WILL JESUS-LOVERS BE OUTLAWS?

Once upon a time, a long, long time ago, there were some Christians who were hated.  The leaders of the community tried to arrest them, but couldn't keep them in jail.  Some way or another the Christians always escaped.  The same leaders desperately wanted them dead or gone or even to just "shut up."  But the Christians wouldn't; actually, they couldn't shut up. They had been instructed to spread their story throughout the world and they were determined to do so.  Everybody who was anybody had heard their story. Some believed it, and they, too, got in trouble.

Now, in the middle of all this turmoil there was a Pharisee leader who, being much admired, gave the council's leaders some rare advice.  Basically, he said, "If the new sect of Christians is only a
flash-in-the pan like so many others have been, it will soon disappear.  But if it is of God.....you better not be found fighting against God!"  The council agreed.

The small sect grew, the apostles increased and prospered, and the Pharisees remained very
frustrated.

Some day, I wonder, will we Christians become outlaws again?  There are two sides to this question.
One, will we ever be so strong again that other religions will fear us? Will we ever be so filled with the Holy Spirit that we cannot contain that fountain of faith that Jesus tells us has New Life for all who drink of it?  Are my neighbors,  friends, and family leaning in to better hear the Word of God come from my lips? I wonder.  I doubt that I would ever be jailed because of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.  I sincerely doubt that many even know that I am a Christian. Shame on me.

Now, the Revelation of John mentions a time of tribulation.  Perhaps, then, Christians may be out-lawed.  So, secondly, I can do little about this future time. God's perfect timing is known only by God. Additionally, I won't be here.  Others will have to deal with the problems of that time. I am supposed to be dealing with the problems of these times.  And it may be that I am the problem of this time.

So, what can I do?  Stop doubting that I can influence others.  Assume my love for Jesus is seen by all I meet.  Introduce friends, family, neighbors to Jesus in me.  Ask others how they see God.  Be careful not to be proud of myself, but give gratitude to others and to God. Pray before I go into a new group or situation that others will see God and invite me to tell them about Him.

God wants to be known!  He wants opportunity to reveal Himself!  Who am I to deny Him?

Lord God, Praise You for allowing us to be Out-lawed.  It seems we can grow the best when we are under subjugation.  Praise your Holy Name.  Guide us into and through any times ahead when we can bless your Name.

Amen and amen.  Jo