The Hurt of a Handshake

I have learned that in the ministry you will suffer. In fact, you will face persecustion. As a pastor I have had people attack my character, question my intentinos, hold on to sacred cows of the faith that are based on man, and had people blatantly persecute me in hope to hurt me.

Some people hear about things like this and say this is why I don’t need church. Or they say these types of things should not happen in the church or if God is blessing us. However, this type of logic and thinkin are the furtherst thing from the truth.

Hear what Jesus had to say:"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness,because the kingdom of heaven is theirs. “Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and falsely say every kind of evil against you because of Me. Be glad and rejoice, because your reward is great in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matt 5:10-12 (HCSB)

I consider it an honor to be persecuted for Christ. The last time I looked at it I have not hung on a cross. No one has spat upon me or placed a crown of throns on my head. In fact, even when I have been persecuted in the minsitry God has always protected me. Yes, I was hurt deeply and I have even been physically threatened but in every sitation God protected me.

Recently at a funeral I came face to face with a women I had loved and ministered too with the love of God. I knew she had grown bitter with life and I knew that she had turned her hurt toward me and my ministry and left the church. However, I did not know the depth of her hurt or anger until I extended the right hand of fellowship. It was then that I got a piercing look and nose in the air as she turned and left. My only words were, "I love you no matter what."

That night I pondered what had happened. I even asked God why and how someone could hate me so much. His answer, "They hated me first."

I have learned that the scars that I bear in the ministry are nothing in comparision to my Lord’s and I realize now that it is an honor to be persecuted for righteousness! Does it hurt yes, but the pain makes us more like our Lord.

When you really think about it…those who persecute need God too! He loves them just the same. He wants them to turn back to Him and follow His ways.

So until then I will continue to stick out my hand in hopes that someday God can change the hearts of those who are an enemy of God back to Him and they will embrace the handshake with brotherly/sisterly love in Christ.

Thank God for blessing me with persecution!