DEVOTION / Peng Lifa is my hero

Peng Lifa was the match that lit the fuse.

One man’s protest; a nation responds

On October 20, Peng hung two banners on an overpass in Beijing. His banners read: “We want food, not Covid tests. We want reform, not Cultural Revolution. We want freedom, not lockdowns. We want votes, not a ruler. We want dignity, not lies. We are citizens, not slaves. Remove the despotic traitor Xi Jinping!”

In moments, police arrested Peng. Chinese censors acted quickly. Photos posted on social media were taken down. Official news reports avoided any mention of his protest.

But the news traveled. His action sparked further protests across China. His slogans became protest cries. Crowds rallied against China's zero-Covid restrictions and the restrictions on their rights.

The New York Times called him a “prophet” and “the man who lighted the spark in the darkness.” "One person's courageous act has inspired unprecedented protests; those protest have led to China walking back its zero-Covid restrictions."

My proclamation; may the world respond

As I've thought about Peng Lifa, I've realized that my willingness to witness about Jesus isn't as courageous as his willingness to call for reforms in his autocratic government. Shame on me.

I don't face long years in prison for speaking up. I won't "disappear" because I testified about human sin and divine grace. What is even more shameful is I have a much more important message to share. I am called to invite everyone to trust the undeserved respect and care the ruler of the universe has for them.

What an important thought for me to remember this week as I celebrate my Savior's birth. He has entrusted me with a message too important to hide. The eternal glory that he shares with me is more than sufficient reason to broadcast that message to everyone I can.

My Light, the Light of the World, has come. It's time to arise and shine.

"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you" (Isaiah 60:1).

Prayer

Holy Spirit, empower me to be more like the Christmas shepherds who could not help but tell others about the Savior’s birth.