Ez 30: 21-26

This took place in April, 587 BC. King Hophra tried to stop the Babylonians from conquering the land but ended up losing his army and the source of his strength. The metaphor of the arm and the hand was a symbol of power and strength. How often when we show our solidarity do we use our arms and hands to show our strength and power? There is nothing as humiliating as fighting with one arm tied behind your back. With the defeat of his army before Nebuchadnezzar there is nothing that Hophra could do. God was going to bring this man down! The symbolism of breaking both arms is so unique it reminds me of Spamalot where the knight fights and wants to continue even after his arms and legs are cut off. God intends to empower the Babylonians to carry this out. With this, Egypt will become neutered.

What a weekend! Great church retreat and sharing. I even got somethings off my chest that I have been carrying for decades. How they had even come out was beyond me but God saw fit for me to move beyond them. I am so proud of Irene and her wanting to move forward in her own healing process. I am also proud of David who co-chaired this retreat. It was exceedingly and abundantly above all we can ask. I want to come along side of him and be more open with him and he with me. I hope that this process will start soon. The weather was spectacular and the setting (NJ shore) was as well. The facilities were ok but not fully open to enjoy but the food was very lacking. Interesting to see if we return...

Today is the first day wearing shoes and heading off to the gym in over a month. Boy, do I need the gym...

Prayers for my family and for those who have military memories and for those who are currently serving now. One of the young men in my congregation will be going to Afghanistan soon and I will be praying over him on Sunday as he goes into training. Prayers also for Owen Paris, the founder of YMAM who is suffering from a heart condition.

Praise for today: He is God and we are not!