Read Ephesians 6:10-17.
Put on the armor of God — the belt of truth and shield of righteousness,
Don’t sling the arrows of hurtful words, of hate, of prejudice, of intolerance.
God’s armory does not include guns, or knives, or any instrument of violence and war,
But instead the armor of God is the gospel of peace.
What a strange dichotomy!
Isaiah prophesied: His name will be called Wonderful
Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace!
All that power, omnipotent, but never used as a weapon,
All that power used, instead, to shield us against evil and evil-
doing.
The power of love and life everlasting, with compassion and mercy for all,
The power of forgiveness and salvation,
That is the gracious might and strength of the Savior we
celebrate this Advent season,
Whose gospel is packed with compassion, mercy, and love, Sent to bring us peace on earth and to spread goodwill to all
people, everywhere.
Pray
Dear Lord, we get caught up in our own opinions, insisting that we are right and others are wrong. We seek vengeance, hold onto grudges, and carry dark sin in our hearts. Release us today from our human weaknesses. Shield us from our human failings and empower us with your love and compassion, your mercy, grace and peace, so that we can reflect your goodness and light to others. In the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, amen.
Kristin Kuhlmann, CP Commissioned Pastor, ENMU Presbyterian Campus House Ministry