Ephesians 6:10-20
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (ESV)
On the Prowl
Emperor Constantine, Christian Ruler and Helena, Mother
21 May 2010
The Lord has given great weapons to the enlightened. In baptism he has given us unsurpassed blessings. We have baptized a large number of people this year at Memorial Lutheran Church, both adults and children. Those people have a great challenge before them as baptized Christians. Satan will not sit still and let the baptized waltz through life from the font of the Lord. He remains the one prowling about seeking whom he may devour. Yes, he will attack, and our only sure defense is the gifts of the Lord. We must put on the full panoply of God and live in the life of the Savior and the holy mysteries that He gives us.
Cyril of Jerusalem
"Great is the Baptism that lies before you. It is a ransom to captives; a remission of offences; a death of sin; a new birth of the soul; a garment of light; a holy indissoluble seal; a chariot to heaven; the delight of Paradise; a welcome into the kingdom; the gift of adoption! But there is a serpent by the wayside watching those who pass by: beware lest he bite you with unbelief. He sees so many receiving salvation, and is seeking whom he may devour (1 Pt 5:8). You are coming in unto the Father of spirits, but going past that serpent.
"How then might you pass him? Have your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace (Eph 6:15); that even if he bites, he might not hurt you. Have faith indwelling, steadfast hope, a strong sandal, that you might pass the enemy, and enter the presence of your Lord. Prepare your heart for reception of doctrine, for fellowship in holy mysteries. Pray more frequently, that God may make you worthy of the heavenly and immortal mysteries. Do not cease day or night; but when sleep is banished from your eyes, then let your mind be free for prayer. And if you find any shameful thought rising up in your mind, turn to meditation upon judgment to remind you of salvation. Give your mind completely to study, that it may forget base things."
Prayer
O Lord, cover me with Your protection that I might not be devoured by my enemy, and let me withstand his bites with the armor that You give through the mysteries of Your grace. Amen.
For Cindy Pfluger, that the Lord would watch over her and bring her healing
For Helen Weaver that the Lord would guard and keep her
For the catechumens who will be joining Memorial Lutheran Church on Sunday, that they would confess faithfully their Lord Jesus Christ
Art: GRUNEWALD, Matthias Resurrection 1515