Are you ready?

How does it feel living so close to a place where persecution is widespread? After countless reminders that "We are blessed to be Malaysians!" by pastors and leaders, I am thankful and greatful of that fact. Lately, the insurgence of the fanatical sect of the Muslims in Indonesia is causing panic, at least to those who are aware of it. The beheading of Christian schoolgirls in Sulawesi mark the beginning of many more such acts. Years ago, it was in this same place that about 1000 people have succumb to the violence between Christians and Muslims. Will such an event reoccur? or something far greater? I don't know.

Somehow, I feel that Malaysian Christians would be facing some degree of persecution. I don't know when, but I think soon. I'm not trying to put fear into people's life or create havoc of any sorts. But we should face the fact that the yesterday's season has changed. Today is different season, we are facing a world that is changing so ever quickly. More people are hearing the gospel. In Malaysia, at least as far as I know, Muslims are more openly exposed to the Good News that has never changed over 2000 years. I hope we don't ever have to preach a diluted gospel. Our church have seen Pakistani, Iranian and lots of mainland Chinese touched in one way or another. Pastors are talking about Malays who are willing to travel more than 200km for a prayer of healing. They are starting to believe The Almighty God who has sacrificed so much to reconcile with us. I hear from very reliable sources that prominent Malays are now following the Lord. How awesome...

I've shared in my cell group about being salt and light of the world. As followers of Christ, not merely having our name tags spell Christian, we are commanded to be salt and light by Jesus (Matt 5:13-16). Salt when rubbed into wounds would cause discomfort and irritation. As salt, we are to remain salty, if not we are no use-the Bible says trampled under the foot. We must remain salty so that the gospel continues to be relevant and effectively preached. Becoming light we reflect God's light to expose darkness. Doing good and suffer patiently is commendable to God. No matter what, the body of Christ should be prepared to face the very worst. After all becoming a Christian means we are tested all the time whether our faith is genuine or otherwise. Are you ready?