The Calling of Christ
“Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” John 12:25. The Civil War might have been averted and a peaceful emancipation of slaves achieved had there been more people like Elijah Lovejoy.
After observing one lynching-
Lovejoy was committed forever to fighting the awful sin of slavery.
Time after time, mob action was brought against him.
But neither this nor many threats and attempts on his life deterred him.
Repeated destruction of his presses didn’t even stop him.
Repeated destruction of his presses didn’t even stop him.
He said, “If by compromise is meant that I should cease from my duty, I cannot make it. I fear God more that I fear man. Crush me if you will, but I shall die at my post.”
And he did… four days later at the hands of another mob.
And he did… four days later at the hands of another mob.
And not one member of the mob that killed him was prosecuted or indicted or punished in any way for this murder.
But one young man-
– was deeply moved by the Lovejoy martyrdom.
– was deeply moved by the Lovejoy martyrdom.
He had just been elected to the Illinois legislature.
His name was Abraham Lincoln.
As a Christian-
As a Christian-
– you have a calling that’s much greater than even your own life.
And while most today won’t experience martyrdom-
– the commitment should be the same.
So devote yourself to the calling of Christ above all others and you’ll be blessed forever!
Ask God to give you the strength to commit yourself to Him, no matter the cost!
Ask God to give you the strength to commit yourself to Him, no matter the cost!