Persecution has actually been a blessing

The mob banged drums, shouted taunts and harassed the Christians already inside the church. Some threw stones and were shouting "Allahu Akbar". Others were calling them kafirs (infidels) and pigs and yelling obscenities. Some carried sticks, and others shouted "Burn the church! Close it down!"

Tears streamed down the cheeks of late arrivers as they joined the other worshipers, who were already singing Christmas carols. People were singing and crying. Joyful Christmas songs turned to tears.

The attack on the church signals a spread of persecution in this southeast Asian country. The pastor of the church says the persecution has actually been a blessing to his church family. "Before, believers seldom came to church. But when the persecution came, the believers gained incentive to come to church and pray and gather together in unity. Maybe the Lord has allowed this so the believers will have unity. I cannot tell you what will happen, but I see that my congregation has a commitment to keep doing the service, because the church is not a building; the church is the believers."

(from Voice of the Martyrs)