Pakistan Revisited

The Pain Doesn’t Go Away
Just Because Christians Have “Moved On”

2×2 was appalled by the church bombings in Pakistan last month and were disappointed that western Christians barely took note of the attack.

This is indicative of the isolation of most Christians. We worry first about ourselves, then about our own congregation, then about our denomination. Our denomination handles the rest of the world by dividing the relatively safe mission areas of the world between its synods. This is effective in that isolated parishes feel like they are making a difference and are connected. And they are. But all the world, we discovered, is not covered by this system which fits so neatly into our “organized” religion.

Christians in the most dangerous places for Christianity are left very much alone as we build relationships with missions that we can control and visit occasionally and see the results of our efforts—perhaps even having a building named after a congregation.

Christians in the more dangerous parts of the world suffer. And yet their efforts help all in the foundational mission of all churches—to preach the gospel to every nation—not just those in our approved fold.

2×2 befriended the church in Pakistan two years ago. We were easily in touch with the people who were so deeply hurt by this horrific and senseless terrorist attack. 2×2 raised some money for Pakistan. It wasn’t easy. We are, ourselves, excluded from our denomination (some nonsense about inability to achieve missional purpose).

We looked for a channel to send our support within our denomination and found none. We worked it out with our bank. Took some doing. We found that Pakistan is one of the most difficult places to work with in banking. But our mission dollars—every one of them—were finally received. 2×2 paid all costs, so every contribution benefited Pakistan.

Our efforts will continue. One of our members is hosting his own fundraising event next month to add to effort.

Here’s a thank you note we received today from Pakistan.

Shalom
I received your blessings /offerings /donation $250 USD (as I already told you). I distributed to the families and to the little kids. I will send you their distribution photograph soon.

God be with you and all your peoples. I send personal thanks for this great and merciful behavior from you and your peoples. We are still in suffering from the accident and from this big and huge bombing attack. Over 50 peoples still injured. Some of these cuts their legs, lost their eyes and arms and hands. Please pray for us.

Please try to do some more help for their foods, clothing and medicines. This is the time to help your Christian brothers and sisters from Pakistan.

God be with you.

Thanks again for your kindness, labor and practical ministries for us. We did not forget your help, and the reward will be multiplied to you from the father God. Your brother in Christ Jesus, (name withheld for protection.)