Heartbreak and Hope

Revelation 6:9-11 When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. 10 They called out in a loud voice, “How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?” 11 Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and brothers who were to be killed as they had been was completed.
 
DID you know martyrdom is in God’s plan of salvation for the world? Martyrdom is not a random act perpetrated in chaos. Suffering and dying for Jesus is one way God demonstrates true faith and ultimate reward. Since Jesus’ death, God has used countless devoted Christians to spread the gospel and expand his Kingdom as they died faithfully confessing love and devotion for Jesus. Each year that passes records more martyrs than the year before. As the Kingdom expands, it will confront more evil eager to destroy its voices. Our hearts break as we grieve for the countless martyred brothers and sisters who loved Jesus more than themselves.
   But there is no reason for sorrow! This scripture reveals martyrs have a special place at Heaven’s altar. They each wear a white robe of purity to mark their faithful lives and deaths. Satan has raised a deadly army against the Living God and all who serve him. We count it as a loss to Jesus’ church on earth to know faithful hearts have been stilled. But then we see sure hope in the martyrs’ reward.
   Taking up martyrdom’s cross is ultimate sacrificial love and heart worship of Jesus. Martyrs reveal what it means to physically and spiritually give one’s life to the One who has given us Life. Martyrs stir our faith and hearts because they fully live the great commands to love God and love one another. And they even love their enemies. Matthew 5:44 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in Heaven. Children of the King follow the King even unto death.
   Understand this lesson in your heart and consider your response to threats against you for your faith. Examine yourself to ask, “Am I willing to suffer and die in my confession of Jesus, Lord and Savior?”  Will you rejoice if the opportunity occurs? Why wouldn’t you?  All martyrs will live in Heaven’s glory forever next to the King of glory.
 
Prayer: Praise the Lord God Almighty who is the joy of his creation. Amen.