Recently I have been reading about my ancestors, John and Priscella Alden. After experiencing persecutions for their religious beliefs in England, they decided to sail on the Mayflower, crossing the ocean to find a place where they could worship freely. They fought hard for their beliefs and for their freedom. Are we as faithful as they were in fighting for our religious freedoms? Have we become complacent or do we take for granted the privileges given us in westernized countries; the ones many have fought and died to implement and protect?
Just this week an article was published about Christians in Pakistan. A suicide bomber, targeting Christians in Pakistan, killed over 70 people because of their beliefs. In the Middle East, there is a constant and very serious attacks on Christians, the worst it has ever been. One year ago in Egypt, 21 people were beheaded by ISIS for their Christian beliefs. While here in America, we aren’t experiencing the persecutions that other countries are, we have still seen a decline in religious affiliation.
According to Dr. James Emery White, “What is happening in America is an increasing hostility and intolerance toward Christian beliefs and values that many perceive to be an attack on religious freedom. In current American culture, you are free to be a Christian as long as you don’t actually live out your faith, vote your faith, take a stand in relation to your faith, or believe others should embrace your faith. In other words, it can be privately engaging, but must remain socially irrelevant.”
As a people, we need to stand up for our religious beliefs no matter our religion. We need to promote the better good, make the right decisions, be better people, serve others, and be an example. We need to trust God and believe in good things to come. Be active in your communities, attend town council meetings, sign petitions, and let your representatives know your beliefs, make sure that you vote for those that will uphold your religious freedoms. Let your voice be heard as you stand for your beliefs.
Also, show concern for other countries religious persecutions. Contact your State departments, Senators, or other government officials to press them for ways that your country can help.
Your voice can be heard, just speak up! Take a stand!