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| MacArthur in Manila, Philippines c. 1945 (Source Wikipedia) |
Bible Reading: Galatians 4:1-16
During the latter stages of World War II, General Douglas MacArthur kept a promise he had made to the people of the Philippines when he was forced to leave the islands in 1942. He returned with enough troops to help the Filipinos recapture their country.
Grateful for his assistance when all had seemed lost, the government in Manila later directed its armies to begin a tradition of calling out MacArthur’s name at every parade roll call. Each company designated one officer who would respond by answering, “Present in spirit.” That symbolic gesture helped to ensure that the dedication and courage of the general would live on in the hearts of the soldiers long after MacArthur was gone.
Those words, “present in spirit,” remind me of One who is actually present with every born-again Christian. When Jesus came to earth as our Savior, He died on the cross and rose from the dead, providing a way to escape the takeover of our hearts by the enemy. After Jesus left this earth, He sent the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. Although Jesus is not with us now in bodily form, the Spirit makes Him real to us.
If Philippine soldiers can, in a simple ceremony, gain great encouragement by remembering MacArthur, how much more can we as Christians be heartened by the indwelling Holy Spirit, who convicts, guides, strengthens, and enlightens us! We need only to surrender to His control. Victory is assured because He is always present.
What to do:
✞ When you need encouragement, remember “present in the Spirit.”
✞ Are you totally surrendered to the Spirit’s control?
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