Speaking up for religious freedom

Can you imagine always living

in fear? That is the reality for many people. One in seven Christians are persecuted worldwide, including one in five in Africa and one in seven in Asia. Restricting religious freedoms is an incredibly damaging way to yield power and exert control over people. Historically, violating religious liberties has led to terror and war. In countries where religious freedoms are compromised, there is an increase in extreme suffering and persecution. 

When I consider the relationship between religion and control, the intricacy of human choices makes me question the underlying causes of violence and the infringement on people’s faith. Religious ideas are sometimes fragmented and context-dependent, and in my opinion, human behaviours rarely stem from spiritual values. In a society that respects equity, justice and education, violence has no place. One such place I visited that held these values was Kerala in India. There, Christian churches, mosques and synagogues are side by side, and there is a rich sense of community among the local people. It’s a place I’d love to revisit. 

Gathering peacefully in celebration and practising one’s faith is essential to religion. Cynics hastily dismiss faith and beliefs that they don’t understand. Embracing acceptance lies at the core of my faith, and I trust in God’s will. I don’t need someone’s approval of my faith; spiritual growth is a personal connection with God. We are guided to love unconditionally. Jesus didn’t just suggest treating others well; he commanded it. 

In the same way a voice gives rise to freedom, so too does silence to persecution. Jesus said that he came to earth to “proclaim freedom” (Luke 4:18). And in James 1:25 it says: “whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do”.

I pray that we may all be proactive in upholding the freedoms God gives us. Peace and prayer are the solutions to conflict. In communities where kindness, listening and understanding are encouraged and experienced, war and conflict cannot thrive. Instead, faith and love do. 

Lord, the harbinger of light and love, 

shine upon us with the

brightest hope. 

Father, in your eternal mercy, 

may you bring peace to troubled hearts and minds. 

Lord, please piece together

our brokenness, 

healing hearts that suffer in

silence and shame. 

Father, faith bringer and protector, 

may your wisdom and artful design bring cures for all ills. 

Lord, heal the wounded

hearts of cynics, 

please give them the strength

and hope to find you. 

Father, pour your love

into our deserts, 

may fertile lands thrive

and nourish all on earth. 

With every drop of tears that are shed,  

may your love lift, comfort and console. 

Father, we love and adore you. 

May we always be held and delivered in peace. 

Amen.