Last night I joined with about 20 men of different ages from our church and went and watched Sherwood Pictures' new movie, "Courageous." I know, I'm well over a week late (not counting the previews) and there have been many, many reviews and observations shared in recent days about this tremendously popular and powerful film. But, I've never been one to jump on the bus with everybody else, no matter what the denominational program or latest Christian craze. In fact, as a pastor I normally don't do - or lead my church to do - what everybody else is doing. I know that may be a character flaw or mean that some great opportunities are missed, but I was raised in "church world" and so there is an inherent resistance, and just to be honest, a suspicion when everybody else is jumping in and getting caught up in the latest religious fad.
"Prepare the table, Set a watchman in the tower, Eat and drink. Arise, you princes, Anoint the shield!" Isaiah 21:5
"Anoint the shield!" As I study the Bible I find that a shield is a very special and unique piece of the armor of God. It's not a strength for catastrophe, it is that thing which keeps catastrophe from falling on me. The power of my arm may enable me to bear, but it is my shield which enables me to escape having to bear. My power is that which lifts me to my feet when the blow falls, but my shield keeps the blow from falling on me. My power supports what is already, but it is my shield that defends against what would have been.
