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Eye on the World: Iran presidential election
Iran’s presidential election on Friday brought a surprise winner: Hassan Rohani, so far generally viewed as a moderate, reformist candidate who, having promised to “destroy extremism,” was not expected to win the election. Yet he was the clear winner in an election that drew 73 percent voter turnout.
“The Iranian people have clearly expressed their desire for a new and better future,” remarked United States Secretary of State John Kerry after Friday’s vote. However, the US remains cautious, adopting a wait-and-see attitude about whether or not policy adjustments with regard to Iran’s controversial nuclear program, regional security, and an improved relationship with the United States, will be forthcoming. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned against easing any sanctions on Iran, and even argues that international pressure on Iran should increase.
Readers of this blog have a special opportunity to support progress in Iran—and in any country—with prayer. The article, “A kilim and prayer for Iran,” offers helpful thoughts. The author writes of his gratitude for a beautiful Persian rug he purchased from an Iranian neighbor, and how this gave him a great appreciation for all the people of Iran. From that standpoint, it is natural to include Iranians in our prayers for peace.
“Prayer and Iran’s nuclear threat” gives readers further points to consider. This article, written by the Editors of the Sentinel, points out that prayer always has the power to “illustrate the Almighty’s transforming power.” Prayer that reaches beyond human optimism, and which is based on a deep understanding of God’s omnipotence, helps bring God’s nature into view, including God’s plan of “continuous harmony unfolding for all His children.”
Finally, you might enjoy reading the article, “Winds of change that can bless—in the Middle East,” which includes many ideas on how prayer can support a healing outcome in countries where governments are being challenged. The writer reasons that in prayer we can “stand firm in the reasoning that God alone always governs, maintaining His universal creation in perpetual freedom.”