Be Brave Now

Late last night/early this morning I watched the pilot episode of the NBC series "Kings." The series is a modern day telling of 1,2 Kings focusing on the spiritual development of David. Anyway, David has attained heroic status after slaying "Goliath" -- the name of a military tank. While at his dying brother's side, David confesses that he is not a hero at all, but someone who was surrendering when things turned out in his favor. He continually exclaimed, "I wasn't brave at all." His brother's reply, "Be brave now."

As I contemplated that statement I was struck by the stance we must all take on in this world today. Today, chaos reigns king and we Christians, sisters and brothers of Jesus the Christ must "Be brave now." We must stand with feet firmly planted on the bedrock of God's Holy Word in order to withstand the rainstorm of bullets that attack us in the street and in our homes. We must "Be brave now" so that Christ's Peace is what comes to reign. We cannot allow circumstances, people and even our own doubts to be obstacles to the JOY of Resurrection.

"BE BRAVE NOW"

The Black Hole of Faith

Ever feel like you're going through the motions...all the things you do are so devoid of feeling that you wonder why you continue? I call that the Black Hole of Faith. It's when you believe in God in and through the routine. You know, the times when you just can't get your praise on; the times when you just can't find the good; the times when you're so confused and you can't hear a word from God. As a matter of fact, things are so silent, so dark, you realize you're in a black hole-- a place of nothingness. No motivation. No direction.

When you realize you are there, be still and know that God is there too.