Readings for Lent and Easter

Suffering as a Christian

¹² My friends, do not be surprised at the terrible trouble which now comes to test you. Do not think that something strange is happening to you. ¹³ But be happy that you are sharing in Christ’s sufferings so that you will be happy and full of joy when Christ comes again in glory. ¹⁴ When people insult you because you follow Christ, you are blessed, because the glorious Spirit, the Spirit of God, is with you. ¹⁵ Do not suffer for murder, theft, or any other crime, nor because you trouble other people. ¹⁶ But if you suffer because you are a Christian, do not be ashamed. Praise God because you wear that name.