The spread of COVID-19 is negatively affecting the activities of rescuing the North Korean defectors. Due to the strict control of the Chinese government, the movement of field activists is restricted and the North Korean escape route is blocked. One organization stated that they were able to help about 80 North Korean defectors settle in South Korea last year, but only one rescue was possible during the same period this year. It has been difficult to predict exactly when to resume rescue activities because though restrictions on movement in some parts of China have recently been lifted, the situation in Southeast Asia should also be considered. We pray that the safety of the defectors will be protected and we pray that they may hear the Gospel and be raised as warriors of faith.
“But you should not have gazed on the day of your brother in the day of his captivity; Nor should you have rejoiced over the children of Judah in the day of their destruction; Nor should you have spoken proudly in the day of distress. For the day of the Lord upon all the nations is near; As you have done, it shall be done to you; Your reprisal shall return upon your own head.” (Obadiah 1:12,15)
God, who spoke not to overlook the tribulation of our brothers, we pray that you would protect the North Korean defectors hiding in the danger of repatriation. We also pray that they may hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ and be prepared as warriors of faith in the age of reunification to come. May the South Korean churches, who are brothers and sisters of these people, continue to remember and pray for them while supporting them both physically and spiritually.
We pray in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
