“God’s dream is that you and I and all of us will realize that we are family, that we are made for togetherness, for goodness, and for compassion.” – Desmond Tutu

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Listen to my song “Mercy Reigns” on YouTube by clicking HERE.

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Luke 21:16-19

“You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

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Jesus assured his followers that they would be persecuted.

Why?

Because following Jesus requires that you carry out and live what he taught.

You must reflect the Beatitudes as in, “Blessed are the merciful” (Matthew 5:7) and “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9).

See what happens when you stand up for mercy and peace.

We must also reflect the actions Jesus lays out in Matthew 25: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me” (Matthew 25:35-36).

By the way, this is a directive without qualifications as to judging whether the other is deserving of help.

Try doing all these things and see how those in power respond.

This takes perseverance and courage!

And while you may be subjected to violence and in some cases even death, Jesus lets you know that you, the real you, the soul or spirit you, cannot be destroyed!

God’s love will carry you with great care.

So fear not!

The kingdom of God is spreading covertly like mustard seeds in a field (Matthew 13:31-32).

Our mission is to be a part of this effort.

Love is winning and will forever win!

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Listen to the song of the day “Mercy Reigns” on the Mercy Reigns album by clicking HERE.

Stream and/or purchase my songs on Amazon Music by clicking HERE.

Purchase my new book “Listen to Your Heart: A Daily Devotional of Calling, Purpose and New Life” on Amazon by clicking HERE.

Purchase my book “Mercy Reigns: A Daily Devotional of Compassion, Comfort and Healing” on Amazon by clicking HERE.

Remember: God loves you!