By Captain Gin Pack
Centralia, WA Corps – Northwest Division
I Corinthians 15:57 tells us, “But thanks be to God! He gives the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Many years ago I was at a seminar and the person next to me wrote “Me + God = Majority.” I always remembered that message because it was as clear as those “WWJD” bracelets/bumper stickers/t-shirts/etc. that took over my life and any free space I had as a teen. The deep reality is that us alone, we might have small victories but with God, ours is the victory over all because “You + God = Majority!”
“You + God = Majority!”
Captain Gin Pack
During World War I and World War II, everyday citizens, much like you and I were called to join together and help with the war effort in a surprising way. This wasn’t taking up arms or marching to the front lines, but what it was; was simple, timeless, and practical. Ordinary citizens began planting what we now call “Victory Gardens”, these gardens would be to aid in the war effort to ensure there was enough food. However, these gardens would prove to be symbols of hope, resilience, and community spirit. So much of what we see in those gardens mirrors our walk with God and our pursuit of victory in and through Christ.
Brief History:
Victory Gardens were also known as war gardens or defense gardens. These gardens were planted by private citizens during both World Wars. People planted these in order to reduce pressure and reliance on commercial or public food supplies. People would grow nearly anything that was edible. The locations became somewhat of a craft in an of themselves. Sometimes gardens would pop up in normal places like backyards, and vacant lots. Other times, a new Victory Garden would appear on the rooftop of a commercial building. At its height Victory Gardens produced as estimated 40% of all the fruits and vegetables consumed in the United States. While the initial intention was to serve a purpose, maintain food security. What happened following would prove to be something just as important and lasting. Victory Gardens would give purpose and empowerment to those not on the front lines, and create a sense of community that would last for generations.
Mediate on the song, Overcome, by Jeremy Camp:
You Are Forgiven