Day 51: Acts 21-23

"For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." Acts 21:13b

*deep sigh*

I don't have anything to write on this topic. I haven't faced death for the name of Jesus. Nor have I ever had the threat. So I can't really spend much time on what it is like.

But what I can do is ponder. What would it be like to be face death for Jesus? What would I do? What would I say?

Part of me wants to believe I would face it with boldness and confidence, with joy and honor to be counted worthy enough to suffer for my Lord - much like Paul.

Another part of me fears that I would cower and run like Peter just before Jesus was crucified. Would I beg for my life? Would I hang my head in shame and denounce the One who died for me? Would I look at all this world has to offer and count it more precious than Jesus?

I have good friends in India who are praying for us American Christians. They pray that persecution will come to America so Christianity will become stronger and Jesus will be glorified more. It is a staggering thought, but Jesus did say the persecuted are the blessed ones (Matt 5:10-12).

By the power of the Holy Spirit I think there is hope for me if this day ever comes.

“Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God. But he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God. And anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but to him who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven. Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” Luke 12:8-12