Psalm 19 says that ‘the heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands’. But in Myanmar/ Burma, they all too often seem to tell a different story.
Since seizing power in February 2021, the military regime has rained destruction from the skies through regular airstrikes targeting schools, hospitals, places of worship, and other civilian infrastructure. These and other attacks – particularly in ethnic minority areas – have killed an estimated 50,000 people, including 8,000 civilians, and forced over 2 million people to flee their homes.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/burma
Spend some moments this week reflecting on the sky and praying for an end to these atrocities in Myanmar. There are seven prompts below, so you could try praying at a different time each day.
If there are clouds, notice how quickly they move and change. Pray that the dark clouds over Myanmar – war, injustice, oppression – would also pass, giving way to peace, miraculous transformation, and the end of military rule.
If there is sunlight, pray for those working to shine a light on the crimes of the military junta. Pray for CSW’s advocates, our documenters and contacts within the country and in exile, including the Free Burma Rangers, who carry out vital humanitarian work in ethnic minority areas. Pray that the international community will recognise what is being exposed and take robust and coordinated action.
If there is rain, pray for those who are weeping; those mourning the loss of loved ones, homes, health, safety, or the future they once imagined. Remember the predominantly Catholic village of Chan Thar where, in January 2023, the military torched and destroyed a 124-year-old church and at least 120 homes.
If it is early morning, ask God to bring a fresh wave of hope and strength for those who are weary, like the dawn of a new day. Lift up Christians and other religious minorities, who have long experienced violations of their freedom of religion or belief, and even more so since the coup.
If it is evening, pray for safe places of shelter for all who have been forced from their homes. Over 1.95 million people are displaced within Myanmar, while over a million more have fled to neighbouring countries where they frequently experience a hostile reception. In Bangladesh, nearly one million Rohingya refugees are living in overcrowded and poorly resourced camps, whilst in Indonesia, Rohingya boats have been pushed back out to sea.
If there are birds flying, remember the political prisoners whose freedom has been taken away, as well as all those who cannot fully enjoy their right to freedom of religion or belief. We think of Reverend Dr Hkalam Samson, who was handed a six-year sentence in April 2023. Then in April 2024, he was released from prison – only to be detained again within hours. Rev Samson is a Kachin Baptist leader and outspoken voice for human rights.
If you can see the moon and stars, consider the vastness, greatness and steadfastness of the Lord. Give thanks that he is the creator and sustainer of all things, and ask him to help every person who is suffering.