Craig Clouston

Kinsman Warriors

So he said, “These are the two who are anointed to serve the Lord of all the earth.”
Zechariah 4:14

Mitch and Lee frequently communicated during the day; mostly by text messaging.
Lee was Mitch’s nephew. He was also a seasoned cop.
Each morning Mitch lifted Lee to the Lord, asking that God give Lee wisdom and strength, with the accompaniment of supernatural protection so he could protect the citizens of his community. “Thank You, Almighty God, for always being conspicuous in Lee’s life. And for always speaking to him in ways he understands. Help him make the right decisions today. Show him things he needs to see, and give him discernment beyond his own. Infuse him with Your strength so that he can protect those You have placed in his care,” Mitch prayed.
As he carried out the duties of his vocation each day, Lee was aware that God would show him the things he needed to see, and speak to him about the things he needed to know. He knew that apart from God, there was no way he could make a real difference. “Thank You, Lord, for those who faithfully pray for me. Thank You for always watching my six. Help me see what’s really happening on the streets today. Surround me with Your warring angels, and use me to make this city a safer place.”

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When in uniform, we immediately know that Lee is a warrior. But to look at Mitch no one would suspect that he serves God in the same capacity, because he fights his battles inconspicuously.
In today’s passage, the two olive trees represent Zerubbabel and Joshua, one a prince the other a priest; both endued with the gifts and graces of God's Holy Spirit. Although contemporaries, they were of different vocations. But both were mighty men of God.
The same holds true of Mitch and Lee. Both men were created for battle. And so were you. Like Zerubbabel and Joshua, you were created to serve the Lord of all the earth. And whether you serve in the sight of others, or quietly behind the scenes, you are no less integral, no less valuable. You are kinsman warriors.

Prayer

“Almighty God, fill me with Your strength and the fearlessness of a warrior. Watch over me as I engage the enemy on Your behalf. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”