The Sword of Prayer

Today I received a text message from my niece in which she described a spiritual problem that demanded prayer.  I was struck by her choice of words which she will use in the prayer circle at  church on Sunday.  They were, "putting on the full armor of G-d and swinging the sword of prayer."  What powerful words.  Standing firm in the midst of adversity, staring down your fears and putting your trust in a higher source in order to find the strength and courage to meet whatever comes.  The people in Florida are experiencing a myriad of emotions and anyone who has not gone through something like this can only sit back and wonder how they are coping.  Here we have two monster hurricanes, one which struck Texas a week ago and now Hurricane Irma that is barreling down on Florida.  Both governors of these states need to be congratulated for their unwavering strength and commitment to the people, assuring them that everything is being done and offering encouragement to others as they steadfastly say, "we will get through this".  They are true leaders offering hope and guidance to all in the face of danger.  It is easy to sit back in our easy chairs and watch these storms unfolding on t.v.    We are afforded the opportunity to second guess or label people because they stayed behind when they should have gone or we could just dismiss the whole thing because we're not personally involved.  But, what is needed here is exactly what my niece texted to me this morning.  It is prayer.  Prayer that with G-d all things are possible.  That even in the midst of the unknown we only need put on the armor of G-d and swing the sword of prayer.  By this we cut through all the bs and connect with the Divine in our hour of need.  G-d answers our cries for help in miraculous, unexpected ways.  G-d Bless all who are going through this and those who have heeded the call for help as they will find the grace to endure, the resolve to keep going and the courage to overcome.