The military air show that we went to earlier this summer was astounding! So much pride welled up in me as we watched the skill and precision and might of the United States Armed Forces. The men and women who train and serve our country to keep us safe and preserve our freedoms are the best in the world! We are truly grateful for their service.

The weather that day was extreme. One of the hottest days with the highest humidity of the entire summer. Being out on the tarmac made it even more grueling. We started walking toward the parking lot about an hour before the show ended just as the Thunderbirds were beginning their part of the show. The pilots were so incredibly sharp that we couldn’t help but stop along the way back to our vehicle to watch this magnificent show! At one point my son, Cody, and I sat on the cement half wall set up along the parking lot perimeter and turned toward the flight line to watch the fly by.

We felt the wind of it before we saw it or heard it. A jet flying extremely low raced over our heads…from behind, and yes, we both ducked! By the time the sound and sight of that jet hit us it was already over us…and that is how capable they are of sneaking up on an enemy. Overtaken before they even know what had them!

I’ve thought of that experience a number of times since then. The Bible warns us that we have an enemy that is just that capable of a sneak attack. 1 Peter 5:8 warns us, “Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone to attack.” That day at the air show we were hot, dehydrated and worn out. We were so busy watching something that was far away that we missed something right on top of us.

Stay alert. Our enemy is not flesh and blood. Our enemy is the enemy of our soul. And this fight is the fight of our life! The good news….this enemy has already been defeated! So today we call on Jesus to walk beside, behind, before and above. Regardless of our condition going into this day, well rested, hydrated & alert or weary and undone….we need the Lord with us! He will help us stay alert and on guard.