December 18th

Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow
prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you
yourselves were suffering. Hebrews 13:3

We do not like to remember the people in prison because of the pain and the isolation that are experienced there. Nobody likes suffering and pain as it can bring fear and anxiety into our lives. We like to disassociate these negative experiences in others’ lives and pretend they will not happen to us. When we recognize the suffering of others around the world, it is easier to confront that suffering someday could be happening to us.

God has raised up organizations, like Voice of the Martyrs, to raise our awareness of the suffering of fellow believers and give us specific ways to pray for them. They also have ways that we can physically respond to those who are suffering for the sake of Christ and the gospel. Only with the mind of Christ can we identify with their suffering and pain. When we do this, we share in the heart and love of Jesus. This gives us the love, compassion and power to help change the world for the Kingdom of God.