Finding Your Stronghold

Most of my family and close friends know I love Westerns, especially the Lone Ranger. Since I was in grade school, I have watched reruns of the television series (my favorite are in color). I know, the episodes can sometimes be silly with inexpensive sets, simple plots and low budget special effects compared to today's technology. I watch them for more than that; the Lone Ranger represents truth, justice, equality and patriotism. These are things our current society are in desperate need of. This television show was way ahead of its time in many ways including racial equality. The Lone Ranger and Tonto were equals: best friends that fought side by side and cared for the well being of others regardless of race, gender or nationality.

In many of the Western shows and movies, there was always a fort where the cavalry officers and families lived. A stronghold from the elements and enemies they encountered. As Christians, we too have a stronghold: it is our personal relationship with God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. The Bible talks about this many times. Proverbs 18:10 says, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe".

A stronghold is defined as a place that has been fortified so as to protect it against attack or a place where a particular cause or belief is strongly defended or upheld.

A Christian stronghold should provide three things:

1. Protection from enemies, elements and the unknown)

2. Provision - what we NEED compared to what we WANT

3. Perspective - a view from "higher up"!

I hope you and your loved ones have found your stronghold. There are many wonderful churches that preach the Good News of Jesus. If you are looking for such a place, I invite you to join us at Otsego First Baptist this Sunday.

Pastor Aaron