I enjoy reading history. I enjoy finding perspective in the weaving of thought process and life actions of those who have gone before me. I don’t know what it would be like to have my life threatened for being a Christian. I don’t know what it would be like to see my family anguish over the potential of losing their father for the faith. I don’t know what it would be like to be comforted with the presence of the Holy Spirit while living under a death sentence.
However, I understand what it might be like better today after reading the following article: The Martyrdom of Saints Perpetua and Felicitas
As you read this article, what strikes you as most foreign to the way you think; the way you live life?
I was struck by the amazing dichotomy between wishing this level of passion and being grateful that I haven’t gone through this experience. Could it be that communion at this level is reserved for those being martyred for their faith? Could it be that seeking “life” in this world, robs us from touching eternity in our daily lives?
No words.
I have no words after reading that testimony. But I’m reminded of some other stirring words:
Braveheart
Jim Elliot
Dan, you are so right about “seeking ‘life’ in this world.” I’m reminded of the lyrics of Rich Mullins, lamenting the way the world would have us mistake this blink of an eye we call “life” for the abundance and glory of our true home.
To your question: What strikes me as most foreign?
It’s one thing to say you’re a Christian, knowing you will die for your testimony.
It’s another thing entirely to be savaged by beasts with a smile on your face for the glory set before you.
Once again we see that even noble talk is cheap. Left at the daring confession, the story is still worth telling… but even those mighty words of witness are feeble by comparison when you see God’s glory on display in the death of his redeemed.
We have one life to live, and one death to die: let them both be for God’s fame and glory.
Whoa. I imagine other “believers” offering the solution of just denying Christ, “What good are you if you are dead? God will still be glorified.”
Something that seems “foreign” to our christian culture is that this behavior would not be approved of by 104.7 The FISH – it is not safe for the whole family.
It makes me think of a Chris Rice song:
Amazing. I have nothing to add. I do have a question unrelated to this article though. I am looking for a really good book on church history. Could anyone recommend a good one? Thanks.
Here is a great resource for church history