Summoned before the Roman governor to defend his Christian faith, Paul confessed Jesus Christ—cheerfully (Acts 24:10). *** Several years ago, an Iranian couple fled to Hamburg and applied for asylum. They testified that, if sent back, they would be incarcerated because they had had difficulties with the Iranian government. Sadly, their request for asylum was denied. But the couple appealed. Someone suggested that joining a church might improve their chances of being approved. They heard about Trinity Lutheran Church, pastored by Rev. Andreas Rehr, and took baptismal preparation classes. But whatever their motivation for seeking out a church may have been initially, at a certain point the Holy Spirit took over. Big time. Yesterday the Iranian couple was back in court, defending their appeal. The situation had changed drastically because they had since become Christians. If deported to Iran now, they would be executed. To assess the veracity of their claims, the judge asked them to defend their faith in Christ. And they did—like Paul, cheerfully—explaining that they had come to realize that they are sinners—as we all are—but that Jesus Christ had paid the price for their sins. They attend the Divine Service every week and rejoice over everything they have learned. Both were baptized on Easter 2021. I leaned forward as the judge asked Rev. Rehr to comment. Taking the stand, he replied, “I cannot look into anyone’s heart. But from everything I have witnessed about this couple’s lifestyle, they are joyful and authentic Christians. They impress me greatly.” The judge responded: “All your statements corroborate. Please stand.” Everyone rose from their chairs. “I hereby grant your request for asylum.” Tears were rolling down many cheeks. “From my point of view, you are indeed authentic Christians.” If *you* were summoned before a court, would a judge be able to assess your lifestyle and conclude that you are an authentic Christian—even a cheerful one?
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