Yet, in the pre-Christmas period, while many of us prepare for festivities, millions of Christians across the globe, especially in regions like Africa, are facing persecution, homelessness, violence, and even martyrdom.
This disturbing reality raises a sobering question: How is it that 2,025 years after Jesus was born, lived, and died for us, His followers continue to suffer so deeply for their faith?
A Disturbing Continuation of History
Persecution of Christians is not a new phenomenon. Jesus Himself warned His disciples that they would face trials for following Him: "If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you" (John 15:20). Yet, one might have hoped that after two millennia, the world would have progressed beyond the brutal intolerance that marks the treatment of Christians in some parts of the world today.
The plight of Christians in Africa is particularly heart-wrenching. From Nigeria to the Central African Republic, countless Christians have faced unimaginable violence. Islamist extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-affiliated factions have carried out barbaric attacks, specifically targeting Christian communities. Churches have been burned, villages destroyed, and believers abducted or killed—sometimes in front of their families.
What makes this even more tragic is the relatively muted response from the international community. In an age where human rights are often championed, the silence surrounding the martyrdom of Christians in many African nations is deafening.
Why Does This Continue?
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But underlying these factors is the simple reality that darkness often rebels against light. The Gospel of Christ challenges oppressive systems, and in return, many in power, whether political or religious, lash out against those who live out the teachings of Jesus.
However, it's not just an African issue. From North Korea to the Middle East, and even in countries where Christianity once flourished, believers are still being marginalised, imprisoned, murdered or executed for their faith. The persecution of Christians is a global crisis that deserves our attention and action.
What Can We Do?
As Christians, it’s not enough to simply acknowledge this dreadful state of affairs. We must actively work to support our brothers and sisters who are suffering for their faith. So, what can we do?
Pray Unceasingly: The Bible tells us that "the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective" (James 5:16). Pray for those who are being persecuted, for their strength, protection, and courage. Pray also for their persecutors, that their hearts may be transformed by the love of Christ.
Raise Awareness: One of the most significant challenges in addressing persecution is the lack of widespread awareness. Many people, even within the Church, are unaware of the scale of Christian persecution worldwide. Share stories, educate your community, and bring attention to the suffering of persecuted Christians.
Advocate for Change: Use your voice to call for justice. Write to your government representatives, urging them to take action and provide aid to persecuted Christian communities. International pressure can make a difference, and our leaders need to hear that this issue matters to their constituents.
Support Charities and Organisations: Many Christian organisations, such as Open Doors, Release International, and Aid to the Church in Need, are working tirelessly to provide aid, advocacy, and support to persecuted Christians around the world. Consider donating to or volunteering with such groups to ensure those in need are not forgotten.
Encourage Solidarity: As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, let us not forget the global body of Christ. Encourage solidarity within your church, fostering a spirit of unity and concern for Christians in peril. Share their stories in sermons, Bible studies, and prayer groups. The Church is one body, and when one part suffers, all suffer with it (1 Corinthians 12:26).
Hope in the Midst of Darkness
Though the persecution of Christians remains a grim reality, we must hold on to hope. Jesus Himself promised, "In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). The Church has withstood centuries of persecution, and though the suffering is immense, the power of Christ’s resurrection gives us the assurance that evil will not prevail.
As we enter this pre-Christmas season, let us remember not only the manger but also the cross and the sacrifice Jesus made for all of humanity. And let us not rest while His followers continue to suffer for the same faith that we are free to celebrate. Their plight calls us to action, and as followers of Christ, it is our duty to respond.
This Christmas, let us resolve to stand in solidarity with our persecuted brothers and sisters, ensuring that their voices are heard, their suffering is acknowledged, and their faith is honoured. Together, we can be a light in the darkness, carrying forward the hope of Christ in a world that so desperately needs it.
To learn more about what you can do please visit these resources:-
https://releaseinternational.org
https://www.ofnc.org.uk/who-we-are
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