Listen to the plea of Your servant and of Your people Israel, when they pray toward this place. And listen in heaven Your dwelling place, and when You hear, forgive. 1 Kings 8:30

Here's an all-points bulletin.

The First Amendment Center has reported that a majority of Americans think students should be able to share their faith freely in public schools.

That's right. Three-quarters of U.S. citizens want to see students able to speak freely when it comes to their faith. And there's even more: 52 percent of the non-religious people in the U.S. also think that's the way it should be.

· That doesn't mean people want the barrier torn down which separates church and state.

· It doesn't mean they want teachers dictating their own personal beliefs to a student.

· It does mean they believe students should have free speech when it comes to expressing their faith.

It is my hope those people who are in authority pay attention to that figure. For far too long I have had students who attend state colleges and universities tell of how they are unable to share their beliefs, make Christian comments in class, or put what they believe into their coursework.

Indeed, they tell me that in many instances they are automatically downgraded or their work completely rejected because of their commitment to Jesus.

Now, while I applaud these students for weathering the battle and obeying God rather than men, I still believe their brush with persecution shouldn't be necessary.

After all, freedom of speech should not be just a right given to foul-mouthed comics and obscene pornographers.

It ought to belong to those who wish to reflect the love they have received from their crucified and ever-living Redeemer. For these young people we pray:

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, bless and be with those students who witness to Your love and Your Son's sacrifice upon the cross. May they be kept from persecution and any pressure to deny their faith in the Redeemer. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

* The subject for this Daily Devotion was suggested by Mr. Ian Adnams, director of Communication for Lutheran Church -- Canada.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Jeremiah 49, 13-22    Hebrews 3

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