Counselor’s Corner Issue 33

Dear Weary Warrior,

The story is told about a group of Oregon Trail travelers in a 12-wagon train who were under attack by the Lake Sioiux tribe.  Outnumbered 20 to one, the pioneers cowered as bullets zipped overhead splintering wagon boxes, and arrows shredded the canvas covers. In the midst of the skirmish, two pregnant women huddled together in the wagon, trying to make their toddlers lie down. 

When there appeared no hope, there was a sudden shift in the onslaught.  Gunfire stopped.  Arrow siege halted.  A hush fell over the opposing parties as one of those pregnant women, Woman Dress Lamoreauxhen, from the meager protection of the wagons and impeded by her 32-week bulk, strode out into the midst of the battle. She had recognized some of the attackers—she knew them personally -- she was a half-sister to many of them.  Using the power of advocacy, she shouted at the Indians to stop their attack or her brother, threatening that their own Hunkpapa Sioux war chief, Gall, would otherwise take vengeance.  Because of her sacrifice, the whole wagon group erupted in celebration for the rescue from an evil attack and how they were brought into safety from the enemy.

It may be that you feel under attack in your ministry -- by parents, by school boards, by colleagues.  You may be circling your proverbial wagons, cowering in fear of what seems inevitable.  You may feel scared for the students you protect, the ones in your care.   I've been there.  I get it.

This week begins our first Take Heart & Teach educator Zoom session where we can circle our wagons.  This is a time designed to listen, pray, and uplift one another in the midst of educator attacks.  Yet, it's more than that because we have an Advocate on our side.  We can trust in the power of the Unexpected Savior who knows the enemy.  He recognizes our attackers and knows them personally.   It's because of His sacrifice that we can celebrate that "the Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom (2 Timothy 4:18)."  I look forward to celebrating with you together.

Sincerely,
Mindy