| Stand Ready - article by Joel Hempel
For the most part, during our inner city ministry in Cincinnati, there was no threat to our safety. But after being there for about 10 years, I started feeling vulnerable. So, I suggested to Marcia that we take a self-defense class. There are three things I remember from the training: How to punch, how to fall, and how to stand – which the instructor called the "ready stance.” In other words, be mindful of your surroundings and be ready for what might come at you. In Sundays sermon, Pastor Scott referred to James 5:8 about the importance of patience and being ready to live in the world with Christ. The NIV translation of that verse states, "be patient and stand firm because the Lord is coming soon." That is, stand with confidence and certainty. In his message, pastor encouraged us to know with certainty that what we are experiencing is not all there is. There is another life yet to come, a life with Jesus in heaven. Although verse 8 refers to the second coming of Christ, it is also true that there is another coming of our Lord – a here and now coming. Verse 11 of Sundays sermon text states, "The Lord is full of compassion and mercy." Gods compassion and mercy are far more than "feeling our pain." Yes, our pain cuts deeply into the heart of Jesus as when he cried over the death of his friend, Lazarus. But just as his compassion and mercy for Mary and Martha (Lazarus’ sisters) led Jesus to raise Lazarus from the dead, he also comes to us to raise us up. It does happen on occasion when our Lord miraculously intervenes in our life to raise us up. Other times – admittedly, most other times – the Spirits intervention is more subtle, though no less significant. As Pastor Scott noted, all of us, sooner or later, will suffer from painful losses or challenges that are overwhelming. At these times, the Holy Spirit gives us courage, strength, and the ability to stand ready in the face of devastating circumstances. One of the ways our Lord intervenes to strengthen us and even grant victory is through the community of faith – otherwise known as Glendale Lutheran Church. Outstanding, life- giving resources are available in our little congregation: Worship and Bible studies provide necessary spiritual care. Pastor and deacons reach out to people who are hurting or in need of support. Meals are spontaneously organized for people who, for the time being, are having difficulty cooking. Emergency financial assistance is offered during hard times. Revitalizing distractions are available through fellowship meals, baseball darts, Pickleball, and even golf –though I risk the wrath of Ronnie by suggesting such a thing. Bottom line, we don’t have to wait for the Lord to return at the Second Coming. He comes among us now in many compassionate and merciful ways. Stand ready in your faith to receive him. | 
