People are Weary

People are talking about the weariness of it all. Fear is giving way to complacency. The glassy-eyed "quarantine
fatigue" is settling heavy over shoulders causing many to wonder if the giant will ever just go away.

With each day, the enemy steps out to boast his size and his exploits and his intentions. Fear. Destruction. Loss of Finances. Death. The target of his insults drop their weapons and shrink back, together, or never even bother to come out of their tent.

The kid shows up. He had been told to stay home, but longs to be with his big brothers giving the enemy the "what for" and, then, howling at the moon, together, like the old days.

Being the baby, he'd been included in brotherly wrestling matches and come up with a bloody nose, but always dove back into their mix. Playful tussles built strong muscles and strong bonds. They fought, together.

Arriving at the place of the battle, he sees something he's never seen before... the defeat in his brothers' eyes. To hear it in their voices is like hearing a foreign language. "Why are you here? You're too little and lazy. Shut up and go home! GIT!" As the the youngest and the smallest, he's accustomed to being the butt of their jokes as they poke fun and punch his arm, but this sounds different. Even the air around them feels off. Shame tinges their barbs.

Slack-jawed and rejected, he snaps, "Can't I even talk?" and turns to the other countrymen who snarl and shove his courage to the back of the line.

Anger and frustration subside just enough to remember his anointing. There is no boldness like that of one who remembers his or her anointing. It strengthens their heart and causes them to stand up. Then, the battle seems more like an annoyance and the giant is of little threat.

Yesterday, he was a shepherd who calmed his sheep with his voice on verdant hills. Today, he (or she) is a warrior. Before launching into battle, the bold one senses the need to calm the fear and intimidation in those around. "Don't lose heart on account of this enemy." 

Holy boldness rises up as this warrior warms up his shoulder. He sees the victory before the first stone is released. The warrior's eyes narrow on the enemy. The stone is placed in the sling. Raising his voice for all to hear, he declares, "This is the day it ends. The battle is the Lord's. Without sword or shield, He will deliver it into our hands, together."

Take heart, my friend. The Lord is on your side and wants to see you live in victory. How can I join you in prayer?