Hidden Power

During the occupation of Europe by Nazi Germany during World War II, millions of people experienced unspeakable horror. Concentration camps filled all over Europe with minority groups – mostly Jewish – where they were confined and later executed. I can only imagine the fear that gripped these people as it turned into paralyzing terror as Germany came closer and closer to their home city.

But there arose within that terror another response…an underground “resistance”. These bands made up of various secret groups that opposed the Nazi rule were widely diverse: civilians, armed bands of patriotic folks, and guerilla fighters. Their activities ranged from publishing illicit newspapers to assisting the escape of Jews and Allied airmen shot down over enemy territory to committing acts of sabotage and ambushing German patrols. The effort, ability and resources of the resistance would most likely have waned except for the one hope – the hope of the coming liberation. As the months and years dragged on, one of the most important efforts of the resistance fought on – they coordinated with the invasion by transmitting information to the Allies. Finally, on June 6, 1944, Operation Overlord, also known as D-Day began.

The resistance provides an amazing picture of the effectiveness of hidden power. It kept the Nazi war machine off balance, it gave inspiration to the common people throughout Europe, and it drew on the hope of the Allied invasion to bring liberation.

The power that Jesus brought to earth did not have the perception of power that many people expected. Jesus did do amazing things such as perform miracles, but to most they were not enough to satisfy their hunger. Most people were looking for a messianic age of blessing and Rome still dominated the land, and cruel leaders still held an iron fist. People still died. Hunger and disease were still daily experiences.

The coming Kingdom of Christ is hidden but powerful. It is small in its beginning, but will bring the reality of salvation to all those who have placed their faith in Christ with an open heart. God’s judgment of the evil one and his followers is certain and will come with power. Jesus’ return is a concrete promise that should energize us and give us purpose for our own lives. To quote William Barclay, “The best way to prepare for the coming of Christ is never to forget the presence of Christ.” Jesus is here, and He has more hidden power than we give Him credit for sometimes.

Joshua Kirsch
Middle School Director