Christmas Around the World

Photo by: Jeff Weese

With Christmas coming up, it is easy to get lost in the busyness of life. I enjoy seeing the colorful Christmas lights that sparkle as you drive home during the night. It's fun to observe how different people celebrate the holidays. But one thing we often miss is that there are others in the world who are not celebrating. Others who are missing family members. Others who are running for their lives.

In Iraq alone, around 1.3 million Christians have been displaced, murdered, or imprisoned since 2003. They face ISIS--a terrorist group that doesn't hesitate to kill Christians or anyone else they disagree with. Christians are running for their lives. They are forced to leave their homes because if they don't, they will be killed. Men, women, and children are losing their lives and becoming enslaved. This is not only in Iraq but in several countries around the world. They are people just like us--Christians who are standing up for what they believe. They are willing to stand up for Christ, even if it brings persecution.

This Christmas we can make a difference. We can help our brothers and sisters in other countries. Through the Be Heard Project, you can sign a petition to stand with the persecuted Church. The petition will be brought before Congress, demanding that America does something to protect Christians in other countries.

Will these Christians be able to celebrate Christmas next year with their families? Maybe they can...but only if we make a difference.