Good morning, everyone.
Our verse for today comes from Acts 10:26, “But Peter lifted him up, saying, ‘Stand up; I too am a man.’”
Many of us who have no experience serving in the military probably hold to the perception that the training to become a soldier is first and foremost about breaking someone down and then building them back up with a military mindset. Whatever exposure we have had, whether through television or movies, routinely paints the picture of a drill sergeant constantly yelling and belittling the trainees, stripping them of every tendency they brought with them and attempting to replace it with the government’s idea of how best to serve and protect, to fight and defend. While that practice may or may not actually take place, especially to the extent it is portrayed by Hollywood, there can be no debate that the end goal is to make the recruit into the best possible soldier he can be. In civilian life, no less of a goal exists. Parents want the absolute best for and from their children. Employers desire their employees to fulfill their potential. Spouses support one another as they chase their dreams and take on new challenges. Or at least that’s the way it should be.
But sometimes, that support and encouragement is not there. And when one falls on their face, no one is there to help them up. The reasons are many, but oftentimes the one who should be there to encourage is simply unable or unwilling to give of themselves in that way. Whatever sacrifices or inconveniences might be required are beyond the heart of the other. But Jesus knew no limitations. He wasn’t bothered too much to be bothered. That’s possible when your mission is to do the Father’s will and gather up the lost and broken that He has claimed for His own. When your shoulders are not burdened by an image or an agenda or your rights and privileges, then they easily and willingly bend down for another. When you, as a redeemed sinner, understand that your best is no better than that other person’s worst, then you can lift them up knowing you, too, are in need of grace. And if you find yourself with no one around to call on, remember that Jesus’ reach is not limited by your circumstances. He is there when no one else is.
As we seek Him today, be sure you are one who is lifting up and not any part of the knocking down.
Have a supportive Tuesday.
#4 Rich Holt
Dad of Ripken, Koy, TrishaJean, Samantha, Kakie Holiday and Raleigh
Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them.
