It doesn’t require a prophetic gift to discern all of the problems and evil in our world. Now, more than ever, it is clear that we are not living in neutral territory. This raging war is of biblical proportions: between good and evil, light and darkness.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:12-13
There has been world upheaval from covid, all the stress that came along with shutdowns, and the unknown of a worldwide pandemic. Almost everyone knows at least one person who has died, and any human loss of life is tragic, especially when discovered it may not have been necessary.
Grief is shared worldwide for everything lost over the past three years. Everyone experiences suffering at some level, and it changes you if you let it.
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2
The heroic leadership and collective sobriety of both the Bills and Bengals at the tragic collapse of Damar Hamlin during last Monday night’s football game were revealing. All players, coaches, and the staff kept perspective of what was most important: Damar’s life.
I’m a sports fan. I grew up cheering for the Mets and Jets. I have followed the Rangers, professional soccer (men’s and women’s), college basketball, tennis, and now pickleball. I enjoy competition and athletism, but it’s only a game.
The competitiveness and rivalries ceased in a life-and-death situation, and everyone cried out in prayer because divine intervention was needed. Many started asking for Damar’s life to be spared and for his healing and recovery from his collapse until he woke up, breathing without a ventilator several days later.
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42
One of the most exciting things was the openness to prayer on Damar’s behalf. There was a widespread public call to prayer on behalf of Damar. We are praying for the Third Great Awakening and a reformation of society that does not celebrate evil and death but life.
Lord, please continue to heal and strengthen Damar and his family as they walk through his recovery. We thank You for his life and how much he means to so many people. Please be with his teammates and all the players and staff on the field involved in his treatment and care. Help them to process the event and come closer to You. Holy Spirit, please continue to awaken us all to how real and present You are in our lives. We want to steward our hearts and devotion to You well. Lead and guide us for the honor and glory of Jesus. Amen.
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