(buh-LOHCH) – This past Christmas, James invited his entire family over to tell them the story of Christmas. He made invitations that were clear about his intent. Some family members refused to come, but 19 people showed up, and he shared the Christmas story, the gospel, and his personal testimony. This was the first time that he’d been open with his family about his belief in Christ. Some were upset and others were apathetic, but he was thankful for the opportunity to share. Since then, some family members have rebuked him. One tried to bring him on the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca in hopes of him turning back to Islam, but he remains faithful to Christ and respectfully declines his family’s spiritual advances. When asked why he wanted to share with everyone, he said that he knows the truth and believes that his family will go to hell without it. He knew that he was their connection to the gospel and wanted to tell them about who Christ is and what He has done. He holds firm to his hope of heaven even amid persecution and frustration from his family. Thank God for James’ faith, and pray for continued perseverance and endurance!