Suffering for Jesus (Sort Of)

1 Peter 4:12-13 (ESV)
"Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed."

I remember receiving a phone call from my dad a number of months ago. He was on the west coast (I believe in Oregon) standing in front of the Pacific Ocean. He was there for some type of Regional Minister's Conference. When I asked him what he was doing right at that moment he said, "I'm breathing in the ocean air and walking on the beach." My response was very sarcastic. "So, you're suffering for Jesus, eh?"

We in America have no idea was suffering for Christ is all about. Or maybe a different way of stating it is that the suffering for Christ that Peter is talking about in 1 Peter 4 is not something we can relate to. All over the world people are dying because of their faithfulness to the call of Christ in their life. But the most we suffer, outwardly at least, is to be told "no" when we invite others to a Bible study.

I say outwardly because I feel that the persecution that we normally suffer here in America is inwardly (Is that even a word?). For example, as men we walk into a grocery store and we walk past the lingerie section. Our mind wanders and we begin to lust in our hearts. Or we struggle with any type of sin and the fight is not usually between on individual and another, but between one individual and their own inner thoughts and desires. Yes, those around us may be affected by our sinfulness (especially close family members and friends), but most of the suffering comes from the inner turmoil that occurs in our heart and mind.

We have no idea what it means to suffer for Christ, at least outwardly. Maybe that's the problem with us in America. We've become too relaxed and see our faith as an inward struggle between us, our desires, and the desires of Christ. When in actuality we should also be suffering for Christ outwardly. When was the last time I asked a "God Question" to someone outside of the Church? It's been a while. And I'm ashamed of that.