the disease continues to spread.

It's continuing and is spreading closer and closer to home. It seems as though Houston's been pretty sheltered from this crisis affecting jobs and the marketplace until recently. Now the news of one massive layoff after another rabidly plagues our headlines and prayer lines. I hate this...

In an attempt to catch up on 24, DK and I have watched many episodes in a row recently and because of this, the stories, non-stop action and life-threatening plots seems to infiltrate my dreams and even some of my real life perspective.

TV is so powerful - so much so I've started viewing this economic crisis as a deadly disease and CTU is working tirelessly around the clock trying to keep from spreading. We the people are targets, fearing for our lives, fearing the worst, and not sure when or how the disease with strike. Will it be me? Will it be you? First it's someone distant... still uncomfortably connected to you but whew, we're safe for now. A neighbor's relative. A co-worker's brother.

But then it attacks someone you love. And maybe even you.

Are we powerless against this force? Is it inevitable? Is there really anything we can do to stop this from happening? And will CTU come through and save the day at the last minute?

I wonder if the real terrorist in this season is the fear and doubt we're facing. We're focused on the what happens if we get layed off, how will we make ends meet, oh please Lord spare me!! When the truth of the matter is - there is hope. There is also a God who, throughout history has continued to provide and meet our needs. I feel scared and I feel fearful. This is NUTS!!! But scripture tells us to fear not because fear is not of God.

Let's pray over Houston and pray that God will reign, that in place of fear our city will display PEACE, HOPE, sound mind and JOY. And when the fear creeps in and the enemy plants doubt in our hearts and mind, break free of it and tell the devil where he can go.

And say it fiercely through gritted teeth. Make Jack Bauer proud.