A Call to Remain Faithful

Perhaps you, like me, are feeling overwhelmed by the needs of the world, the tragic actions by government leaders, changes in our communities and our families.  In these moments, we know that it is important to turn to the resources we have for maintaining spiritual, emotional, and physical health such as praying and worshipping, exercising, eating healthy, and engaging wherever and whenever we can in our Christian witness for a more just and peaceful world.
    Persevering in Christian witness is a call to remain faithful, even when faced with challenges, doubts, or opposition. Our witness is not about our own strength or how much strength we possess.  Our witness is about the power of Christ working through us. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 that we may be “hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” 
A consistent, unwavering Christian witness—even quiet ones--speaks volumes, often than words alone. People are watching how we respond to adversity, how we handle stress, how we cope with injustice, and how we love others. In seeing our perseverance, they may be inspired to seek the same hope and peace that we have in Christ.
    As we preserve in living out our faith, even small acts of kindness, compassion, and advocacy make a difference.  Our faith speaks to the value and promise of planting seeds that will be blessed by God and multiplied in ways we cannot even imagine.  
The member churches of CANAAC have covenanted together for a shared witness in our respective countries and regions.  Through worship and prayer, Bible Study, and a multitude of actions, programs and advocacy work, CANAAC members are persevering in their witness to honor all life including the planet, to work towards a world where all people are respected, honored, and able to live their lives as beloved and valued children of God. 
CANAAC member churches recognize that central to our witness is community and that to embody a commitment to working together is in itself a witness to the faith we proclaim in Jesus Christ.  By working together, we help each other persevere when so much seems to run counter to the gospel.
    Though the road may be tough, we can trust that God will use our perseverance to be a beacon of hope for the world from the Christ who abides with us still. 

The Rev. Dr. Barbara Kershner Daniel is a minister in the United Church of Christ, USA.  She retired in June of 2023 after 40 years of parish ministry. Throughout her ministry, Barbara has been active in global ministry, ecumenism and multi-faith relationships.