Fact: Did you know?
Did you know that octopuses have three hearts and blue blood? Two of their hearts pump blood to the gills, and the third circulates it to the rest of the body. Unlike humans, their blood is blue, because it’s based on copper (hemocyanin) instead of iron (hemoglobin).
This strange and wonderful design is a perfect example of the vast creativity of God. Even the most alien-looking creatures in the ocean are masterfully crafted with purpose and precision. Psalm 104:24
THE NATION OF OMAN
Connecting the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman, and the Persian Gulf, the nation of Oman sits in a strategic position. Seas in the north and east and deserts in the west and south, though, have often led to isolation. With an economy heavily dependent on declining oil reserves, Oman has begun to focus increasingly on tourism. The diverse landscape of untouched coastlines, deserts, and mountains has become a unique destination for travelers. Spared of much militant Islamist violence, Oman enjoys significantly more personal freedom and political stability than the surrounding area.
In 1970 Qaboos bin Said Al Said overthrew his father, and he ruled until 2020 as the sultan in this benevolent absolute monarchy. His modernization program and moderate foreign policy have opened Oman’s doors to the outside world and led to overall good relations in the Middle East. Over 25% of the population is expatriate, bringing many foreign influences to bear, but Oman still holds its Arab and Ibadi/Sunni Islamic identity, as it has since the days of Muhammad. After the death of Sultan Qaboos in January 2020, his cousin Haitham bin Tariq Al Said succeeded him as sultan.
Population: 3,901,992
Population In Unreached People Groups: 91%
Religion: Muslim, Hindu, Christians, other and unaffiliated
CAPITAL CITY: Muscat
GOVERNMENT: Absolute Monarchy
LANGUAGE: Arabic, English, Baluchi, Swahili, Urdu, Indian Dialects
GDP PER CAPITA: $38,300
LITERACY RATE: 95.7%
PRAYERS FOR OMAN
● Pray for the salvation of the Oman people, that they would come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
● Pray for the growth of the church in Oman, that believers would be bold in their faith and share the Gospel with others.
● Pray for discipleship opportunities in Oman, that believers would be equipped to follow Jesus and make disciples.
● Pray for justice and equality in Oman, that all people would be treated with dignity and respect.