Sent: Thursday, January 03, 2002

Subject: Front & Rear Guard

Good Morning Ethan & Emily:

We used to be able to jest about the “Russians are coming” or something like that, as we have always had those who oppose us but never have we had enemies forces oppose us on our own soil.  No longer…the terrorist attack on Sept. 11th changed everything!  But perhaps one good result of this….is that it shocked us back to the reality that we live in a dangerous world.

Rather than focusing on our opposition…and there are spiritual as well as actual physical forces that oppose us and desire us harm…I would like to share with you this morning the fact that you can take comfort in knowing that God is actively protecting you at all times.

When we were practicing combat maneuvers in Army training, we had to post front and rear guards as we moved from one place to another and they performed a very vital function. 

As the Israelites were getting ready to enter the land of Canaan (filled with enemies…even giants), Moses admonished the people:  “Be strong and courageous!  Do not be afraid of them (those who oppose you)!  The Lord your God will go ahead of you.  He will neither fail you nor forsake you.”  (Deut. 31: 6)

Later in the book of Isaiah, the prophet offered hope and deliverance to the people of Judah and reminded them:  “…the Lord will go ahead of you, and the God of Israel will protect you from behind.” (Isaiah 52: 12)

As a child your mother and I did “guard duty” for you as best we could.  Now as adults having placed your faith and trust in the Lord, you have a better and perfect “guard.” 

So…with God ahead of you…and behind you…acting as front and rear guard, go forward in this new year of 2002 enthusiastically and boldly, trusting in Him…and living for Him who loves you and is always working on your behalf!

Have a wonderful day…

Dad