(Very)Uncomfortable Faith

Isabella Note: For those of you who aren't on Facebook, my new high school graduate son, Pierce, and I are in Italy for two weeks, courtesy of my generous brother, who has a lovely vacation rental in Lucca. Lots of writing fodder, but I aim to be present to Pierce and place.

One of the most sobering and surreal sites in Rome for both Pierce and me was the Mamertine Prison, where the apostles Paul and Peter were held before being martyred.

This dark, damp subterranean dungeon is paradoxically wedged between the Palatine Hill—the “Beverly Hills” of ancient Rome, where the rich and powerful lived—and the Colosseum, where Christians were literally fed to lions as lusty public entertainment.

It’s a significant (ahem) departure from the easy-peasy prosperity gospel and the promise of comfort and health we’ve all gotten far too used to hearing. Most of us--pastors and flock alike--live more of a Palatine Hill than damp dungeon lifestyle, minus feasting on the faithful.

We couldn’t help but ask ourselves: Would our faith endure such threats? Some of our brothers and sisters around the world are facing them right now.

Altar with busts of the Apostles Peter and Paul.

In the 1200s, a church was built on the site. It still stands today, later rebuilt and named San Giuseppe dei Falegnami.

San Giuseppe dei Falegnami.

PRAYER:

Lord God, thank You for people like Paul and Peter, whose faith withstood the ultimate challenge to liberty and life by Your grace and power. I pray never to face such a test—but to be willing and able if called. In Christ’s name I ask it. Amen. Thank you. I love you. 💖