PERSECUTION

This morning, I had to have one of those hard talks with my son. The one where he asked me about a picture of a crying woman he had seen on my computer, and I had to explain to him a little about what I was reading and what was going on in the other half of our world.

We had to talk about how Christians are being kidnapped and killed.
Because of a belief. In Jesus.

That's it. That is their crime.

I was thankful for this blackboard world map we received as a Christmas gift.
{You can find one HERE.}

So that I could show him just how far away something like that could happen. Even though it is unbelievable to think.

And I was thankful. For our freedoms. To live in a country where we could have, not one, but many Bible's in our home. Out and available to read whenever we desire. To profess our faith openly, without fear for our lives. To go fellowship with others in a building, together. Free to worship. Knowing we are safe in doing so.

Oh, how easy it is to take that for granted. To not think of, and be in prayer for those who are being persecuted for their faith. Who lose their jobs, their families, and their lives all for the sake of the gospel. For standing in faith, proclaiming their unyielding belief. Even with the expectation of being put to death for it.

But how are WE believers persecuted? Perhaps some friendships severed, family members who don't understand and think we are strange, or rolled eyes and perhaps the brunt end of a joke. So what is persecuted, our pride. Solely.

These people are loosing so much more. And yet, they continue to stand in their faith.

Take a moment to go visit THE VOICE OF THE MARTYRS and learn about how other believers are being persecuted and join me in praying for them.

Also, in offering thanksgiving for the vision and dedication of those before us, who secured our freedom in the First Amendment of our National Constitution: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..." And for those who currently serve, in protecting these freedoms.

And although totally difficult to understand in so many situations, and totally difficult to do;

Matthew 5:44

But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you!

{This is the Word of our Lord.}

xox,

Jennifer