April 3rd - Reading 1: Psalm 1-5

“The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against His anointed, saying, ‘Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.’” (Psalm 2:2-3) NIV

When we look around, we often wonder “Why can’t we all just get along?” Why is there such division, anger and hatred among nations, in communities, even in families? In particular, why is there persecution and martyrdom? Why will some people kill others simply because of their beliefs?

Psalm 2 explains it. Christians choose to live by God’s moral standard as outlined in His Holy Word. We seek to please Him because He gave His life to redeem us. But unbelievers see God’s moral standard as simply constraints designed to spoil their fun. They think no one and nothing should get in the way of their pleasure. The goal of their rebellious, “enlightened” spirits is to break free from God’s “chains” and throw off His “shackles.” This often includes punishing or eliminating those who stand up to their rebellion against God, who dare to call their rebellion “sin.”

Such was the case of the young minister martyred in Africa for his faith many years ago. In reading his declaration that accompanies this devotional, you can feel his determination, his will to stand firm in his faith. This infuriated his opponents all the more, to the point of killing him. But he knew that, no matter what they did, his past was redeemed; his future secure. He had nothing to fear, not even death.

As we intercede for each other and our nation, may we be encouraged by his words as they ring through the years. No matter what may come, may we boldly declare “I am a disciple of Jesus Christ!” With Paul, may we firmly say, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).

And when He comes to claim His own, may He have no trouble recognizing us. May our colors fly high for all to see that we, too, are disciples of Jesus Christ!

Continue to read the martyr’s declaration:

I AM A DISCIPLE

The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made.

I am a disciple of Jesus Christ!

I will not look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.

I no longer need pre-eminence, prosperity, position, promotions, praises, or popularity.

I do not need to be right, first, tops, recognized, regarded, or rewarded.

I now live by faith, love by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power.

My pace is set. My gait is fast. My goal is heaven. My road is narrow. My way is rough. My companions are few. My Guide is reliable. My mission is clear.

I cannot be bought, compromised, deterred, lured away, turned back, diluted, or delayed.

I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of adversity, negotiate at the table of the enemy, pander at the pool of popularity, nor meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I will not give up, back up, let up, or shut up until I have prayed up, preached up, stored up and stayed up for the cause of Christ.

I AM A DISCIPLE OF JESUS CHRIST!

I must go until He returns, give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He stops me.

And when He comes to get His own, He will have no trouble recognizing me. My colors are flying high, and they are clear for all to see.

I AM A DISCIPLE OF JESUS CHRIST!