War Clouds

As a 10 year old child war was a frightening thing. My first alarm of World War II was nothing compared to what my little buddy was experiencing on Pearl Harbor that December 7 morning. He and his mom huddled under their porch from where they could overlook the harbor where his dad was. From there they could see the devastation at the base.

My first fright was caused by three P-51s flying overhead just above the treetops in my hometown. I ran inside and stayed all afternoon.

I was afraid our town would be the next target of the Japanese. I heard grown folks talking about the potential of our nation’s industrial complex being potential targets. Surely Mr. Ed’s cotton gin and Mr. Pillie’s saw mill would be prime targets.

Within days there were no young adult males in town. They had been called into service. Our small town became known in “Ripley’s Believe It or Not” as having the highest per capita of commissioned officers in America. There were three generals plus a number of other officers.

Things changed at once. The town mobilized instantly. Our home became a “hub of defense.” An air raid siren was put high up in our pecan tree where it could be heard all over town. Air raid drills were conducted periodically.

All homes and businesses were required to paint their windows black, or have curtains, or turn off all lights for a night drill. 

All boys under military age were organized into a Civil Patrol. Young as I was, I got involved. One night’s drill was met with alarm. A light was left on under the shed at the gin. I spent at least 15 minutes throwing rocks at it until I hit it. I didn’t want the town exposed to bombers that I thought were sure to come.

The Civil Patrol was charged with reporting any overflying plane to a designated military station. At the sound of a plane we rushed outside to get info to call in a report. I remember the codes. A single engine high flying plane was, “One bi high seen.”

We were ready for any enemy attack we were sure would come.

Every human soul is like a city under attack, which you can be sure will come. Our spiritual battles and warfare are real, even though we cannot physically see the attacker. “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh….” II Corinthians 10: 3

Using the implements of warfare in the days of the Bible principles are noted to enable us to be successful in our spiritual warfare.

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.  Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6: 10 – 13

For a fuller understanding, read Ephesians 6: 10 – 17.