Blasphemy

Recent news has told of the assassinations of two courageous politicians, who have campaigned against the Blasphemy Law in Pakistan. First, the Muslim Governor of Punjab, Salman Taseer, and then the Minister for Minorities, Roman Catholic, Shahbaz Bhatti, paid with their lives for challenging this law and its implementation.
In this country, the Blasphemy Law was finally revoked 2 years ago. That law was originally established in order to protect the Christian faith, particularly in its Anglican form, largely as a means of maintaining the power of the crown.
It is striking to recall that Jesus was arrested and then condemned on the basis of a charge of blasphemy, brought by the High Priest and the Sanhedrin. The high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?”  Jesus said, “I Am. And you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven.”  Then the high priest tore his clothing to show his horror and said, “Why do we need other witnesses? You have all heard his blasphemy. What is your verdict?”
   “Guilty!” they all cried. “He deserves to die!” (Mark 14.61-64)
But St. Paul reminds his Roman friends that we can behave in such a way that brings dishonour to God, which is similar to blasphemy. 'No wonder the Scriptures say, “The Gentiles blaspheme the name of God because of you.”' (Romans 2.24)
Instead of bringing shame on the name of God, will there be enough evidence today to show that we are fully devoted followers of Jesus? I pray so.
Best wishes,
Richard
PS This evening, at the University of Surrey, I am on a panel of speakers at the Pakistan Students association, addressing the topic 'Need for Blasphemy Laws in a Multicultural Society'. Please pray that I can point to Jesus!