A field worker who ministers to Syrian refugees reflects on valuing Christ above safety.
It’s something we value more than almost anything. We think we can control it, and we never want to jeopardize it.
Safety.
We’d like to believe that if we live in certain places, stay away from other places, associate with some people, but avoid others, we will be safe.
However, we cannot control it, nor can we predict when we will be safe and when we will not be safe.
Jesus never guarantees our safety. Quite the opposite, in fact.
Toward the end of His last supper conversation, Jesus tells His disciples, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Expect trouble in the world, Jesus tells us. Our peace of mind does not come from outward circumstances or events. Our peace comes from being in Him, the Prince of Peace who has overcome the world.
And our safety—it comes from trusting in the Lord, no matter what our circumstances or geography. “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe” (Proverbs 29:25).
Many of our faithful, praying supporters are concerned for our safety as we seek to minister to Syrian refugees in the Middle East. We are aware of the risks and we do not take matters of security lightly. With the good counsel of our team and our advisors, we are taking precautions.
But Jesus Christ has instructed each of us to take His message to the nations. It is not always easy, nor safe. But it is worth it.
In light of recent violent events in the Muslim world, we have a renewed confidence in our calling to bless Syrians and share with them the hope of Jesus Christ.
Syrian refugees, who now number over four million, are victims of horrific widespread devastation. Most of them are simply trying to survive another day. They are weak and oppressed, and many are orphans and widows.
Unlike us, they do not know the sure hope that Jesus is peace. They do not know the grace of salvation. Yet.
Consider how everything changes when Muslims believe the Gospel and the Lord transforms their hearts. God is doing that every day among Syrian refugees.
Jesus has overcome the world for them, too, and in the midst of tribulation, He is their peace.
**This account comes from a long-term worker.**
Original article: FrontiersUSA.org/blog/article/in-christ-comes-safety
