This is true of our sisters and brothers who live in places where following Jesus is difficult. Being an American in a church among persecuted Christians and hearing familiar songs in an unfamiliar language is a foretaste of heaven—believers who may not share a language, sharing in the worship of one God.
Right now, many of us are stuck at home due to the coronavirus pandemic. Our churches are closed to large gatherings to protect the most vulnerable among us. We can’t gather with our small groups, or with our friends from church.
But the example of persecuted Christians shows us that we can still worship with God—and with one another—even in the midst of isolation and uncertainty. We have the freedom to praise God with one another, and through technology, even with our family of persecuted believers around the world.
Here are five songs sung by persecuted believers. As you’re likely at home right now, away from people, join your voice to theirs—even if it feels a bit silly, belt out these songs! You’ll be joining your brothers and sisters in worshiping God as Christians have always done. God will lift your spirits and you’ll be a living reminder that the Church is bigger than any pandemic, bigger than any persecution.