Indestructible

The more ye mow us down, the more we grow. The blood of Christians is the seed of the church.
- Tertullian, Church Father, to the Romans

Early Christians faced persecution and even death for their following Christ. The result? The Church actually grew! Tertullian boasted to the Romans in the above quote that their efforts to end the Christian movement actually extended it.
I remember attending an underground church in Cuba several years ago and watching the congregation clap by waiving their hands and fingers to keep the sound down to not attract attention. These Christians were true disciples and willing to face the Biblically-promised trial and tribulation to worship Christ.
This is lost on most people today, especially in America, where we face few of the challenges that are faced by Christians around the world. Some of them even follow Christ knowing their public profession will result in their physical death! Despite the fact that I do not face such severe measures, there are some times I face people looking down at me for my faith and when some view me as not having a real or legitimate job in my role as a missionary with FCA and this can cause hurt and doubt. Whatever form of persecution or opposition I face, I must also be focused on Christ and not be swayed by the opinions or actions of others.
"Lord, give me courage to serve you. May any resistance or persecution I face actually spur me on to a greater passion for you and service of you. May you make my heart aflame for you. In Jesus' Name, Amen."