Disarmed

Imagine the music we could make if all the world's guns were guitars instead.

I doubt I need say anything more about gun control or violence in general. I did find it interesting the other day though, I was following a friend's FB post, and this redneck farmer was justifying his support for concealed-carry. He said he only wears his gun for personal protection. What I wanted to ask was, protection from what? I mean, is he worried about wild animals attacking him? I don't know. It seems there's a lot of fear behind a statement like that.

Of course we all have fears. About a lot of different things. Often we don't even know what we're afraid of. Finding freedom from that fear is an unmistakable feeling though, isn't it?

We've been attending worship services at the big church down the road lately. This past Sunday I felt it. We strolled in after the music had begun. Found our spot in the back of the darkened auditorium. I was just standing there, listening to the singing, and it dawned on me how I suddenly felt... disarmed. I had no tension, no pretense, no anger, angst, animosity or... fear. It felt good.

It's funny, because I'm not sure I really noticed any of those things consciously... until I DIDN'T! My face felt light and easy, and it was like I had been released from something, or relieved of it.

I suppose there are a number of factors that led to this, but one for sure is simply attending Sunday worship gatherings again. Having been away for an extended time - probably the longest since I'd become a follower of Jesus - I can tell it makes a difference in my life.

Whether you call it corporate worship, community, or whatever... the church is vital for me to make my way. I am thankful for the reminder on that day.

***

Psalm 27:1

"The Lord is my light and my salvation—
    whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life—
    of whom shall I be afraid?"