Celebrating: the revolution that failed to deliver in Iran

February marked the 34th Anniversary of Iran’s Islamic Revolution. President Ahmadinejad declared that the 1979 revolution inaugurated an “awakening of the human spirit,” rich with “divine values,” that is speeding the return of the Twelfth Iman, or ‘Mahdi’. The Mahdi is the awaited Messiah of Shiite Muslim theology, who will usher in the End Times. Ahmadinejad made his speech to flag-waving crowds at Azadi (Freedom) Square in Tehran at one of the many rallies that took place to mark the anniversary. The president used his platform to hail what he called a “golden age” in Iran, focusing upon the achievements of the Revolution and of his presidency.

It seems few celebrated the achievements of the revolution in private. In the eyes of the majority of Iranians the revolution has failed to deliver on the many promises that it made. People are struggling to make ends meet in the face of economic breakdown. Social problems have increased greatly. Political injustices are well-documented.

• Pray that the stark reality of life will drive many on a journey to find spiritual meaning, and that this will lead to Christ.
• Pray for Christians to be ready to give an account of the hope that is within them.
• Pray for revelation of the truth to people in Iran.