"Blessed"
John 3:2
This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.”
This reminds us that the Lord is our refuge, even when the world is dark. Nicodemus recognized that no one could perform the miraculous signs Jesus did "unless God is with him".
I was thinking about the global church and recognizing the thousands of people trying everything they know how to do, with every resource they have available to them to reach out to western culture for help.
I was looking at photos and pictures of floods that were happening as we speak and as the water rushed through their encampments, they grabbed a hold of anything that could add structure to the shacks they were dwelling in.
On top of that hellish nightmare, they were surrounded by a government that wants them gone and another religion that is hostile to their faith.
Ponder that and contrast it to what we see going on today in the western culture they so yearn to be invited to...
So no lesson will be left to adhere to our lives, just a reflection on what is and what is about to come!
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brothers and sisters facing extreme hardship, for those who's darkness seems to never end.
We pray for those whose homes are destroyed by floods, and for those persecuted by hostile governments and religions. We see how easily we forget we are all One.
Lord, be their refuge, their strength, and their structure in this "hellish nightmare".
We pray for those reaching out to us and for their efforts to be met with more than just material resources. We pray that they find a true refuge in you.
Help us to remember that even in the midst of suffering, and even when facing insurmountable obstacles, your light can pierce through the deepest darkness, and Your presence will give the strength to stand strong. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Matthew 5:10
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
