Speaking Out Against Christian Persecution Worldwide

While many in the media and the public are focused on dumb statements and practices by politicians, I wonder how many followers of Jesus are aware of the increasing persecution of believers throughout the world? From reported beheadings and even crucifixions in Muslim countries, Christians and the church are under attack.

In Pakistan, a young Christian girl has been arrested on charges of violating the country’s blasphemy law. The girl, Rimsha Masih, and her mother were jailed after it was alleged they burned pages of a textbook used to teach the Koran to children. This takes blasphemy to a new level. They weren’t jailed for burning the Koran, but a textbook about the Koran. Was that “revealed” writ, too?

Human rights groups are predictably outraged, but where are the voices of the Christian church? Why are our people not demonstrating outside the Pakistani Embassy in Washington and raising support for the girl and her mother? Is the U.S. government applying pressure on Pakistan, our supposed ally in the war on terror?

Jesus said we would be persecuted if we followed Him. The least we can do for these two is pray for God -- the real God -- to be glorified. And a little protest wouldn’t hurt either.

I’m Cal Thomas in Washington.

Publication date: August 22, 2012