The New Testament speaks about being persecuted for the name of Christ as a blessing, something that's hard to understand for many American Christians. But after they had been imprisoned and harassed by the religious leaders, the Apostles departed, "rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name" (Acts 5:41).

There’s a path not far from my house that winds through nearly eleven miles of the city. The pathway runs beside the Caney River and courses through the woods, and connects a number of the city’s public parks. After sunset, many parts of the trail become incredibly dark. Only distant street lights and nearby businesses light up the surrounding area.

I have to tell you that I just got done finishing listening to last Friday's Persecution Podcast and I really want to encourage you to take the time to listen to it. After you hear this past weeks prayer requests, which you can still pray for, you're going to be challenged as the VOM speaker discusses an influential person in his life named John and tells a story about Don, and 80 year old trumpet player.