Mocked

And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him.                                                       Mark 15.20

The soldiers mocked Jesus. The soldiers were representatives of the civil authorities, the ruling Roman overlords. The soldiers mocked Him, and then led Him to crucifixion. The crowds turned nasty against Him exulting in His demise. Only a small number remained loyal.

As I reflect on these observations of the times when Christ lived and died on this earth, I am flooded with comparison to present times. Society today is caught up in, and most certainly captive to, political correctness. And Christ is being mocked and crucified! We are told it is “inappropriate” to demonstrate overt Christian faith as this could be offensive to the delicate sensitivities of others. Yet scant regard is paid to the sensitivities of Christians. The name of our precious Lord Jesus Christ has been reduced by so many to nothing more than a blasphemous cry and, when challenged, these many perpetrators would likely laugh it off.

Yet, as in those earlier times, there are some who remain faithful. In many parts of the world these faithful are being mercilessly persecuted, tortured and even killed. Some likely recant their faith, but many serve in courageous witness.

My prayer for us all is: God help us!

Lord God, Mighty and Loving One,

I cry out for the state of the world today. I pray for those who abuse You and persecute Your people. Have mercy on them, Lord. Turn them around and draw them to You.

I pray for those who valiantly maintain and seek to live out the faith. Protect and empower these precious saints. Strengthen them, Lord, that they may surely overcome the enemy by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.

I ask You to move mightily in the world You love, in Jesus’ name.                Amen.