Enemy-occupied territory—that is what this world is. Christianity is the story of how the rightful king has landed, you might say landed in disguise, and is calling us all to take part in a great campaign of sabotage.
C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity
I chose this quote for the first on this website because it summarizes much of my motivation for this ministry because it reminds me that, in many ways, church communicators are like the French Resistance fighters living in Paris near the end of World War Two. D-Day was June 6th, but Paris was not liberated until August 25th.
The Nazis would not admit defeat and poured all of their power and persuasion into the belief that they would be victorious. The resistance fighters using underground presses, hidden radios, and graffiti proclaimed, “No, freedom is coming! No matter how powerful the ruling party, no matter how oppressive their actions, no matter the personal cost of resistance, we will proclaim the truth—freedom is coming!”
We know the outcome—Paris was liberated; the Nazis were defeated.
The collaborators who sided with the Nazis, were publicly humiliated and condemned. For the the vast majority, who did nothing, there was most likely overwhelming relief, perhaps interrupted with thoughts of "I would have done more, but I was too tired . . .or fearful . . .or busy. . .or something...but I wished the Allies well."
For the resistance fighters, the years of clandestine, sleepless, dangerous work to get out the true message of freedom was suddenly worth it and they were celebrated as heros. Theirs was was deepest joy. They believed the truth and at the risk of life and loss of comfort, acted on it.
You, church communicators are the resistance fighters for the kingdom of God. Our D-Day was the third day. The Lord Jesus conquered death, removed the curse and chasm between creature and Creator and rose victorious from the grave.
But our Lord has not yet taken possession of the land.
The enemy of human souls rules the minds and hearts of many with his lies. Some who collaborate share wealth, power, and influence unimaginable. Many can't imagine a Lord beyond immediate needs, appetites, self-preservation or indulgence. Many are too poor or hungry or frightened to think beyond the next day. Many have heard rumors of a resistance army, but suspect it's only for the fanatical and besides, there is another sale to attend, a meal to cook, a romance to pursue.
Church communicators, you are called, as Lewis said, to a "great campaign of sabotage." It may take many forms and many years, but we must pour our hearts and time into letting our world know the ruler of this age is defeated.
Our Lord has won the victory. Join us and joyfully look forward to his return when he takes full possession of this world.
Please share your thoughts, comments, questions!