Daily Worship

conversations with those who have gone through persecution

Albert Bogle May 08, 2016 0 0

Luke 21:12-16

"…they will lay hands on you and persecute you. They will deliver you to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name.  This will result in your being witnesses to them.  But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves.  For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.  You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death.”

Today all around the world millions of Christians will be attending a place of worship for some it will be the most dangerous and life threatening action they will  ever take. This week or theme in Sanctuary First is reflecting on conversations with those who have gone through persecution. In her article published in “Christian Today” on the 29 April 2016, Carey Lodge, describes the plight of Christians who live in Eritrea. She writes; 

“Elsa fled Eritrea after her sister was beaten to death by prison guards. "We were kept in underground cells. Sometimes the guards put us both in a metal shipping container to torture us. This became so hot during the day and then in the night it became freezing cold," she recalled. 

“The guards offered to let us go, but only if we renounced our faith in Jesus. We said no.”

Elsa, Eritrean refugee "We didn't get much to eat and there was no medical treatment. The guards offered to let us go, but only if we renounced our faith in Jesus. We said no.”

Prayer

Lord Jesus,

Today as I worship in freedom

Stand with those who have lost their freedom 

because they choose to call you Lord

 

Lord Jesus

Today as I stand to worship 

Be it in a field,

 a mountain or a cathedral

I too choose to call you Lord

 

Give me the grace and the courage

And the insight 

To worship truthfully

And serve those who are broken in spirit wisely

When i open my mouth 

My I be an advocate for justice and integrity