(SHE-uh) – The recent events involving Iran and the Shia Supreme Leader have had a profound impact on the Iraqi Shia community. Shia Muslims around the world share a powerful sense of connection, and many Iraqi Shia have expressed their grief through traditional mourning practices, including wearing black, wailing, and chest beating. For hundreds of years, Shia have put their hope in a single religious leader to direct and guide them. They are often drawn to the concept of a “suffering servant.” Isaiah 53:5 (ESV) says, “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.” In a time of conflict, pray for opportunities for Iraqis to hear about the One who was chastised to bring us peace. Pray that people will find true healing and deliverance from their sins in the person of Jesus Christ.