Deadly Virus

Richard Dawkins and his friends have made much, in their attacks on religion, claiming that its effect on society is like that of a deadly virus. Their selective use of evidence, together with their misunderstanding of what practical faithful living looks like provides them with much material to use. And there are strands of recent legislation which seem to suggest that people of religious convictions need to be kettled, like violent protesters in recent demonstrations.
And elsewhere in the world, many Christian people are under pressure from governments and cultures which attack them in direct or indirect ways.
The infamous Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan have been used by unscrupulous individuals and movements to threaten and kill many from minority communities, including Christians.
How should Christians respond under this pressure?
Jesus teaches us an amazing response. '“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbour’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike.' (Matthew 5.43-45)
So praying for those who make life difficult should be our first response.
The writer to the Hebrews gives some practical instruction, too. 'Remember those in prison, as if you were there yourself. Remember also those being mistreated, as if you felt their pain in your own bodies.' (Hebrews 13.3)
Many of us can also do something to raise awareness of the issues, by signing petitions, writing to political leaders and making the case for justice according to international standards, such as the United Nations Declaration of Human rights.
In these ways, we can shine like lights in our world, as St. Paul encourages us to do. 'Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.' (Philippians 2.13-14)
In these ways, we can live lives which bring health and strength to our muddled and complex world.
Best wishes,
Richard