"Be happy when you share in Christ's sufferings," 1 Peter 4:13.
Why in the world!? Well, certainly not because of pain in itself! Suffering does not produce joy. No. (We don't get stupid about that.) Joy comes in anticipation of a future overwhelming joy when we see Christ shine in the sky! The kingdom of this world is not the whole story. Its stars will fall hard. Suffering persecution means to share in Jesus' cross. To join with Jesus' own selfless troubles serving lost human beings. To participate with Jesus making the good confession that he is Messiah. With Jesus, we despise the cross' shame, you bet! But the passion will pass, joy's coming. Sky kingdom breaks out right smack dab in the midst of this world. Rejoice!
We confess with a brother or sister today that Jesus is Lord - whatever the cost. We believe that the kingdoms of this world indeed become the kingdom of our God and of his Christ! Together we hitch our wagon to his star. We give thanks. Blessed!
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