Hello, awesome SWAT Team! Just wanted to post a subject that was especially on my heart today.
The website resource links list mid-way down the right side of the blog here shows two websites for ministries that I feel are convicting and encouraging to us who, by the Lord's grace, follow the Great Commission by being on the streets of Monterey County. One is Voice of the Martyrs, the other is Compass Direct News.
These ministries provide the world, not just Christians, with the painful truth of persecution that thrives today in much of the world. If you have never looked into this subject, I strongly encourage you to do so. The title of this post comes from Hebrews 13:3, "Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them, and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body." This verse is the key one used by Voice of the Martyrs (VoM). When I read the articles they publish, and my knowledge of present day persecution expands, I am greatly humbled by the strength of the faith that these brothers and sisters in Christ possess.
How very insignificant are my own petty ideas of personal trials and adversities when compared to these hardships! What a glorious reward awaits these saints for persevering in the faith!
As someone who wishes to share the Good News of Jesus Christ, I am also reminded by this verse that as severe as adversity may become for true disciples of Christ on this earth, it is nothing compared to the agonies that await the unsaved in the Lake of Fire. In truth, the unsaved are the people in bonds, bound to sin and eternal damnation! How well I remember when I too was a slave as they are!
So I ask myself two questions...how can I encourage the saints who are truly enduring persecution, such as I myself have never known? And- how much persecution am I willing to endure to reach out to those who are still bound in the bonds of sin?
If you feel led to ask yourself the first question, I encourage you to visit VoM and consider how you can partner in their mission. As for the second question...I'll just see you out on the streets!
May the Lord truly bless you as you remember our brothers and sisters in chains, both earthly and spiritual.
Maxx
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