I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you. Isaiah 42:6
Juan Coy (1957)
Revenge Killing
Juan, a 33-year-old farmer, was arrested along with a young preacher, Pedro Moreno, for holding private worship services near Saboya, Boyaco, Colombia. Juan was released after a day in prison, but Pedro was held for 14 days. Juan and his family – the only Christian family in the area – visited Pedro in prison and tried to secure his release. Despite plots to kill Pedro, he escaped to continue being a pastor.
Those who had tried to kill Pedro and failed then decided to take revenge on Juan. They went to his farm in October 1957 and waited until he had finished his work. When he appeared on the path, they shot him dead.
True virtue never appears so lovely, as when it is most oppressed; and the divine excellency of real Christianity, is never exhibited with such advantage, as when under the greatest trials: then it is that true faith appears much more precious than gold!
Jonathan Edwards (1703-58)