October 2020

“Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.” Matthew 12:25

The quote “a house divided against itself cannot stand” is often attributed to President Abraham Lincoln. However, the quote is actually part of the above scripture. The original context of the scripture is Jesus speaking to the Pharisees regarding the deliverance of a demon-possessed blind and mute man. The Pharisees tried to discredit Jesus’ healing ministry by saying, of course, he can cast out demons because he is one of them. Jesus quickly responds by letting them know that this is not possible. Why would Satan tear down his own house because if the demons are doing Satan’s work through humanity, Satan would not want the demons cast out of the man? Thus Jesus providing deliverance negates the mission of the possession.  Jesus reminds them light drives out darkness.

I do not think anyone would have imagined our country would be in the situation we are now when 2020 first began. I am sure we did not believe, as a nation, we would become divided on so many issues, and the health crisis would still be here. I am reminded in this scripture that unity is required more than ever.  It is the light that is needed to drive out the darkness. We cannot allow the negativity to push us to hate, discord, or division. We must find a way within ourselves, with the area that we have all been, placed to be the voice in the wilderness. We have to bring healing as Jesus to those who are hurting while we find healing for ourselves in the process. With all the negativity around us, we can have a sense of hopelessness. However, we must focus on the positive in every negative situation as we understand our limitations.  At that point, we focus on what we can do as we know what we cannot. Be encouraged!

Blessings,

Reverend Takana L. Jefferson, Chaplain, United States Navy