Vision?

To date I have not completely formed my personal opinion on the validity of visions and the present experience of them. To be more concise, I am not sure if the event of a dream or vision is indeed an encounter with the Spirit of God. I do desire the thought that this is true. However, in absence of proper meditation, prayer, and study on the same I cannot be certain. Never the less, regardless of absolute understanding I did have a thought last night which was made known to me through the combination of a rational train of thought and unconscious imagery.

As I lay down to sleep, I began a brief daily prayer as most of us do. Thankfulness, Awe, requests for protection of family and home. As I began to dose, I began to wrestle with the Lord in regard to sins and issues in my life that I seem to struggle with constantly. I took the position that if some divine sight was granted to me, that if I could see the demons beforehand then I could avoid interaction. In my mind I was concerning myself with large struggles, major events, happenings that would be obvious to most anyone.

Then

As I slipped into quiet rest, the image of a most serene countryside appeared. A landscape of virgin green grass draped in new foliage of long standing trees complete with warmth reminiscent of a spring day. A slight breeze swirled the clouds of the cobalt sky. A simple place with no threat or concern.

As I scanned the horizon a banner or flag-shaped object suddenly appeared . As the facade of the flowing banner was pealed away the presence of a demonic force came to light. There was a little troll like being that was all the time present behind the covering of the flag.

Instantly, I woke and was enlightened to know that evil is not only found in the open but conceals itself in every possible position. The Devil has been given dominion over this earth and will use all ends to accomplish his confusion.

I know - an obvious revelation at best. But – maybe an answer to a prayer. Maybe we do not need to see the absolute depravity of this world. Maybe we would be terrified at every turn if we knew the true darkness that surrounds. I like to think that the darkness that is revealed to us is done so with purpose. Maybe our sins and struggles are meant to try us by fire in order to cultivate who we are to be.

Praise God for the gift of relative peace. May we be ever watchful of the enemy even in our Joy. For although Christ has overcome the world we continue to drudge through it. Our mission is not yet complete. May we strive to realize all that Jesus Christ has and will continue to do for the world. May we be compelled to reflect his light so that others can find the Way. And in doing so those others will reflect the light back so we may see.

I would rather see the Light. Concentrate on the Light. Follow the Light.

Be aware of evil, but definitely not look for it.