Mark Devotionals
[Please read and meditate on the passage before (or after) reading the devotion.]
This is a passage that is either bypassed or explained away as something in the future that will not affect God’s people. But please pause at this reading. Understand that even now there are some places in the world that Christ-followers experience the catastrophic events and persecution that are mentioned. Go to www.persecution.com or www.opendoorsusa.org/christian-persecution and you will read how real what Jesus said is happening even now. But Jesus also promises that he will come back to rescue those that are suffering for his name. It may not be immediate. And it may come after an anti-Jesus sentiment has risen to very high levels; but he will return. The question is whether adverse circumstances, unpopularity because of belief in Jesus, or danger will shake our faith, and our faithfulness to God’s Kingdom. How do we respond now?
Prayer: Forgive me Lord, when I grumble about little discomforts and when I don’t get my way. The truth is that I enjoy a freedom to know you and worship you that I rarely take full advantage of. Help me to understand that there are sisters and brothers around the world that have given their lives to you, Jesus, and are paying a bitter price for it. I know that only you can and have given them the power to remain faithful, and therefore I pray that you will do so. Give me a desire to want your Kingdom to grow beginning at where I live – even if it costs me. I look forward to your return, Lord Jesus, but not before many in the world come to a saving knowledge of you. Amen.
