As Iraqi forces fight to free Mosul and its surrounding villages from the terror of ISIS, hope is on the rise.
Communities are erecting wooden crosses as a sign of freedom from the oppression, intimidation, and torture they have experienced for far too long.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”
Now, 17 miles outside of Mosul, a giant cross has been raised on a hilltop in the village of Telekuf-Tesqopa, according to the Catholic News Agency. There was a celebration on Feb. 18 to mark the first Mass in over two-and-a-half years that included fireworks and a call to return home.
The Chaldean Catholic patriarch of Baghdad, Louis Sako blessed the cross and said its presence would declare “to the world that this is our land, we were born here and we will die here. Our ancestors were buried in this pure land and we are going to remain to preserve them with all our might and for future generations.”
In Matthew 5:14, Jesus tells his followers, “You are the light of the world — like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.” These words apply to all Christians past, present, and future. The light of God and the power of the Holy Spirit resides within them. And try as it might, darkness will not overcome the light because the hope of Christ cannot be diminished.
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The disciple John wrote, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” John was describing Jesus. The light of Christ is eternal — and even a small amount of light transforms darkness and despair.
Until the return of Christ, there will be both physical and spiritual warfare. But the same God who delivered the Israelites from the slavery of Pharaoh reigns today. The same God who made the walls of Jericho fall, who empowered the stone of David to slay Goliath, and who provided a path for forgiveness to all who trust in Him is still faithful. He still gives power, protection, and provides miracles. Hope in Him is eternal.
As Christians are called to return to their homes, victory is celebrated and those who have been persecuted for their faith are restored in their communities, it is a time for rejoicing and thanksgiving.
It is also a time for vigilance, courage, and resolve. Apathy is the opposite of love, the enemy of determination. As the fight for faith continues, the source of power must be used — and that source is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. It will always be the powers of God through Jesus Christ. Victory comes from Him.
Katie Nations, married for 15 years, is a working mother of three young children. She lives in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
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