"Is this the day, the day I die?"

This story opens with “Is this the day, the day I die?”

What would you do if your home was taken from you, your spouse swept off to an unknown place - a prison, and you are left to rely on the support of others to live? What if they were sent to jail simply because they were a Christian? And what if situations like this actually existed in the world?

They do.

Such a situation is portrayed in Randy Alcorn’s book, Safely Home. Persecution is the focus as we see Quan smuggling in Bibles, meeting secretly in the middle of the night for worship services, and risking their very lives to worship Yesu. Ben is at first skeptical to Quan’s ways of worship but when tragic events unfold in their lives, Ben is affected personally, and their lives will never be the same.

In a day when books in the Christian market are all trying to point consumers to the “secret of prayer” or “steps to true intimacy with God,” Safely Home actually shows a portrait of Christians who have already attained intimacy with God through their hope despite persecution.  I found myself almost envious.

All throughout this book are conversations between the two friends that reveal a developing dialogue that any christian could use when witnessing to friends or neighbors.  In addition, the story includes a witnessing of these events by three members of the ‘cloud of witnesses‘ in heaven.  A great insight into a truth that we often neglect in our daily lives.

Memorable Moment:

The most profound moment of this book was a scene where Ben Fielding has bribed the jailors for a quick moment with Li Chuan.  Ben sees the scars from the numerous beatings Li Chuan has endured while in jail. He is amazed as Li Chuan smiles, displays a peaceful countenance and reports that he has lead several men in the prison to salvation through Yesu.

The two mean exchange how they have been praying for the other. Ben Fielding says he prays that his friend suffer no more persecution. Li Chuan says that he prays that Ben Fielding encounters more persecution because it would bring him closer to Yesu, Jesus Christ.

I wonder to myself as I pray for the persecuted church, if they are not in turn, praying for the persecution of the western church for the same reason.

Consider asking yourself the question “Is this the day, the day I die?”. Embrace the changes in your perspective that follow.

Below is a quick video of Randy Alcorn’s description of his work, Safely Home.  Truly this is a project the world should read.  All royalties will be donated to the persecuted church around the world.

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Randy Alcorn’s Blog

Eternal Perspective Ministries

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Vessel Project Rating - *****

(a book recommended to all for the message it reveals)