Middle East (MNN) — Saber-rattling in the Middle East is making headlines again. Iran is threatening Israel, militants are bombing Lebanese Christians, and Israel declares Gaza an “enemy.”
In spite of war and rumors of war, SAT-7’s Debbbie Brink says SAT-7 Pars marks five years of ministry this year. “Since that channel has launched, our audience has grown tremendously. We’re hearing fantastic stories of people coming to Christ in those Farsi-speaking countries. We’re hearing a lot of reports on people watching this channel more than almost any other channel in Iran.”
Brinks says SAT-7 Pars deliberately chooses not to tackle political issues. Instead, their programming focuses on hope and peace. “I think we attract viewers in these times because they’re looking for an alternative message. They’re tired of all the conflict and the war, and they do see opportunities for learning more about God’s love, His forgiveness, reconciliation and peace.”
Pakistan (MNN) — Two days ago, a lower court in Faisalabad, Pakistan unexpectedly acquitted Shahid Masih of blasphemy. What’s unusual is that the lower courts of Pakistan rarely acquit “blasphemy” suspects. 