Jessica Praveen is the wife of Martyr Praveen Pagadala, who tragically died in mysterious circumstances. The Christian Community believes it is a conspiracy and murder. It happened on 25th March 2025 in Andhra Pradesh, India. At the funeral, she shared a powerful message of forgiveness: “We forgive everyone, just as Jesus forgave.” The video went viral on several social media posts. The listeners were stunned by her boldness, the eternal hope she held, and the truth she proclaimed.
Hated and killed: The Lord Jesus Christ cautioned his followers that they would face hate from all nations and would be killed too. (Matthew 24:9) The Lord Jesus Christ shared with His disciples that he is hated without cause. (John 15:25) Martyrdom for a Christian is not a surprise, and it has increased manifold around the world.
Apologist: Praveen was a simple person, but a learned man. He was able to proclaim the gospel truth with clarity. When the gospel, the bible, and the truth were attacked with falsehood and fake news, he defended the gospel. Like Paul, Praveen defended the gospel in his generation. (Philippians 1:16) His credible defense of the gospel was not liked by many, and he could not stand against his proclamation. They feared him, envied him, and hated him.
Advocate: The Christians in his region were targeted and attacked. He counselled them to be patient, endure the sufferings. At the same time, he helped them to assert their rights provided in the Constitution of India, and took legal measures to stop such harassment and attacks.
Forgiveness: The Lord Jesus Christ taught his disciples to love enemies and pray for their persecutors. (Matthew 5:44) He also demonstrated his teaching by praying to the Heavenly Father for forgiveness of his persecutors and tormentors. (Luke 23:34) One of the early disciples, Stephen, also forgave those who stoned him to death. (Acts 7:60) Jessica followed the Lord and other saints like Gladys Staines, who forgave those who burnt her husband and two sons.
Do I have the boldness to witness amid persecution and loss?