Nigeria

I created a Facebook post that directs you to a report from VOMCanada.com (read the report here), highlighting the dire situation that our brothers and sisters in Nigeria are facing. Please consider the following.

I would like to point out that we need to pray for Nigerians, as well as other people that are suffering, whether for their faith or simply because they exist, Christian or not.

I also posted the report because I wanted to offer accurate and current information. Much of what's traveling around "Facebook World" is outdated, which could give the impression that it's no longer a problem; it was only a problem "back then." If the circulated reports are current, they're often not entirely accurate.

There's another factor that deeply concerns me, brothers and sisters. Considering the fact that it's been an ongoing problem for a long time, why is it such a popular topic on Christians' Facebook walls right now? Is it because the media covered Muslims as much as they did? Is that offensive? As my husband aptly pointed out, persecution is not a contest. Nobody wins. It is heart-wrenching, whether it's Muslims in Christchurch or Christians in Chibok. (Remember the Chibok girls? The media covered them. Please tell me you didn't forget them.)

Pointing the finger at "the media" (a sweeping generalization) only serves to relinquish us of our responsibility. If we identify as followers of Jesus, it is our responsibility to be the voice of our suffering family. If news sources join in, that's great. If not, it doesn't negate Hebrews 13:3; "Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body." If you're devoted to Christians' suffering beyond clicking "Share" on a post that invokes temporary emotions, I ask that you consider doing something constructive. Here are some options.

• Volunteer with The Voice of the Martyrs - visit VOMCanada.com/Volunteer
• Advocate - Write the media or write government officials. Please take time to read the recommended guidelines. 
• Educate yourself. There's a whole lot of drivel out there. Be sure that what you're posting is the truth.
• Be kind. I encourage you to ensure that what you're posting is respectful, Christlike and helpful.  

I love you, my family. Please be wise.