“The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church,” observed Tertullian, an early church father. Just as Jesus has made us in His image and given us a portion of His own mission, He has also given us the privilege of suffering for Him and the salvation of the lost. He has even given some the high honor of demonstrating their love by laying down their lives for others.

Recently the Adventist world watched the search for Daniel Lui and Janelle Alder, along with the patient and passengers aboard the PAMAS flight. I was privileged to help get some supplies to the searchers. As time has passed, with no sign of the helicopter or the missionaries, questions have rung out across the internet.

Many wonder why God would allow His servants to die when they are serving Him. Others question the decisions made to give up a safe and prosperous life to bring Christ to those who don’t know Him.

God never promised we would be safe amid the great controversy. In fact, He promised that “In this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33). Ultimate safety is for the life to come. While we are still in this world, however, He promises “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding” (Philippians 4:7) and a purpose and meaning to our lives.

We grieve, not like others having no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13), but with the assurance that those committed to Christ rest from their work until Jesus returns.

May the precious blood of Jesus’ martyrs be the seed that multiplies and bears much fruit, inspiring thousands to sacrifice the meaningless pursuits of this life in order to obey Jesus’ command to every single believer to “Go, and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).

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