On the anniversary of his arrest, renewed prayer has been requested for Andrew Brunson, the American pastor detained in Izmir on 7th October 2016. He remains in prison.
The prosecutor has asked for four consecutive life sentences based on allegations of obtaining confidential political and military information for espionage purposes, specifically to “overthrow” the Turkish Parliament and government and undermine the constitutional order of the state. Andrew denies all these allegations.
On 28th September President Erdogan openly suggested a deal with the U.S., offering to exchange Andrew Brunson for Fetullah Gulen, the Islamic cleric now based in the U.S. whom President Erdogan claims was behind last year’s attempted military coup.
Amid the enormous ongoing challenges for Andrew and his family, Andrew was recently inspired to write a song from his prison cell. His wife has given permission for this song to be shared, as an encouragement to persevere in prayer for Andrew.
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You are worthy, worthy of my all
My tears and pain I lift up as an offering
Teach me to share in the fellowship of your suffering
Lamb of God you are worthy of my all.
You are worthy, worthy of my all
Adopted as a son, a brother to my King
Indeed I will share in your glory if I share your suffering
Jesus, you are worthy of my all.
You are worthy, worthy of my all
But my heart faints, drowned in sorrow, overwhelmed
Make me like you, Cross-bearer, persevering, faithful to the end
To stand the trial and receive the crown of life.
You are worthy, worthy of my all
This is my declaration in the darkest hour
Jesus, the Faithful One who loves me, always good and true
You made me yours, you are worthy of my all.
I want to be found worthy to stand before you on that day
With no regrets from cowardice, things left undone
To hear you say, “Well done, my faithful friend, now enter your reward”
Jesus, my Joy, you are the prize I’m running for.
You are worthy, worthy of my all
You are worthy, worthy of my all
What can I give to the Son of God, who gave himself for me
Here I am, you are worthy of my all.
(Andrew Brunson, September 2017)
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Picture credit: www.fpclw.org
Prayer Points
Please continue to pray for Andrew and his family, giving thanks for Andrew’s strong faith and asking that:
a. Andrew will experience the presence, peace and joy of Jesus in his prison cell
b. The emptiness of allegations brought against Andrew will become increasingly evident
c. Those negotiating for Andrew’s release will have much wisdom
d. Increasing media exposure will have a positive effect on Andrew’s case
e. Andrew’s family will know daily strengthening and encouragement
f. Andrew will be released soon
