We need Grace to Endure Persecution: Jesus said “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Our hearts are broken and deeply saddened as we continue to mourn the devastating realities of what has happened and what is happening to our brothers and sisters in Libya.  As we discussed in an earlier program, our response to these acts of persecution will decide the outcome of how Jesus will respond to each one of us. It is important to remember that Jesus gave us a message of love. In His Sermon on the Mount, He said in Matthew 5:10, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” He continues in verses 43-44, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” This is a stark difference compared to how the world would respond to such acts of evil. It is important to remember, outside of the blood of Jesus Christ, not any one of us is any different than the worst jihadist. It is because of Jesus’ holy blood that we are washed clean. A recent video titled, “A Letter from the People of the Cross to ISIS” we feel this video is going to awaken a deep encouragement inside of you! In addition, this week marks the 100 year anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and what took place in the nation of Turkey to Christians that we are witnessing again today.  Continue Reading

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