“He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation.” (Psalm 91:15 NIV)

I was just drifting off to sleep when I heard the chattering. Unbidden my ear perked up, much to my tired body’s dismay. What is that, my mind inquired, an early spring squirrel on the roof already?

Finally I roused myself from bed and started toward the stairs to take a look. The closer I moved to the stairs however, the further away the chattering sounded. Making a u-turn I headed toward the hall and then continued to follow the noise to the bathroom.

Sitting smugly as only cats can sit, were Henry and BJ. About a foot in front of them stood a wee, tiny little mouse. Both cats appeared to be almost grinning at him as he proffered his front arms and paws out toward them in a fighting stance, much like a boxer might face his opponent. His long tail stood straight out behind him as his loud and challenging chatter continued. His lips were rolled back exposing his sharp minute fangs. This little guy had courage with a capital C! If he was being taken out, he wasn’t going without a fight.

Suddenly the cats spied me in the doorway. BJ took flight past my leg while Henry, knowing what was about to happen, made a move for the mouse, who in turn grabbed him by the mouth and bit him. As Henry leapt back I threw a towel over the mouse and gently picked him up. Carrying him downstairs and outside I released him to live and enjoy, another day.

This night time drama impressed upon me the need to stand firm amidst overwhelming, even seemingly impossible odds. The Bible makes it clear that God is always attentive to the calls of those who love and trust him. And he promises to answer us; to be with us in times of trouble, to deliver us and honor us.

So, the next time the odds seem to be against you remember the story of this courageous , wee, tiny, little mouse and challenge your opponent whoever or whatever it may be by calling out in faith to God. You won’t be disappointed.

Prayer: Lord God and wonderful Father thank you for the facts of Scripture that point us to your faithfulness, strength and love. Grant us courage this day as we face whatever or whoever may come our way to intimidate, frighten or challenge us. Bless us with your peace and assurance that when we call upon your name, you are faithful to deliver us. In Christ’s name we ask. Amen.

Lynne Phipps Atlin, BC lynnephipps@hotmail.com