Imagine: Happy 4th

Imagine you are a Christian who lives in a predominantly Muslim Country. Furthermore, Imagine that you are serving your country as an executive officer. One day, your director ( Colonel) summoned you to his office. This Colonel was a man you looked up to and was the only Christian high-rank officer in your region. However, upon arrival at his office, you could tell that something was wrong; he had a sad face. You knew that he just came out from an important meeting with the Brigadier General and another colonel.

He looks at you right in the eyes, and with tears in his eyes, he utters this stunning statement: ” Can you believe it, officer____(assume you read your name), after all these years, they called me ‘infidel,’ their hate for us is so deep. I tell you the truth, if it were not for the US and their relationship with the West, they would annihilate us ( Christians) long ago.” How would you feel? I know it is hard to imagine because it was arduous even for a Christian who lived all his life in a predominantly Muslim country. I was only twenty-six when I heard these words from a man I loved, served, and trusted with my life. By then, I did not know how true his statement was, but ten years later, when the ‘Arab Spring’ shook all the lies that I used to believe, I realized how correct he was.

Today, as I celebrate the 4th of July with my family here in the States. I thank God for the United States of America. I am aware that a growing number of young Americans do not think highly enough of their own country. However, it is indeed a safe haven from discrimination, persecution, and even annihilation for many people like me. The truth is that the United States is far better than many other countries in this world. As a Christian who suffered persecution, I do not take freedom for granted, and I always thank God for His gift, America. Have a blessed 4th of July.