Monday, July 25, 2011 - Everybody was Kung Fu Fighting

"And call upon Me in the day of trouble; 

I will deliver you, and you will honor Me." 

Psalm 50:15

     As part of FBC's summer family night services, we watched the new Karate Kid starring  Jaden Smith (Dre Parker) who is the spitting image of his daddy, Will Smith. Dre moves from Detroit to China finds himself the victim of a group of vicious bullies. He's a lonely little alien in a strange new world until Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), the apartment building's maintenance man, takes pity on him and teaches him Kung Fu as self-defense. Kung Fu, according to Mr. Han, is not about fighting for fighting's sake, but an attitude that controls everything a person does, from correctly hanging up a jacket to respecting other people. 

     When the movie ended and victory floated in the air along with the aroma of popcorn, every child around us at church was either Kung Fu fighting or dancing to the music. The energy from the story came through the 2D screen to infuse us. After watching "Little Dre" transform from a frightened loner to a self-disciplined and focused victor, I was ready to kick my bullying fears and live to the fullest. 

     I don't know anything about Kung Fu except what I've learned from movies but Mr. Han's description of the Kung Fu way of life sounds a lot like how believers should live:  Christ's attitude should be in everything we do. We're to live focused, self-disciplined lives that honor God and demonstrate an attitude of respectfulness to others. We're to live in harmony with others as much as possible, but we're also to stand against evil and promote Christ's teachings. Peace should reign in our hearts and heads. When we live each part of our lives with Christ in heart and mind, with His teachings and Spirit controlling our attitudes, actions, and choices, we can enjoy Peace, Wholeness, and Joy, even on a Monday.

"The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble." Nahum 1:7

"Then maidens will dance and be glad, young men and old as well.  

I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow." Jeremiah 31:13

"You have made known to me the path of life; 

You will fill me with joy in Your Presence, 

with eternal pleasures at Your right hand." 

Psalm 16:11

Father, You're our Rescuer, our Teacher, our Master, our Refuge. Your Presence brings knowledge and joy. You walk with us as we walk through streets and down aisles filled with people who don't know You and don't live by the same higher calling.  Guide us to stand out as attractive aliens who depend on You for everything.  We choose Your path with all it includes because that is where we find You. May the Peace, Joy and Victory we  know in You reach out through our multi-dimensional lives. 

In the Name of Jesus, Prince of Peace, Victorious Warrior, Joy of Heaven and Earth!
Inspired by the Karate Kid
photo from Google images