John 20:21 – Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." (NIV)

I am shocked but still I remain fully able to react. Through this internal mechanism, over which I have no control, I seem to be able to borrow from tomorrow's resources that which I need today to meet the present need.

The downside of the above-mentioned phenomenon was that after the events of last Tuesday had sunk in, Wednesday and Thursday were a mountain to climb. Just getting out of bed and in to work was a small personal victory over depression and dissipation.

Friday last we stood still for three minutes in memorial. I seem, once more, to be back on track, having replenished the physical and spiritual resources used in getting through Wednesday and Thursday. As I have prayed over the last few days, it seems as if a heavy cloud has hung over me. It is as if the evil one has sought to push me down, like a small child held under water by a bully — something in reality I have experienced — but I refused to give in.

As I cried out to my God in my feebleness, there was only a fleeting response that I could perceive. Finally, last night, in my being I took authority over the situation in prayer, as a member of God's chosen. Thus in the name of Jesus I have overcome this oppressive introspection, looked up to my Saviour, and found His peace once more.

I humbly ask that we might remember to look up to see Jesus bringing His healing and authority over our nations once more, as has been evident in days gone by. So too are we to lift up those who are suffering in the aftermath, with permanent changes for their loved ones.

Matthew 24:42-44 – Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. (NIV)

Prayer: Lord, we thank you that you have held back so much already that we do not know about. Return to our nations and peoples to bring your peace, healing and justice. In these dark times inspire us to keep watch, to stay close and be ready when you call. Lord, in our time, grant us wisdom to be able to intercede, to stand in the gap and remain standing, no matter what comes — because you have already overcome. Amen.

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About the author:

Rod Marshall <roderickhenrymarshall@gmail.com>
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
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