In the Line of Fire

When I was a young(er) parent, one surprise benefit was enjoying the new generation of toys with my children. There are so many more options with Lego than when I was a kid. Color by number adds math (my favorite) into art books. And of course, the Wii remotes and balance board introduced a whole new interactive family experience. But the technological advancements of Nerf Blasters have been my favorite. There are so many new and powerful ways to violently accelerate foam projectiles! 

But I  soon realized one of the drawbacks of outfitting my children with toys of destruction. Their dad quickly became the most appealing victim for my kids’ daily target practice. Throughout the day, random missiles would impact almost every part of my body. Rarely armed myself, I dodged and evaded a constant barrage of attacks. Spent nerf ammunition would pile up in just about every room, vehicle, and outdoor space. 

What had I done? Why had I chosen to weaponize my own flesh and blood?  

When Jesus surrendered His physical life to God’s will as a sacrifice for all of our sins, He provided a powerful example of self-control. His suffering was an act of love and grace given to all of humankind He chose to save. How discouraging and demoralizing to be attacked by His own created children! The very hands created in His own image betrayed Him and nailed Him to a cross. Words of anger and hate screamed in His face, only possible through His life breathed into His offspring. Yet like a lamb led to the slaughter, Jesus did not open His mouth.

What a beautiful and powerful picture! Jesus was clear in His identity and purpose, and nothing could prevent Him from His sovereign appointment. The very ones behind His own suffering were the ones He came to save. The power of the Fruit of the Spirit of self-control comes from the very testimony of the gospel. This same power lives inside of us and enables us to live out the gospel in our interactions with others. 

So when you feel like the projectiles of the enemy are pounding against your restraint, consider the strength that comes from walking in step with Jesus. Even when it seems others have taken advantage of your generosity, Jesus' acts of kindness are intended to lead all of us to repentance. Walking in the Fruit of the Spirit often requires thick skin and a soft heart. Though from my parenting experience, I must say that a helmet and protective equipment doesn’t hurt either. Neither does a little prayer. ​