When I walk through the streets of Ahvaz, the air itself feels heavy. Our city, rich with oil, carries one of the most polluted atmospheres in the world. Many cough as they go about their day, and the sky is often hazy, a constant reminder of the industry that defines this place. Ahvaz is the capital of Khuzestan, and though it brings wealth to our nation, it also brings suffering.

Our country has endured much—after the failed 2015 nuclear deal and the weight of sanctions, Iran’s economy has crumbled. Prices climb higher, jobs vanish, and ordinary people like us wonder if life will ever become easier. The government promised us an Islamic utopia, but instead, we see disillusionment growing in every neighborhood. People are weary, searching for hope.

And yet—this is where God is moving most powerfully. In the cracks of broken promises, the light of Christ is shining. In secret gatherings, in whispered prayers, in the quiet boldness of believers, the Church in Iran is growing—faster than anywhere else in the world. Here in Ahvaz, I am just one of many who have found life in Jesus. And though the air is polluted, and the weight of sanctions presses on us, the Spirit of God is moving freely.

We believe this suffering is not wasted. It is preparing hearts for the truth of the Gospel, and we pray daily that the Kingdom of God will break through every layer of darkness in our city and beyond.

- As I breathe in the heavy, polluted air of Ahvaz, I long for God’s Kingdom to break through in every language here—Arabic, Laki, Bakhtiari, and more. “After this I looked… a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people and language.” (Rev. 7:9)
- My heart aches for our disciple makers who risk everything to plant underground churches. Lord, be their shield, their wisdom, and their courage. “Be strong and courageous… the Lord your God goes with you.” (Deut. 31:6)
- In hidden rooms and whispered gatherings, I ask God to birth a mighty prayer movement in Ahvaz that spreads like fire across Iran. “They all joined together constantly in prayer.” (Acts 1:14)
- I pray that every believer here, including me, would walk in the Spirit’s power, bold and unshaken by fear. “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.” (Acts 1:8)
- Even in this city of despair, I hold hope: Lord, resurrect Your divine purpose for Ahvaz—let light pierce the darkness. “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.” (Isa. 60:1)