Persecution

Pakistan court acquits Christian on death row for blasphemy - AP
The AP reports: "A Christian woman who spent eight years on death row under Pakistan’s blasphemy law was acquitted and ordered released Wednesday by the country’s top court, a ruling that raised fears of violence by religious extremists who held angry protests over the verdict. Asia Bibi was in an undisclosed location for her safety, and her lawyer said he expected that she would soon leave the country. France and Spain have offered asylum to the 54-year-old mother of five, who is a Roman Catholic. [...] The verdict was seen as a hopeful sign by Christians in Pakistan, where the mere rumor of blasphemy can spark lynchings. Religious minorities, who have been repeatedly targeted by extremists, fear the law because it is often used to settle scores and to pressure minorities. [....] Pakistan has about 2.5 million Christians. Along with Shiites, Ahmadis and other minorities, they have been targeted by religious extremists."

Comment: Prayers of of thanksgiving for the release of Asia Bibi. I hope she will quickly escape Pakistan, as I fear her life will constantly be in danger as long as she stays here. Please join me in praying for the persecuted church in Pakistan, as they may face a backlash and dangerous times in the wake of this court ruling.