Have you noticed the many protests lately? Does it irritate
you when people openly mock our faith? Some late-night comedians and Hollywood
icons make sport of the gospel. Individuals from certain causes make lewd
remarks about our Savior.
The knee jerk
reaction is to mock back with an equally witty response. Instead, could we
simply pray for them? Remember Jesus’ response on the cross toward the
mockers? He said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know
what they are doing.” (Luke
23:34)
We could pray for
the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts to find salvation in Christ. Think of
Saul of Tarsus. He began as one who mocked and persecuted Christians. Later, he
became the Apostle Paul. With our prayers, could today’s mocker become tomorrow’s
Billy Graham? By praying for those who mock us, we avoid the sin of bitterness
in our hearts. We also demonstrate God’s sovereignty and power are not damaged
or weakened by open hostility.
