Ok, I thought I was done but then went and read James' blog and just had to pass on some of his brilliance.

I am in the midst of a captivating chapter on the pilgrims. These were men and women wholly given to God. An earlier chapter spoke of the priests who accompanied the Spanish conquistadors into Central America. It contrasted the cruel, gold-crazed, bloodthirsty conquistadors with the priests who devoted their lives to serve and assist the Indians.

These lives serve as examples of true dedication. My efforts pale in contrast. I do not know hardship. I have not felt persecution. When others slander Christians for Christ-like behavior, we act as though it shouldn't be so. Are we greater than Jesus, that He should endure scorn and we should shun it? Why are we so afraid to suffer for God? Our pastor just got back from the US, where he attended his younger brother's funeral. He preached this Sunday on how death is not defeat, but victory. So why do we find Christians who fear death and tremble when it draws near? If we will devote our entire being into Jesus' hands, we can laugh at death, praise God when we are mocked, and literally be undefeatable.

The battle is over, ladies and gentlemen. The war is won. Apparently some don't know it, and are afraid to let the enemy know whose side they're on lest they become a target. And it will come. Anyone all-out for God is going to get troubles piled on hot and heavy. But it won't be too much, especially with the knowledge that we're already on the winning side. Praise God! And may we be considered worthy to bear reproach for His name.