Friends of a popular Pakistani preacher who was killed by a hit-and-run driver believe he may have been murdered because of his conversion from Islam. Rashid Mehmood, 33, came from a rich, influential Muslim family but turned to Christ in 2005. Though he trained as a lawyer, he decided to become a pastor and preach the Gospel, despite strong opposition from his relatives.
On December 26th, 2013, Rashid was a passenger on a motorbike driven by his pastor friend when a car began to chase them, and then deliberately struck the motorbike. Rashid suffered serious head injuries and died later in hospital after undergoing surgery.
Two days before his death, Rashid had preached about Jesus being the only true and living God and the embodiment of God's love, quoting from the Quran at several points. According to sources, Rashid was a role model for other Christians with a Muslim background and his death "broke people's hearts."
Pray that the truth surrounding this situation will become known. As many now grieve Rashid's loss, pray that they will be comforted by the Spirit's sure presence. May Rashid's passion for sharing the Gospel continue among other believers from Muslim backgrounds. Just as God reached out to Saul, a ruthless persecutor, may He also draw to Himself those who opposed Rashid (Acts 9:1-19). Finally, please remember to pray for Pakistan’s leaders, as they are currently considering the implementation of a mandatory death sentence for blasphemy. Pray that this law will not come to pass, but instead may religious freedom be respected for all.
To learn more about the trials Christians face for their faith in Pakistan, visit our Pakistan Country Report.
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