Persecuted.
The Greek is dioko.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10
Jesus is simply being honest.
Full disclosure, paradoxical though it may seem.
If we are compassionate, gentle, empathetic,
Striving to live in integrity, pursuing Godliness,
We will be opposed.
Confronted.
Rejected.
Forced out.
Shut down.
By the very people we show compassion
We strive to make peace with
Or introduce to Christ.
So don’t be shocked, outraged
Indignant, spiteful
Grieved or discouraged.
We can respond with our own paradox.
We can be even kinder, gentler, more giving.
In short, even more like Christ.
Blessed.