
The very reason that makes Christianity beautiful is the same that makes it challenging. For example, love is central to Christianity: Love is something beautiful, yet Christian love is very challenging because it includes the “love for enemies and prayers for persecutors” (Matt.5:44). Another example is the nature of Christian faith. On the one hand it is that absolute assurance of God’s abiding presence and help for which no one can ever dispute (Is.50:7). On the other hand, this faith is tested in good works and in suffering. The Apostle James makes it clear that faith without good works cannot save. It is as good as dead (Jas.2:14-18). But what is even more challenging is that our faith is tested in persecution. But we have God as our helper at all times, and we know that all does not end here. This should be our consolation in the quest to use our faith in making the world a better place.
