Forward lean

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; be not frightened neither be dismayed; for the Lord God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

As we come closer to the end of this season of Advent, we should draw upon the heroic virtue of courage to lean forward with strength into the oppressions of the world. The ruler of world has made attacks against the Catholic Church since he pressed the people to crucify the Son of God. He has now taken off his gloves and is fully coming against the Church of God openly. See how the Holy Russian Empire came under attack and was beaten back by communism. Alexander I, Czar in 1815, dreamt of a Holy Alliance of major nations to integrate Christian moralities and principles to guide international relations. A century later, this great Christian nation was overwhelmed by the October Revolution of 1917. America, founded on Christian values and laws outlined in its Constitution has stood as a beacon of light to the world for two and a half centuries. This “nation under God” is facing a full-frontal assault of Marxism and Communism. The progressives and media like to call is socialism to sound nicer, but it’s end game is the destruction of faith in God.

Satan is attacking hard now. Should this frighten the Christian soul? Absolutely not!!! For God is God and in total control. None of what is going on in the world, even since the garden, has surprised God. He knows what is coming and even better, He has a plan for a great gift.

Satan won at the garden by bringing sin to man and getting man kicked out of Eden. But, wait – this brought about Jesus. Oh, and don’t forget Divine Mercy. Satan won by crucifying Jesus, killing the Son of God on a cross. But, wait – this brought the passion, cross and Salvation. Don’t forget about Divine Mercy and the gates of Heaven opening. Or, the raising of Adam and Eve in their salvation. Satan won with Covid. He closed the churches and drove God’s people away from worshiping Him. But wait – this brought out the fighter. This resurrected the Church Militant to stand up and fight. Even if the Church is driven underground, it will be stronger than ever. That is a prophetic sense God has given me to strengthen my soul for days ahead and I share with you for that same purpose. The Church will arise from these ashes ready to fight as David.

So be strong and steadfast, the victory of God is promised, guaranteed and imminent. The manger is coming in weeks and the cross is the mighty weapon which empowers us to overcome all the attacks of the enemy.

“My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast….Awake, my soul!..I will awake the dawn.” Psalm 57:7,8

“And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you.” 1 Peter 5:10