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Camouflaged Christians

Lots of animals rely on camouflage for survival. One familiar resident in our yard is the horned lizard. They can be difficult to spot since their skin color is almost exactly the same shade as the dirt. They are perfectly colored for their environment. Predators such as falcons, roadrunners, and snakes must have sharp eyes to spot them before they dart away.

 People are much the same way.  We work to be unique, but we really want to fit in, not make waves, or stand out. It's about survival, just like the lizard. We don't want to become someone's prey--to be ridiculed, shunned, or passed over for promotion. 
The immutable and eternal truth of God's Word is in direct opposition to popular culture's views on morality or right and wrong.  Jesus doesn't lead us to an easy road, where we can become invisible, go along with the crowd, or retreat from the action. We are to be visible--identifiable in the crowd. 

"You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14-16 NLT

 We are also called to suffer for following Jesus. And that's not enticing. We work hard to avoid it. It's easier not to share the Gospel and tacitly give approval to ever-shifting world values.
For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:21 NLT

“God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way. Matthew 5:11-12 NLT
The news is filled with horrifying stories of men, women, and children being slaughtered---martyred because they are Christians. There are many more such stories that are never reported.  Our brothers and sisters around the world are suffering unimaginable physical cruelty because they claim Christ as Savior. I am compelled to examine my own heart and willingness to follow Him no matter what. May we be faithful to Him who has called us out out of the kingdom of darkness into the Kingdom of light. Bold enough to lose the camo. Visible to all in our love, good deeds, and willingness to surrender everything for the cross.
For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:13-14 NLT

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