Pray for China

(146) Tibet

I have been having internet problems, as well as being busy. So as well as not posting a prayer item here most days, I have missed out most of the news on Tibet until today.  There is much to pray for.  Here is what I have just written on my ReconciliationTalk site:

I have missed the development of the crisis in Tibet and among the Tibetan world. To be honest I want to hope it goes away. I have consistently sought to say the Olympics must go ahead: friendship will ease dialogue and peace. I remain convinced of that, but I fear many will raise a voice louder than mine. The potential of this year, with all the opportunity to draw attention to everything that everyone does not like in China is too great. That seem to be exactly what is happening. We are seeing the rolling out of that plan among young Tibetan malcontents in exile. What many did not realise was that it would be met by similar expressions of anger from inside Tibet.  Read on for an outline of the situation as it is currently and some background.

And please pray for the peace of China and all the people of Tibet.

(171) Pray for China and Taiwan

A couple of weeks ago I commented: "We need to pray for peace in East Asia this year. It is likely that this year will be one in which regional relations regularly come into view in the press."  (186) Pray for Peace in East Asia this year   The issue then was the Spratley islands. (To see where they are follow the link!)

This time its over the declaration of Independence by Kosovo.  I have written about it here on my ReconciliationTalk blog.  China and Taiwan predictably disagree over Kovovo's Independence

The issue of the validity or not of Taiwan's independence from China is of course a subject that needs consideration here. Another day. For now please pray for Peace in the region, and a Games that increase relationships and build confidence betwwen nations.

(186) Pray for Peace in East Asia this year

We need to pray for peace in East Asia this year. It is likely that this year will be one in which regional relations regularly come into view in the press. Nations that have issues with China seem to be thinking, "China wants favour this year. They won't do anythign that will mess with the Olympics. Lets push and see what we can get."  China is saying (in as many words), "Don't use the Olympics as an excuse to push us around, thinking we won't hit back." You may not agree with their position, but I venture to suggest it is understandable.  The issue of Taiwan is particularly likely to draw attention.

Read on in the extension of the page below and lets pray that this be a year of peace in the region, that new patterns of relationships are formed.