It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.
Philippians 1:7 NIV
Held In the Heart
The Canadian national anthem, “O Canada,” with its enchanting melody and inspiring lyrics, has become a cherished symbol of unity and pride for Canadians since its inception. Its journey dates back to the late 19th century, when it was first composed in 1880 by Calixa Lavallée, a talented musician, and Adolphe-Basile Routhier, a poet. Initially penned in French as “Chant national,” the anthem soon captured the nation’s heart, spreading its wings across linguistic and cultural boundaries. Our national anthem is held in the heart of all Canadians.
***
Over the past twenty years, I have had the profound privilege of often visiting believers around the world who have been, or are, suffering for their faith. Many states in the most populous country of the world have anti-conversion laws, putting at risk any Christian who shares Jesus with their non-Christian neighbour or family member. One of my friends has been in prison for over two years. When you can put a face to those suffering for their faith in Jesus, praying for the persecuted takes on a much deeper meaning. When Paul writes the Christians in Philippi who he knows are praying for him, he is in prison, probably in Caesarea Maritima at the time. He expresses his love and gratitude to them in Philippians 1:7, and says, “It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me.” We need to pray for the many who today are imprisoned for their faith in Jesus. One day, they will thank you for those prayers.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley