Photo: Wikimedia / Tamseel Ahmad (CC)
During a hot summer day on June 22nd, a Christian man named Sadique Masih was working at a brick kiln when he paused for a drink of water. Reaching for the nearest cooler, he took a sip. Tragically, that simple action cost him his life.
One of Sadique's Muslim coworkers immediately confronted him, claiming that the water was reserved for Muslims. Because Sadique was a Christian, the man accused him of having "contaminated" the water. An argument broke out between Sadique and the coworker, who has been identified as Ahmed. Other workers intervened, urging Ahmed to walk away and calm down. Believing the conflict had ended, they returned to their work.
A short time later, Sadique again approached a water cooler intended for the workers. Ahmed confronted him once more, but this time the dispute turned deadly. Pulling out a knife, he slit Sadique's throat, killing him. Police have since arrested Ahmed, along with three other individuals.
Sadique was the sole provider for his wife and four children. The family had already been struggling to meet financial obligations and now faces an uncertain future. Ministry partners in Pakistan are exploring ways to help them during this difficult time. Thankfully, governing officials have acted quickly to ensure that local police do not manipulate the evidence and that the family receives legal protection.
Christians in Pakistan are commonly looked down upon and treated as "Achhoot," meaning "untouchables." To learn more about the many hardships encountered by believers in this South Asian country, go to our country profile.
- Pray that God's comforting presence would surround Sadique's widow, children and other family members as they now mourn over their tragic loss.
- Ask the Lord to provide for the practical needs of this slain Christian worker's grieving family, all the while reassuring them of His faithful care in the days ahead.
- May justice be served, helping Ahmed to recognize the seriousness of his wrongful actions, come to a point of sincere repentance, and ultimately place his faith in Jesus Christ.
- Remember the many Christian labourers throughout Pakistan who are relegated to difficult and low-paying jobs, praying that they will be treated with dignity and respect, strengthened in their witness to others residing within their communities, and encouraged to faithfully serve the Lord amid difficult circumstances.
Population
