Jesus trained special forces and gave them a clear mission. They were to invade, overtake and establish security and peace in land occupied by hostile forces. They were to rescue people from the tyranny and brutality of those enemies.

In short, He would need to train crack troops to be loyal to Him and to think and act just as He would.

Today we call them followers or disciples. They should be called stealth ‘fighters’. They appear as ordinary contributors in the common affairs of life. But they confront and rout enemies with steel-eyed ferocity. They carry devastating weaponry - concealed but overpowering.

Jesus, God’s Man of War, trains us through illustration - with words and actions. He expects His trainees to adopt His attitude and posture:

Mind-set: He that joins Me views the mission clearly. The enemy is a liar, a terrorist, a ruthless, unscrupulous, indiscriminate and relentless killer. The life of every man, woman and child is his prey. The enemy’s deeds and influence are to be obliterated. Co-existence with the enemy is not an option.

Heart-set: I come to give life and peace. I have authority and power to do just that. Joined to Me, you accept My mission and I empower you with all that I am. Go in this your strength. We are inseparable.

You and I, personally, are given this severe and privileged commission - to release God’s children from darkness and torment and return them to the Father’s loving arms.

It’s today. Mission commenced.