July 21: To have looked at Thomas Jonathan Jackson as a young man and predicted greatness would have been considered by some as going out on a limb. An orphan, in school he labeled as awkward and quiet. Later, as a teacher, he was not a favorite among his students, even drawing unflattering nicknames. Reserved, he struggled socially. But oh, how things can change. This young man, who drew little affection from his students, evolved. Jackson became a born-again Christian. He studied the Bible and kept a book of sayings to aid him in improving as a person. July 21, 1861, Jackson was leading a group of Virginians in what had become a ferocious first major battle of the Civil War—the first Battle of Bull Run. As the Confederate lines took heavy fire and risked buckling, a comment was made. Exactly what was said or the actual intent of the words has been debated for more than 150 years. But the fact is, under heavy fire, Jackson’s demeanor was referred to by another officer as a “stone wall.” And thus was born a legend. Men followed him without question. He still is studied as one of the greatest military minds in our history. When people look at us, can they tell what we stand for? Do we inspire by our actions in the way we handle situations? Do we stand like a “stone wall” for God? “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)
Posted on: Sun, 21 Jul 2013 17:45:00 +0000
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