The Lord will march out like a champion, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal;

with a shout he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over his enemies. Isaiah 42:13

Recently I was interacting with a few young boys at the ranch. I had begun playing catch with a ball and netted rackets with one of them in a game he dubbed "whack-a-mole." I'm but somehow he was gaining points (and I wasn't!). The other two asked to join us, so I gave up my racket and took a back

position to keep the balls from heading out into the arena. One of the newcomers who was there for his session couldn't remember my name, so he glanced at my name tag which reads, "Gwen Hanna, Chaplain." He then said excitedly, "That says 'champion.' Hey Champion, will you be on my team??" Why, of course!

We giggled together over the next moments of the game as he called out "hey Champion!" over and over again. God was speaking a wonderful reminder. Although I seek to offer my all in being their chaplain, what he has also appointed me to be is a champion for each one he places on my path. I can champion their needs, their triumphs, their victories, and, in God's provision, offer a safe and sacred place for them to enjoy the welcome and love where a made-up game of "whack-a-mole" becomes and life-building gift of grace. I am so humbled and grateful for this calling and opportunity!

I’m grateful, Lord, that you are the champion,

stirred with zeal, who fights my battles.

As you equip me as your representative,

Show me how to champion the needs

Of those around me.

Put feet to the love you pour through me,

And invite others to know you as the One

Who wins!