Build The Formation Challenge

Original Date: 2/3/2009

This isn't really an event as much as it is a process and a challenge that was a powerful message from a woman in my church. And I really didn't know how to compose a note to send to everyone so I'm sending it here on the events. I am writing this challenge because we are in the drudgery of an unsettling economy, trying times, and questionable circumstances. People are facing depression, sickness, poverty, job loss, you name it.

This challenge is for us to come together to defend each other, work together, and sharpen each other's swords - remember, iron sharpens iron. In the movie "The Gladiator," the unit of roman soldiers was called a "Centuria" led by a centurion. When they came together in formation, a row of soldiers in front would put out their shields defending the front and guys on each side. The row of soldiers behind them would put their shields horizontally over their heads protecting them and the guys in the front. This created an impenetrable wall and proved highly effective in combat.

Like the centuria, we are in a battle. Actually, we are battling so many things right now which is why we must recognize that we are all part of a team. The men that made up the centuria were all working together to defend one another. We need to be doing the same. We have to be praying for one another, helping one another out, and encouraging one another. Lay aside any differences and come together for the good of the team.

For a Roman soldier, it was absolutely unacceptable to break formation. If the formation was broken then everyone was in jeopardy. That's where we are at now. We have to stand together in formation or we won't stand.

The challenge has four parts (Add more if you like):
Part 1:
Choose 3 friends that you will be praying for every day. For every friend that you pray for, ask them to pray for 3 more besides the one praying for them.
Part 2:
Find someone or more than someone that you can bless. There are more than enough people right now in need of groceries or money. See what you can spare and share it.
Part 3:
This may be the hardest part. Find someone that you have unforgiveness or dissension against. Make amends, forgive, solve conflicts, and come together in agreement. If they are unwilling/unresponsive, then pray for them to be blessed.
Part 4:
Pass this challenge along to as many people as you can.

Additionally, let's be praying for us to hear God's voice in these trying times. We have two ears and one mouth. So, let's listen to God twice as much as we talk. We must come back to the fear of the Lord if we hope to overcome. Fearing God is the beginning of wisdom!