by Haemin Lee, Frontier Fellowship Associate Director
Can you imagine living in a place where the government persecutes you only because of your faith in Jesus? In our American context, it’s hard to envision what this would be like. Unfortunately, many Christians around the world experience this type of oppression on a daily basis.
This summer, I made a trip to Pakistan, a country often associated with negative images. My dear brother in Christ, CJ, is a Pakistani Christian who founded Christian primary schools in a poverty-stricken desert area. These schools provide education to children who otherwise have to work in cotton fields all day.
The government police frequently calls, visits and even harasses CJ because he has led many families to Christ through this ministry. His circumstances are certainly difficult. But he is fearless saying, “Our God is my light, salvation and strength. Why should I fear others? I’m willing to suffer if it’s for the sake of Jesus Christ!” CJ’s bold confession reminds us that Jesus is a strong refuge. In Him, we find peace in the midst of life’s storms.
The world is a broken and often dangerous place. Every human has at one time or another faced a threat, a fear, a lack of security. And for many millions, oppression and persecution can be severe and ongoing. Governments and societies violate basic human rights. Adherents of all brands of religion are persecuted for their beliefs. Natural disasters rob people of their homes, livelihoods and, at times, even their loved ones. The world cries out for a place of safety and stability.
In this season of Advent, let’s pray for our persecuted Christian brothers and sisters around the world as well as all who long for safety. With the boldness of CJ, let’s join the psalmist in declaring, “I believe all peoples shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living” (Psalm 27:13). And let’s encourage one another to “wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” (Psalm 27:14).
Follow along with our daily devotional series for the Advent season.
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