The earthquakes that struck Afghanistan on 7 October last year affected more than 275,000 people and left whole communities devastated. More than 1,480 people died and thousands of homes were reduced to rubble. This week, pray for the people of Afghanistan and for those still rebuilding their lives.
Sunday 8 September
‘When I got home, I saw that our house had completely collapsed, and everything had been destroyed,’ remembers 24-year-old Rafi. That was the day the unthinkable happened. Rafi lost his youngest sister. Lift up the families today who are still in mourning. May they know God’s comfort.
Monday 9 September
Rafi’s mother was traumatised after the earthquake that took her daughter. Rafi describes how she would wake in the middle of the night, scared and screaming, ‘Earthquake! Earthquake!’ Pray for peace to fill the hearts of those who feel like they will never recover from the loss.
Tuesday 10 September
Tearfund’s partner in Afghanistan has been providing emergency cash grants and essential psychological support to families struggling to cope with the trauma. Praise God that Rafi’s mother and sisters received counselling. As the healing journey continues, give thanks to God that Rafi and his family are supported.
Wednesday 11 September
In Luke 10:25—37 we read the story of the good Samaritan. ‘Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.’ Ask God to bless Tearfund partners in Afghanistan as they walk alongside those in despair, showing God’s love.
Thursday 12 September
Today, we pray for rebuilding efforts in Afghanistan. We pray for new, earthquake-resistant homes and safe communities for children to thrive. We pray for new schools and new healthcare facilities. In the areas where the need is still great, we pray for resources to arrive. Lord, strengthen our partners in Afghanistan so they can continue to show your love across the nation. Amen.
Friday 13 September
Abdul Majid and his wife lost their daughter in the earthquake. At times, it felt like the loss would overwhelm them. But the couple have found solace in the counselling support they’ve received. ‘The mental health services are essential for our village,’ says Abdul Majid. ‘They are providing much-needed support for those who have struggled after losing family members in the earthquake.’ Pray that more survivors will be able to access services like these.
Saturday 14 September
Lord, we thank you that even in our deepest pain, you are there. You are walking beside us, holding our hands. As the months pass since the earthquakes, we pray that the people of Afghanistan who lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods will be able to recover and find hope and healing, even in the midst of their pain and sorrow. Amen.
