Recent news headlines read, “Saudi Crown Prince Dies” and “Libya’s Liberation Sunday.” These headlines reflect the rapidly changing political situation in the Middle East where heads of state are being toppled, killed or changed by virtue of natural death and liberation seems to be the goal of these changes. In all cases, these Muslim countries may very well be moving away from the past leadership’s open mindedness to Jews and Christians. However bad the former dictators may have been, they did maintain some degree of tolerance for Christians and Jews.
Presently, we read about the persecution of Christians throughout the Middle East. Also he see a significant increase in anti-Jewish rhetoric, not only in Arab countries but also in Europe and among the “Occupy Wall Street” groups. What do we do?
Three things.
1 – Recognized the reality. We must not deceive ourselves that if we’re nice to everyone they will be nice to us. Some believe that Jews and Christians are the “Little Satan” and the “Great Satan.” They seek our destruction.
2 – Keep informed and inform your family and friends of what’s going on. Sadly, mainline news media sugarcoats the reality. Knowing the truth will keep us free.
3 – Pray. Seek God’s guidance in all things but especially in how He seeks to use you for His purposes during these trying times.
When I was ordained almost 40 years ago, the preacher charged me with these three things. “Call things by their proper names., “Preach against sin,” and, “Pray like a fool.” My three recommendations reflect his. Good advice as we continue to proclaim the Good News of our salvation in Jesus Christ.
Blessings,
Howard