I’ve been forming thoughts about this blog for over a week now. I knew what I wanted to write about, but I didn’t know what was going to connect all of my thoughts to a purpose… until this morning.
Yesterday I slipped into a sort of melancholy that I couldn’t seem to shake; so much so that, this morning, I informed everyone I would be remaining here while they went to City Hall to pray for the new Mayor. It’s in this stillness and silence that my heart can best seek the Lord and it’s here that He has been speaking to my heart and shifting the shadow that was cast upon my soul.
A few dear and concerned people have expressed unease about our squad going into Honduras amidst the political tensions and removal of the Peace Corps. Physical safety is certainly something to be aware of, but it isn’t the physical warfare that is most tangible in Honduras…or even in Guatemala. In fact, the physical realm isn’t even where I am suiting up for battle, for that is not mine to fight.
Spiritual warfare is thick and very real here. Witchcraft is a way of life, division and corruption seem to prevail in the churches, and love of money has pitched the heart of many leaders. I could dwell on this, but that would be like me dwelling on Christ’s death without including His glorious victory over death through His resurrection. There’s hope I can rest in, a hope that shatters this present darkness; He has already defeated evil! Christ is mightier than any weapon that can be fashioned against me – evil is defeated. The light of Christ and the power of His blood covering my life make the powers of darkness flee – evil is defeated. An awareness of the battle I am waging is necessary, yes, but not for me to dwell upon. I choose, rather, to focus on the already won victory, and my strength to overcome wickedness through the power of Jesus Christ.
“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.” 2 Corinthians 10:3,4
This is certainly an environment where it is necessary to remain alert and at attention, but I have been clothed in the armor of God. The moment I accepted Christ into my being, I was given the only thing I need to stand firm in the face of attack; Christ is truth, Christ is righteousness, Christ is the gospel of peace, my faith is in Christ, He is my salvation, He is the Word of God. Jesus Christ, the living God dwells in me. He is my armor and my defense. He is more powerful that any darkness and mightier than any foe, therefore, what shall I fear?
In this already won victory, I have no cause for fear. No matter the lands to which I travel, no matter what danger my flesh encounters, Christ is my fortress and defense. In this promise, I take comfort. In this promise, I place my trust. In this promise, my soul finds rest.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil 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 firm. Stand, therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayers and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me (this is my personal prayer request as well), that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains (no, I’m not in jail, mum), that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.” Ephesians 6: 10-20
I want to thank you who have expressed concern. I feel loved through your desire for my safety. I would immensely appreciate it if you all could keep praying for that continued protection, praying that the Lord prepare the hearts which are clothed in darkness, and if you could find peace in the confidence that He has overcome the enemy.
Grace and peace to you! All my love from Guatemala ~
I will not fear, for Thou art with me, Oh, beautiful and merciful Abba!
(I left this message for the drug lords of El Rastro)
