Religious persecution in N. America?

Matthew 5:10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven.

It isn’t often in our daily lives that we encounter those persecuted because they are a Christian, much less have the opportunity to offer them assistance. Sometimes we think, "well, that kind of thing USED to happen a lot ....or.....that kind of thing still happens in places like Nepal or Iraq, but not in this part of the world." Well, think again....

Last July we met Rodolfo Lopez Velazco from a small village in the Chiapas mountains. He and his family recently accepted Christ and began holding Christian services in their home. They soon had three other families worshipping with them. Openly witnessing in their community upset the village elders who twice forced the Christian families to leave the village. In July, Rodolfo’s house was dismantled - board by board - and taken away to prevent him from conducting church services.

Attorneys for the Maya Synod and the Central Tzeltal Presbytery have tried to intervene with local officials on their behalf. Last month Roldolfo went to Tuxtla Gutierrez, the state capital, to meet with cabinet level government officials in an attempt to resolve the issue with his community. Instead of meeting with the officials, he was put in jail for four days on trumped up charges. Today Rodolfo is in Pablo’s office pleading for financial assistance for a trip to Mexico City. He has an appointment with the Department of Religious Affairs but lacked the $100 for bus fare to the city, which we gladly offered.

Rodolfo’s home has been destroyed; he has been ostracized and thrown in jail because he refuses to stop spreading the Good News! I am humbled by his inner strength and faith as he prays for his fellow villagers to understand the message of love and grace offered by Jesus. In him, we witness the living Gospel!

Matthew 5:43-44 You have heard that it was said, “love your neighbor and hate your enemy.” But I tell you, love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you.

Please pray for Rodolfo to remain strong in his faith, that he receive justice in the legal system, and that those who persecute him may come to see.