Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10 NIV
Anytime we do anything worth doing, we will face opposition. Newton's third law of motion comes into play, "For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction." We can look at Fredrick Douglas, Rosa Parks, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as examples of societal reactions to their actions. However, sadly, we have been conditioned to go along to get along. Rather than face the fear that comes in action, we have been lulled into the false peace of complacency.
This story is nothing new; it started after the fall in the Garden of Eden. Christ came amid the mess of injustice, bringing a message of liberation for all people. His ministry offered peace through action, not inactivity. We know how that went; his message was so unpopular the religious leadership had him crucified.
On a Mount, on a day long ago, Jesus offered the words that encourage us to take action. Yes, we will face opposition by any group that feels threatened. They will come after us with a vengeance because Satan can't stand the idea of freedom, justice, and righteousness. But, Jesus also told us we are blessed because we are being obedient to God, and one day we will be reunited with him in his perfect kingdom of heaven.
God, we thank you for the promise of your heavenly kingdom. We ask you today for the courage to stand for what is right. Remove within us our satisfaction with things as they are and replace it with the desire for justice for all people. Please help us be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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