Nepal. The land of Everest and sublime scenery.
False religion reigns. According to Buddhists and Hindus, Nepal is a sacred place. Why? Because both religions believe Nepal is the holy land of Lord Pashupatinath and Gautam Buddha and that both Hindus and Buddhists have lived here in harmony for many centuries. Today, as the world’s last remaining Hindu kingdom, over 80% of the Nepalese people are enslaved to the false religion of Hinduism. 10% subscribe to Buddhism, and Lord Buddha was born in southern Nepal, and therefore it is also a sacred site for Buddhists. As a result of the high level of Hindu belief, the caste system has a great hold and marginalizes many. There is a desperate need for the people to hear about Christ, and the numbers do not lie: According to Joshua Project, over 97% of Nepalis are unreached! This means they have never heard about Jesus Christ, and as a result we are blessed with the opportunity to be a part of bringing the kingdom and inching us closer to Christ’s return, as the Bible promises He will not return “until the whole world hears” (Matthew 24:14).
Harsh lives. The GDP of Nepal is quite low, leading to widespread poverty (25-40% live below the poverty lines, according to prayercast) and many who have the education and means to do so seek work elsewhere where prospects for work are much greater.
Hope in growth. Religious freedom is legal under Nepalese law, but restrictions are imposed on non-Hindu groups. Christian believers are at risk for fines and even imprisonment for proselytizing. Though the percentage of Christians in Nepal is small (estimates range from 1-2.8%, according to prayercast and Joshua project), the number of believers is growing. Each of the 75 districts has a church plant and believers can be found in almost every people and caste group (prayercast).
Pray. Pray that these chains of false religion and social systems are BROKEN and replaced by the freedom that comes with Jesus! Pray that our squad and other missionaries are burdened in this place to share with anyone who will listen and that new believers passionate in Him will rise up and reach their countrymen with the Good News of Jesus Christ! Pray for boldness. Pray for time well spent. Pray for open hearts. Pray for healing. Pray for restoration.
