Rev. Dr. Kristin Johnston Largen
Like many of you I’m sure, I have mixed feelings about the military metaphor that is used in this passage from Ephesians. It certainly is true that language describing the Christian life as a struggle against sin and evil always has been part of Christian imagery—including language of “spiritual warfare”; this is reflected in the fact that the church on earth is often called the “Church Militant, whereas those who have died are said to have joined the “Church Triumphant.” Even so, Christians also must acknowledge how often the church has turned the struggle against sin into a war on sinful people, evil nations, or godless religions. Fighting “hordes of devils” can easily turn into “onward, Christian soldiers.”
So, while I acknowledge the dangers of uncritically appropriating the metaphor, nonetheless, I think there is something valuable in the idea of putting on a “holy garment”—ok, even armor—that so tangibly signifies protection, fortitude and confidence in the Lord. It is encouraging to imagine oneself literally cloaked in God’s strength, love, and presence—emboldened to “proclaim the gospel of peace,” and “pray in the Spirit at all times.”
Life can be hard, and we often are called to make difficult decisions: to put ourselves on the line for others, to lean into love and stand up to hate, to proclaim Christ and him crucified, even when that is foolishness to the world. Christians can be exposed to ridicule and scorn, and we can be challenged and criticized—or worse.
So, this image reminds us that when we go into those places and spaces where God calls us, we do not go alone. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Christ is with us, and we are “armored” against the darts and daggers that might be flung at us, and heartened to “keep alert and always persevere.”
Almighty God, our rock and our salvation, thank you for enveloping us in your protection, and standing with us in our trials. Continue to watch over and encourage us as we faithfully respond to your call to follow Christ, serving the neighbor and bearing witness to your transformative love. Safeguarded in your arms, we continue our walk to the cross. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.
