A Convergence of Life and Faith...

I have to admit that when I think about spiritual warfare, what usually comes to mind is exorcism or some intense prayer meeting where the face of evil is obviously present.  I rarely think about the subtle ways in which we face spiritual warfare in our everyday lives… Until this past Monday.

This past Monday, I was recovering from physical sickness and stuck in traffic on my way to tutor at MLK, Jr Elementary School.  While I was in my car, the little thought that came into my mind was: “why don’t you just skip this week?  It’s only a one hour session and you might be late anyway because of this traffic.  And, you’re recovering from sickness so everyone will understand.  It’s one hour.  It’s not going to make that big of a difference.  It’s ok.  You don’t have to go.”  
I was so close to not going.  I forced myself to keep heading in the direction of the school.  I pulled in and told myself that I would not think about it anymore and resolved to go.  When I showed up, the Director of Faith Network told me that a couple of tutors couldn’t make it that day and was thankful that I was there and ready to tutor.

The reality is that none of us know the ultimate consequences of our actions.  Showing up to tutor for one hour could potentially change a child’s life.  Maybe it won’t.  But, the truth and reality is that this is something that we cannot know And, the outcome is not what is meant to drive our decisions to love and serve.  We fight this fight of spiritual warfare in the knowledge and power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  We live out what has been done for us by Jesus Christ.  As we struggle for meaning in our service, we must realize that Christ is the one who has given us meaning and purpose in light of His life, death, and resurrection.