Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

As followers of Christ, it is essential to understand that our journey is not without trials. John 15:20 reminds us, “If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.” This sobering reality should not catch us off guard. Over the last 2,000 years, the Church has faced persecution, with ten recorded periods of intense suffering during the first 300 years under the Roman Empire. Unfortunately, this is not just a historical account; persecution continues today, affecting millions of Christians worldwide.

From the seventh century onward, countless Christians have lost their lives at the hands of those with differing beliefs. Under communist regimes, many have faced the ultimate sacrifice for their faith, and even in our modern age, believers face grave threats simply for identifying as Christian. For them, the act of professing their faith is perilous. In stark contrast, we in Western cultures often struggle to comprehend this reality. We enjoy the freedom to express our faith without fear of violence or oppression.

When questioned about our beliefs, we may feel defensive, but we rarely face real dangers in these encounters. When believers gather in some countries, the danger is palpable; they risk their lives by declaring their faith. They come together knowing that each meeting could lead to imprisonment or worse. They have to keep Bibles illegally and often memorize scripture due to oppressive conditions. This contrasts sharply with our struggles. We might claim we can’t memorize scriptures, yet we find it easy to recall the lyrics to our favorite songs or sports statistics. Our priorities often reflect our values.
In America, the prevailing attitude tends to treat faith as a private affair—something wholly personal and best kept to ourselves. However, we must remember that Jesus’s sacrifice was anything but private. He hung on the cross, stripped and beaten, for the entire world to see. His blood was shed openly for our sins, and He did not call us to hide our faith under a rock.

Instead, He urges us to exhibit our testimony boldly for all to witness, just as He did. Embracing the potential for persecution means understanding that rejection and sacrifice are part of our commitment to follow Him. John 16:1-2 cautions us that people will think they are serving God even as they persecute His followers. This warning challenges us to consider our own responses to opposition.

Are we prepared to apologize for our faith, regardless of the cost? Are we willing to face trials and personal losses for the sake of the Gospel? The early Church stood valiantly, and today, Christians in hostile nations do the same, risking everything for their beliefs.
As we reflect on the cost of discipleship, let us not forget the lessons from our brothers and sisters in faith. It is a call to be fearless, to stand firm, and to live out our faith openly, knowing that the message of Christ is not one of comfort but one that often invites challenge. Are you willing to embrace this truth and pay the price for following Jesus? The call to discipleship extends beyond personal safety; it is a summons to live boldly in a world that often contradicts our beliefs. Only then can we truly embody the teachings of Christ and honor the sacrifices made by so many to pave the way for our faith today.