Recently I've been reading a devotional book called "Exteme Devotion." It's put together by Voice of the Martyrs. It tells the stories of those who are persecuted for their faith, and how they persevere. I'd highly recommend it to anyone.
I realise that I have no idea what it's like to live in this type of oppression, nor do I claim to, but I wrote this as kindof a reminder to myself of how blessed I am, and to put into perspective what you think is important in life.
--"The Prize"--
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven...”
(Matt 5:10-12a)
In the cover of midnight
a figure darts by
his one faint guiding light
is the moon in the sky.
He could be home sleeping
but this means far more,
he arrives at the meeting
and taps on the door.
By the light of one flame
the bible is read,
through a voice without shame
the gospel is spread.
In the eyes of these Christians
a passion burns bright,
through intense persecution,
in the dark there is light.
Chorus:
Hear now the sound of sweet release,
as children live with deeper peace.
Seeking God with greater zeal,
showing that their faith is real.
Light shows in the east
as our brothers sing,
but breaking this moment:
a gunshot's ring.
The door is thrown open,
and soldiers yell threats,
they are dragged off to jail
still they have no regrets.
In the rows of dark cells
no thought of despair,
though hard trials will come
still Jesus is there.
And while falsely accused
by their captor's lies,
with hope they look forward,
awaiting the prize.
Chorus
With guns to their heads
they are lead away.
Soon their bodies will die
but their witness will stay.
As they cry out together:
“Lord think of me.”
the gunshots resound
and their souls are set free.
Chorus 2:
Hear now the sound of sweet release,
as children give their lives in peace,
staying true until the end,
now hear the greeting: “welcome friend!”
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Romans 8:18 -
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
