Persecution?

Great teaching today in church. It always amazes me to see so many people sitting quietly and actually paying attention to what the speaker is saying. As if they really did want to understand and apply it to their lives. Persecution. That was on today's menu. Not necessarily the kind you hear of on the news with the unfortunate death, torture, imprisonment or exclusion for those who proclaim to be followers of Christ. No, more the kind of indirect persecution. The sarcastic comments, the humor, the belittling and the exclusion from conversation because they feel you might say something too 'churchy' or they feel you are a bit of a bigot because of your definite viewpoints. I say 'let them come' at me. I mah not defend my faith with exact wording or specific scripture verses but "I know, that I know, that I know"- if you know what I mean! I welcome discussion about it. I may not change your mind or persuade you to a faith in Christ but I will promise to try - and do it lovingly, too.



Anyway, I was just pleased to be in church and to see friends and others who are searching as well. It's great to have a 'common interest' that we can all share. It's like a BIG family. I love it.

Oh, unlike my husband who loves talking to every new person he meets, I prefer to talk one at a time and sometimes need to be 'encouraged' to step out of my comfort zone and meet new ones. Still, I think I do an ok job of meeting people 'in general'. I don't feel I have to meet everyone.



That being said, a year or so ago I did introduce myself to a new woman who I did not know and through a general conversation, I ended up sitting with her and praying for her. We are now very good friends. I guess God had a plan. It always amazes me as to how puts us together.



Are all Christians great? I don't think so - we all have our little quirks and some personalities just don't blend as nicely together. But if we all believe in Christ and his teachings, then we are all a part of the same family and hey, even siblings fight!



Ok, on to other things. Here's something I have no answers for. Why do some people suffer more than others? I have a great friend who seems to be always struggling with health issues. She is a good person - may I say a great person? Why does she have to go through so much? Why did my other friend's husband have to get cancer and die at such a young age? I guess there are answers and they will be answered but just not right now. My job is just to keep on, keep in touch, keep focused on Him and basically, keep the faith. I am so glad I have a lot of friends who keep me on the straight and narrow and are faithful in prayer.



Well, I can see I do go on and on so need to draw this to a good closure. Thanks for listening (or reading). Hope you can offer some insights if you chose. If not, I will continue on as happily as before. I trust God will find you where you are (hiding? or with your eyes closed, or head hidden like a ostrich?) or perhaps arms wide open and looking for Him. May you rest in them. Isaiah 40:31 "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Take care.