83 - The Armor of God

Ephesians 6:10-20

I have to admit, I have little trouble with this passage.

There is the militaristic language of armor, breastplate, shield, sword, contrary to other scripture passages such as "nations shall beat their swords into plowshares," or "turn the other cheek."

And then there is a hint that we are invoking God to be on our side.  I prefer the words attributed to Abraham Lincoln:  "We trust that God is on our side.  It is more important to know that we are on God's side."

But if we take away the military language, what is it that we are advised to cling to?  Truth...righteousness...gospel of peace...faith...salvation.  Those are truly at the core of what makes us Christian.

The author of the letter to the Ephesians (who may not have been Paul) is giving encouragement to the young church in Ephesus in their new life in Christ.  Language we hear in baptismal services comes from this letter:

4:…. ⁴ There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, ⁵ one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ⁶ one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.

The strength the Ephesians drew from this letter we can also, if we "pray in the Spirit at all times" for the strength to follow Jesus, and become peacemakers and reconcilers in the world.

There is another way to surround yourself with God's protection.  In the Celtic tradition, there is what is called a Caim prayer.  Here is a description and a brief example from Celtic Daily Prayer - Prayers and Readings from the Northumbria Community:

Draw a circle clockwise around yourself, using the right index finger as you say the prayer; this symbolizes the encircling love of God.  (The situation may make this physical action impractical; in which case see the action in your mind’s eye as you pray.)  See yourself and others encircled and be aware that the living God surrounds and encloses with His love, care and protection.

Circle me (or another being prayed for), Lord.

Keep comfort near

and discouragement afar.

Keep peace within

and turmoil out.

Circle me, Lord

Keep protection near

and danger afar.

Circle me, Lord

Keep home within,

keep despair without.

Circle me, Lord

Keep light near

and darkness afar.

Circle me, Lord

Keep peace within

and anxiety without.

The eternal Father, Son and Holy Spirit

shield me on every side.

Amen.