The protest in Hong Kong has degenerated from peaceful civil disobedience to anarchy. We watch with horror and bated breath. China has not left anyone in doubt that it is willing to do another Tiananmen-style intervention. Perhaps all that is needed for a bloodbath is the HK government to give to word. The people of HK are in a truly perilous situation.
What would a true Christian style civil disobedience look like?
It will not be violent. It will not return evil for evil. It will be resolute and stay on point. Even if the police or triad members with suspicious links attack them, they are not to retaliate.
Instead, anarchists have hijacked the protest against the extradition bill. I know too little and I am not on the ground in HK; so I am not qualified to comment. But I believe we can do something right here in Singapore.
1. “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.” (John 17:15, NIV). Pray for our loved ones and friends in Hong Kong. There are dangers regardless of where we are, but we ask for God’s special preservation for our loved ones in HK.
2. “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanks-giving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2, NIV). Pray for everyone in HK. The society is torn apart. Pray for the peaceful segment to retake the nature of the protest. Pray for the rapid deterioration of trust in the police, so much so that protesters no longer apply for protest permits.
3. “Doing what is right lifts people up. But sin brings judgment to any nation.” (Proverbs 14:34, NIRV). There are many unanswered questions about government action in HK and about the protesters. I make no judgment on either as I don’t know enough. But Christians everywhere ought to pray for God’s righteousness to prevail in HK. We are to seek God and his kingdom righteousness before all else, and all else will be made right.
We don’t need to know everything to pray. We only need love to pray.
Comments