Praying for the Persecuted.

This Sunday, November 14th, is the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.  I want to encourage everyone to stop at some point on Sunday, after you leave your place of worship, or right before your small group study, or during your prayer meeting, and say a prayer on behalf of all of our brothers and sisters around the world who do not enjoy the freedoms we have in this country.  Remember that they are one with us in Christ and as members of the same body it is our responsibility to tend to those members that are suffering and hurting.  All around the world Christians are enduring unspeakable trials for their faith...

In Laos, government officials have ordered six Christian families to renounce their faith or be expelled from the village.  They face threats of death and deprivation if they refuse to comply.  Pray that their faith may be strengthened and that, even in the face of expulsion and danger, they would refuse to deny Christ. (Read the story here).

In Islamabad, a pastor was beaten by Muslim extremists with bricks and hockey sticks after a religious ruling, or Fatwa, was given ordering his death.  Pray for Rev. Dr. Suleman Nasri Khan, that his wounds would be healed, and that God would protect him from further danger at the hand of his enemies.  (Read the story here).

In Jerusalem, an arsonist set fire to a church building.  10 volunteer workers were sleeping in the church's overnight facilities when someone broke into the basement and started the blaze.  All ten were taken to the hospital with smoke inhalation and $85,000 in damage was caused to the building.  Pray that the culprit will be caught and brought to justice.  And pray for the church family as they seek to rebuild in order to have a place to worship together. (Read the story here).

With all these things happening in the world even as we speak, isn't it a little ridiculous to think about the "trials" that we tend to deal with in our churches?  Church members not getting along.  People criticizing the Pastor.  Disagreements on when to have what party or who will bring what for the potluck.  Backbiting and gossip, arguments and resentment.  These are the things that we deal with regularly.  When you look at our list compared to the things that Christians in India and Jerusalem and Laos endure, it seems pretty silly.  How many of our "trials" are self-inflicted?  And yet how much time do we spend talking about them and arguing about them and whining about them?

This Sunday, as we consider the Persecuted Church around the world, let's stop focusing on our trivial sufferings and instead think about how we can make a difference in this world.  Together.  As one.  Just as Jesus prayed. 

Embrace the freedom that you have to gather in a building to worship and pray and preach.  Enjoy your opportunity to tell people about Jesus.  Read one of the many Bibles you undoubtedly have on your bookshelf, and remember those who are without all of these, yet continue to sing praises to the Lord.