Making ready to repel

 Devotions for December 14, 2020

In this closing section of Paul’s letter to the church in Ephesus, his encouragement is an alternate reality of spiritual fighting in a physical world. The image is a metaphor of pieces that form together as a discipline, a warning, and a perspective. The totality amounts to a visual depiction of the Way over and against all the foes and forces that work in opposition.

We don’t typically see soldiers standing around in armor. We are not occupied by an empire. We have seen police and the National Guard in riot gear on our screens this year. We have watched scenes of rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons. We get the idea of what repelling a force or a people looks like.

What is harder for us to handle is the reality of temptation, forces of darkness, etc. That crosses over from a world of physicality and science to a spirituality that requires belief, faith, discovery and discernment. We don’t see this world as full of demons, run by the head tempter. I believe that is due to continual defeats. It is also due to a greater understanding of our physical world and what lies underneath various problems. Yet, even as superstitions die and wisdom rises, we must continue to use reason, science and faith for the work of good and the spreading of peace and love.

I do not believe in the singularity of the personified Opposer. I have chosen the other, winning side. I am fully aware of how strange this sounds. I also heard the strange sound of an evil voice many years ago and I moved the physical world to turn it off. I shook my head and turned away from it. This is a story for another day.

Ephesians 6:10-17

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

 

God of power and might, teach us to know and hear your voice. Empower us to choose life and to work more and more each day for the fulfillment of your reign. For you are the One and only true God. Be with all those struggling this day,… Lift up your children and build them up in your endless hope. Reward those who have fought the good fight. We are giving you thanks for the great cloud of witnesses who encourage us on day after day in your path. In Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.