Fight For ‘Us’

In the midst of the tragedies, upsets and uncertainties, I find my self in a place of perplexity. 

Movements are beginning, walls are being created and sides are being taken. It is 2018 and we are beginning our year with what some people think is a step toward change. However, I beg to differ. 

As I learn more and more about how social reform and movements have changed the course of history in our country, I am confronted by two opposing parties. Those parties being people who are for a “cause” and people who are against the “effect”. Right now we are in a series of small battles: the fight for Gay Rights, Pro Choice, Gun Rights, Immigration, Religion, Political Power and Social Power.  Each of these battles are being valiantly fought by their members and supporters but as an outsider of these battles I have to ask, what is the root of your fight? Why are you pursuing these rights, why are you pursuing these amendments, why are you pursuing these social cultures? Is it because you merely agree or are you personally being effected? Are you fighting just to fight? Are you fighting to be heard and appeased, just to be listened to? 

When I am truly questioning myself and what I want to stand up for, I ask myself all of these questions. That way I am prepared to go to bat for whatever or whoever it is I am fighting for. 

In light of all of the other wars being waged on peoples rights, relationships, safety, beliefs or any other care that they may have, I am bringing to light a new battle being fought. 

It’s my battle for YOU. 

It’s my battle for YOUR heart.

It’s my battle for YOUR joy.

It’s my battle for YOUR salvation.

You see, I have been inspired by everyone who has mustered up the courage to speak out for what they believe in. I hear you and I value your intensity and passion, I also thank you for inspiring me to step out of the cloud of foreboding perplexity. The hardest part of writing this is knowing that not everyone is going to appreciate my “fight”, but I am quickly reminded that this isn’t about me or how hard I fight. This is about Who I have before me, next to me and behind me. I am praying for you, because not only do I believe in the power of prayer, but I believe in the One who listens and answers them. I know that He will not return void, He wisely, justly and lovingly does what is right in the right time. 

I pray that those of you who are fighting for a cause are introduced to the love of Christ in your battle and know that He fights for you and your heart. Every. Single. Day. That your eyes and minds will be opened to His love and concern for you. That you find out how much God truly cares about what is going on in your heart and world. I ask, in the name of Jesus, that you meet someone who is willing to walk with you through life, be a friend to you and love you unconditionally. God, I ask that you walk so closely with us that we not only feel it spiritually and physically but we undoubtedly know you are present. I pray that whoever reads this – whether they believe in God or not, if they question Your existence or are on the fence about who You are or who people say You are – will lean toward their uncertainty and truly make an effort just to seek You. 

For those of you who know The Lord, I challenge you to take the time to remind yourself that our battle is won and it is now our job to be a reflection of Christ and LOVE others, EVEN IF you don’t see eye to eye. Remember who is ultimately in control of what is going on around us and don’t be surprised when we are faced with challenges. Instead, walk humbly in truth and faith, be the example of hope and love like Christ calls us to be. I would also like to challenge you to be mindful of your arguments because there are people who are watching your every move, very closely, and you could easily turn away an opportunity to show someone Jesus if you’re not being careful. Let’s begin a movement of truth, love and oneness!

Finally, a reminder to us all. Let us not get caught up (even though it is easier said than done) in futile arguments that hurt each other but instead, lift each other up and spur one another to solutions to problems by working together.   

I am praying for all of us. 

Love always,

Marissa

Ecclesiastes 4:12 – “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

Romans 12:10 – “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

John 13:35 – “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Proverbs 19:21 – “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

Hebrews 10:23 – “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.”