Persecuted for the Lord

“Many are my persecutors and my enemies, Yet I do not turn from Your testimonies.” Psalms 119:157

 “Remember the word that I said to you, 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.” John 15:20

“We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—“ 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

“Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12 (see also Matthew 5:10-12)

Happy Holidays! Winter concerts/plays/sales, Merry X-mas . . .many of us have gotten a bit aggravated with modern marketing campaigns for Christmas, and their lack of the mention of Christ.  I have heard Christian calls for boycotts of stores, writing letters to corporations, and seen the campaign for “Keep “Christ” in Christ-mas.”  For most of us in America, this is the persecution we are called to bear that Jesus and Paul speak of in the verses above.  I first want to remind you to exhibit Christ’s love in your responses to retailers (yes I think you should let your voice be heard, peacefully.)  Second I want to introduce you to the rest of the world. (From War to Joy at Christmas)

Asia Bibi, Salman Taseer, have you heard these names?  Asia Bibi is a Pakistani woman, who in the summer of 2009 had a dispute with a Muslim co-worker.  That dispute led to her family being beaten by a mob, and the woman being sentenced to death for blaspheming Mohammed.  While she waited in prison for her death sentence, (she is still in prison awaiting an appeal,) Salman Taseer, a governor of her province called for her release and criticized the blaspheme code that led to this sentence.  A short time later, Salman Taseer’s own body guard shot him in the back 27 times.  Another government official showing support was killed in a drive-by shooting.  This story is one of thousands happening all over the world to Christians because of Muslim blaspheming laws or codes.  (Story Here)

Even here in America, we are warned to be wary of “hate crimes” laws.  These laws restricting free speech to criticize the views of others, are a stepping stone according to many, to harsher versions such as blaspheming codes.  We should continue to voice our views, and also protect our rights to share these views.  Also remember in prayer, and support the Christians across the world struggling to share the gospel in areas, where criticism of Muslims could lead to death. (Silent Victims: Apostasy and Blasphemy Laws Worldwide )