House,” on this new brother’s This led to growing relationships with property. A discipleship relationship neighbors and a shared interest group began. Christians from another part of with whom they proclaimed the gospel the country began coming faithfully to in the local language. God provided what share the gospel. This brother is now this couple needed and blessed them ready to begin leading a small group of with an efficient arrival at solid language other new Christians. Jesus says, “‘Pray proficiency. Walking with clear motivation, to the Lord of the harvest to send out they faithfully pressed on through a variety workers into His harvest’” (Luke 10:2). of unexpected challenges.

Pray for unrelenting waves of evange- Pray men and women learning lists from the Chinese church to partner languages such as Japanese, Korean, here. Pray Christians will commit to and Chinese will have a clear vision the harvest and healthy churches will for how to accurately proclaim the grow within reach of every person in gospel among people who speak these this valley. languages (Colossians 4:2-4).

Kenneth Gavin SUNDAY MONDAY JULY JULY 5 2020 6 2020 Being a gospel worker and living in an area Imagine you are sitting in a university, that isn’t friendly toward Christianity seminary, or higher theological education brings some special challenges. For course. As you listen to the professor example, one minister couldn’t find a safe explain the requirements for the class, place to baptize new Christians. After you hear you have to write a twenty-page pondering Proverbs 3:5-6, he sensed that research paper. However, there are no God didn’t want him to act on his own resources available to help you support or rely on his own understanding. Psalm your thoughts. How can you write your 46:10 encouraged him to be patient and paper and support your opinions? wait for God’s provision. Therefore, that’s Students attending a seminary in East what he did, anticipating that God would Asia have lacked resources for years. A provide a safe place for the baptisms. library is finally being established for the God did exactly that when the owner of a faculty and students. A database has been local business with a bathtub in a private compiled, books are being cataloged, and bathroom gave permission for the worker procedures are being created for borrow- and his family to use it anytime they needing the resources. ed. God provided perfectly. Praise the Lord for his provisions. Pray Please ask God to bless these new the library staff will be unified as they Christians and the Christians reaching put all the processes together. Pray out to this people group. the resources will be protected and helpful to the students as they develop a deeper understanding in the grace and knowledge of the Lord.

none Jordan, Sophie, April TUESDAY WEDNESDAY JULY JULY 7 2020 8 2020 Approximately 41.6 percent of the world’s Eight years ago, Baptist Global Response population—more than seven thousand donated a small building in a temporary people groups— are unreached with the housing compound in Sendai, Japan, so gospel. Many of these are still unengaged people could have a place to gather. Many or have little to no Scripture resources volunteer groups used the building to in their native tongue. For those remain- hold social activities. Missionaries began ing unreached people groups, many live to hold monthly Bible studies, Christian in places where it is hard for a team of singing, and fellowship events in this Christians to remain and make disciples. building. The group grew and moved There are growing efforts to find creative to a larger meeting room in this same ways to not only have identity with, but compound. Then after eight years, when also have long-term support among un- most of the people had finally moved into reached people groups. permanent housing, God miraculously provided a public community center for Pray that God will lead followers of continued meeting. Every month, about Jesus to these unreached places using fifteen older adults gather for Bible talks God-given business skills in order to and fellowship. Only one of these people provide opportunities for the gospel to is a Christian. We rejoice that God is be heard. working in these people’s lives, and long to see more trust in Jesus.

Pray with us for many more to believe and trust in Jesus.

Brooks Tyson THURSDAY FRIDAY JULY JULY 9 2020 10 2020 Yonsei University, located in the heart of The Wenma Zhuang live near the Vietnam Seoul, is considered one of the top three border and are known as “people of universities in Korea. It was founded by the soil” because they primarily work in missionaries well over a century ago and agriculture. They are also superstitious, still maintains a Christian heritage. believing in and worshiping spirits while However, its student body is largely trying hard to not offend them. The first non-believing and far from Christ. Southern Baptist missionary to the Zhuang arrived in 1862. Eventually, Pray this school, which was birthed as churches attracted a small number of part of the missionary task, will expe- Zhuang. Today, very few of the Wenma rience a spiritual awakening. Pray that Zhuang are Christians, and no resources the Holy Spirit will move powerfully exist that would enable the Wenma among the students to orient their Zhuang to hear, understand, or respond hearts toward Jesus as the true answer to the gospel. to what they seek. Pray the Spirit will move the faculty, knowingly or un- Lord, break through long-held super- knowingly, to point to God and Christ stitions and open the eyes of the Wen- in their teaching so that their students ma Zhuang so they see you. Burden the will be encouraged to seek God and his hearts of Christians to translate the truth. Pray, too, that the administra- gospel and take the message of hope tion and faculty will be faithful follow- to this people group living in darkness. ers of Christ, and that they will seek May this happen not by might or power God’s wisdom in everything they do. but by God’s Spirit (Zechariah 4:6).

Peter Wes, Sue SATURDAY SUNDAY JULY JULY 11 2020 12 2020 The Naadam Festival, which takes place China has labeled Christian education for July 11-13, is one of the two largest children as illegal through a religious doc- annual holidays in Mongolia and attracts trine law. The “Morals and Values” section worldwide attention. Another name for of the elementary school curriculum Naadam is “The Three Men’s Games.” teaches how to resist religion, urges chil- It features wrestling, horse racing, and dren not to partake in religious activities, archery in celebration of Mongolia’s past and demands that they keep watch and empire and her present independence. report. This creates a barrier between While Naadam has Buddhist and Sha- Christian parents and their children, who manist religious elements, it has become no longer want to listen to stories of faith. more secular since the 1930s. Families The Bible teaches future generations the and friends gather to watch the events right path they should walk so that they and enjoy traditional Mongolian foods will not stray from it in the future. including a variety of dairy products that are abundant in the summer months. Pray children will discern truth so they will grow in wisdom, prayer, and Scrip- Ask God to prepare hearts to hear the ture to become a strong generation of Good News of Jesus as Christians boldly Christians. and creatively share with family and friends during this holiday. Ask God to protect young children who ride in the horse races; because of the heat and intense preparation for the event, horses often fall during the race and the children are injured.

Cindy Yuko, Da-Rae, Charles, Gil, John MONDAY TUESDAY JULY JULY 13 2020 14 2020 Day of Prayer and Fasting—Pride Many East Asian missionaries struggle to Pride says, “I don’t need God.” It rests find sustainable means of living in their on its own wisdom to achieve what it new areas of service. Securing visas, wants. Pride says, “Look at us. Aren’t we employment, and housing can be difficult great?” The Bible warns against the sin of and often keeps them from being able to pride, and we see the destruction it can focus on ministry. cause. National pride is not wrong until it becomes a snare and keeps a person Pray the Lord would pave the way for from God. Several countries in East Asia creative access entities that will allow instill national pride in their citizens, local missionaries access to the people telling them that all they need is what the they seek to serve. This would make government provides. “Look to us and visa processes easier to navigate. Pray you will be fine. Trust us,” they say. But Christian workers will find favor in God says in Isaiah 45:22, “‘Turn to Me and foreign governments’ eyes and receive be saved, all the ends of the earth. For I work visas that give them credibility am God, and there is no other.’” in their host cultures. Pray to the Lord of the harvest to also reveal himself as Pray for a humbling of hearts and a the Lord of access to the harvest. turning to God throughout East Asians.

Andrea, Justin, Charles, Erica, Adam Barbara, Paul WEDNESDAY THURSDAY JULY JULY 15 2020 16 2020 A local Japanese man named Ace* has In China’s largest cities it is often quoted become interested in God. During his that at least one out of every five people entire working career, he has traveled the is a migrant. Many migrant workers can world and heard and experienced many hear the gospel for the first time when different aspects of religion. Christianity they move to big cities, but their lives are has stuck out to him the most. Ace’s miserable there—it is normal to work adult son decided to follow Jesus and more than twelve hours a day and they be baptized at one of the local Baptist are far from family as their children live churches in the city of Kobe. He explained in rural hometowns with grandparents. the gospel to his father and how he gave Large numbers of migrant workers are his life to Jesus. His son then decided now coming to faith and Chinese churches to move to the Philippines and ended are growing tremendously. However, up having an accident that took his life. churches are challenged in how to help After his son’s tragic death, Ace started with spiritual growth because most of going to the Baptist church where his son the church members are first-generation accepted the Lord. Christians with little experience in discipleship. Even though Ace has doubts, pray that the Lord will give him the faith to Pray all migrant workers will have the believe in Jesus. opportunity to hear the name of Jesus, turn to him, and be saved. Pray for * Name changed their spiritual growth and their families’ salvation.

Joseph, Vickie Rachael, Calvin FRIDAY SATURDAY JULY JULY 17 2020 18 2020 Eighteen million Zhuang make up the The gospel first came to Guangxi in 1862 largest of China’s ethnic minorities. Their and churches were planted among the Han language consists of dozens of dialects Chinese. A gospel foundation eventually without any approved written form. was laid among the Central Hongshuihe “Zhuang” has been used for a thousand Zhuang people group, but even today years, but previously they called them- less than 1 percent is evangelical. The selves by multiple different names. They Central Hongshuihe physically resemble are farmers who revere nature and spirits, the Han Chinese but have a separate using altars in their homes to worship language and customs. The Zhuang have various spirits, gods, and ancestors. Once reportedly been receptive to the gospel. a week they make an offering to the Why then do so many of the fifty Zhuang gods, and they are fearful they have not subgroups, like the Central Hongshuihe, done enough. The younger generation remain unreached and even unengaged? is drifting from religion toward atheism. Please stand in the gap on their behalf Christian influence has been limited but (Ezekiel 22:30). effective, and in some areas the church is taking root. God, we cry out to you on behalf of the Hongshuihe Zhuang. Reveal yourself Pray for the Zhuang to worship the to them, speak to their hearts, and God who has always known their send messengers to proclaim the Good name. Pray they will hear him call to News to them in their own language. them in their heart language, and for Embolden local Christians to share their fears and traditions to grow dim the truth they know with those and pass away as they follow him. around them.

none Lincoln SUNDAY MONDAY JULY JULY 19 2020 20 2020 “Can salvation be lost?” And, “Should Macau has a reputation as a “city of sin.” we even be open to sincere inquiry and Gambling revenues there surpass even discussion about the Trinity?” Or, “How those of Las Vegas. Materialism and greed should we view speaking in tongues when are rampant, as is evidenced by the city’s some Christians assert it as the external small number of churches and large evidence of being baptized by the Holy number of casinos. Gambling addiction Spirit?” Chinese Christians come up with is growing, and little has been done to legitimate questions about faith and prac- address this issue. Some local church tice. Unclear and ambiguous answers to groups have seen the need to minister to questions like these will only hinder their these addicts and are beginning to work spiritual growth and can even lead them on how to help. to wrong understandings and practices that are outside biblical Christianity. Pray God will direct people lost in the addiction of gambling to churches that Pray church leaders will be well taught lead them to Jesus. Pray these souls by quality systematic theology trainers will find their hope and salvation in in China. This is crucial in order to God and not material things. lay a strong foundation for the Christian faith.

none Roberta, Cathy, Ashlee, Diane TUESDAY WEDNESDAY JULY JULY 21 2020 22 2020 Today is the first day of the sixth lunar “We need to learn to interpret and apply month, when the Naxi people of Lijiang the Bible so we can teach our people and celebrate talbiuq. They celebrate on equip them for ministry.” These were the different days, based on each clan’s words of East Asian church leaders about choice. They host a meal for family, ten years ago. As the church in East Asia friends, and deceased ancestors, seeking grew, a need arose for theological training to honor and worship them. One person that could equip pastors and missionaries. described it as a time for ancestors to A seminary was launched by a team of come and rest in your home. theological educators to meet this need. From the beginning, the team prayed for Pray for God to soften the hearts of God to raise up nationals who could help the Naxi who are largely enslaved to lead the seminary. Recently, God answered ancestor worship and the fear of man that prayer through Timothy*. He gradu- but pride themselves on becoming ated from the seminary and became the modern and scientific. Ask God to school’s first national faculty member. break down pride and show the emptiness of ancestor worship and Pray for him and his wife as Timothy modernity. Pray they will learn to fear grows as a teacher and leader. Pray God instead of man. Ask for a greater God will fill them with wisdom, gospel witness among them and for protect them from evil, and give God to bring a great harvest of Naxi them joy in Jesus. people who will be wholehearted disciples. Pray many more Naxi * Name changed churches will be established.

Zechariah, Don, Peter none THURSDAY FRIDAY JULY JULY 23 2020 24 2020 A woman with throat cancer had to have The Olympic games officially begin today. her voice box removed. She learned to Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, speak very softly without it, however, “Don’t you know that the runners in a hearing her required being close to her. stadium all race, but only one receives the Similarly, Christians must stay close to prize? Run in such a way to win the prize. Jesus in order to hear his voice. John 10 Now everyone who competes exercises portrays Jesus as the Good Shepherd self-control in everything. However, they whose sheep hear, know, and follow his do it to receive a crown that will fade voice. John 15 says Jesus is the true vine away, but we a crown that will never fade and his disciples are the branches. These away.” We are to run with endurance two analogies emphasize that Christians the race that is set before us (Hebrews need a constant, close relationship with 12:1), forgetting what lies behind and Jesus to follow his instruction. Many straining for what lies ahead, pressing on workers in East Asia serve in unsafe areas toward the goal (Philippians 3:13-14). among people groups with overwhelming This is so we can say in the end, “I have needs. Stress is a daily reality. These fought the good fight, I have finished special servants need prayer. the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). Pray they will daily remain close to God through Bible study and prayer. Pray Pray that those running the race for them and their partners to hear throughout East Asia—missionaries, God’s voice and follow his guidance. pastors, lay people—will finish well.

Woori, Claudia, Stella none SATURDAY SUNDAY JULY JULY 25 2020 26 2020 Around 750,000 East Asians live in met- During the annual summer Dong New ropolitan Vancouver, Canada. Despite Rice Festival, the Dong people honor their the presence of ethnic churches, most ancestors by harvesting unripe ears of East Asians living there have never clearly rice. They make this sacrifice with the aim heard the gospel nor responded in genuine of appeasing their ancestors and wish for faith to Jesus Christ. a plentiful harvest. They cook the grains into a porridge with duck or fish meat and Pray the Lord of the harvest will call consume the meal with their entire family. out more workers into this mission field to make disciples among East Pray those who put their faith in Asians. Pray ethnic church leaders superstition will realize that these will receive a fresh revelation of the tributes are fruitless and turn to follow greatness of God that increases their the way of the true Provider. Pray desire to know the Lord better and God will bless Dong Christians who obey him more fully, especially in must navigate these types of festivals reaching the lost and helping new steeped in superstitious traditions. Ask Christians grow in Christ. Pray new God to guide them with wisdom and leaders will be trained and sent out to discernment to participate in ways that reach second-generation immigrant honor both God and their families. youth and young adults. Pray for courage and desire among East Asian Christians to reach out and make disciples cross-culturally, especially to those who follow Islam in Vancouver.

Alex, Phil, Lisa, Gus none MONDAY TUESDAY JULY JULY 27 2020 28 2020 Many East Asian societies are notably China does not have many megachurches. competitive. Dense populations, an The average church size is around fifty emphasis on education, and dreams people. At one time, most large cities had of wealth feed the desire to compete congregations of two hundred to three for success on individual, corporate, or hundred members. But new government government levels. This competition can regulations have forced them to stop be very fierce and ethical lines are easily meeting or to gather in smaller groups of blurred if advancement by any means less than twenty people. Some churches necessary is the only goal. Obviously, prepared well beforehand and started unchecked ambition and questionable small groups before the policy changes ethical practices naturally lead to cor- occurred. However, many churches did ruption. These problems are so common not plan for this and now need to raise up and frequent in East Asian countries that small group leaders. many expect nothing will ever change for the better. But we can ask God to intervene. Pray these small groups will continue to worship God as bodies of believers Pray international attention will trigger and not be discouraged. East Asian country leaders and their advisors to stop their harmful and often illegal practices. Ask God to reshape their ambitions into love for him and others and a passion to proclaim his gospel to the ends of the world.

Ivy, Meredith Phillip, Ben WEDNESDAY THURSDAY JULY JULY 29 2020 30 2020 For years, the Qiubei Zhuang have re- Japan is a country that appreciates beauty mained unengaged with the gospel. They in nature. Many parks and gardens are live isolated in the mountains of China’s meticulously cared for and maintained Yunnan Province. Most live in market with reverence. The Japanese traditional towns or villages and work in the fields Shinto religion holds that “kami,” or during the day. Villages vary in amenities, gods, reside in rocks, mountains, trees, but none resemble most towns and cities and waterfalls. Many shrines and temples in the twenty-first century. The men are are dedicated to honoring these gods. known for their love of alcohol and its Japanese people need to know that there accompanying problems, and they do not is a Creator whose power is displayed in trust people who won’t drink with them. his creation. Paul writes in Romans 1:20, The Qiubei Zhuang live in fear of the “For His invisible attributes, that is, His spirits they worship and believe that eternal power and divine nature, have ghosts and spirits can be their ancestors, been clearly seen since the creation of so they try to manipulate the spirits to the world, being understood through leave them alone or help them. what He has made. As a result, people are without excuse.” God alone deserves Pray the Qiubei Zhuang will be set free to be worshiped and honored by the from the oppression of spirit worship Japanese. They need to know that true and alcohol addiction. Pray they will peace is available through a relationship hear the gospel and read Scripture with Jesus Christ. portions in their own language. Pray all Japanese will hear this Good News and choose to follow Jesus.

Renae, Dan, Ken Edith FRIDAY SATURDAY JULY AUGUST 31 2020 1 2020 During Qurban, Muslim families honor Grow BeTWEEN is a monthly Bible study Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac for girls ages seven to fourteen that by killing a sheep or goat. All sacrifices in meets at a flower shop owned by a the Old Testament point to Jesus’ perfect Japanese Christian. Hana-san* allows sacrifice. But what does this holiday mean missionaries and local Christians to use for Muslims? Each year that a sacrifice is her shop as a place to disciple these made, one person in the family is chosen girls so they will continue to grow in as the recipient of the sacrifice. The truth, love, and grace. The mothers of sacrifice applies only to the individual, and these girls are also learning about what it each Muslim needs at least one of these means to follow Jesus during this time of sacrifices in their lifetime. Without it, one fellowship, praise, and worship. Half of the cannot reach God in the afterlife. group of girls are Christians; several girls have not yet decided to follow Christ. Pray for Muslims who depend on their Qurban sacrifice will find true comfort Pray these young girls will confess in the sacrifice of Jesus. Pray for Jesus as their Lord. Pray that their Muslims who live in fear of death will mothers will also choose to follow search for the Savior who can take Jesus. Pray for the leaders of the Bible their place on the day of judgment. study to have wisdom as to what to Pray this belief in Qurban will serve teach these girls. Pray for Hana-san as a bridge to bring many Muslims to who uses her business place for the truth. God’s glory.

* Name changed

Maria Mindy, Allen SUNDAY MONDAY AUGUST AUGUST 2 2020 3 2020 Jim* and Sarah* headed to the mission The Korean Hands On program is a path- field filled with a variety of emotions. way for Korean Christian young adults to They were anxious about navigating the have mission field experience and training. new culture and language, but it was also It is a partnership with the Korea Baptist thrilling. Once they arrived in their new Convention Foreign Mission Board; the destination and began to do life in IMB; and Engaging the Unengaged, an unfamiliar territory with a language they interdenominational missionary sending couldn’t yet communicate in, Jim and agency. The Korean Hands On students Sarah started to realize how much they join IMB missionary teams for a term needed to learn before feeling competent. of six months, during which they are New personnel like Jim and Sarah often mentored by the field missionaries and have high expectations and put a lot of are also involved in active ministry. The pressure on themselves. testimonies and changed lives of Korean Hands On students have been most Pray for new missionaries to persevere effective in mobilizing for the program. in the midst of challenges and spiritual warfare. Pray for leadership as they Pray these Korean young people will seek to effectively mentor and train continue on as precious kingdom first termers for the calling Christ has workers and will develop into next- put on their lives. generation leaders for the church in Korea and the world mission move- * Names changed ment. Pray for the mobilization of and recruitment for deployment in early spring and early September each year.

Hubert, Carey Moriah, Jordan TUESDAY WEDNESDAY AUGUST AUGUST 4 2020 5 2020 When asked why he was willing to go Refugees often encounter unexpected overseas, a student from a cross-cultural hardships when they make the difficult training program responded, “When I was decision to flee. They often find them- three years old, I was riding on a bike with selves escaping one inhumane situation my parents. My mom saw we were about only to be trapped in another. This was to be hit by a car, so she threw me to the true for Susan*. She felt compelled to side of the street. My parents didn’t sur- leave her home country with hopes of vive the accident. . . . my aunt who raised getting a job. Sadly, she fell victim to me always told me the Lord saved me so I human trafficking and was sold as a bride could be his servant. . . . I believe the Lord twice. Following these abusive experiences, is calling me into cross-cultural ministry Susan desperately decided to escape to and calling me to share the gospel with yet another country. Thankfully, she met a Muslim peoples.” Christian who shared the gospel with her, and she became a Christian. For the first Pray for this brother as he prepares to time ever she experienced real love, hope, cross borders to serve long-term among and peace. Unfortunately, Susan’s tragic an unreached people group whose story is common for female refugees of context is different than his own. her people group.

Pray for Susan’s continued spiritual growth and healing. Pray refugees will meet Christians who will help them and minister to their spiritual needs.

Anita, Amber none THURSDAY FRIDAY AUGUST AUGUST 6 2020 7 2020 No standardized answer exists for the Li Pei* became a Christian three years question of how to disciple Christians. ago when he moved to a megacity for Some have worked through discipleship his first job. He first heard about the materials to complete a program, spent a Great Commission last summer at church lot of time and effort in building personal when a man spoke of taking the gospel relationships, or simply counted fellowship to unreached people groups previously with food as discipleship. But mentorship unknown to him. Since then, Li Pei has is the key. Our own spiritual mentors felt a restlessness in his heart to follow in taught the Word of God, were examples the footsteps of other Christian workers. of healthy Christian, and offered support Is Jesus now leading him to leave his and encouragement in hard times. predictable life to go to the ends of the earth? How will he learn what he needs to Pray more and more Christians, Chinese know to be successful? pastors, and their wives will step into mentor roles. Pray those who have been Pray the Lord will raise up cross-cultural properly mentored will mentor others Christian workers willing to leave their so healthy disciples will grow. comfort zones for the harvest field. Pray these cross-cultural workers will get the necessary training to thrive in difficult places as they plant and lead healthy, multiplying, indigenous churches.

* Name changed

none Owen SATURDAY SUNDAY AUGUST AUGUST 8 2020 9 2020 There are many reasons for homelessness Pastor Gabe* and his wife have a young in Tokyo. Feelings of abandonment by son named Aiden*. At home they always family, friends, work, and society lead pray before meals. When Aiden started to feelings of hopelessness, hurt, anger, first grade, he naturally bowed his head confusion, and loneliness. The Good in prayer before he started eating in the News promises love, forgiveness, and school cafeteria. Immediately, a teacher acceptance. Through Christ, lives are singled him out and asked, "What are you transformed by love, joy, hope, peace, and doing? What religion do you belong to?" belonging. These people are no longer eternally homeless (even though they Pray for the protection of the children may continue to live in a park or train of many faithful Christians. Pray for station) because they have found their this pastor and others like him who home in Christ. seek to lead their families in the ways of the Lord. Pray they will have wisdom Pray those who take on leadership in how to guide their children and responsibilities in homeless ministry respond to difficult times. will grow strong in their faith. Pray those who are being discipled will reach * Name changed out to others who are still hurting and broken. Pray ministry volunteers will show God’s love, grace, and compassion to all they meet.

Anita, Danielle, Diane Chris, Presh MONDAY TUESDAY AUGUST AUGUST 10 2020 11 2020 Day of Prayer and Fasting— Nghari (“Nah ruh”) Tibetans live in the Ancestor Worship far northwest of the Tibet Autonomous Micah promises that someone whose Region of China. They are adherents to origins are in the distant past will come as Tibetan Buddhism. People flock to Ng- the source of true peace (Micah 5:2,5). hari’s Mt. Kailash, a holy place for Hindus Appeasing spirits or worshiping, praying to, and Buddhists. It is believed that traveling and asking ancestors for help will never once around the mountain (a distance bring peace. Only Jesus brings trues peace. of thirty-two miles, or approximately In East Asia, the custom of worshiping fifty-two kilometers) can atone for a life- ancestors is passed down from generation time of sins. They also revere Tibet’s Lake to generation. Christians do not participate Manasarovar, the highest freshwater lake in this, which strikes at the heart of a in the world. They believe it is holy and good Chinese, Korean, or Japanese son or that bathing in it or drinking its water daughter. It is very shameful to parents if purifies sins. Additionally, they believe their child becomes a Christian, because those who trek to the top of the 18,500- the child will not worship their parents foot (5,640-meter) Domna Pass will be when they die. These customs are a born again in the process. Many have significant stronghold in East Asia. never heard that only Jesus has the power to wash sins away and offer new life. Pray for freedom from this generational burden. Ask God to tear down this bar- Pray the Nghari know that what they rier and open the eyes of East Asians to seek is available only through Jesus. see that he is our refuge, strength, and Pray they will be born again. help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

none Hank, Boorum WEDNESDAY THURSDAY AUGUST AUGUST 12 2020 13 2020 Several years ago, I took a taxi from the Every June 24 on the lunar calendar, the airport to the downtown area of a large Yi people celebrate their biggest and city in southwest China. At a stoplight I most exciting holiday, the Torch Festival. saw an ox pulling a cart on the right side For three to five days, most people sing, of the road. The driver of the cart waved dance, and enjoy meals with family, to us and smiled. On the left-hand side I friends, and neighbors. Some participate saw a Mercedes Benz. Its driver seemed in bullfights or friendly wrestling events. preoccupied and did not notice us. In The culmination of the main day of the 2019, I was in a taxi in the same location. festival involves lighting large torches and It had become nearly impossible to drive dancing in the streets. Witchdoctors play an ox cart there due to the large numbers a major role, which may involve sacrifices, of expensive cars on the roads and the chants, and trying to appease the spirits increased amount of people who accom- that they believe are affecting all areas panied the towering new buildings. No of the people’s lives. The Torch Festival one waved or smiled at us. is a time of celebration but also a time to offer praise to these spirits. Pray the Lord will slow the pace at which people are chasing material gain Pray the Yi people will know the truth and bring peace and joy to the people about Christ and worship him alone. of these changing East Asian cities. Pray that one day their singing, dancing, and fellowship will be because of their love of the one true God.

Peter Josh, Margerita, Fred, Asher FRIDAY SATURDAY AUGUST AUGUST 14 2020 15 2020 During August, in the lull just before har- National Liberation Day commemorates vest, Nosu people also gather with family the end of Japanese occupation on the and neighbors to celebrate their Torch Korean Peninsula on August 15, 1945. It is Festival. The holiday commemorates the only Korean holiday that is celebrated an ancient Nosu hero who drove away in both North and South Korea. In South a plague of locusts using torches made Korea it is known as Gwangbokjeol (“Res- from pine. The celebration includes horse toration of Light Day”) and was officially races and bullfights, wrestling for men, designated a public holiday in 1949. All and beauty contests for young women. buildings and homes are encouraged to During the Torch Festival, families need to display the national flag, Taeguki. The light torches to illuminate the corners in Gwangbokjeol song is sung at official their rooms as well as their fields. Some ceremonies in remembrance of the blood villagers have torch parades for the pur- shed for this liberty and in exhortation to pose of driving away bad luck and praying guard it. In honor of the independence for a good harvest. This holiday provides activists, their descendants can visit most a wonderful opportunity for Nosu Chris- public museums as well as ride public tians to return home and share their faith transport and intercity trains free of in Christ. charge. Praise God for religious freedom in South Korea. Pray Nosu Christians will be sensitive and bold to share the gospel, and that Pray Koreans will be free in Christ God will soften family members’ hearts and not be enslaved to materialism to hear and receive the Good News and secularism. with joy.

Bill, Kay Theo, Susan SUNDAY MONDAY AUGUST AUGUST 16 2020 17 2020 The majority of small churches in South Tetsu-san* was the only Christian in his Korea are financially dependent on their home. A missionary met him at a local denomination, or megachurch, or other church a few years ago. Soon after, this supplementary earnings. Some of the new Christian participated in a discipleship pastors’ wives work outside the home to study. As he learned, he felt burdened to support their families while the husbands pray for the lost and share the gospel, minister full time. Some pastors (and their especially with his own family. Within one wives) run small businesses, not only for year of the study, Tetsu-san shared the income, but also as outreach platforms gospel with more than fifty people and in the community. These pastors have led the first of many people to Christ. As more of a pioneering spirit than a tradi- he faithfully sought to show and share tional mindset. One such pastor who is a the love of Jesus with his family, his wife professional fitness trainer started a small accepted Christ! Through discipleship exercise center that also serves as their studies, many fully surrendered their lives church. Another pastor gives out free to being on mission, boldly sharing the waffles to school kids and children in the gospel and making disciples. church neighborhood to connect with the residents. Praise God for the courage and Pray Tetsu-san will continue to faith- pioneering spirit of these young pastors. fully share the Good News and that he will have many disciple-making Pray for more to join them. Pray for opportunities. Ask God to raise up spiritual wisdom and creative business more Japanese laborers like him. ideas for pastors who are bi-vocational. * Name changed

none George, Eunice, Paul, Hannah TUESDAY WEDNESDAY AUGUST AUGUST 18 2020 19 2020 Shoton, or the Yogurt Festival, is held The family gathered stray bits of paper annually in mid-August. The festival that had blown from the huge pile of begins with the once-a-year unveiling of burning spirit money in the middle of the the Buddhist Thankas, giant embroidered parking lot. Today marks the beginning of tapestries of Buddhist statues housed at Ghost Month, the seventh month of the the Sara and Drepung monasteries. These lunar calendar, when it is believed that tapestries cover the side of an entire the spirits of the deceased come back to building. Pilgrims rise in the middle of the roam the earth. During this month, peo- night to begin walking to the monasteries ple honor their ancestors by burning to burn incense and throw khatas, cere- paper replicas of food, cars, houses, monial scarves, onto the Thankas. Then money, or even modern things like com- they make their way to a park to picnic puters and iPhones. They also stay home and watch traditional Tibetan operas. at night, fearful of the ghosts that they believe wander freely. Pray the enjoyment of a summer picnic and days off from work will be Ask that the Lord of the harvest will redeemed from a time of worshiping raise up harvesters to share the gospel idols to a time of celebrating the Most of hope to those who dutifully serve High God. Pray Tibetans will sing and the dead. Pray those who live in fear give thanks to the Lord rather than will meet the God who loves them and look to idols. Pray Tibetans will be glad gives eternal life. Pray the Lord will and rejoice in the Lord (Psalm 92:1-5). free these families to believe in Jesus.

Julianne, Lucy Dorothy, Caleb THURSDAY FRIDAY AUGUST AUGUST 20 2020 21 2020 East Asians are going to hard places to Chinese evangelist John Song Shangjie share the gospel and make disciples. But wrote, “The thing Satan fears the most few of them have the support structure— is saints praying together in one accord. prayer or financial—to help them serve Praying together in one accord is the long term. Many of them come from a primary stepping stone to revival. . . . A small collection of churches that promise church will die for lack of prayer.” E.M. to fund their first few years of service. Bounds wrote, “Our praying, however, However, these missionaries rarely have needs to be pressed and pursued with a budget for language learning, health an energy that never tires, a persistency emergencies, or educational needs. As which will not be denied, and a courage such, the financial burden is a major factor which never fails.” that prevents them from acquiring the longevity that promotes healthy, repro- Ask that Chinese Christians will pray ducible churches. without ceasing. Pray they will call out to the Lord for him to accomplish his Pray the East Asians who are going purpose in and through them. Pray as cross-cultural workers will be fully they will be quick to obey God’s call, supported financially. Pray the sending wherever it may lead them. churches will grow in sacrificial giving as they support their missionaries through prayer.

Abel, Craig, Steven Dara SATURDAY SUNDAY AUGUST AUGUST 22 2020 23 2020 The Alxa (“Ah-la-shan”) Mongols live Missionaries who first came to Taiwan isolated in and around the Gobi Desert of more than 150 years ago faced a difficult Inner Mongolia, China. Though surrounded life and resistance to their message. Today, by Buddhism, atheism, and communism, life is easy in Taiwan, but the spiritual they remain fervently dedicated to Islam, darkness is still great. Only when more which creates a barrier between them Christians embrace the Great Commis- and other Mongolians. They are one of sion will we see more churches being the smallest Muslim people groups within planted to advance the kingdom. We long China and there are no known Christians to see a movement of God that results in among them. The Alxa Mongols rely on lives transformed by Jesus Christ. camels for survival. The estimated two hundred thousand camels in the region Pray that a culture of evangelism and outnumber the people eight to one. discipleship will be as normal as eating Camel milk is used for cheese, butter, and sleeping in the churches of Taiwan. yogurt, ice cream, and beverages. Though Pray for cross-cultural workers who the Bible exists in their language, few Alxa will take the gospel to the nations. Pray Mongols have heard the gospel. They love for established structures to equip to tell stories through songs. and support the sending of many East Asian workers. Ask the Lord to give Pray for the gospel to be sung in the churches a heart for all peoples—and villages where they live. Pray God will pray for men and women to obey the break down any barriers that stand in call to go. the way of them coming to faith.

none none MONDAY TUESDAY AUGUST AUGUST 24 2020 25 2020 As missionaries encounter unique cultures, Like their missionary parents, Third they must learn and adjust. An added layer Culture Kids (TCKs) also face struggles of adjustment often exists for families with that come with leaving their homes and younger children. One couple struggled moving to unknown cultures. They have through the decision of whether or not to to learn how to live in new cultures and go send their child to a local pre-kindergarten to new schools. While their parents are in during a season of focused language study. language study, they often have the oppor- After prayerfully deciding to send their tunity to attend international schools. For child, cultural differences related to child- most TCKs, this is a new experience as care and education became more appar- well. After mom and dad have completed ent. In the strength of Jesus, the parents their full-time language study, the children sought to listen and understand. Over time likely will again be asked to transition to a new routine developed, and they began new places with new people and possibly engaging with other parents of children at begin homeschooling. the school. These relationships developed and the Good News was proclaimed. Pray for all the TCKs as they make many transitions throughout their Ask the Lord to grant faithfulness in years on the mission field. learning for those who daily walk in unfamiliar environments. Request God’s grace for the moments when the differences in culture feel overwhelming. May these be opportunities to invest more deeply (Philippians 4:10-13).

none Matthew, Gideon, Daniel, Steve WEDNESDAY THURSDAY AUGUST AUGUST 26 2020 27 2020 Buddhism arrived in Korea in AD 372 Approximately half of China’s population and still claims many adherents today. lives in cities. The China State Council In opposition to the Bible, this traditional predicts population growth in cities will Asian religion teaches that humans continue at about 1 percent every year. are responsible for attaining their own The large number of people moving to salvation and can do so through Buddhist and living in cities has put tremendous practices. God has revealed to us that pressure on public services. Traffic jams we can only be saved through faith in are frequent and housing prices continue Jesus Christ, not a result of any works or to soar. Often rural people who try to good deeds we perform. Unfortunately, relocate to urban centers face difficulties Buddhism has been very influential upon in finding housing and accessing services Korean culture and there are thousands as local governments struggle to provide of Buddhist temples throughout the land. basic services and sustainable living environments. Pray God will open the hearts of Bud- dhists in Korea to hear and obey the Pray Christians who live in these urban gospel. Pray the work of Satan will be centers will reach out to new arrivals. crushed and that Koreans who claim Pray they will offer encouragement Buddhism will instead claim Christianity and look for ways to bless people. by the time of the next national census. Pray Christians will be bold witnesses Rejoice that the Lord is calling people as God brings people into their lives out of Buddhism and into his light! who likely have never heard the name of Jesus.

Hannah Mary-Jane, Seth, Ted, Chloe FRIDAY SATURDAY AUGUST AUGUST 28 2020 29 2020 Korean popular music—K-pop—is a grow- A special outdoor worship service on ing global phenomenon and the vanguard Easter Sunday yielded three unexpected of Korean popular culture. Featuring such results in a society with very few Christians international stars as BTS and Psy, K-pop as well as among a people group that has has developed a passionate and growing been resistant to the gospel. The first fan base, not only in Korea, but also the surprise was being able to secure a good United States and around the world. BTS, venue—amazingly, a non-Christian couple in particular, is a boy band with enormous offered their place. A second surprise was influence and popularity. It is great fun to the attendance of many non-Christians dance along to Psy’s “Gangnam Style” and at the service, including the owners of attempt some of the intricate choreogra- the property. The final surprise was that phy of BTS and other K-pop artists. a Christian friend who usually works on Sunday was also able to attend this Pray God will utilize the global influence special worship service. Praise God of K-pop to spread the gospel. Pray the for how he moved! The results greatly Holy Spirit will use this music genre to encouraged the workers among this turn hearts and minds to Christ. Pray unreached people group. the artists themselves will follow the Lord and be ambassadors for his name. Pray for the non-Christians who joined Pray Christian fans of K-pop groups this event out of curiosity and heard will guard their hearts from idolatry. the gospel. Pray their spiritual curiosity will develop into a deep yearning for a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

Trenton, Samuel Brad, Kyle SUNDAY MONDAY AUGUST AUGUST 30 2020 31 2020 China has seen a significant number of In Japan, prayer walking led to telling churches planted over the past couple of stories about God through cooking and decades, mostly in urban centers. Recent- culture classes at a public center. Because ly, churches have begun to collaborate of these classes, eight non-Christians to reach unreached people groups in attended Easter services at a new church dark and difficult places that lack mature, start. Two of these people began to reproducing churches. They are develop- attend regularly and became Christians. ing prayer initiatives, deploying short- Four Japanese Christians were introduced term teams, sending church members to the classes for further opportunities, to cross-cultural missions trainings, and and many gospel messages were shared. pulling together resources so they can support their own long-term Christian Pray for opportunities to tell more workers. Some larger churches have stories from the Bible. Pray God would gathered enough resources to undergird be glorified through current ministries those they send out. Yet they struggle through which local churches and to tend to missionaries spiritually while missionaries are partnering, such as they face difficult challenges. Christians in English Bible classes and Bible studies. smaller churches also are saying the Lord Pray for consistency and intentionality is calling them to missions. in all of these activities. Pray the gospel seeds grow so people’s hearts will be Pray these churches can get the training opened to receive Jesus as their Lord they need to equip those they send. Pray and Savior. Pray they will call out to the the larger congregations will help the Father instead of their ancestors. smaller churches develop the needed infrastructure to support their sent ones.

Marie Ross, Rose, William, Edith TUESDAY WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 1 2020 2 2020 Officials in areas of China are trying to Today in Taiwan, many people will put persuade pastors to include communist tables of food in front of their doors or ideology in their sermons and to affirm businesses for the “hungry ghosts” that traditional Chinese beliefs, such as wander the earth. The Taiwanese believe ancestral worship. Government-approved that on the fifteenth day of the seventh churches face severe restrictions. Pastors lunar month all the ghosts come out of who fail a test on communist beliefs are hell. Food is placed outside for these not allowed to be pastors. Christian “hungry ghosts” so that they will not doctrines such as eternal life, heaven, and bother the people inside the home or hell are prohibited from being included business. They believe the ghosts then in sermons. return to the afterlife at the end of the lunar month. Year after year, people Ask the Lord to give wisdom to the perform the same rituals, often looking affected pastors. Pray the Holy Spirit for peace as they fulfill their duties. They will lead them as they deal with gov- will continue looking until they find the ernment authorities. Pray this situation Prince of Peace, Jesus. will embolden Chinese pastors to preach the gospel faithfully as they Pray for those who continue these reflect on Peter’s answer in Acts, traditions built on lies. Pray that “‘Whether it’s right in the sight of God today someone will tell them the for us to listen to you rather than to Good News that can set them free God, you decide; for we are unable and they will believe. to stop speaking about what we have seen and heard’” (Acts 4:19b-20).

none Dalin, Walter THURSDAY FRIDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 3 2020 4 2020 As we seek to reach the next generation “In their case, the god of this age has for Christ, one thing is certain: God is blinded the minds of the unbelievers so using students to reach students. The they cannot see the light of the gospel longer international Christian students of the glory of Christ, who is the image are in East Asia, the deeper their relation- of God” (2 Corinthians 4:4). Christian ships go, and the greater their impact on workers are in a battle for the minds and the students around them. hearts of people groups throughout East Asia that are blinded by Satan. Age-old Pray God will call out more students to ideologies and cultural norms become spend a semester or even a year doing strongholds, especially when challenged life the East Asian way, sharing the by God’s revolutionary truth. Persuading gospel over dumplings, kimchi, rice, or people to reject historic cultural values in ramen. Pray students who currently favor of accepting God’s liberating truth is live among East Asian peoples will a daunting yet possible task as God leads walk each day according to the Spirit’s and equips his servants. leading and take advantage of every opportunity he sends them. When they Pray God will empower his gospel speak truth, ask that the Spirit will workers and that all the people groups eliminate language barriers so their of East Asia will hear and understand non-Christian friends might fully un- his truth. Pray old strongholds will be derstand the gospel. Pray with us for a torn down and that multitudes of the mighty movement of the Spirit among spiritually blind will experience salva- East Asian students. tion in Jesus Christ.

Al, Jennifer, Tiffany Martin, Isaac SATURDAY SUNDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 5 2020 6 2020 There are three types of Chinese people Historically, Osaka has been the com- working in the northern part of Africa and mercial center of Japan and an industrial the Middle East: blue-collar workers, most center that is key to the development of whom are allowed to live only inside a of capitalism in Japan. It now functions closed camp; merchants, who are typically as one of the command centers for the unavailable to talk; and white-collar work- economy in the country. To keep this ers, who are fewer in number but easier economic “machine” going, it must be fed to engage. with hours of overtime by the heads of families who leave their homes as early as Pray local Chinese-speaking Christians 6:00 a.m. and return at midnight or later. will have compassionate hearts for the Some mothers also work, try to maintain lost among each segment of workers. a healthy marriage, and raise the children Pray God will open doors to the work- almost single-handedly. Missionaries have ers living in the camp so local churches come alongside these mothers by offering can reach them with the gospel. Pray a time for them and their young children for Christians among the merchants to gather in their buildings. They do to boldly share the gospel with their crafts, cook, and study a biblically-based neighbors. Pray God will open the book about child-rearing. hearts of white-collar workers to be receptive to the gospel. Pray for Pray these ladies will come to know God-honoring partnerships between the Father who designed the family to missionaries and among various glorify God. mission groups as training centers are started to equip workers to reach each of these segments.

Kathy none MONDAY TUESDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 7 2020 8 2020 God has providentially positioned ethnic Suna’s* life was turned around through Chinese minority people in places that her six-month experience with Korean western Christians cannot go. Many of Hands On. God led her to minister to them are from multigenerational Christian the homeless in an East Asian city. She families and who speak the local language. witnessed some of them gain new hope These places have large numbers of un- and courage to look for jobs and return reached people groups that need to hear to their homes. Some also started to the Good News. Beginning in 2020, we believe in God and go to church. This want to see fifty churches started among mission experience totally changed Suna’s these unreached peoples over a period life perspective and aspiration. Instead of of ten years. It will not be an easy task only praying for herself and her family’s to accomplish, but we serve a God who happiness, she has started to pray for brings down walls and builds his church. others and for their salvation, and she is What does he ask of us? To be faithful. amazed at the great joy she feels. She has decided to give up worldly desires and to Pray for the right people to answer the go wherever the Lord leads. call to be cross-cultural missionaries where they live. Pray for several Pray for Suna as she prepares for faithful Chinese Christians with Christian ministry at a Baptist seminary. energy, vision, and a sense of adventure Pray for other Korean Hands On students to attend a mobilization conference to have strong Christian support and in October. mentors in their spiritual journeys.

* Name changed

Bill, Jesse, Miriam, Diane Ruth, Scotty, Hannah, Cole, Lily WEDNESDAY THURSDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 9 2020 10 2020 A six-year-old girl became very sick after Megan* left her home country due to tripping and falling. Six months after her poverty and hardship. After spending fall, her skin became yellow and her eyes several years as a refugee, Megan made turned red. Whenever she ate or drank, the dangerous trip to yet another country she threw up. Her parents sought answers that is considered safe for her people everywhere, but the future seemed hope- group. During her journey and after her less. Doctors suggested an operation, but arrival, God sent Christians to show her the parents decided to seek herbal care his love and share the gospel with her. in different villages. One night, they heard Consequently, she was saved, baptized, that some Christians were in their village, and now attends church. But it’s difficult so they asked them to pray over their for Megan to understand the Bible and daughter. Both parents cried hopelessly completely believe it. When she was as they described her condition. They young, she was taught that Christians, the decided to take her for the operation. Bible, and its teachings are bad. The Christians prayed over her twice before they returned home. They asked Pray for Megan and others of her the Father to heal her by the time the people group who struggle to believe. family got home so that she would no Ask for God to set them free from the longer need the operation. As the family ideologies and lies of the past. Pray returned home that night, this girl was God’s truth will fill their hearts and healed just as the Christians had prayed. minds, growing their faith in him and a daily trust in his Word. Praise the Lord! * Name changed

Jay, Paul, Tracy, Adam Carter Hub, Sophie FRIDAY SATURDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 11 2020 12 2020 It was easy to strike up a conversation A church in Kamaishi, Japan, held its first with others crowded into the Lanzhou baptism in a long time. Many people in beef noodle shop as we enjoyed the the area are hesitant to go to the ocean, delicious soup. Lamian, which literally let alone get in it. A woman, who is nor- means pulled or stretched noodles, mally very shy, loudly proclaimed her faith originated in Lanzhou. This city is the in Christ and eagerly went into the ocean capital of northwest China’s Gansu prov- on a cool and cloudy day. The pastor ince. Historically, the Northern Silk Road was hesitant to wade too far out so he passed through here, and it was at times kept her close to shore. When she knelt controlled by Tibetans and Mongols. It is down and tried to go under the water, it now home to many Muslim communities wasn't quite deep enough. The pastor felt and is a melting pot of China’s fifty-six she had been sufficiently immersed and ethnic groups. brought her out. However, not satisfied, she went back in on her own, stretched Pray for the church here to be bold in her whole body facedown in the water, serving its neighbors and in proclaim- stayed a while, then came up rejoicing. ing the Good News of Jesus. Pray for Four weeks later, another Christian who unity among the brothers and sisters, had witnessed this also was baptized! doctrinal soundness and protection against cults, and wise servant-leaders Pray for continued spiritual growth for among the pastorate. As people gather Japanese Christians. for lunch over a bowl of noodles, pray that the gospel will be shared to nourish their souls.

none Jenna, Thomas SUNDAY MONDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 13 2020 14 2020 A group of Christians recently celebrated Day of Prayer and Fasting— ten years of serving with local churches Cultural Pressures to provide disaster relief and community “What will it benefit a man if he gains the development for church planting. whole world yet loses his life” (Matthew Throughout these ten years they have 16:26a)? Many East Asian parents begin seen more than five hundred churches preparing their children for university planted and have helped share the love before kindergarten, choosing the “best” of Christ in practical ways with tens of schools so they can attend the “best” thousands of people who have gone universities and get the “best” jobs. For through crises. Many of the crises they the sake of their studies, students do not helped respond to occurred in rural areas have time for youth group. For the sake amongst unreached people groups. This of their jobs, working men and women do gave them incredible access and opportu- not have time for Bible study or a quiet nities that very few other Christians have. time. They reach levels of worldly success but leave God behind or do not take the Pray for wisdom and discernment for time to know him. Is it any wonder that this group that can’t help everyone suicide rates are high and family relation- after a disaster but want to help as ships are broken? many as possible. Help them know how to go about their work in a way God, awaken East Asian hearts to the that enables the gospel to go forward fact that pursuing the things of this with Christ-exalting efficacy and bears world will not satisfy. Compel them to much spiritual fruit. carve out time to know you more.

Nat Rebekah, Linda, Tabitha, Joel TUESDAY WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 15 2020 16 2020 The Korean church has a strong mis- The “Landing City” is a training commu- sionary force in the world. Many Korean nity where first-term missionaries learn missionaries have been in their field long about the Japanese culture and language term and have a good understanding of to help them evangelize, disciple, and the local culture, language, and mission plant churches. Making disciples that situation. They also have connections result in new church plants begins with with local people and churches. We have entry and evangelism. Engaging with the the privilege of partnering with some key community by eating at the local ramen Korean missionary-sending agencies for shop, enjoying coffee with neighbors, globalization. The objective is to connect and even playing at the park are just a Korean missionaries with IMB missionaries few examples of where we have seen for the purpose of mutual help, vision, the gospel shared and lives changed. and resource sharing. At the request Development is more expansive than just of Korean missionaries serving in other “doing,” it also focuses on being a man or regions of the world, IMB has helped with woman of God. By daily walking with the trainings in mission field safety, security, Lord and seeking to have a deeper rela- and strategy. tionship with him, missionaries are then able to disciple new Christians and plant Pray the globalization partnership healthy churches. between IMB and these key Korean mission agencies will remain effective Praise God for a new church plant, and strong. Pray globalization will pave Osaka Hope Community, where Jap- the way for the fulfillment of the Great anese people are experiencing God's Commission. love through missionaries and national Christians.

Robert, Sharon, Anna May Adrian, Esther, Alison THURSDAY FRIDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 17 2020 18 2020 I saw a group of people singing on a The Jiamao Li of China live on the rooftop in my village. I was sure they were southeastern part of Hainan Island and singing Christian songs. Being a Tibetan are descendants of the island’s original Buddhist nun, I had never met a Christian. inhabitants. Most Jiamao Li are farmers Surely, they knew something about the but many are also excellent cloth weavers. stranger that kept visiting my master. I In the past, these animists consulted invited them to our temple, where my shamans and witchdoctors to deal with master told them of the visitor in white sickness. They would often sacrifice who called himself Jesus. They talked animals to gods and spirits. Today, most about Jesus like they knew him personally. Jiamao Li have turned to Chinese and They even told us that we could know Western medicine. The earliest Christian him, too. They spoke with energy and joy, presence on the island was in 1630, and and when my master asked questions, in the early 1900s, many came to Christ. they happily answered. They had a de- Today, only a handful of Christians exist lightful and lively two-way conversation. among the Jiamao Li. Many have not yet I will not soon forget them or this Jesus heard the Good News. they told us about. I hope he visits my master again as she meditates. I hope he Ask God to send laborers to this visits me. harvest field. Pray for the fertile soil of hearts in which Christians can plant Pray these nuns will come to know gospel seeds. Pray the Jiamao Li will Jesus personally. turn to Christ from traditions that are based on lies.

Renee, Kate-Ruth, Abigail Judith, Micah, Moses, Justin SATURDAY SUNDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 19 2020 20 2020 The global Chinese church is passionate Americans are often reminded of the about seeing unreached people groups economy’s instability, especially when reached with the gospel. It sends mis- trade wars begin. For Chinese families, sionaries to many remote places in China. most simply want to provide a promising Often, however, these workers feel lonely, education and future for their children. isolated, and unequipped. One brother said, “I have been here for eleven years Pray the financial pressures that but have to work full-time just to stay. Chinese families experience will cause I share [the gospel] when I am able, them to look to God as their ultimate but most of my time is spent working.” hope. Pray for Chinese Christians to Another said, “We don’t feel equipped to model the hope and joy that's found baptize new believers or administer the in trusting Jesus as their provider. Lord’s Supper, so it is hard for us to be a On a national level, pray that Chinese part of healthy churches.” However, one leaders who have influence over the brother said he now knows the next step economy will become aware of their to help grow healthy churches. hopelessness apart from the hope found in Christ. May disciples of Christ Praise the Lord that these workers emerge as economic leaders in China can now receive training and encour- in order to lead with his wisdom and agement. Pray these Christians will be provide a testimony of the goodness encouraged, and the Lord will plant his and provision of the one true Creator church in these remote areas. God. Ask that God will bless the church in China, so that they will bless families and the whole nation.

Joseph, Rachael, Jessica, Deborah Clancey MONDAY TUESDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 21 2020 22 2020 Respect for the Aged Day is celebrated on Chinese Christians have the passion to the third Monday of September each year. go to the ends of the earth and share the This national holiday was established in Good News with unreached peoples but 1966 as a day to honor the contributions lack the means to do so. of elderly citizens to family and society. The roots of this holiday go much deeper Pray for opportunities for Chinese than the history of the day might suggest, Christians to learn how to serve as honoring the elderly is deeply engrained cross-culturally so they will be in Japanese culture. The Japanese media equipped for the task. Pray for knowl- is filled with programs dedicated to edgeable trainers, clear teaching, and honoring the elderly throughout the day. abundant opportunities to practice They interview some of the oldest citizens what they learn. As they are faithful to of the nation, and the Japanese govern- take the first step, pray God will give ment gives a silver cup to each person them confidence to continue walking who reaches the age of one hundred. forward. As they give their lives to the Japan is the most rapidly aging society in task of reaching the unreached, pray the world. they will feel God’s pleasure. Pray for smooth teaming relationships as they Pray many will hear of Jesus, offer venture into the world of missions. their hearts to him, and come to our May Christian workers of different na- loving Father before their time on this tionalities reflect the beauty of Jesus’ earth draws to a close. words, “‘By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another’” (John 13:35).

none Lee WEDNESDAY THURSDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 23 2020 24 2020 Before 1990, the Yanghuang people of Maki-san* was very closed to Christianity. China were not yet an official people In spite of this, she came to the Love group but part of an Undetermined of Jesus Church since it began. Church Minority. Today they remain unaware of members were intentional to help her the God who has always known them. know the Lord by praying and fasting for They live among other people groups in her, inviting her into their homes, and the hills of Guizhou, so most Yanghuang encouraging her through the Word and are multilingual, speaking Chinese or personal testimonies. Sadly, her stony Bouyei in addition to their native tongue. heart didn’t seem be opening. However, Because of their great language skills, it is two ladies who attend the church invited possible for them to hear the gospel Maki-san to go to a hot spring one through radio broadcasts or local evening with the purpose of sharing the evangelistic efforts. Yet the Yanghuang gospel. They stayed until 2:00 a.m., and continue in the darkness of polytheism Maki-san made a decision to follow Christ. and animism. Pray she will grow as a Christian and Pray God will burst from the heavens share the gospel with others. Pray for and come down to reveal himself to the Love of Jesus Church to continue the Yanghuang and bring them home. to be fruitful in sharing the gospel and Before they had their own name, he making disciples. knew them. Ask God to send faithful Christians to their village to tell them * Name changed the Good News and grow them into faithful followers of Jesus.

Andy, Eva, Bruce, Victoria, Josh Fred FRIDAY SATURDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 25 2020 26 2020 In early August 2019, a church started According to the Environmental Protec- in a home in Seoul. The church-planting tion Agency’s (EPA) air quality scale, any team had been in Korea for only a few air pollution rating above three hundred months and hadn’t planned out every means the air is unsafe to breathe. When necessary detail to start a church, but the ratings get this high, authorities the Holy Spirit repeatedly prompted this advise people to stay indoors and run group to take a leap of faith and start the air purifiers. Many of China’s cities face church. Sure enough, God brought more significant air pollution from coal-burning than thirty people to the official launch electric plants. China now burns over 45 service, and a group of at least ten have percent of the world’s coal, which is near- faithfully attended each Sunday since. ly the amount used by all other countries around the world combined. Pray God will bless this new congregation and use it to reach the city of Pray for the people who live in these Seoul—especially its young genera- cities—God has not forgotten them. tion. Pray specifically that the church Pray that as people suffer the ill effects leaders will be granted wisdom as they of pollution, they will realize that God work out the many details, including wants to give them life eternal, even what church membership looks like. if their government may not protect Pray the church members will be them here on earth. Pray many people thoroughly equipped and sent out for will put their hope in Christ and not God’s work. things of this world.

Sheila, Mary-Jane Allie, Drew SUNDAY MONDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 27 2020 28 2020 Asia University, International Christian Successful ministry to unreached people University, and Kaetsu University in western groups requires the teamwork of Christian Tokyo have the potential to populate workers and their partners who are pas- church plants all over the country and sionately unified in their goal of sharing across East Asia as God transforms the gospel. An exciting meeting occurred students from being lost to leaders in last year when Christians of different eth- the church. Churches can have a great nicities, languages, and nationalities met impact in this area as they reach and to strategize and discuss how to better equip students, but they must be prepared. engage their people group for the purpose of evangelism and church planting. This Join us in praying that the gospel collaborative endeavor needs your prayers. will be shared, and God’s Word will be studied every day of the week on Ask God to give these workers wisdom college campuses throughout Tokyo. as they seek to enter and remain in Pray for God to soften hearts and open inhospitable areas and meet members minds on campus, and that those who of their people group. Pray for God come to know him will be filled with a to give them sustainable methods of passion for Christ that spurs them to access so that they can build good boldly and effectively share their faith relationships that result in friendships with friends and classmates so that and gospel conversations. Pray for the gospel saturates every corner of the people to understand and believe their campus. the Good News. Ask God to protect new Christians.

none Jerry TUESDAY WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 29 2020 30 2020 Chuseok, meaning “eve of autumn,” is a Similar to the Korean holiday of Chuseok, major Korean holiday celebrated on the Mid-Autumn Festival is an important lunar fifteenth day of the eighth month in the holiday for the Chinese that this year also lunar calendar, which this year is October falls on October 1, China’s National Day. 1. Traditionally, Koreans perform two Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for gazing key traditions during Chuseok: holding at the full moon, reuniting with family, and ancestral memorial services at home and eating mooncakes, which are rich pastries visiting ancestral gravesites to clean them filled with sweet bean paste, meats, nuts, and pay respect. Masses of people travel or various other delicacies. For the Chi- to their hometowns during this holiday. nese, the full moon represents reunion, Chuseok is incomplete without songpyeon, harmony, and happiness. The public colorful half-moon-shaped rice cakes holiday started three thousand years ago filled with red bean or chestnut paste or as a harvest festival, when people thanked sesame seeds and honey. It is common the moon god for the harvest. for Koreans to send Chuseok gifts to families, relatives, and friends. Pray Chinese people will have the opportunity to hear about the God Pray for Koreans to earnestly desire who put the moon in the sky. Pray they and share the greatest gift of all—the will worship him, the Creator, rather love of God! Pray for Korean Christians than his creation. to have the boldness and wisdom to not participate in ancestor worship when under pressure by nonbelieving parents and relatives.

none Priscilla, Trudy, Chip, Thad, Jill

THURSDAY FRIDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 1 2020 2 2020 National Day commemorates the founding It is estimated that a fifth of the world’s of the People's Republic of China on population is ethnically Chinese. This October 1, 1949. It’s often celebrated for statistic, coupled with the fact that seven days with hopes that people will Chinese people live in almost every coun- shop more, travel more, and spend more try in the world, makes loving, serving, money during this long holiday. Military encouraging, and partnering with Chinese parades are held in Beijing, streets are Christians unique and exciting. Because decorated with slogans and flags, and many already live cross-culturally, we have millions of people travel. It is a day of the honor of helping them see themselves great pride for China’s ruling party as it as “sent” (Romans 10:15). celebrates its accomplishments. During this time, things that are perceived as Pray the ethnic Chinese around the anti-government are tightly monitored, world will see the people living around which means religious activities are them as souls created by our loving at risk. Father that need hope for this life and eternity. Pray they will follow the Pray Christians during this time will Lord’s leadership to share with their hold onto hope and be bold neighbors, a people group in their (2 Corinthians 3:12), and confidently host country, or another foreign land. speak the words God gives so they can Chinese Christians are already uniquely make known the mystery of the gospel positioned to reach the nations with (Ephesians 6:19). Pray they will call to the gospel—pray they will recognize God, hear his answer, and be bold with that they are also poised to finish strength in their souls (Psalm 138:3). the task.

none Kate SATURDAY SUNDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 3 2020 4 2020 God has been working in miraculous ways Baptist work in northern Taiwan began in Takasaki, Japan. A steadily growing seventy years ago, when two female church plant meets in the office of a local missionaries and one local pastor arrived. Christian’s business. Through the faithful Taiwanese people predominantly believe testimony of Japanese Christians, many in a combination of Buddhism, Taoism, have made professions of faith in the past Confucianism, and animism. Thank God several months. Two of these were a local for his kindness to Taiwan Baptists over doctor and his daughter. Hi-san* is ten the last seventy years. Some of the first years old and decided to follow Jesus at churches are still active today! church one Sunday. Her father’s curiosity grew when he saw how involved she was Pray for the people of Taipei to receive with the church. Through his interest, the gospel with joy and gladness. Pray he became involved in a weekly men’s many will repent of their sin, turn to Bible study and told the men that he had Christ in faith, and surrender their decided to follow Christ! He has been lives to him. Pray for Taiwan Baptist reading his Bible, praying for his patients, churches as they seek to reach their and encouraging his family because of the neighborhoods, engage university work of the Holy Spirit! students, develop new leaders, send out missionary teams, and plant new Pray for this family, specifically that churches. Pray northern Taiwan will Hi-san’s mother will also choose to be saturated with healthy, multiplying believe in Jesus. Baptist churches that partner with the IMB for global church planting. * Name changed

Marshall, Taylor Jan, Parker, Sherry, Kate, James MONDAY TUESDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 5 2020 6 2020 My family was expelled from our home “‘I was sought by those who did not ask; country. Upon arriving in our new country, I was found by those who did not seek our second daughter suddenly passed Me. I said: Here I am, here I am, to a away. At our baby’s funeral, some Chris- nation that was not called by My name’” tians came to support us and told us (Isaiah 65:1). The Buriat live where China, about Jesus and how to have a personal Russia, and Mongolia meet. Many practice relationship with him. My wife and I shamanism and allow mediums to control decided we wanted to follow Jesus. interactions between them and the Life continues to be difficult for us. The gods. In the 1500s, Buddhist missionaries leaders in our new town do not act kindly traveled to this area and greatly influ- toward us. They dug up our baby’s body enced the people and a mixture of beliefs multiple times. Finally, after much prayer, developed. Under communism, many the mayor intervened and granted my became atheists. Christian work has been wife citizenship so our baby’s body will successful among the Buriat, but they not be dug up again. Even though we face lack Scripture or gospel recordings in many hardships, Jesus is our strength. their language.

Praise God that this family has a new Pray the Buriat will hear God calling citizenship in heaven. Pray this family them in their own language and will will be used for his glory among the lay down idols and traditions to follow unreached in their new country. him. Pray for resources in their heart language so they can grow in knowledge and obedience of God’s Word.

Elizabeth, Felix, Alex, Doug, Don Joy-Marie, Bo-bae, Desmond, Isiah WEDNESDAY THURSDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 7 2020 8 2020 Jesus said, “‘I have told you these things Historically, Korean society has placed so that in Me you may have peace. You great value on family. There is no denying will have suffering in this world. Be cou- the benefit of keeping Korean families in rageous! I have conquered the world’” close relationship with each other, but the (John 16:33). The workers and refugees negative side of this can be the practice of a certain unreached people group live of ancestor worship. Though multigenera- in constant danger. The bulk of this peo- tional living and many other traditions are ple group are difficult to meet with where fading, children and family remain very they live, but some become accessible important values in Korean society. when they flee as refugees due to poverty and starvation. However, life as a refugee Pray God will use this cultural value or aid worker can be perilous. Some for his kingdom in Korea. Pray families countries’ governments are hostile toward will indeed be a strength for the refugees and Christian workers who try Korean people, and that marital strife, to give aid. generational strife, and broken families will be reduced by the power of Jesus Pray for God’s protection of and provi- Christ and his gospel. Pray Christian sion for refugees. Pray for his wisdom parents will not make idols of their and encouragement for those sharing children but will love them and teach the gospel and giving aid. Pray fear will them in the ways that God commands. be replaced with God’s peace and that Pray children will respect and honor many of this people group will turn to their parents. God in believing faith.

none Harv, James FRIDAY SATURDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 9 2020 10 2020 A thirteen-year-old boy named Shin* October 10, or “Double Ten,” is Taiwan’s stepped on a rusty nail. Ten days later, he National Day. It commemorates the start was unable to eat or sleep, so his family of an uprising in China that led to the end took him to the hospital. He had contracted of the ruling Qing Dynasty and established tetanus and was in intensive care for four the Chinese republic. This day may be days. Shin’s father worships his ancestors, celebrated by military parades in Taipei, but Shin and his mother are Christians. fireworks, and speeches, with the Taiwan- The doctor said Shin’s condition was ese flag prominently displayed on many hopeless and asked the family to take him main streets. It is a time to shop and home to die. His father began preparing enjoy time off from work. As a democ- funeral clothes, but a group of Christians racy, religious beliefs are not restricted. began praying. The next day, the doctor Christianity has been in Taiwan for over reported that Shin’s heart was beating 150 years, yet the number of Christians— stronger. Prayers continued, and each day including Protestants and Catholics—is Shin’s condition improved. Today, Shin only 7.1 percent of the entire population. attends school like any other teenager. Pray Taiwanese people will celebrate Rejoice at the awesome way God’s love what Jesus has done for them. Pray was demonstrated through this miracle! Christians will always be prepared to Pray Shin’s testimony will bring many give an answer to everyone who asks others in his village to faith. them to give the reason for the hope that they have (I Peter 3:15). * Name changed

none June, Brad, Kathy SUNDAY MONDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 11 2020 12 2020 Christianity has had a presence for more Day of Prayer and Fasting—Cults than one hundred years in the eastern “For the time will come when they will part of China, where hundreds of churches not tolerate sound doctrine, but . . . will currently meet. However, in recent years, multiply teachers for themselves because government restrictions have been placed they have an itch to hear something on churches. Some have been closed, new. They will turn away from hearing others were forced to remove crosses the truth and will turn aside to myths” from their buildings, and at others, pastors (2 Tim 4:3-4). Across East Asia, cults were brought in for questioning. are stealing the sheep and false teachers are leading people away from sound Pray Chinese Christians will find their teaching. Sometimes they subtly change strength in the Lord and be an example God’s Word or attract people with false to non-Christians of the peace that promises of riches and success. Others surpasses understanding as they use more drastic methods like kidnapping walk through difficult days. May they and brainwashing. remember that they are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus. If Pray Christians will know God’s Word God is for them, who can be against and discern the truth from lies. Pray them? Nothing will separate them they will test the spirits to know if they from Christ’s love, and they will have are from God (1 John 4:1). Pray those overwhelming victory through him who do not yet follow Christ will be (Romans 8:31-39). protected from these ravenous wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing and will have ears only for God’s Word.

Leah Christopher TUESDAY WEDNESDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 13 2020 14 2020 When Japanese travel or study abroad, Due to tremendous efforts made by young their hearts are often more open to spiri- people toward their education, dating tual ideas. By God’s providence, many end relationships are usually discouraged until up making Christian friends, attending after college. Young adults then feel church for the first time, or staying with intense pressure to find a suitable mate Christian families. Bible studies, ESL classes, and get married between the ages of and hospitality serve as avenues for twenty-five and twenty-eight. Usually Japanese to interact with Christians and family, friends, and colleagues begin to experience God’s love while abroad. Some introduce prospective spouses. This can become Christians and return to Japan be challenging for local Christians, as with a desire to be discipled and plug into candidates are almost always not Christians. a local church. Others remain curious Culturally, being unmarried after thirty about how one can live as a Christian in years of age is shameful for the family in Japan and want to learn more before this culture where shame and honor are believing. God has connected missionaries incredibly important. in Osaka with many Japanese who have spent time overseas. Friendships have As Christians seek to marry other blossomed, but more importantly, these Christians, pray they can hold to returning Japanese are reading and biblical values while they wait to find hearing the gospel in their heart language, believing spouses and seek to honor meeting Japanese Christians, and being God above man. drawn to faith in Christ.

Pray God will bring spiritual fruit.

Richard Bintang, Vincent THURSDAY FRIDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 15 2020 16 2020 China is officially an atheist country with Sogang University, located in Seoul, was an atheist government. Communist Party founded in 1960 by Jesuits as a school members number well over seventy that operates in accordance with Catholic million. Estimates are that the Christian values. It is now a major liberal arts and population has far surpassed the number research institution in Korea that boasts of Party members. It has been observed more than fifteen thousand students at that increasing numbers of Party mem- various undergraduate and graduate bers have become Christians. levels. Many Christians live near the Sogang campus. Pray more will realize atheism is full of deceptive lies. Pray that Christians who Pray the Spirit will open doors for are working within the government, Christians to find key people on campus. albeit secretly, will be a light in the Pray gospel opportunities will abound darkness and a force for change. Pray and many students will turn to Jesus they will use their positions to protect Christ as their Savior and Lord. Pray other Christians who are under perse- Christians will boldly share the gospel cution. Throughout the Bible, God gave and not be discouraged by rejection. favor to his children who honored him As more come to faith and are discipled, even under pagan governments. pray that Sogang becomes a hub for Pray Christians will find strength in spiritual revival in South Korea. these stories and will stand firm in their faith.

none Arthur, Amanda SATURDAY SUNDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 17 2020 18 2020 The Xinping Lalu love music and often “God has only children, not grandchildren.” gather to sing traditional songs and play This saying teaches that faith in God folk instruments. Every year in the second can’t be passed from one generation to lunar month they hold a singing compe- the next through bloodlines like a family tition. The male and female winners are heritage. Each person of every generation considered to be the most eligible people must have his own faith in God through to marry and are greatly pursued. For Jesus Christ. Each person must understand generations, the Lalu have worshiped and believe the gospel for himself. This many gods, ghosts, and demons. They is significantly harder in areas where believe that people become good or bad Christianity and faith-based activities spirits when they die, depending on their were once allowed but now are illegal. In character while alive. Some Lalu follow these circumstances, Christian influences Christ and have gospel recordings in their naturally wane over time. heart language. Pray for an unreached people group Pray these Christians will be bold and that once had a strong Christian her- experience miraculous events in their itage many years ago, however, due midst. Pray demons will be cast out to government oppression, most of and people will get rid of idols and sing its people today have never heard the songs to God. Pray that in this powerful gospel. Please ask for God’s protection way, the Word of the Lord will flourish for the few Christians who remain. and prevail (Acts 19:20). Pray they can help lead a new generation of their people group back to faith in God.

Patricia, John, Susan, Kim none MONDAY TUESDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 19 2020 20 2020 Most newly-appointed missionaries to Many rural Christians have a burden to East Asia come to areas that provide the engage unreached villages with the gospel. opportunity for intensive language study But they are often hindered by financial in settings that immerse them in their constraints and access to unreached vil- target languages and cultures. This is lages. A group of church leaders recently often a difficult time of transition for attended a training to learn an innovative those who are living overseas for the method of poultry farming. After the first time as they learn to navigate life in training, the Christians returned to their a different way. They typically begin this home villages to put into practice what time very dependent on others, but soon they learned. Once up and running, each grow independent as they learn how to poultry farm will produce three hundred get around and take care of daily matters. eggs a day. Not only will this provide income for the Christians, but they will Pray for new personnel as they work also gain access to unreached villages by through culture shock, full-time lan- teaching this technique to other farmers. guage learning, and adjusting to life in a culture that is far different from their Pray the Christians will be able to set home culture. up healthy, productive farms. Pray that these projects will give Christians access to villages that have no gospel witness.

InGoo, Noah, Antonio Jonathan, Penelope WEDNESDAY THURSDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 21 2020 22 2020 A friend took Takeshi*, a young Japanese Today many mature churches in China man, to church when he was learning En- have a strong passion for missions. This glish at a university in the United States. is something to be thankful for and When Takeshi returned to the city of pray about. Kobe, he started attending a local church. He has heard the gospel message several Pray these churches will learn and times but doesn’t want to believe or be grow as they seek to send more mis- baptized. However, he desires to go to sionaries. Pray they will know the joy church every Sunday and hang out with of experiencing God's provision as he other Christians often. equips and enables them to support their workers who go to the nations. Pray that the Holy Spirit keeps bringing Ask God to provide whatever these Takeshi closer to Jesus and giving him churches need to stay healthy and a desire to hear God’s Word. Pray he continue to pass along the DNA of will understand the meaning of the cross missionary-sending to the next gener- and make the decision to follow Jesus. ation of disciples and churches. Pray for strategic and mutually beneficial * Name changed partnerships that will facilitate Chinese churches sending their own missionaries cross-culturally. Ask for God to provide good cross-cultural training for these sending churches.

Heather, Joy Ken, Jessica FRIDAY SATURDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 23 2020 24 2020 Isaiah 66 tells us that God’s hands made At any given time, missionaries in Osaka both heaven and earth, and that they, are making contacts with unbelieving and everything in them, are his. East Asia Japanese people in every imaginable ven- is filled with incredibly beautiful scenery, ue, whether it be coffee shops, hospitals, and people annually flock to these areas. local businesses, exercise clubs, or parks. God created this world to be enjoyed Often the following questions are asked: but not worshiped. However, many East “Why did you come to Japan?” “Where Asians have done exactly this. “They is your church?” “Will you teach me En- exchanged the truth of God for a lie and glish?” and “How can I know God when I worshiped and served something created have never met a Japanese Christian?” instead of the Creator, who is praised forever. Amen” (Romans 1:25). Pray every question will receive con- crete answers in their heart language. Pray for hearts to be humbled and Pray that answers like, “I came to tell people to tremble at God’s Word. Pray people like you about the wonderful East Asians will realize the lie they love of Jesus,” “Our church meets at worship, repent, and quickly run to the [this] place,” “Come and join us for our safety of Jesus. May new life be seen in monthly game night where you can every corner of East Asia. practice your English,” and “Come to our new church and meet many Japanese Christians,” will be well received.

Mia Phillip, Billy, Lucas, Patrick, Dylan SUNDAY MONDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 25 2020 26 2020 Boaz* is a pastor in China. His church Rosewell Graves died in China in 1912 at originally began ministering on a university the age of seventy-nine. He went to China campus. While many people heard the as a Southern Baptist missionary in 1856 gospel, the group ebbed and flowed as at the age of twenty-three and served students graduated every three to four there for fifty-six years. One thing he years and moved away. A large group of realized, which is still true today, is that those who decided to stay have married foreigners can never fully evangelize and are beginning to have children. As the China. Chinese Christians need to reach church grows and matures, there is even their own people with the gospel. Long greater responsibility upon the leadership. ago, much time was spent training men Boaz also homeschools his children. His for the ministry. Graves was brilliant in wife works full-time so that they can theological education and he discipled continue to serve their local church. numerous men to be evangelists and Many pastors in East Asia are overworked pastors. This is still a key need, not just and exhausted. Instead of training the in China, but in all of East Asia. Pastors saints in the work of ministry (Ephesians are aging and few are stepping into this 4:12), they tend to do the majority of difficult but rewarding role. ministry themselves. Pray for the leadership of East Asian Pray for churches like this to create churches to be fully committed to a disciple-making environment that God’s Word and the making of disciples trains the next generation of leaders who will lead tomorrow’s churches. and disciples.

* Name changed

Jessie Autumn, Caroline, Sarah TUESDAY WEDNESDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 27 2020 28 2020 Christianity was introduced to Hong Kong South Korea is located on the southern in the mid-1800s, but today it is short on half of the Korean Peninsula. It is separated Christian leadership. Emigration plays a from North Korea by the Demilitarized part in many churches not having pastors. Zone, China by the Yellow Sea, and Japan This means a number of people without by the East Sea. More than 80 percent of leadership experience are having to step the fifty-one million people live in cities up and lead. with easy access to mountains, parks, and rivers. The country is culturally homog- Pray for Bible colleges and seminaries as enous—99 percent of the population they train up men and women to serve speaks the Korean language. South Korea in churches. Praise God for a number of was devastated by the Korean War (1950- churches that are consistently seeking 1953) but has amazingly risen to be one how to be involved in missions— of Asia’s economic powers. Today it is many are looking for ways to help renowned for Samsung, LG, and Hyundai the churches in China to grow. Pray products, and for K-pop and K-dramas. It’s Christians in Hong Kong will contin- notable that South Korea is the only coun- ue to look for ways to be involved in try in East Asia that has a high percentage kingdom work. Pray they will have of Christians and religious freedom. wisdom in where to invest their time and money in missions. Pray Korean believers will exercise their religious freedom to proclaim God’s awesome power, deeds, and salvation among all peoples.

Austin none THURSDAY FRIDAY OCTOBER OCTOBER 29 2020 30 2020 Seoul is a vibrant city at the center of Pray for Sawara Christ Church in Japan to Korean culture. The arts are flourishing become a healthy church with biblical dis- in the city, from music to theater to ciples. Last year, a volunteer team helped photography and beyond. Korea’s young the church host their first Vacation Bible generation—especially university students School (VBS). Church members stepped —are passionate about experiencing up to serve during the event and were this environment as much as possible. encouraged through this outreach to This presents great opportunities for their community. Good contacts were Christians in Seoul. The IMB team there made with families. Many parents joined is asking for the Lord’s guidance in how the last day of the VBS and heard the to connect with the creative community gospel clearly. Some of the families came through artistic outreach. Possibilities back to join the follow-up events and a include theatre work, street music few moms decided to join a Bible study. performances, and other more adventurous ideas. Pray the members will be intentional to connect and faithful to follow up Pray the Lord will clearly guide the with the church’s new and returning team in these matters. Pray the team visitors. Pray they will see God-given will not waste time and effort on opportunities to witness about Jesus projects that God has not called them and obediently speak the truth in love. to do. Pray the Lord will use these projects to turn Koreans to himself and bring more brothers and sisters into the Christian family.

none Isabelle, Wade, Matthew, Zhi, Jana, Jordan SATURDAY SUNDAY OCTOBER NOVEMBER 31 2020 1 2020 A partner unsuccessfully attempted to Many people hope to see churches in East visit an unreached people group for Asia send an unprecedented number of several years until God gave him a special missionaries. Many Christians desire to chance to go. Members of this people go to the lost, and in all the excitement, group are unusually difficult to meet, and wonder how to do so. We are developing this partner had long prayed for such an sustainable, local sending agencies and opportunity. While his visit was shorter training centers to facilitate the sending than he expected, God still worked in of a multitude of local missionaries. amazing ways. He shared Bible stories and started relationships with people in Please pray for these entities to quickly authority. These incredible experiences become locally owned and operated occurred because God worked in response with a vision of accomplishing the to this Christian’s faithful prayers. Great Commission throughout the world. Pray that the God who controls Pray this partner will be able to visit all governing authorities will cause this people group again and continue the legal and financial processes to go to develop these new relationships. smoothly, and for these local entities Ask that those who heard God’s Word to be effective in serving local churches. will desire to know more. Pray God will continually create other opportunities for Christians to be able to engage this people group and share the life-changing message of the gospel with them.

Paul, Loren Ashley, Hanna, Daniel MONDAY TUESDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 2 2020 3 2020 God is using a group of persecuted Approximately twenty years ago, an Christians to effectively minister among East Asia worker introduced me to a refugees of one unreached people group non-Christian named Nathaniel*. During in East Asia. These persecuted Christians our meeting, I had the opportunity to are sensitive to the challenges that the share the gospel with him. A couple of refugees face because of their own decades later, my wife invited Anna* to daily struggles with the authorities in our home in Taipei for lunch. Anna, a their country. fellow church member, is from Mongolia. While chatting about her family in her Please pray for God to protect and home country and her burden to reach strengthen these precious servants out to them, she showed me an image. as they seek to effectively reach out I immediately recognized the Taiwanese to refugees and share the gospel with man in the picture—it was Nathaniel! She them. Please reflect on Colossians said Nathaniel, her husband, though 1:9-11 and pray that they “ . . . may be baptized years ago, fails to come to church. filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, Pray for Anna, who has lived in Taipei so that [they] may walk worthy of the since 1998 while her family remains in Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing Mongolia. Pray Nathaniel will begin to fruit in every good work and growing come to church and grow in his faith in the knowledge of God. May [they] so they can serve God together. be strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for * Names changed all endurance and patience, with joy.”

none Robert WEDNESDAY THURSDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 4 2020 5 2020 The Korean economy was built on a cul- Mentoring can take place in both secular ture of hard work and social mobilization. and spiritual relationships. A mentor Today, South Korea is a world leader in works to shape mentees into good future technology, telecommunications, ship- mentors. If done well, the mentor-mentee building, and car-making. However, the relationship can have a lifelong impact on corporate culture of men working long both people. hours from early morning until deep into the night, then going out to drink alcohol Pray spiritually mature Christians until the early hours of the morning, will be willing to share what they’ve causes many children in Korea to grow learned in their Christian walks with up with mostly absent fathers. Strained those who are less mature. Ask that families break apart because one or both new Christians will have teachable spouses overwork. The obsession with spirits and hearts that are willing to accumulating enough wealth to ensure a be challenged to grow in their walks comfortable retirement and provision for with the Lord. Pray that those being children has turned work and money into mentored will reach out to others who very powerful idols in Korean society. in turn mentor others in their relationships with God. Pray God will transform the culture of work and wealth in Korea so people can find true treasure in God rather than in created things. Pray Korean families will be healed.

Marge none FRIDAY SATURDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 6 2020 7 2020 A young man accepted Christ and was When a Southeastern Luoluopo dies, the baptized. After four months of focused family organizes a “dance of the spirits.” discipleship, he changed, not just spiritual- The ceremony is meant to help the per- ly but mentally and socially. At home, he son’s soul find its way to the place where was no longer an irresponsible young son. ancestors rest. Before death, members His mother talked about how he was now of this people group are plagued with the teaching Sunday school to the children. question, “Have I done enough, or will the She said he was no longer the person spirits be angry about something I have he was before. Another young man was forgotten?” To relieve some anxiety, each discipled and after a few months, his Southeastern Luoluopo home contains mom cried tears of joy at how her son an altar to the spirit of the house and an had visibly changed in so many different ancestral altar, both in prescribed places. parts of his life. She was thankful that he There are no known Christians among the believed in Jesus and was growing in his Southeastern Luoluopo, and they have understanding of the Bible. It is amazing no gospel recordings or Scripture in their what God’s Word can do to a person. language. Overlooked by the world, their minds have been kept in the dark. But Pray for young Christians to grow in God knows them. their faith, obedience, and understanding of biblical truths. Pray they will know Jesus, whose finished work on the cross is enough for them.

Mary Priscilla, Lisa SUNDAY MONDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 8 2020 9 2020 When Ota-san* chose salvation three Day of Prayer and Fasting—Spirits years ago, he had a lucrative job and The majority of East Asians have ties to worldly view of success and priorities. His the spirit world. Whether they worship life was transformed after hearing God’s ancestors or gods, they believe these heart for the nations and being discipled. spirits provide guidance to those seeking He and his wife led both of his parents answers. Fortune tellers, mediums, and and three others to Christ. They open offerings to the gods are parts of religious their home to lead Bible studies and are practices that go back thousands of years. leading a nine-month discipleship study. To the average person, these gods are not Last year, Ota-san shared with the church evil, but protective. The gospel is veiled family that he and his wife had surren- because the god of this age has blinded dered their lives to full-time ministry. He the minds of many East Asians so they is continuing to be discipled and trained cannot see its light (2 Corinthians 4:3-4). in biblical teaching and leadership. This Until they know the truth, they will not year, Ota-san will become the full-time see that they are being deceived and will pastor of the Love of Jesus Church in blindly follow the gods of their ancestors. Yokohama, Japan. Pray their eyes will open to the truth, Praise God that he is raising up leaders their hearts will awaken to the deeper and pastors for the next generation! longing for things eternal, and their Ask that the Lord will give the new ears will hear God’s voice. Pray for leaders wisdom and love to shepherd centuries of bondage to be broken and the flock well. captives set free.

* Name changed

none John TUESDAY WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 10 2020 11 2020 Teresa* is a refugee who felt hopeless due In November, just after harvest, Nosu to many difficulties, like being discriminat- people gather to celebrate their New ed against. She received some music that Year. Groups of young men go from gave her hope and touched her deeply. house to house, helping slaughter pigs. She didn't know that she was listening Each family feasts on pork, buckwheat to hymns, but the truth of God's words bread, and potatoes roasted in fire. What in the lyrics ministered to her. Because a isn’t eaten of the pig is cured to nourish Christian recorded the hymns and shared the family through the winter. them with others, by God's providence, they made their way to Teresa. Christians As they plan for the coldest season were praying for her people group for and look toward a new year, pray for two years when she received the hymns. a great harvest, not just of their crops Later, Teresa became a Christian and but souls. Pray against the authorities was baptized. of the unseen world, mighty powers in this dark world, and evil spirits in the Pray for Teresa and the other refugees heavenly places—all that might war of her people group. Pray God’s Word against the Nosu. Pray for groups of will make it to their hands and into people who will go from door to door their ears and hearts so they can know to proclaim the Good News of Jesus, him and make him known. who is far above any ruler, authority, power, leader or anything else both * Name changed today and forever.

none none THURSDAY FRIDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 12 2020 13 2020 In November, just after harvest, Nosu Fuki-san* is a third-year college student people gather to celebrate their New near Takasaki, Japan. She attended a high Year. Groups of young men go from school that was founded by missionaries house to house, helping slaughter pigs. but never fully understood who Jesus is. Each family feasts on pork, buckwheat After attending the church plant in Taka- bread, and potatoes roasted in fire. What saki and becoming friends with several isn’t eaten of the pig is cured to nourish Christians, Fuki-san decided to follow the family through the winter. Jesus and was baptized. Since then, she has been discipled and is learning to lead As they plan for the coldest season Bible studies. She professed that she has and look toward a new year, pray for felt the Holy Spirit fill her up when she a great harvest, not just of their crops has been afraid to share the gospel, allow- but souls. Pray against the authorities ing her to speak through her fear. After of the unseen world, mighty powers in graduation, Fuki-san wants to serve in this dark world, and evil spirits in the college ministry as well as use her passion heavenly places—all that might war for painting and drawing for God’s glory. against the Nosu. Pray for groups of people who visit the homes of their Pray for Fuki-san as she asks God what neighbors to proclaim the Good News exactly to do after college. Ask that the of Jesus, who is far above any ruler, Holy Spirit will continue to fill her up and authority, power, leader or anything equip her to share his love and light. else both today and forever. * Name changed

Stacy, Eileen Donna, JinLi, Ted, Hannah SATURDAY SUNDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 14 2020 15 2020 At the time of this writing, Korea and A significant number of Christians and Japan are in the midst of a major trade Christian leaders in China lack a deep, dispute and relations between the two mature faith in Jesus. They are easily sus- nations are at a low. This fits an ancient ceptible to false teachings, are not making pattern of animosity between the two disciples consistently, and lack vision to countries. Their mutual history is filled cross cultures and make followers of with various conflicts. Korea was under Christ in other nations. Their growth in Japanese rule for many years until the Christ is, for whatever reason, stunted. end of World War II. This, and particularly They also continue to struggle with their the colonial rule of the early twentieth relationships at home and with other century, has led to a difficult relationship church members. They experience little between the two nations today. of Christ’s victory over sin, giving in to temptations and not understanding the Pray Korean and Japanese leaders will importance of accountability for holiness find common ground and bring the and growth in Christ. Even though the in- nations into a more peaceful coexis- ternet is censored in China, pornography tence and mutual cooperation, as they has recently become very easy to access, have been able to in the recent past. especially for youth. Pray Korean and Japanese people will set aside old grudges. Pray Korean Pray for brokenness among Christians, Christians will be leaders of reengage- that they will see their need for return- ment and peaceful relations between ing wholeheartedly to God. Pray they the two peoples. will experience his joy and power that comes from living a Spirit-filled life.

none Kate, Mindy, Margaret, Deborah MONDAY TUESDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 16 2020 17 2020 The Cona Monba people of China live just Living in Indochina involves serving in north of the borders of Bhutan and India. multiethnic contexts. This poses some Because of their location and government unique challenges but also offers some restrictions, the Cona Monba are one of exciting opportunities. The people of the the least reached people groups in China. world's most widely spoken language live They migrated across the Himalayan within our area. We hope to encourage Mountains roughly three centuries ago, and equip the people we serve to be and until 1949, lived as oppressed serfs gospel workers where they live, as well as under the Tibetans. Today, they reside equip other gospel workers throughout primarily in areas where access by the world. foreigners is limited. Few people know about them and fewer have prayed Ask that we will have favor among for them. Christians from Bhutan have the national churches and Christians shared the gospel with them. However, where we live, so that we may be able about 98 percent have never heard the to partner with, invest in, and encourage Good News, and no known Cona Monba them. Pray we will truly partner with Christians exist. other Christians in bringing the gospel to the nations. Pray they will be adopted through prayer and the name of the Cona Monba will daily be brought before the Lord. Pray God will speak to them in their dreams. May God’s salvation come to these people.

Lee none WEDNESDAY THURSDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 18 2020 19 2020 God has been doing a mighty work in In a world of distrust and uncertainty, it Sendai, Japan. In 2010, three of the city’s is easy to look at people as enemies, but four Baptist churches were without a they aren’t. Restrictive governments are pastor. While the churches were in the not our enemies. Our neighbors are not process of calling leaders, God brought our enemies. Those who mock us are not missionaries to the area to join two of the our enemies. The Bible clearly tells us that congregations. Since the Japan earth- our battle is not against flesh and blood, quake, tsunami, and radiation disaster but against the powers of the dark world of 2011, God has been working in and (Ephesians 6:12). That accuser and through the church families, their new deceiver of old, Satan, works to cripple pastors, and the missionary families. God Christians by bringing doubt and fear into has established bonds of Christian love their lives. as these people have learned to walk, minister, and intercede together for their Pray Christians in East Asia—be they community and for one another. In 2018, American, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, one Sendai church saw three students or any other nationality—will be come to faith and be baptized! confident in their faith. No matter what happens to upset their plans, Praise the Lord that other churches pray they will truly believe that God is have similar stories of how God is able to change any situation. Even if working in and through their interces- he doesn’t, pray they will hold fast to sory prayer and combined ministry! Jesus and not give up or give in (Daniel 3:17-18).

none Tara, Laura FRIDAY SATURDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 20 2020 21 2020 China has the third largest land mass Please lift up students on the college and contains the highest mountains and campuses in Korea. University students plateaus in the world. Its climate is diverse are consumed by their studies, social and ranges from tropical in the south to lives, and future careers. This leaves little subarctic in the north. Its eastern seaboard room for spiritual matters or church is highly industrialized, and its western attendance. In particular, please pray for areas have deserts and mountains. It is Jin-ho* and Young-sup*, two students a land of contrasts, beauty, and people. majoring in Russian at a local university. China has the highest population in the They have attended the new church world and more than one hundred cities plant and one has expressed a growing have populations of more than one million openness to the gospel. people. Shanghai is the largest city with more than twenty-four million people. Pray the Holy Spirit will convict their hearts of sin and their need for a Pray Chinese Christians all over this Savior. Pray the Christians around land will call out to God and ask him to them will faithfully continue to share soften the hearts of their people. Pray the gospel with them and love them. Christians will boldly share the hope Pray for more opportunities for the they have in Christ (Romans 10:14). team in Seoul to meet university students. Pray they will find the key people the Spirit has prepared to hear the gospel and respond in faith.

* Names changed

Samantha, Katelynn none SUNDAY MONDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 22 2020 23 2020 Due to teaching received in public Labor Thanksgiving Day is celebrated in schools, some children are no longer Japan on November 23 each year. This willing to listen to stories of faith. Due to national holiday was established in 1948 persecution, churches in China are meet- to give thanks for the efforts of workers ing in smaller groups. Due to government throughout the year. Schoolchildren restrictions on religious education to traditionally make holiday cards for local children under eighteen, the enthusiasm policemen, firefighters, medical personnel, and vision of many church leaders for Self-Defense Force workers and others Sunday School is disappearing. Under who protect society. Businesses give out these situations, Christian parents’ role awards or express thanks to employees of teaching and raising their kids at home with good reviews. The origin of the day becomes even more important. has to do with a harvest festival celebrating the year’s hard work when the emperor Pray Christian parents will not be dedicated the harvest to the gods. shaken and will raise their children in faith with God-given wisdom. Pray “Lord, the emphasis of this day of their children will be open to the full thanksgiving in Japan is on offering restoration of family worship in every appreciation to the workers. We Christian home in China. Pray leaders pray that countless Japanese will in churches across China will not be soon come to understand that true discouraged by this persecution but thanksgiving is offering our hearts to will remain dedicated and devoted to you in appreciation of your many gifts, discipling children with greater bold- especially salvation that is found only in ness. Pray for revival. Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Jennifer, Dennis, Yong Sam TUESDAY WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 24 2020 25 2020 Success and achievement are the Disasters stand out in our minds and unquestionable goals for most university serve as constant reminders of pain and students. Unfortunately, stress and anxi- sorrow (e.g. 9/11, the Sichuan earthquake ety commonly accompany these students in 2008, and the earthquake, tsunami, as they seek to excel in their classes. For and nuclear disaster in Japan in 2011). many, not succeeding in their academic We reference or focus on these events, careers is not an option. Because of the yet daily in East Asia, nearly 35,000 people high priority that is placed on education, die every day, slipping into a Christ-less some students also suffer from depres- eternity. This should drive us to our knees sion and have suicidal thoughts when they in prayer. Jesus asked his disciple, “‘So, do not perform the way they think they couldn't you stay awake with Me one should. Many feel they have no one to hour’” (Matthew 26:40)? God says, “’For turn to when they face these feelings of My name will be great among the nations, discouragement and hopelessness. from the rising of the sun to its setting’” (Malachi 1:11a). Who knows what God Pray for God to place Christian friends will do because we pray. in these students’ lives to show them Christ’s love and provide safe relation- God, make your name known among ships for these students to share their the people of East Asia! struggles. Pray these Christian friends will tell about the hope found in God through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Derek Nancy THURSDAY FRIDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 26 2020 27 2020 On this Thanksgiving Day, missionaries in President Jae-in Moon, the leader of East Asia can reflect on God’s grace and South Korea, has been in office since provision over the past 175 years. Though 2017 after his predecessor, Park Guen-hye, the first Southern Baptist missionaries was impeached. His predecessor was went to China in 1835, they were officially the leader of the rival political party, and sent by the Foreign Mission Board upon supporters of the former leader and her its conception in 1845. Since then, every party fiercely oppose President Moon and country in East Asia has seen churches his administration. The political divide in planted, schools opened, and people Korea is getting wider. There are frequent saved. Today, missionaries reap a harvest demonstrations near the presidential from what was sown with blood, sweat, residence and Seoul’s city hall, as well as and tears—they stand on the shoulders of the National Assembly Building, where the giants and are grateful. Some gave their Korean legislature meets. lives that the Chinese might be saved. But today’s missionaries do not boast about Pray God will grant President Moon their missions’ legacy or their ministry— wisdom as he leads the nation. Pray they boast in a God who has been faithful President Moon will seek the Lord and for 175 years to call, equip, send, and obey his will. Pray God will move to sustain his servants for the fulfillment of quiet the political anger in the country his plan. and heal the political divisions there.

Proclaim how great God is and tell everyone of the wonderful things he has done (Psalm 75:1).

none none SATURDAY SUNDAY NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 28 2020 29 2020 Ya-san* attends a church plant in Pray God will stir the hearts of students Takasaki, Japan, and shares the gospel and teachers at the universities and with everyone she meets. She invited high schools in Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, Ta-san* to an English conversation event. Japan, to seek to know him. God provided He came one Tuesday night to check it opportunities for missionaries and a local out and soon made friends with several pastor to speak to a large assembly of of the local Christians and missionaries. students in the girls’ school, founded by He began almost every day with them. Southern Baptist missionaries nearly one One of the Christians and his wife shared hundred years ago. Last year, God saved the gospel with Ta-san, to which he two of these students as a result of the responded, “Give me a month to decide.” pastor’s message and many prayers. At the end of the month, after attending church, men’s Bible study, and other Pray these new Christians will grow events, Ta-san decided to follow Christ! through God’s Word and in their He reads his Bible, continues to spend obedience to Christ, and that spiritual time with other Christians, and yearns to fruit will be produced through their know more about being a true follower witnesses. As more opportunities arise of Jesus. to share the gospel, pray God will continue to speak through the Christians Pray Ta-san will continue to seek Christ here and give them words that will every day and that the Holy Spirit will penetrate hearts and produce a bounti- grow him and teach him! ful harvest. Pray for blessed and favor- able connections with the teachers. * Name changed

Meredith, Parker Paul, Neil MONDAY TUESDAY NOVEMBER DECEMBER 30 2020 1 2020 Training the next generation of Christian Have you ever dreamed of trading the workers is vitally important. Over the hustle and bustle of a modern Christmas years, a worker has discipled and trained for something with more of an East Asian several who are now his valuable partners flare? Instead of being “home for the in ministry. Last year, these partners orga- holidays,” college students from across nized and held five Christian youth camps the United States are halfway around the in several locations. More than 150 youth, globe sharing the true reason for the children, volunteers, and teachers from ten season. They might be dressed like Santa, churches worked together to make these engaging passersby in gospel conversations camps successful. They even held fund- on busy sidewalks, passing out tracts at raisers and contributed their own money seasonal illumination displays, or even to reach the youth of an unreached explaining the meaning of the nativity people group with the gospel. scene while hosting Christmas parties.

Praise God for twelve new Christians Pray with us that these U.S. students and many others who committed their will wisely and boldly share the hope lives to following the Bible’s instruction. of the gospel whenever they have the Pray for sound discipleship and the opportunity. Pray the hearts of their spiritual growth of these new Chris- new East Asian friends will be softened tians. Pray for them to mature into to the gospel and be drawn to the effective evangelists and church planters Savior born to set them free. among their people group. Ask God to guide the partners’ ministry to reach more people with the gospel.

Anna Ethan, Justin WEDNESDAY THURSDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 2 2020 3 2020 The beauty of God’s power is the great A grandma was the only Christian in her gift of reconciliation through grace and village and often ridiculed for her faith. forgiveness. Because of Jesus’ atoning When she got very sick, one of her sacrifice, we are reconciled to God and in daughters encouraged her to seek the his goodness, he has also bestowed on us shaman for healing. The shaman tied the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthi- strings on her wrist and neck to protect ans 5:18). Furthermore, he has equipped her from evil and said she would be well and enabled us to be his ambassadors— in a few days. Her condition worsened his personal messengers and representa- and she was hospitalized. Her other tives. As such, we must guard our hearts daughter, a Christian, reminded her mom against all forms of pride and disunity. to be faithful to God, stay strong in the faith, and completely cut ties with the Pray for East Asian Christians to desire, devil. This grandma cut off her strings seek, and strive toward reconciliation. that day. Other Christians visited, brought Pray strongholds of disunity will be her food and prayed for her. She is now demolished in their hearts and that the strong and doing well. She smiles when world will truly know and experience she shares her story. the love of Christ through their love for each other (John 13:35). Pray for villagers like her to hear and believe the gospel. Ask God to show himself as almighty among these many villagers who follow shamanism.

Jennie Mary, David FRIDAY SATURDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 4 2020 5 2020 Japanese Christians turn to Jesus from “For I passed on to you as most important a religious context in which they seldom what I also received: that Christ died for practiced their faith—they likely went to our sins according to the Scriptures, that a shrine once or twice a year. Sometimes He was buried, that He was raised on the it is a challenge to help new Christians third day according to the Scriptures” (1 understand that they need to daily abide Corinthians 15:3-4). Many East Asians are in Christ, serve the Lord through a local interested in learning American Easter and church, and share the Good News with Christmas traditions. Unfortunately, most others. only know about a bunny and Santa Claus. However, the subject matter provides Pray for Saki-san*, Chinatsu-san*, and workers and partners a wonderful natural Mari-san*, who are all new followers of bridge to the gospel, and conversations Christ! Thank God for drawing these with the curious make for ideal opportuni- precious ladies and others like them to ties to share the redemptive story. himself. Pray for missionaries and local Christians in Yokohama, Japan, to seek Pray Christians will have many op- God’s wisdom about how to bring new portunities to share the gospel mes- Christians into the local church and sage during the Easter and Christmas help them begin to grow in their new seasons. Ask that those who hear will life in Christ. open their hearts to the Good News and experience salvation, especially those * Names changed of unreached people groups. Pray the workers and partners will effectively follow up with new Christians.

Prescott May SUNDAY MONDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 6 2020 7 2020 Chinese Baptist churches all over the Praise God for strengthening the church world are seeing spiritual renewal and among the Shannan* people that meets awakening as they obey Christ’s Great in multiple locations across the south- Commission to go and make disciples ern mountain range. While undergoing of all nations. In many Chinese diaspora months of intense persecution and churches (i.e., Chinese churches that intimidation, more than fifty new Chris- exist outside of China), 2019 was the tians were added to their numbers and first time they sent members on mission baptized. During this time, many stood trips to a people group other than their strong, but some fell away. own. The Holy Spirit is prompting a fresh awareness and burden to be a part of Pray the Shannan leaders will grow the missionary task to unreached people in their knowledge and obedience to groups and places. Many churches have God’s Word, and that Christians will joined in prayer, provided additional continue to meet together. The Bible is financial support, and set short- and long- being translated into this language— term teams to join in the strategy to plant pray any obstacles will be thrown fifty new churches among fifty unreached down and the road made smooth so people groups by 2022. that thousands will clearly hear the Good News for the first time in their Pray that during the annual Chinese heart language. Pray these Christians Missions Conference from December will remain faithful in the midst of 27 to 31, the Lord of the harvest will persecution and intimidation. call Chinese diaspora workers into his harvest field.

Michael Ward, Jim TUESDAY WEDNESDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 8 2020 9 2020 Once a month during language study, God is still calling workers into the harvest “Landing City” students are placed in areas of China, so how will he provide pairs or teams to go out and share the a way for these "sent ones" to establish gospel. Many of the students have only a long-term presence in an increasingly been in language study for a short time, unwelcoming environment? Perhaps God but this gives them an opportunity to will call various nationalities or those with share and use the language they have a desired skill set to do the work. Perhaps absorbed. This also creates a pattern for he will raise up workers from the harvest them to follow in the years ahead as they field of China. He has a plan and it will not seek to be intentional about evangelizing be thwarted. the lost around them. Pray for wisdom and for sensitivity Pray that as they go out, they will boldly to God's Spirit in how to continue to use what language they have and will reach those who have never heard the discover that sharing the Good News is Good News of salvation in Jesus. Pray as natural as breathing. Pray for their for those God is calling, that he will words to fall on understanding ears and give them wisdom, patience, perse- receptive hearts. Pray for redemptive verance, and creativity so they can be relationships to be built. salt and light to those who desperately need hope and salvation in Christ.

Paul Anna THURSDAY FRIDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 10 2020 11 2020 God has presented a missionary family Since the eighteenth century, the Xijima with the chance to connect with fellow culture and language have been overtaken parents of children who attend their by the surrounding Han influence. Only daughter’s preschool. They pray that God certain dances, festivals, and religious will use these opportunities for his glory practices remain to distinguish them and to call people to himself. Many of the as a separate people group. The Xijima parents are consumed with idols such as language is nearly extinct, with only a their children, money, or social status. handful of the elderly still able to speak it—younger generations speak Mandarin. Pray the children at the preschool will Some have adopted Daoist practices, come to know Jesus as their Lord at but the younger generation is basically an early age. Pray the Spirit will break nonreligious. Scripture and gospel record- these parents’ hearts and turn them ings are available to them, yet no known to Jesus so they will seek his kingdom Christians or churches exist among the first and foremost. Finally, pray for this Mandarin-speaking Xijima. Until someone family and other Christians in Korea goes to show them a better way, they will who are trying to connect with parents continue to be greatly influenced by the and reach them with the gospel. Pray atheistic society around them that views for opportunities to boldly share the religion as backward or foolish. truth and a growing, selfless love for the parents. Pray for light to shine in their darkness and lead them back to God.

Franklin Julia, Nicole, Serena SATURDAY SUNDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 12 2020 13 2020 Donna* and her sister were orphans Pray for Lifetree Christ Church in Japan who lived secretly as refugees during a to become a healthy church with healthy chaotic childhood. Providentially, they disciples. This church plant started in were adopted by a Christian woman 2017 with three core members. One who helped raise them in a safe country. student made a commitment of faith and Today, Donna is a baptized Christian who was baptized and became the fourth is growing in her faith. She’s training to member, but later became inactive in the become a teacher and hopes to instruct church. In 2018, God brought missionaries the children of her people group. Unex- to partner with this church to pursue pectedly, Donna heard the news that her kingdom work together. They started mother is alive and in the same city where prayer walking the area together weekly she lives. During their years of separation, and began doing ministries together three the mother searched diligently for her days a week. At the beginning of last year, daughters without success. However, the church gained five members, four of miraculously, after the mother became a which came from cooking and cultural Christian, God made a way for them to classes at the community center. These be reunited. classes began as opportunities to reach the community. Thank God for this miracle and pray for his complete healing of the trau- Pray for the pastor, missionaries, and mas this family has experienced. church members as they ask for God’s vision for the church. * Name changed

Chandler none MONDAY TUESDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 14 2020 15 2020 Day of Prayer and Fasting— A Japanese Christian woman has focused Merit-Based Works on reaching out to her community in Pride, self-reliance, and merit-based works Kobe, Japan. She has invited acquaintances all stand in the way of salvation. East Asians and neighbors over to her house for food think they are happy because they have and fellowship. Then someone, sometimes reached a level of success. They believe a local missionary, shares a message from they can control their thoughts and obtain the Bible. Many of the Japanese people enlightenment, offer a sacrifice and have that come to this gathering have never their sins forgiven, climb a mountain and heard the gospel or any other part of the be born again, or do more good than bad Bible but are very eager to learn more. and all will be okay. Dialoguing about who They have regularly returned and ask a lot God is and what he has prepared for East of questions about Jesus. Asians is a great start for them to question exactly what they believe. Pray this group of Japanese people will keep wanting to learn more about Pray Christians in East Asia will joyfully, the gospel, asking questions about the carefully, and clearly communicate Bible, and will soon follow the King of that joy, peace, forgiveness, and sal- Peace, Jesus Christ. vation are freely available because of Jesus. Pray people will give up merit- based methods and surrender to the one who has already paid the price. “‘Come, let us discuss this,’ says the Lord” (Isaiah 1:18).

John, Candice, Elizabeth Lukas, Allen WEDNESDAY THURSDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 16 2020 17 2020 In recent years there has been an Jennifer* met God’s ambassadors and increased emphasis in schools on the heard the gospel but didn’t believe. She primacy of communist ideology and god- lives in a society with very few Christians less Marxism. Students and teachers are and, while growing up, was taught negative being told to view Christianity as a threat things about Christianity. Consequently, to Chinese life and culture. God is able it is difficult for people of her culture to to take this situation and turn it into an believe and have faith in God. Years later, opportunity for non-Christians students, Jennifer developed cancer and tried a teachers, and administrators to see the natural healing remedy that failed. Loving love and power of Christ demonstrated in Christians urged Jennifer to seek conven- the lives of those who are being pushed tional medical treatment and continued down for their faith. to share the gospel with her. Finally, while she was in the hospital, Jennifer opened Pray for the Christian teachers and her heart and trusted Jesus as her Savior students who are feeling the pressure and Lord. She immediately wanted to to conform. Ask for God to encourage be baptized. Christians had prayed and their hearts and fill them with peace sought a relationship with Jennifer for and joy as he walks with them through four-and-a-half years. Miraculously, their difficult times. Pray that even those prayers were answered! who are very antagonistic toward Christians will be convicted of their sin Pray for Jennifer’s spiritual growth and and turn to Christ. physical health. Ask that her testimony will help encourage many of her people group to have faith in Christ.

* Name changed

Jenny, David, Reuben Kayla FRIDAY SATURDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 18 2020 19 2020 We long to see a spiritual revival in South The Jiasou live in an area that remains sig- Korea, especially among the younger nificantly unreached. There are no known generations that are increasingly turning Christians among them, and only a small away from the church. God continues to percentage of Christians among their send more workers to this harvest field, Zhuang, Yi, and Han neighbors. Some and it is necessary for them to follow Jiasou claim that at one time their people God’s will in all matters. worshipped an all-powerful God who was above the spirits but contact with him Pray God will maintain vibrant and has since been lost and they have been healthy team dynamics among the bothered by demons ever since. various Christians in South Korea. Pray he will protect them from potential Pray the Jiasou will again worship the internal conflicts. Pray God will grant all-powerful God. Pray God will appoint wisdom in making decisions, boldness watchmen on the walls around the in obeying the Great Commission, Jiasou people, and that they will never humility in service, endurance through be silent, day or night. Pray these hardship, and joy in the Christian life. watchmen will rest not and give God As part of the body of Christ, may we no rest until this area and these people work in harmony and not in competi- are his (Isaiah 62:6-7). tion. May God use us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him in every place (2 Corinthians 2:14).

none none SUNDAY MONDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 20 2020 21 2020 With an estimated 1.5 million immigrants Due to western cultural and Christian from China living in Japan, the work to influences, Christmas Day is actually a reach the lost and equip the ethnic church holiday in South Korea. Decorative lights calls for great prayer. Many immigrants can be seen in the capital city of Seoul, come for employment opportunities or and even a Santa Claus can be spotted education and can now freely hear the now and then. With the Christmas cele- gospel for the first time. Chinese churches bration deeply tied to the gospel message in Japan need training to reach the nations, and the incarnation of Jesus Christ on specifically their own motherland. earth, Christmas is a great opportunity for reaching Koreans with the gospel. Pray for seeds to be sown in the Chinese diaspora in Japan. Pray for Pray many unbelieving Koreans will be the ethnic churches there to grasp curious about the meaning of Christ- the vision to reach the people in their mas, and that the Holy Spirit will open home country, the Japanese people their hearts to the gospel message. around them, and the many people Pray Christians will be eager and bold groups of the world. to share the gospel during the Christ- mas season. Pray for the volunteer teams from the United States that travel to Korea to help spread the gospel news during this time.

Edward Brock, Myung, Jay, Sam, Myung TUESDAY WEDNESDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 22 2020 23 2020 Recent years have seen an increase in In 2016, China lifted its one-child policy, water pollution incidents. In Shanghai, but in 2018, births in China dropped to its dead pigs were seen floating down the lowest level in almost sixty years. It seems river, and a chemical leak into a river the country’s shift to allow more births has resulted in people being hospitalized not reversed the slower birthrate. Young after drinking the water. More than half couples struggle with the cost of raising of China’s surface water is so polluted children, especially in larger cities, and that it cannot be made drinkable and 25 educated women are delaying childbirth percent is so dangerous it can’t be used to pursue careers. Some young Christian in industries. Unfortunately, the ground parents follow traditions of expecting their water isn’t any safer. This has far-reaching parents to help raise their grandchildren so consequences for the people of China. that they can invest in their work. Leaving children with non-Christian grandparents, Pray Christians will not live in fear. Pray they go to other cities to provide for their they will have wisdom in how to best child’s future. protect themselves and their families from this type of pollution. Pray they Pray Christians will see the need to raise can speak into non-Christians lives the up their children to love and follow God. truth of God’s Word—that he holds all Pray they will break free from thinking our days in his hands and is the source that their work is the primary means to of living water. provide for their children.

none Tim THURSDAY FRIDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 24 2020 25 2020 Tonight, many East Asians will celebrate South Korea is the only East Asian country Christmas Eve. People seem to know this that designates Christmas as a national night is special, even if they don’t know holiday. Schools, government offices, and why. At a Baptist meeting in 1835, J. businesses are all closed on Christmas Day. Lewis Shuck put a slip of paper into the For non-Christians, this is a holiday for offering plate on which he wrote, “I give shopping, outings, and parties. Unlike other myself.” In 1836 he and his new bride Korean holidays, there are no obligations arrived in Macao. Pray for missionaries as for family-centered activities. Children they serve during this Christmas season. associate Christmas with Santa haraboji For some it is their first Christmas away (Grandpa Santa) and his gifts. For Korean from friends and family. For others, it Christians, Christmas is primarily a religious may be years since they have celebrated holiday with church services on Christmas Christmas in their home country. Eve and Christmas Day. Caroling is also popular on Christmas Eve. Non-Christian As you celebrate Jesus, the true gift family members and friends are more likely of Christmas, pray for those who have to accept invitations to go to church for answered the call to take this gift to a Christmas services. dying world. Pray joy will flood their hearts and spill out to the lost all Pray for churches and Christians in around them. Pray many will receive Korea to be beacons of the light of God’s gift of salvation this Christmas. Jesus for the lost. Pray non-Christians attending Christmas services will hear and receive the gospel.

Kristen, Jenni, Susan, Jason Yuri SATURDAY SUNDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 26 2020 27 2020 The Korean peninsula has a rich and long In recent years, materialism and the false history of more than five thousand years. teachings of the prosperity gospel have It was devastated during the Korean War, become more appealing to immature which resulted in the two Koreas, North Christians in China. and South. Since the war, the two countries have taken vastly different paths. Pray for Christians to desire to know The contrast is further seen by the wildly God more, genuinely change their lives, different conditions of their populations and develop a closer, more intimate and economies. Relations between the relationship with Jesus. Ask God to North and South are complicated and help them see their need for him and delicate, to say the least. But many South turn from worldly temptations. Pray Koreans want unification and are doing Christians will know his Word so well what they can to reach this goal. that they easily recognize false teaching. Ask God to raise up humble leaders Pray for the Christians of South Korea within churches who are not afraid to lead the way by prayer and practical to speak the truth and who will teach support for unification. Pray for God to God’s Word without compromise. Pray compel the leadership of the two coun- God will give Christians hearts to obey tries to seek what is best for the Korean his Word and walk in the Spirit so they people as a whole. Pray God’s will be may become mature in their faith and done among these divided people. learn to live godly lives.

Elizabeth, Larry, Ralph Guy MONDDAY TUESDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 28 2020 29 2020 Due to numerous worldview obstacles, There has never been a known church when it comes to the concept of absolute or Christian among the Ersu people of truth, it’s very difficult for Tibetan Bud- China. They consider themselves Tibetan dhists to accept the gospel message in a Buddhists but are very nominal in practice. way that makes true regeneration and sal- Perhaps God has protected them from vation possible. Christians must make the becoming entrenched in a religion that gospel more understandable by living it will prevent them from turning to him. out, thus making it visible. This is accom- Neighboring areas have had gospel plished best by the Christian applying the activity, but few if any attempts have been Bible to their marriage, family, childrearing, made to reach the Ersu. They believe in and vocation. Scripture speaks to all of reincarnation and presume the afflicted these with stunning clarity and shows among them are receiving what is due us how the gospel radically transforms them, thus they are not motivated to help the life of a Christian with regards to the hurting. their spouses, children, jobs, and most importantly, God. Pray these people will know and be overcome with the love of Christ and Pray Christians living among Tibetan begin to help others. May the evidence Buddhists will see and understand the of their new life be visible to all, bring- dire need to pair their bold proclama- ing glory to God and drawing many tion with authentic lives marked by into the kingdom. gospel transformation.

Hannah, Mary Roxie, John, Yvonne WEDNESDAY THURSDAY DECEMBER DECEMBER 30 2020 31 2020 The East Asian Diaspora (East Asians who “‘All mankind will come to worship Me live outside of their home countries) is from one New Moon to another and from scattered throughout the world. Whether one Sabbath to another,’ says the Lord” they be Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or any (Isaiah 66:23). Thank you for journeying of the ethnic minorities, they take their with us in prayer this year. Your prayers traditions with them and adhere to them have strengthened, encouraged, and even more. They are outsiders when they comforted us. Perhaps your prayers arrive and often relocate near those like brought someone to salvation or prevent- them to retain a sense of home. They will ed another from walking away from God. continue to live without a saving knowl- We may never know the exact outcomes, edge of Christ unless someone tells them. but if we have been faithful in prayer, we As Christians, God has been gracious to have done our part. We pray that it has us and his face has shown upon us. He been a time of agony as you wept over has blessed us so that his ways and saving the lostness but also a time of rejoicing power will be known among the nations as you celebrated God’s goodness to (Psalm 67). the East Asian people. From one year to another, our prayer is for all mankind to Pray Christians will befriend East Asians worship God. all over the world and tell them of the God who loves and relentlessly pursues If we can help you in any way continue them. Pray they surrender to him. your involvement or become more involved, please let us know. [email protected]

Michelle, Ian George