Offering Hope to Millions of Nepali Listeners Amidst Rising Political Tensions

Did you know that Nepal is the only country whose flag is non-rectangular? It is an interesting flag, made up of two red pennants, outlined in blue. The red stands for bravery. The blue stands for peace. But for many in Nepal, peace is elusive. 

Nepal, a Southeast Asian country located primarily in the Himalayas, is about the size of the state of Iowa. Their newly elected Prime Minister, Balendra Shah, represents a cultural shift in Nepal.  Mr. Shah is the former Mayor of Kathmandu, an engineer, and former music artist.  His election highlights a growing divide between political parties as well as between generations. It has sparked increasing tensions which have led to riots. The riots have led to what some might view as excessive force. Peace appears to be more of an elusive idea than a reality.

Political viewpoints are not alone in robbing Nepalese of peace.  Strict and severe-anti conversion laws play a part in that too. They make it difficult for unbelievers to hear the life changing power of Jesus and dangerous for those who turn to Jesus to hear and grow in His Word. According to the US State Department’s 2021 Report on Religious Freedom, discrimination and suppression are very real concerns.  Proselytizing or harming the sentiment toward any caste, class or ethnic community can be met with severe consequences. For example, sharing the Gospel means putting yourself at risk of five years of incarceration.

But they must hear the Gospel. The Apostle Paul’s point in Romans 10 is well made. How can they believe in someone they have not heard about. How can they put their faith in the perfect love of Jesus, when they have not heard His sweet name? 

They need to know Jesus. When change in the political climate brings fear, they need to know that our unchanging God brings comfort. (Malachi 3:6) When tensions lead to riots, they need to know that the cross leads us to peace with God. When a government reacts with excessive force, they need to know that Christ gives us abundant grace. When a nation bears down on those who are downtrodden, they need to know that our risen Lord and Savior gives us an abundant life and a peace that surpasses all understanding. (Philippians 4:7)

This is why the ministry of The Tide is crucial in Nepal. The power of God, the hope of salvation, and the promise of peace is broadcast all across the nation, bringing the Good News to millions in their own heart languages allowing them to hear and believe. Radio waves are able to reach far and wide. One radio broadcast, a weekly program called Prassata Jivan, has the potential to reach 19 million Nepali-speaking people, or rather 19,000,000 souls whom Jesus loves. Prassata Jaivan means “abundant life”. It’s the abundant life that Jesus came to give. It is this message that brings hope to the lost. 

Another program has been created to reach the Tharu people of Nepal. In their own language they are being equipped to make disciples and plant churches. One listener of the program said, “This program has completely transformed my life and also my family.”  What a beautiful story is told in just that one sentence! Imagine the joy they have knowing that their peace and their future is held in the mighty hand of God.

Where most of our feet will never tread, our radio waves broadcast a message that changes lives, from the inside out. It brings, not political peace which can change, but eternal peace that is guaranteed by the unchanging nature of God. We thank you for your partnership in reaching hearts around the world, especially in Nepal. As God moves in your heart, pray for Nepal. Pray for safety for our brothers and sisters who share their faith. Pray for peace in their hearts, through Jesus Christ.