On Friday, the last day of orientation, I signed a form to be buried in the case that I die in a remote area while trying to take the Gospel of Jesus Christ to peoples that have never heard. Over the weekend I have been processing this moment. It was not an easy document to sign. Not because I care so much about being buried in a foreign country, but because I may be put in a situation where I must decide to deny Jesus and live, or Proclaim Christ and die (or worse be tortured). Not to mention the pain that this would cause my family and friends. Of course today I decide YES absolutely I will always proclaim the name of Christ Jesus. However, I am sobered by the reminder of Peters denial of Christ. Peter, of the original 12 disciples, walked with Jesus daily for 3 years. Yet Peter denies he is a follower of Jesus 3 times in the same night. I recognize the need to begin praying for courage and strength to endure
whatever may come while always proclaiming Christ our risen Lord.
Today as I took communion staring at the bread that was torn and the crimson drink it connected with my heart in a new way. Christ suffered as His body and flesh were torn at the crucifixion. His blood poured from His open wounds. Having signed a burial form two days before I realize what a privilege and honor it would be if God choose to use me as a literal representation of what Christ has done for us who believe.
Now, I say these things not wanting to die. I truly do want to live for Christ, and share His name with the nations for a long time. However, should He choose differently, if given the choice I begin praying now that I may also have the courage to suffer and die for the glory of Christ because He has already died for me.
Philippians 1:20 As it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.
