In Memory of God's Children

The following poem reached us today, written in Egypt by Christian workers, and translated into German (from Arabic?). We've tried to convey the sense of it in English. May the families of these Coptic Christians slaughtered by ISIS fanatics know the Presence and Comfort of Jesus.

Two groups of humanity moving forward this day,

Tears of the world flow in dismay.

A row of murderers who think themselves right,

The others, secure children of light.

A row of sharp blades gleaming, raised high;

A group of captives, vulnerable, tired.

A row of cowards with faces masked;

The others exposed, with eyes upward raised.

A row in command, their hands slinging out death—

God’s martyrs on knees with hearts in heaven.

A row slurring hateful, condemning accusations,

God’s children at rest in joyful anticipation.

One question which hangs in the air—

Which group is it that really knows fear?

The weak, prisoners in orange, home forever soon,

Or those parading in black, minds shrouded in gloom?

To all our brothers and sisters in the Muslim world this day, may God richly bless your testimony and give your strength and freedom from any form of fear.

'If you should suffer for righteousness sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled . . . so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.' (1 Peter 3:14,16)