But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that
lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts
should have equal concern for each other. 1 Corinthians 12:24b-25
As members of the same family we have the responsibility to come to the aid
of another member who is suffering. The body of Christ is strong when each part
is closely knit together. When one part suffers, all the other members suffer
(1 Corinthians 12:20–27).
Members of the persecuted church who have been helped by others around the
world have made comments like those of young Salamat Masih in Pakistan. He was
charged with writing blasphemies against the Prophet Mohammed—even though he was
illiterate. He was on death row until finally exonerated. After receiving cards
from all over the world assuring him of prayers, Salamat said: “I never realized
that I had so many brothers and sisters around the world.”
A pastor who was attacked and hurt in Indonesia was so traumatized that he
and the family left the area and the ministry. Before we judge him, perhaps we
should ask if this pastor ever received enough encouragement and help from other
churches and believers. Could it be that he felt so alone because there were not
enough other people who cared for him?
Another believer from Hindu background in eastern Indonesia was led to the
Lord by a doctor who prayed for him regarding his incurable disease and God
healed him. He lost no time in joining a local church.
He said, “At that time, a lot of people accepted Jesus in my village, but
they were afraid of the threats from their families. When they convert, village
officials come to interrogate them. I, myself, have been interrogated many times
after my conversion, and warned me not to convert others. But I was not afraid.
I chose to keep my faith in Him no matter what happened.” He experienced severe
opposition and persecution from everyone he knew but he held fast to his faith.
Open Doors then connected him with a group of other believers from Hindu
background.
In November 2010, he and his family met a different kind of opposition that
tested their faith. Mount Bromo erupted, covering hundreds of hectares of
farmlands and plantations with volcanic ash. “Our livestock died, and we could
not work on the farm…People around me ask why I can still smile and be happy. I
just tell them that although I am poor and I face a lot of difficulties, I have
Jesus. He gives me joy in my heart…Being with other believers reminds me that I
am not alone. I am encouraged all the more to share the gospel with my
people.”
RESPONSE: Today I will remember that I am part of a large body…a family
that deeply cares for me.
PRAYER: Pray for isolated believers that God will show them the reality of
standing strong together.
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