I’m probably like many western Christians, especially those of us who live in the United States. In our self-absorbed way, we limit our thinking, and hence our knowledge of what it means or entails to be a follower of Christ to what transpires on our shores. Recently, I was introduced to “The Voice of the Martyrs, an international organization that tells the stories of what it means to be a practicing Christian in places where Christianity is looked upon with hostility; and either prohibited or restricted. Talk about a divide! Here the practice of our faith is almost effortless. Worship opportunities abound, either in person or virtually. With all the options, a whole segment of the fashion industry has probably declined! Who needs “Sunday clothes” when pjs or loungers suffice? Seriously though, attending church services and participating in the community of faith is “easy- peasy” in the good ole US of A. But not so for our fellow believers in places like Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Southern Mexico, and the Philippines to name a few. Theirs is a daily struggle to survive amidst threats and out right violence directed against them because they are believers in Christ.
Just yesterday, two headlines caught my attention:
“Gunmen burn Catholic priest alive in home” The Rev Isaac Achi was killed in Abuja, NIgeria. According to the article, a second priest escaped with a gunshot wound.
“Church attack kills at least 10.” In the Goma, Congo area, a bomb was set off in a Pentecostal Church, killing the ten and wounding other worshippers who were gathered there. Not often does the main line press pick up these incidents. Yet, they are common occurrences for these people who defy governments, extremists and terrorists by continuing to practice their faith beliefs.
It’s true that in recent years, we’ve had our experiences with violence against religious institutions, including the killings of parishioners and faith leaders. But compared with what they face daily, we are nowhere near that level of challenge in the practice of our faith. Their courage, determination and audacity are to be admired. And perhaps emulated. Maybe there’s more to being a believer than the leisurely practices we embrace. Maybe there is something their experiences can teach us about what it means to be “sold out for the Lord” whether we’re in the pews, sprawled on the sofa or leaning back in our fav armchair. Something to ponder.
Peace. Joy. Love.