Don’t be Surprised

“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.” 1 Peter 4:12 NIV

In a story titled “Surprise Hawk Attack Leaves Runner with 6 Holes in His Head” published Tuesday, it was reported that Ewan Cameron, a Scottish runner, was out for a run near the small village of Friockheim when he became victim to every runner’s worst nightmare: he was suddenly attacked by a vicious hawk. “It’s like someone is punching you in the back of the head,” Cameron told BBC Scotland. Cameron says he was about three miles outside his village when the unexpected attack occurred, leaving him with several cuts to his head, though no serious injuries.“The talons are very sharp, and they just sunk into the back of my head effectively. I’ve got a collection of about six holes in my head as a consequence of the attack,” he said, adding that he has a history with this particular bird, who’s swooped down on the runner on two occasions. “The first time it happened to me, I actually thought that a truck wing mirror had hit the back of my head on the way past,” he said. Following a post about the incident on social media, he realized he wasn’t the only one, as other runners reported similar attacks. “I think there was about 240-odd reactions to it, and the comments are still coming today,” he said. 

And you know, when it come to surprise attacks, Peter told his “dear friends” not to be surprised when fierce trials came their way, “as though something strange” was happening to them. Peter was reminding them that they weren’t the only ones experiencing intense political and social persecution for their faith in Christ. Is this a great reminder for us today or what? In a world that’s growing more hostile to the gospel, we should expect these attacks to not only continue but to intensify as the return of Jesus draws closer. 

So don’t be surprised when attacks come your way my friend. And don’t think you’re the only one experiencing them either. You’re not alone! All those who stand firm and remain faithful to Jesus will face them. And that’s cause for celebration!

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we will be persecuted for believing in You, especially now as this world becomes more opposed to You and the commands laid out in your Word. Open our eyes to this Lord and strengthen our hearts so that we would stand firm to the end no matter what happens. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!