Let's combat mockery with the love of Christ

Why such an aggressive assault on Christianity? What drives nations to fear Christian values, teachings, and Christ Himself? Historically, mockery and blasphemy against Christ are not new. Even during His crucifixion, He was scorned by those from His own people. Yet, Christ's words resonate: "Remember the word that I said unto you, the servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My saying, they will keep yours also" (John 15:20). These words should embolden us, reminding us that ultimate victory belongs to Christ, who overcame injustice, evil, and sin.

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This narrative of mockery and perseverance particularly resonates with Palestinian Christians, who face ongoing oppression and marginalisation. Israeli media has a history of mocking Christianity, and Palestinian Christian churches and clergy are frequently attacked, spat upon, burned, and destroyed by Israeli settlers. Statues are desecrated, crosses broken, cemeteries vandalised, and properties confiscated. Christian businesses and properties, especially in Jerusalem's Old City, are targeted. Amidst political turmoil and social injustice, their unwavering faith echoes Christ's call to love, forgive, and pray for their persecutors.

Secularism

Globally, Christians face persecution. In Nigeria, brutal attacks on Christian villages have killed thousands and destroyed churches. In some Muslim-majority countries, Christians live under constant threat and fear. In Europe, growing secularism intentionally marginalises Christian expression, heritage, and values, often becoming very hostile toward Christianity and Christians.

Palestinian Christian leaders, including the Catholic Ordinaries of the Holy Land and Orthodox Bishop Atallah Hanna, condemned the mockery at the Olympics. This assault is part of a coordinated effort to erase Palestinian Christians' national, cultural, and religious identity. By targeting sacred symbols and institutions, oppressors aim to undermine our society's foundations.

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Palestine's Olympic team includes eight athletes, two of whom are Palestinian Christians, including one from Gaza. Their participation is not just national pride but a testament to the Palestinian people's resilience. These athletes symbolise hope and perseverance, standing as beacons of light amidst oppression.

Dignity

As Christians, our response to mockery and persecution should be unwavering faith, hope, and spreading the Gospel. Christ's teaching: "Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you" (Matthew 5:38-44), calls us to active, transformative love against hatred and injustice.

When I see our churches being desecrated, I remember Christ's sacrifice and the call to carry our cross with dignity. When our clergy are harassed, I recall the apostles spreading the Gospel despite persecution. When businesses and homes are attacked, I find strength in Jesus' call to be peacemakers and stand firm in our faith, even in adversity.

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To those who mock our Lord and Savior, we extend a paradoxical gratitude. Each act of mockery reinforces the unparalleled greatness of our God. It is a call to Christians, especially within young families, youth, and children, to build a deeply personal and resilient faith. The same faith that empowered Christ to endure the cross out of love for humanity is the faith we must nurture in ourselves and our communities.

Transformative love

The Paris Olympics incident is a microcosm of a broader trend of secularism and hostility towards Christianity. It underscores the enduring power of faith. Palestinian, European, and global Christians, remember: "Do not be afraid, God is with us, who can be against us?" Our path is one of faith and transformative love, embodying Christ's spirit in a darkening world. Let Christ's love shine brightly, our faith our strength, overcoming all.

As global assaults on Christian values intensify, we must remember our suffering brothers and sisters worldwide. This wave of intolerance calls us to solidarity and action. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the Gospel's message of hope, love, and unwavering faith. Let our voices rise in unity for justice and compassion, and let our hearts remain steadfast in Christ's eternal love.

Jack Nassar (born 1985) lives in Ramallah, Palestine, holding a Master’s degree in political communications from Goldsmiths, University of London. Jack’s passion for fostering positive change is evident in his expertise, which extends to the public, private, non-profit and academic realms.