Shifting Sands

I entered 10th grade as a District Champion on our relay team. There was excitement from the coach, students, and administration. They encouraged me to attempt another run for State.

I built my stamina with drills as part of the soccer team. When the season ended, I shifted my energy to the track team. The training was beyond intense… sometimes my food didn’t stay down. I even went to the local Dojo, Mount Song, and the Shaolin Training Hall.

While my training continued, a new principal had taken control. The coach retired. Many of my friends were expelled, and the administration—along with many teachers—were replaced. My relay team was gone, and the Eye of Sauron (the new principal) was upon me. I wasn’t a perfect student, but I wasn’t breaking every rule either. I continued to train despite the drama.

The track meet was finally nearing. One morning, I arrived to find the team had left for the meet without me. I assumed the coach or at least someone would have told me the dates… something—anything. Yet no one said a word, not even upon their return. I quit the team and shifted to weightlifting to win other competitions.

In the LOTK series, we find the twins training in each book. Whether in Odessis, Gathstrom, or elsewhere, the world around them is always shifting. The scenery, pressure, and battles change, but their discipline remains consistent.

Within our lives, seasons shift, people leave, leadership changes, and sometimes things become chaotic. Yet one thing remains constant… the Church. The Church is our training ground as Christians. Through sermons, Scripture, service, and prayer, God can strengthen us before the battle arrives. Do not forsake the assembly (Hebrews 10:25). Remember the Sabbath (Exodus 20:8). Find a church to call home. Remain involved somewhere, and trust that God will prepare you for the fight ahead.

"He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved."

Psalm 62:2

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