Our scripture this morning is Matthew 5:10-12.
God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.
This passage from the Beatitudes reminds us that the world is not always open to the message God sends through us. There was resistance when Jesus came to be with us and that resistance continues today. However, we know God is with us through the obstacles and opposition we face.
Jesus says that when we are “persecuted for doing right” we are following Him and the lessons we have learned. Standing for what is right is never easy, it requires us to hold firm to our faith even when we know there will be retribution. There are still places that physical punishment and even death are in store for Christians.
While most of us don’t risk death for our faith, Jesus also told us “God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers.” This happens daily, and we must remember that evil only needs to distract or silence us to win. Through His love we can persevere and continue to share the Gospel with everyone.
Loving Lord, bless and strengthen us when we are timid in our discipleship. Remind us that we are Yours and You are with us. Amen.
