2 CORINTHIANS 4:1–6; 2 TIMOTHY 1:10
Despite the declaration of peace after World War II, Lieutenant Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese Imperial Army officer stationed in the Philippines, remained unaware of the war’s end. In spite of attempts to track him down and leaflets claiming the war was over, Onoda dismissed these as propaganda from the enemy. He did not surrender until March 1974, nearly 30 years after the war ended, when his former commanding officer relieved him of duty, allowing Onoda to believe the war was over.
Many people lack knowledge or belief in Jesus Christ’s salvation, as He destroyed death and brought life and immortality through the gospel (2 Timothy 1:10). And some of us who have heard and believed still live defeated lives, struggling to survive in the midst of life’s challenges.
They need to hear the wonderful news of Christ’s triumph over sin and death from someone. They might react at first with doubt or scepticism, but we should not lose hope. When Christ illuminates their minds with the knowledge that the battle has been won, just think of the freedom they will experience.
🙏 Lord, help us to keep open hearts to listen to others and to share about what You have done.
📷: Stijn Swinnen
