To kickoff our Sunday School class yesterday, we began with a six-minute video clip featuring a small country church in Nigeria.

Armed terrorists broke in to the church services and began shooting. Some of the worshipers were killed; others were wounded. Ten-year-old Victoria, who survived the assault, recounted some of her experience. With a tear leaking out the corner of her left eye and rolling down her chubby cheek, she told that her dad was one of the church-goers who was killed.

"But I will see him again when we meet one day in heaven," Victoria said.

Of all the Christian persecution deaths worldwide in 2022 and 2023, 90% were in Nigeria.

And the Christian persecution deaths continue there today!

God,
help us to remember
Christian deaths at the hands of others
around the world.
Stop the slaughter.
Thank You that You take care of Victoria
and victims everywhere.
Thank You that those of us 
who believe in You can stand strong
in our faith, with Your abiding help!
Death at the hands of others
is no surprise to You!
And like, Victoria, helps us to remember
that we will see our loved ones again.
Help us!
Lead us!
Guide us!
In the Name of Your Son,
Amen.