“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of
religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of
speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and
to petition the government for a redress of grievances”
The first amendment gives Americans the right to practice
our religion without fear of persecution, whatever that religion maybe. It’s a privilege
we have been blessed to have for many years, but it is also a privilege that is
slowly being eaten away.
There are rumors of serious punishments being imposed on
members of the armed forces who openly share their faith, and of lawsuits being
filed against ministers who refuse to “marry” gay couples. The ACLU calls out
schools for having prayers at graduations, and God’s name is stricken from every
public place.
Should this strike fear in the hearts of Christians? Some say,
“yes!” I beg to differ. Does it sadden
me that my privilege of religious freedom is being taken away piece by little
piece? Yes, of course. But it doesn’t disgust me. It doesn’t terrify me. If
anything, I am encouraged. If anything, my heart is strengthened. I am not
afraid because I know that for those who have stood firm, there is a reward
waiting for them in Heaven. (Matt 5:10-12)
I am encouraged to get ready because my time to stand up for
Christ will come. When that time comes, I pray that I will be able to be glad
to be counted worthy to suffer as Christ like the apostles were when they were
put on trial before the Sanhedrin. The rumors I hear are upsetting, but I pray God
grants me and every Christian Brother the courage not to cave into any pressure
that would compromise the expression of our faith, no matter what the
consequences may be.
“But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before
my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:33
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