There is an interesting article on The Voice of the Martyrs blog. Glenn Penner discusses how all to often our response to the persecuted church is to be thankful that we are free to worship as we choose. I agree with Glenn that this misses the point. Phil 1:29 and 1 Peter 2:20,21 both even go as far as saying that we are called to suffer for Christ. I, personally, am starting to long for persecution. Not for my own glory but for Jesus’. I want to share with him in his suffering.
I am coming to the conclusion that if we are not experiencing it then we need to figure out why. I’m realizing that persecution is inevitable if we are living godly lives. In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (2 Tim 3:12). Holiness is an affront to our culture. It exposes evil. When they see our love it challenges their feeling of security. If we’re not experiencing persecution then we are a probably not challenging society in any meaningful sort of way. This is not holiness.
When I was attacked in the spring while doing an abortion demonstration I think that I got my first real taste of persecution. Of course, when I go out there every week and people yell at me that is persecution too but it isn’t the same. I’m not at all fearful of having someone rant at me. Having been attacked has made me somewhat fearful of going out. For me the fear that I feel when I stand out on the street now is very humbling. It reminds me of what Jesus must have been feeling in the garden of Gethsemane as he contemplated his death. I guess that you can say that in a very small way I’ve fellowshipped in his suffering. I definitely feel blessed by the experience.
It is very encouraging to read your comments and convictions, Rose. Thank you so very much for being part of raising a voice for those who don't have one. You are one who is stepping up, standing up and speaking up. God bless you
Posted by: Glenn Penner at November 24, 2006 12:43 PM