Names: Paul & Mary Ann Blezien (VP Student Development)
Scripture:
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Reflections:
While working at a Christian college in Iowa, our family spent many spring breaks leading students on an annual service project to the inner city of New Orleans. Our time was split between interacting with kids in afterschool programs and participating in evening evangelism on Bourbon Street. Many trips coincided with the self-indulgent festivities of Mardi Gras.
One night during Mardi Gras, while ministering with a New Orleans-based mission team, an unexpected sound filtered through the drunken mob on Jackson Square. Praise choruses. An unpretentious gathering of people in the riverfront amphitheater was lifting up the name of Jesus in the midst of the carousing. We sensed a difference in the atmosphere that year. More hope. Less chaos. Why was that? One of our new friends from the mission group reflected: “It’s because we’re winning.”
Jesus told us we are in a battle. Not with flesh & blood but against spiritual forces of this dark world. We advance when we stand firm on the truths of knowing who our leader is and remembering to praise His Name regardless of the troubles we are surrounded by this side of heaven. Take heart, God is for us! Jesus has overcome the world!
Prayer for the Day:
We praise you, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, because you are the Ultimate Victor. Through the power of your Holy Spirit in us, we choose peace over trouble, hope instead of cynicism, and perseverance through discouragement. Amen
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