By Peter Kennedy
“Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than men!’” – Acts 5:29
In July 1955, Andrew van der Bijl visited communist Poland "to see how my [Christian] brothers are doing". He signed up on a government-controlled communist tour, the only legal way to be in the country. During that time, the Netherlands native felt called to respond to the Biblical Commission, "Wake up, strengthen what remains and is about to die" (Revelation 3:2). That was the start of a mission leading him into several communist-ruled countries in which religious belief was actively persecuted.
He became known as “Brother Andrew” and he began to smuggle Bibles into closed countries. He started in the 1950s in communist countries, including Poland, the Soviet Union, China, Czechoslovakia, and Cuba. He founded the non-profit organization “Open Doors” and his work continued to countries in other closed countries, particularly in the Middle East. Annually, Open Doors distributes millions of bibles in countries where it is illegal to own a bible.
In all things follow Jesus and you will not be disappointed. Today in prayer, praise Jesus that He alone must be worshiped no matter what circumstance we face.
“Persecution for righteousness' sake is what every child of God must expect.” - Charles Simeon
God’s Word: “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.” – Matthew 5:11
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