Hey Guys! Have you ever really wondered what it would be like to really put it all on the line? Your faith, your family, your life? I read a story the other day about a Pastor from England who is doing just that here in Iraq.
Pastor Andrew White arrived in Baghdad, Iraq in 2003 which you may recall was the year of our invasion of Baghdad. Pastor White left his family, a wife and two sons, back in England believing God had called him to this place to witness to the few Christians that are here during a time of war. Having no regard for his own safety he answered the call. Wow! I often wonder do I have the faith, the real and tested faith, to follow the call no matter where it leads.
The population in Baghdad is measured in the millions, Christians in the hundreds. They are not, or have not been, welcome here. They have faced real persecution and yet this Brittish Pastor followed a call here where the claim of being a Christian can mean death. In fact, all of his assistants have been either kidnapped or killed or both. Despite the constant threat of danger Pastor White maintains a quick sense of humor. He can only do this with faith in the God who is Love and promises us that perfect love drives out fear.
Understandably it is difficult for Pastor White to hire staff. He says he likes to tell potential employees that "the benefits of this job are out of this world". They are certainly not in this world.
I pray we all come to a faith that will withstand the toughest challenges we may face, knowing that our God is the one who is alive in us and will never leave us or forsake us.
Examine today the challenges that are making it difficult for you to live a life of faith and then give it all to God and begin a new day. The Son will shine on your tomorrow.
