" . . . many in Israel stood firm and were resolved in their hearts not to eat unclean food." 
          1 Maccabees 1:62

"Your faith has made you well."
          Luke 18:42

These are times when I need stories about the unstoppable power of faith.

A long time ago, when they tried to tap everything I had to give, my football coaches used words like "believe" and "desire."  They were talking about the power of faith.  I did not have great ability.  But those coaches saw something in me.  Somehow I excelled.  Faith yields confidence.  Confidence yields results.

In a time of bewildering violence, fear and uncertainty, it is inspiring to have today's stories of faith, power and salvation.

When the writer of Maccabees tells us of those who "stood firm and were resolved in their hearts," my pulse quickens.  I believe all of us have known the feeling:  We might have come under unfair attack, felt vulnerable, exposed, weak and wounded.  Then we reached deep inside, called on God and found that He has placed a steady resolve in our hearts.

Those who resolved to die rather than be forced into infidelity to their faith found freedom and life.  We need the example of their strong hearts.

The story of Jesus and the blind man is similarly powerful.

The image of the two men is bracing:  Jesus, followed by a huge noisy crowd; and the blind beggar, insistent, shouting for attention.  Both men confident in the power they rely upon, both rock-solid in faith.  What is riveting is that Jesus sees towering faith and healing power in this seemingly insignificant beggar.

What might Jesus see in you when you call upon Him today?