"We are destined to suffer." These are the words of a Bangladeshi farmer following the devastating cyclone that ripped through the coastal area of Bangladesh recently. As you may have heard, more than one thousand people died in this tragedy! Apparently, cyclones and other destructive weather elements are not uncommon to that area. So almost on a yearly basis terrible weather wreaks havoc on the poor folks of coastal Bangladesh. Our hears and prayers embrace this suffering community, and we long for that time when suffering will be no more. Whereas there are choices that some people can make in order to avoid some kinds of suffering, Christians on the other hand are people who have been called out by God to suffer for Him! Christians will suffer for their belief and actions in following God's will. Our Lord Jesus repeatedly stated that we will suffer as His followers. The author, James, even encouraged us to be joyful when we suffer for Christ! IN First Peter we learned: 3:13 And who [is] he that will harm you, if you are followers of that which is good? 3:14 But and if you suffer for righteousness' sake, be happy and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and [be] ready always to [give] an answer to every man that asks you for a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: 3:16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. 3:17 For [it is] better, if the will of God be so, that you suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. This is the manner in which we regardless who are not from within the Christian community. How much more shouldn't we be united with those of the Faith! I am not a proponent of "radical Christianity" (whatever that means) but we must be willing to serve God, and each other regardless of the cost. So, let's continue to think about what matters most to us, to God! Keep your eyes in His Word simultaneously looking for His appearing. Thank you for giving my family such a wonderful "Going Away" party! It was indeed humbling to see so many of you that Sunday night as you continued to share your lives with us. Thank you for the words of encouragement, the cards, the gifts, and especially the prayers. Thank you, Pastor Shook, for the support, love, and encouragement over the past two years. I will greatly miss each student and staff volunteer. We love each of you. With Great Memories of You, Pastor Anto n |
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