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Rescued
By God
By
Chaplain Chris Hale
Sounds
of muffled radio transmissions transmitted through
an air mask reveals that smoke, heat and flames
surround a firefighter.
The darkness is so complete that even a
flashlight cannot be seen from more than a few
inches away, yet to remove the breathing apparatus
only invites tragedy.
While the darkness seems overwhelming and
the heat overpowering, neither can stop the
determination to overcome the enemy.
The enemy hides in walls and floors,
striking back at those who are seek to control it,
but it is eventually defeated.
After the battle, family members cling to
one another as they survey the material loss
represented by the smoke filled, burned, or water
soaked remains of what was once their home, though
they are grateful to escape with their lives.
While this
battle is marked by an alarm tone, the spiritual
battles of life are ongoing.
The darkness overwhelms, the smoke
suffocates, and flames seek to steal, kill and
destroy everything in its path.
Yet somewhere through the chaos,
uncertainty, and danger appears someone willing to
risk it all to save us. God’s desire is to
provide search and rescue for us.
For
our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but
against the rulers, against the authorities,
against the powers of this dark world and against
the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly
realms. (Ephesians
6:12)
At
times, the enemy seems to be defeated, only to
creep around another entry point or remain hidden
until gaining enough strength to fight again.
Jesus embodies our spiritual rescuer who
goes beyond the flames to pull us from spiritual
death to life, defeating that which causes death
and destruction in our lives.
Our greatest strength lies not in our
abilities, training, or skill, but rather is found
through hope and faith in a God who battles with
us, leads us, and fights for us.
While we may fight our daily battles in the
physical, the ultimate war for control of our
lives takes place spiritually.
In
all these things we are more than conquerors
through him who loved us. (Romans
8:37)
God
gives us the strength to not only to overcome the
spiritual darkness, but even empowers us to rise
up as victorious conquerors in the spiritual
battles we face. God be with each of you, giving
you the light, hope, and courage to navigate in a
world that is often characterized by darkness.
We are not alone; help has arrived.
Peace
be with you,
CHC
Chris Hale
chaplain@abilenefiredepartment.com
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