"Hostages no more"

(Recounted October 3, 2009).

I had a dream this week that a man put a gun to my head.
Barrel pressing under my chin, I was instructed to walk;
Obviously running was not a viable option.

"Your life is worth more than all the money in the bank"
We have been told on more than one occasion.

Working for a financial institution, there is always the chance
That a crazy bank robber might take you hostage,
Attempting to break into the secured cash vault.

We've seen the training videos, but what can truly prepare
For the sensation of cold metal on your skin?

Fear so easily sneaks into the soul when you lie down to sleep.
I have not been up late at night worrying and counting sheep,
For it is not a rational, waking hour's fear.

The farfetched, terrifying scenarios that just might come true:
This is the stuff of which nightmares are made.

Yet we have been saved from much greater horror than this:
Christ has rescued us from life's supreme robber: Death!
We are hostages no more! So where is our great rejoicing?

It simply comes and goes, as our mood flows up and down
Like the crashing waves on the beach.