Stay the course...

Can I count on you? Terry Dashner....Faith Fellowship Church PO Box 1586 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Semper fidelis is a fabulous Latin motto meaning that in centuries of Roman might the soldier swore that he would fight for Caesar, never questioning his safety. The Latin motto means "always faithful." The motto is the official pledge of the United States Marine Corps. It signifies the dedication that individual Marines are expected to have to "The Corps" and to their fellow fighting men and women for the rest of their days and beyond. Being a former Navy Corpsman, I'm very familiar with the term, even its shorter form: "Semper Fi." May I ask you a question? Have you ever been a part of an organization that required your utmost dedication? Probably so, right? And not only did it require your dedication, but it required steadfastness. You were not only required to show up but to participate, even when others were discouraged and falling away. What caused you to last while others left? Remember this historical event--the pass of Thermopylae? In the pass of Thermopylae, in the country of Greece, there stands a monument, world renowned, erected to Leonidas and his valiant three hundred. It bears the inscription: "Go, stranger, and tell at Sparta that we died here fighting to the last in obedience to our laws," and it commemorates that thrilling event when Leonidas with his three hundred successfully held the pass of Thermopylae against tremendous odds until betrayed into the hands of the enemy. Thus this monument bears magnificent witness to the qualities of loyalty and steadfastness. Three hundred men fought off the mammoth army and navy of the Persians, against impossible odds, and did it successfully until one of their own told the Persian army how to go around the pass. A loose lip and unfaithful heart were all it took to wipe out an indigenous people of Greece. And so it is true in any church, organization, club, military or even a family unit that the weakest link is the untrue heart. One thing I've learned through the years of service in military, law enforcement, and church is that loyalty and steadfastness are two attributes that stand head and shoulders above eloquence, talent, and prestige. I'd rather serve with a loyal and steadfast servant than anyone of super talent, super speech, or super charisma. Maybe you agree. I think that's why the Bible is full of scriptures like Revelation 2:10: "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life" (KJV). Keep the faith. Stay the course. Jesus is coming again for a faithful and steadfast Bride. Pastor T.