A small filming crew from Christian satellite television ministry, SAT-7 Egypt, stepped off the plane in Baghdad a few months ago. Public safety has deteriorated: there are cement blocks in front of churches, schools, police stations, and hospitals to prevent car bombers from driving into them. Still, millions of Iraqi Christians remain in their homeland, known in the Bible as Babylon. Chris*, an Executive Producer who has worked with SAT-7 since 1999, led the filming crew. During the 5-day trip, they captured footage of street life in Baghdad, local Christians sharing testimony, and a worship service at Unity Church. They filmed the testimonies of many Christians.
Shadi*, for instance, testified that he and his brother were feuding for 7 years. With all the violence happening around the country, Shadi came to Christ and forgave his brother. At a family wedding, the two restored their broken relationship. These testimonies model faith and obedience for the millions watching SAT-7 in Iraq and throughout the Middle East.
In one instance, they were filming at the Degla River, when police approached the group. The SAT-7 team identified themselves and waited for a higher ranked policeman to come and question them. When he arrived, the crew was allowed to proceed. Chris says, “They respect the Church very much.” One group of policemen even asked the filming crew to pray with them. The crew and the police prayed together right there in the street. Chris was glad to report that SAT-7 is well respected in Iraq. The filming crew asked people in the street if they watch SAT-7 and found that many do. Chris also noticed that SAT-7 was on television screens in restaurants.
Souce: SAT-7 Website
BIBLE STUDY: Isaiah 14:2-4
PRAISE: God that Christian witness remains strong amid the violence. Pray for peace to be restored.