This week, rather than me trying to talk about something with which I really don’t have much experience, I thought I would let people tell their own stories. Below is a YouTube video by an organization called The Voice of the Martyrs. You can read all about them at www.persecution.com. There are stories, videos, pictures, and first hand accounts that will move your heart and in some cases bring you to tears. Persecution is real and the church around the world IS facing it.
WARNING: there are some graphic images and messages in this video. Proceed with caution and please make sure your kids are not watching until you have had a chance to preview it.
For more reading, make a habit of visiting the Persecution Blog. They usually post daily and the stories will encourage your faith and make you more aware of the plight of our brothers and sisters around the world.
As we talk about persecution this week lets not forget that many who call themselves “Christians” have persecuted people of other faiths. This is not acceptable. There are many who persecute others in the name of their religion when their religion does not approve of this kind of behavior. Therefore, this is not about tearing down other faiths this is about recognizing that people are being persecuted for their faith all over the world. This is about praying for them. Let’s talk about how Jesus wants us to respond when others insult us. Let’s talk about being faithful to Jesus no matter what is costs us. It is going to be a great week in Life Group as we look at the reality of persecution. But let’s not waste our time tearing down other faiths and miss out on reflecting on the amazing people who are standing for their faith around the world.
This video really puts life into perspective. Why do I have a hard time talking about my faith at work with co-workers at times when our brothers and sisters across the world are being persecuted?!? Thank you for the link Brandon!