Continued Prayer Requested for Iranian Believers Living in the USA

Iranian Christians International reached out a few months ago seeking prayers for Iranians who had become Christians and were living in the USA. An update on the fate of Brother Mehrdad who had been apprehended by ICE was just sent out a few minutes ago.

An urgent update on Brother Mehrdad: Withholding of Removal has been granted. We continue to seek his release and ask for your ongoing prayers for Iranian believers living in the USA.

Here is the updated prayer request.

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Dear Beloved of the Lord,

We’re writing to share an important update on Brother Mehrdad and to invite your continued prayer and support. (If you are not aware of the situation or have not received email communication over the last 9 months regarding this situation, contact us to bring you up to date.)

Today's Court Decision (March 26, 2026)

Today, March 26, at 8:30 AM, the Immigration Court issued a written decision in Mehrdad’s case with three key rulings:

• Asylum: Denied
• Withholding of Removal: Granted (meaning the U.S. cannot deport him to Iran)
• CAT (Convention Against Torture): Held in abeyance (not decided yet)

The Judge found Mehrdad’s testimony credible and recognized the grave dangers Christian converts face in Iran, concluding that Mehrdad faces a clear probability of persecution if returned. However, the court did not grant asylum due to legal requirements tied to asylum eligibility in his case, which is very disappointing.

What is “Withholding of Removal”

Withholding of removal is a form of protection: it means the government cannot send Mehrdad back to Iran because the court has recognized the danger he faces there. At the same time, withholding does not give permanent status or a green card, and a removal order can still remain “on paper.”

Where We Go From Here

Iranian Christians Intl's immediate goal is to secure Mehrdad’s release from detention under supervision so he can be released after nine months of imprisonment. Because removal to Iran is legally barred, our immediate focus is to request that ICE release Mehrdad under an Order of Supervision or through parole based on humanitarian and public-interest factors, which is currently a very difficult task. We are now preparing a sponsorship packet that includes housing, community support, transportation, and a clear compliance plan (check-ins, address verification, and accountability) to present to ICE.

As we face this continued season of uncertainty, I am reminded of the tension between the cross and the resurrection. You can read more of my reflections on waiting in the midst of bad news here.

If ICE Does Not Release Him Promptly

If continued detention stretches on without any realistic plan to remove him to another (third) country, Iranian Christians Intl will hire an attorney to pursue relief in federal court through a habeas corpus petition, asking a judge to order his release under supervision.

A Note on “Third-Country” Removals

Because withholding of removal is country‑specific, ICE may explore removal to a third country. We are prepared to show that no third country is realistically available or willing to accept Mehrdad (or similarly situated Iranian nationals) and that there is no concrete removal plan for him.

Pray:

• Please pray for us as we still haven't announced this news to Brother Mehrdad. Pray specifically for his heart not to be broken.
• Favor that ICE will grant supervised release quickly.
• Wisdom for us in preparation to know how to petition ICE for his release.

What Release Could Look Like

If ICE grants supervised release (or if a federal judge orders it), Mehrdad would live at an approved address, check in with ICE, and follow all conditions. Under supervision or parole, he may also be eligible to apply for work authorization so he can support himself while remaining fully compliant.

Thank you for standing with us during this time. We will keep you updated as soon as we have any further developments.

Iranian Christians International
PO Box 50007
Colorado Springs, CO 80949

Esther 4:55 - Discovering Greek Lies :Why Learning Hebrew is Important

The Early Morning Call: A 3:33 AM Urgency

"Have you ever been awakened in the middle of the night, 

And an urgency placed in your heart to get up and write?"

In the wee hours - 3:33 am precisely - I was urged to get up and write. But what? What was I to write? There were so many choices. I re-read some scriptures and looked over some drafts - my soul felt restless. Finally, I got up, puttered with this and that - then it was put in my heart to lay down again on my sleeping mat.

The Search for 4:55: An Unexpected Discovery

My eye was drawn to the time on my phone 4:55 - then to my data usage 45.5. Hmm... I thought that's weird! I opened my Chrome browser and typed Bible 4:55; a result from Malachi came back. Something stirred inside me to ask again. So like Samuel asking if there might yet be another son - I typed "is there any other 4:55 scripture?"

I was shocked at what I unearthed!

A visual guide to why studying the original Hebrew Tanakh is vital for uncovering truths lost in translation

It is vital for anyone studying the Bible to learn Hebrew and not rely on the lies in the earliest Greek translation. Why? Esther 4:55 and 106 other verses are a total fabrication! These false teachings found in the Greek and most Orthodox and Catholic Bibles simply don't exist in the original Hebrew Scriptures! These 107 "phantom" verses, like Esther 4:55, act as a ghost in the machine—artificial additions that haunt the original Hebrew text and obscure the true, concealed hand of our Creator.

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In this post:

• The Ghost in the Machine: Esther 4:55 and the Danger of "Improving" the Word
• Who Wrote the Greek Lies that Include Esther 4:55?
• The Danger of "Improving" the Word: Biblical Warnings
• The Beauty Lost Not Studying Esther in Hebrew Tanakh
• Final Thoughts: Recognizing His Hand
• Over to You: Share Your "Hidden" Miracles

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate or referral links. If you click or make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission or reward at no extra cost to you.

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The Ghost in the Machine: Esther 4:55 and the Danger of "Improving" the Word

"Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you." — Deuteronomy 4:2 (KJV)

Have you ever opened a Bible and found a verse that simply shouldn’t be there? If you grew up with a standard Protestant Bible, your Book of Esther ends at Chapter 10, Verse 3. But if you pick up a Catholic or Orthodox Bible, you might stumble into an expanded universe—one that includes an Esther 4:55.

This verse is a beautiful moment of high drama. In it, Queen Esther faints before King Xerxes, and we are told: “Then God changed the spirit of the king to gentleness...” (Additions to Esther 4:55). It’s a powerful scene, but it's a lie - it does not exist in the original Hebrew.

Who Wrote the Greek Lies that Include Esther 4:55?

Apparently, about 200 years before Yeshua, Greek-speaking scribes felt there was a "deficiency" in the Hebrew Book of Esther. So they simply concocted 107 verses to make the book more "religious." They added prayers, kosher dietary laws, and—most notably—verse 4:55, which explicitly credits Creator for softening the king's heart.

The Danger of "Improving" the Word: Biblical Warnings

Creator is very clear about the integrity of His revealed Word. The command given in Deuteronomy is echoed in Revelation 22:18-19 once again. We are not to change one word!

The Beauty Lost Not Studying Esther in Hebrew Tanakh

The original Hebrew Book of Esther is unique in the Tanakh because it never explicitly mentions the name of the Creator. Not once. There is no recorded prayer, no mention of the Temple, and no overt "miracles." Those 107 verses added in Greek are total lies.

The true story of Esther (Hadassah) unfolds through a series of divine appointments. Creator is the "hidden hand" working behind the "seen" through timing, human faith, courage, and perfectly placed events - like waking King Xerxes in the night and having him read of Mordecai's deed.

When scholars dig into the Hebrew, they find "hidden treasures"—like the Creator's name woven into the text of Esther—something only accessible in the Hebrew.

By inserting the name of Our Creator where it doesn't exist - the whole point of this book is totally missed! There is none greater than Our Creator - He is always there - even in places you dare not share His name! It is vital for Biblical scholars to read Hebrew, and not rely solely on the Greek translation.

Final Thoughts: Recognizing His Hand

The case of Esther 4:55 reminds us to be vigilant. Whether it’s through cultural "corrections" or modern traditions, we must be careful not to "nullify the word of God" by our additions (Mark 7:13). Let's stay grounded in the original Word, honouring the languages God chose to speak through.

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About this Author

Sister Su is a survivor through her Saviour. A born-again Messianic Metis retired teacher who has had the privilege of seeing many miracles in her life. Connect with her through X @Sister_Su and check out her linktree.

Over to You: Share Your "Hidden" Miracles

Have you ever experienced a "hidden" miracle—a moment where there was no loud voice from Heaven, but you knew a divine appointment had just taken place? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!

Thanks for popping into my blog today,
Stay vigilant! Stay alert!
Beware of "the father of lies"!
Learn Hebrew with me - sign up for Duolingo - it's free!
~ Su

P.S. I'm praying about ordering A First Hebrew Reader by Timothy A Lee. What do you think?

First Hebrew Reader: Jonah, Ruth, Esther by Timothy Lee

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About this Author

Sister Su is a survivor through her Saviour. A born-again Messianic Metis retired teacher who has had the privilege of seeing many miracles in her life. Connect with her through X @Sister_Su and check out her linktree.

Help others discover the original Hebrew context of the Book of Esther! Save this study to your Bible board on Pinterest:

2026 Matzah Musings - Messiah in Passover

The Matzah in My Heart

Finding Healing in the "Crushed" Places

It is Nisan and the season of Niskipesim (the Goose Moon), a time when the earth stirs and we prepare our hearts for Passover. To be honest, I have been feeling "crushed" lately. Lupus has been a significant struggle, and some days even the simplest tasks feel like a mountain to climb. Despite my efforts, I have also not yet found matzah that fits my budget.

The Matzah in My Heart: Seeking Healing

Matzah is a vital part of the Passover meal Yeshua shared with His disciples. When we look at it, we see symbols of His sacrifice—His body broken for us. I have been reflecting on the accuracy of scripture translations regarding this sacrifice, specifically Isaiah 53:5.

Isaiah 53:5 NIV [5] But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. https://bible.com/bible/111/isa.53.5.NIV

A Picture of the Pierced One

Norman L. Bliss, in his book, The Dead Sea Scrolls of Isaiah:Day of the Lord notes remarkable that the Dead Sea Scrolls, which predate most modern English translation sources by over a thousand years, preserve these prophecies so perfectly. 

The Dead Sea Scrolls of Isaiah:Day of the Lord - Click to Read Sample

The Hebrew words used in these ancient texts paint an even more graphic picture of the crucifixion:

• Pierced (Mecholal - מְחֹלָל): While often translated as "pierced," the root chalal literally means to be bored through or to defile something holy. It emphasizes the nails driven into the Messiah much more than any English word.
• Crushed (Medukka - מְדֻכָּא): This signifies being shattered or beaten small, conveying intense physical and emotional pulverization.
• Wounds/Stripes (Chabburah - חֲבֻרָתֹו): This refers to a bruise or welt from a blow. Interestingly, the root chabar also means to bind together—a poetic reminder that His wounds bind us back together.
• Peace (Shalom - שְׁלוֹמֵנוּ): This is total wholeness, health, and restoration.

Bread for the Humble

Matzah naturally develops dark, burnt lines as it bakes, resembling a back that has been scourged. Even without the physical bread in my hand today, I am reminded that matzah is the "bread of affliction"—bread for those who are struggling or tired.

Yeshua was "crushed" (medukka) so that we could be mended (rapha). Today, I am letting Him bind up my broken places and serve as my provider.

Chodesh Tov—may your month be filled with His healing presence.

~ Su

2026 Passover Preparations - My Matzah Lament

The Great Matzah Hunt: A Seder Reflection

Reflecting on Day 5 of the "Ten Ways to Find Messiah in the Passover" devotional on the YouVersion Bible App.

Passover is a season of deep remembrance, and nothing sits more at the heart of the Seder than the Matzah. This "bread of affliction," thin and pierced, serves as a powerful physical symbol of the nature of the Messiah’s death—broken for us, yet pure and without leaven.

The search is on! As the 2026 Passover season approaches, the "Matzah Hunt" becomes a digital and physical marathon for many families.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Table of Contents

• The Great Matzah Hunt
• Why Matzah is Special
• A Lament for the Missing Matzah
• If You Have the Matzah Hunt Blues (Recipe)

Psalm 55 - Bringing Hope After Shocking Betrayal

Finding Peace in the Midst of Betrayal: A Study of Psalm 55

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products or services I believe will add value to my readers.

Have you ever been betrayed by a close friend or relative? If so, Psalm 55 may bring you some solace. This ancient "maskil," or teaching song, is rooted in King David’s profound distress following the treachery of those closest to him.

David knew heart wrenching betrayal.

While we often think of modern teaching songs—like Johnny Cash’s "The Wreck of the Old 97" which famously tells listeners to "take warning"—the message in this ancient maskil is more subtle. Just as Cash used a tragic train wreck to deliver a life lesson, David uses his own personal "wreck" of betrayal to point us toward a higher truth that reveals itself fully only at the end.

Table of Contents

• 1. David’s Cry for Help (Psalm 55:1-3)
• 2. Historical Context: A Father’s Heartbreak
• 3. The Desire to Fly Away (Psalm 55:6)
• 4. The Solution: Casting Your Cares (Psalm 55:22)

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1. David’s Cry for Help (Psalm 55:1-3)

David begins this prayer with a poignant plea for God’s attention, expressing how deeply he is troubled by the threats and anger of his enemies.

“Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea; hear me and answer me. My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught because of what my enemy is saying, because of the threats of the wicked; for they bring down suffering on me and assail me in their anger.” (Psalm 55:1-3, NIV)

2. Historical Context: A Father’s Heartbreak

In my own study, I found the historical context particularly striking. While David is well known for his friendship with Jonathan, this Psalm points toward a much more painful betrayal involving his own son, Absalom, and his counselor, Ahithophel.

As detailed in 2 Samuel chapters 15 through 18, Absalom attempted to overthrow his father and recruited Ahithophel—the grandfather of Bathsheba—to assist in the rebellion. This season of David's life concludes tragically in 2 Samuel 18 when his chief commander, Joab, kills Absalom against David's express wishes.

3. The Desire to Fly Away (Psalm 55:6)

“I said, ‘Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest.’” (Psalm 55:6, NIV)

Have you ever longed for a way to simply get away from the horror of betrayal? Many who have experienced this pain find themselves identifying with David’s words, sharing his desire for the "wings of a dove" to escape the heartache. Even Yeshua (Jesus) told His disciples that if they were persecuted in one place, they should flee (Matthew 10:23). However, sometimes fleeing is an impossibility.

4. The Solution: Casting Your Cares (Psalm 55:22)

When you cannot flee, or when your pursuers continue to follow you, what can you do? The end of this maskil gives us the ultimate answer:

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” (Psalm 55:22, NIV)

I hope these thoughts provide meaningful context for your own reading of the Scriptures.

Have a blessed day,
Sister Su