When I do not see

“Way Maker,” recently popularized by Leeland, moves hearts across the nation to sing of a God who is light in the darkest places.The lyrics are powerful, but they become richer when considering the context in which they were written: Nigeria. A few years ago, knowing this song was written by a Nigerian song writer  would have meant nothing more than a fun piece of trivia. All I knew of Nigeria at that point was from Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s work.However, as a Life on Life editor, I have the opportunity to work with church partners in Nigeria. Churches where terrorist attacks, kidnappings by Boko Haram, persecution, and economic instability are regular challenges that believers face.Last week, a Nigerian church leader  from one of our partners was beheaded by Boko Haram. In a daze of nausea and disbelief, I pictured his family and church. In the aftermath of this horrific thing, people are weeping, fearful, angry. They ask, “Where were you God?” “Where are you God?” “Why, God?”And yet, I also picture people praising God—even when they do not understand the darkness. I imagine this song rising from a broken place, showing the enemy that their praise will be louder than their pain.

“Even when I don't see it, You're working Even when I can't feel it, You're working You never stop, You never stop working You never stop, You never stop working”

In light of my middle class American church experience, these words are powerful. When examined through the lens of a persecuted Nigerian church, they move me to tears.I am convicted by the juxtaposition of the their suffering and faith. I have never experienced persecution or terrorism. When I do experience difficulties, my inclination tends to self-pity more than faith.Seeing the faith of the Nigerian church—a church that faces hardship by merely existing—encourages me to grow in boldness. I want a faith like theirs. I want to trust that God is working, even when I don't see it.Lord, grow my faith in You because I see the faith of my brothers and sisters in Nigeria. Help me to grow in boldness, proclaiming the gospel even when it costs me something. Help me to pray faithfully for Your global church.This week, join me in praying for the Nigerian church. Pray for its believers to be strengthened. Pray for God to protect His people from persecution and terrorism. Pray for people to see the witness of their praise being louder than their pain.