To You … With Love,

By Avis Richardson

(Retired Reverend)

The Others

In the Old Testament there is a grand story of a young prophet named Elisha. He was just coming into his own when the mantle fell from Elijah, the old prophet of all the prophets. Elisha was chosen to pick up the garments of the old faith people and go forward into a world of new ideas where God wise the world would not necessarily welcome his words. On the occasion when he saw there was a great enemy surrounding the city he was afraid. He felt like he was alone in his battle for the Lord.

Then, when the fear of what was ahead became overwhelming, Elisha saw beyond the moment into a vision par-excellent. He was not alone at all. Everywhere on the mountain he saw horses and chariots of fire and God.

In our lives we would all admit it is hard to keep faith when the circumstances are fearful around us. We see the damage sin can do in human hearts and our inability to find answers disturbs our sleep. We are right to recognize the power of the dark side.

However, we are also right to look it in the eye of evil and say, "You do not rule this kingdom."

As we continue our Lenten journey there is a light shining beyond the cross. There is a sound of angels on the mountainside and a chariot of grace filled with the power of a living God. The wars of the worlds that rage around us are never new.

Just some reversed thunder from the far side of hell. You and I, choose to see God when we seek a place of safety away from the angry winds. It was for Elisha an Alleluia moment. One he didn't expect t find with the enemy near by. Still, God said, "Go with peace for lo, I am with you always." This is why the old Irish prayer leaves us with the blessing, "May the wind be always at your back."