I’ve always thought of dying for Jesus as an honor – nay, an opportunity. I could envision the posthumous gems being inset into my heavenly crown. What an idiot.
I just watch Silence – a film about Jesuit missionaries in the 17th century. Andrew Garfield and Adam Driver portray Catholic priests who were smuggled into Japan in search of the fate of their old mentor. Their original aim, however, is supplanted when they discover villages who practice Catholicism, or, the best they can without a priest. And in secret. Any branch of Christianity is illegal in Japan at this time, and any unearthed worshippers of Christ are slowly tortured and executed. I know they are in Heaven, but are a few more rubies worth this much anguish?
I admit, during the film, my heart went out to these priests. I am not a Catholic myself, so the desperate need for confession was lost on me. But the need for redemption; that is something to which I can relate strongly. I did not sob during the movie as men and women were drowned, burned, and bled to death. I felt emotion through these scenes, yes. However the rectangular barrier of my screen allowed my feelings to be touched, but not scarred. It’s just a movie. That is fake blood. I wonder how they got those wrinkles on Andrew Garfield’s face. It looks so real… But it is not real. It is Hollywood, and I know it.
Only after the movie had ended did it hit me. Situations like this not only were very real for over 150 years in Japan, but are everyday occurances for Christians around the world – especially throughout the Middle East! Evaluating the decisions of the three men whose lives and deaths are portrayed caused me to wonder, what would I do in their shoes? If I was surrounded by bloodshed and horror, daily, manipulated and broken… What if my family was involved? I cannot even fathom it.
God, please be with our hurting and tormented brothers and sisters in other parts of the world. Heal their bodies, souls, and minds. I pray you brace me to meet them with a brave heart, loving arms and a healing touch. Please be with them as they pray for their families – their safety and salvation. I pray you prepare my heart, mind, body, and soul for forgiveness.
Love, H
