Born and raised near San Francisco, CA, and having spent a lot of time in Cuba, I can say that the distinctions between Cuba and CA (or the US for that matter) are not so stark as they once were. For those of you who haven't been following the story, this is of great concern to my homeland...er...state as well as our country as a whole.
In short, a San Diego pastor and his wife were recently told that the Bible study consisting of 15 people which they've held in their home for the past 5 years is now illegal. Reportedly they were interrogated by a San Diego County official, and threatened with growing fines if they refused to cease and desist. The pastor's attorney has stated that the couple was questioned about the Bible study. "'Do you have a regular meeting in your home?" The pastor's wife replied, "Yes." "Do you say 'amen'?" the official asked. "Yes," she replied. "Do you pray?" Again she said, "Yes." "Do you say 'praise the Lord'?" Another "Yes." This line of questioning lead to a citation claiming that the couple was in violation of county rules.
Shortly thereafter they received a written warning claiming that the home Bible study was an "unlawful use of land." They were required to "stop religious assembly or apply for a major use permit," which reportedly would cost them thousands of dollars.
A few questions spring to mind: What about all the other weekly gatherings that take place around the county? Are they going to bust grandmas sewing circle as well? How about weekly mom's and munchkins meetings, Monday night football or Saturday afternoon gatherings for "good 'ol American Baseball?
Then bringing it closer to home, how about the weekly "home group" (Bible study) that meets in my home and numerous other's homes from our church; or the countless mid week gatherings in homes of church members throughout the city, state and country.
Over the years I have begun to see many more correlations between stories such as this and those I have personally witnessed in Cuba. Yet I've also seen how in Cuba, as well as other countries around the world, that when there is a cost to following Christ, He shines all the more through those willing to take a stand and accept temporal sufferings in light of His eternal glory. May we choose to glorify Him no matter what the future holds and His providential hand leads us through.
News 10 San Diego story link.
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