Being a Christian today often results in argument, shaming and ostracism.  No longer fashionable to align ourselves with biblical teachings.  Accusations of bigotry, closed-mindedness are hurled like rotten apples at a moving target.   Even in our families or among our friends, we can feel the coldness of rejection.  I’m sure you know what I mean.

Times have changed.  People are different than they used to be.  It’s not because I’m getting older that I feel this way.  Times have changed and people are different.  Being a Christian is no longer like wearing a flower in your lapel,  for opposition will be in our faces.  I guarantee it.

However, we must remember what Solomon said thousands of years ago, that ‘there is nothing new under the sun'(Ecclesiastes 1:9). Times have always been tough for God’s people.   Our reading today is from the Prophet Ezekiel, from about 2600 years ago.  The people of God have been rebellious and ungrateful, forsaking Him for other gods.  Promise-breakers and unfaithful.  Only judgement awaits them.  A judgement of their own making.  God’s fed up with them and says in chapter 14:14 that even if Noah, Daniel and Job were among those in Ezekiel’s time, that even with these heroes of the faith present,  God would not forgive and forget except that the lives of those faithful three would most certainly be spared.

Noah, Daniel and Job– godly men who stood alone against mockers, pagan idolaters, greedy politicians, friends and family who were more hurtful than helpful.  They stood with God and what He had told them.   So must we.

No matter what, we’ve crossed over the line and now there’s no turning back.  We’re followers of the Master.  Even if it means standing alone.  But, wait a minute.  Alone?  Are you sure?  For we’re in good company!  Noah, Daniel and Job.  With the heavenly host and guardian angels around us.  With Jesus who promised to be with us no matter what, where or when (Matthew 28:20).  Jesus.  The Holy Spirit fills us with the presence of God Himself, making those of us who believe in Jesus the very Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19).  Then there’s also the ‘cloud of witnesses’ who are in heaven.  Saints who have gone before us to the throne of God…cheering us on (Hebrews 12:1).

Jesus (Hebrews 7:25) and the Holy Spirit (Romans 8: 26-27) are praying and interceding with the Father for each of God’s children.  That’s you and me!  Alone?  I better rethink that.  Not sure how there’s room to even stand up in the presence of all that help–pretty good company, huh?  Don’t be afraid to stand tall for our Lord!  We’re never alone!

Prayer:  Our Lord, for all the strength you give us, thank you.  We stand with You, now and forever.  Amen.