CATEGORY: RELIGION ---------------------- By Lindon St. Cyr Ancient armies carried standards or marks of identification that served as symbols of the ideals of a people, a nation or even a culture. These standards, or banners as they are now called, were first used in Egypt, Babylonia, Assyria and Persia. A banner, like a flag, could be seen from afar and served as a rallying point for troops before and after battle. In their march through the desert the Israelites also carried a banner showing allegiance to YAHWEH – NISSI, the Lord who will be at war against the Amalekites. (Exo. 17:15-16) Unlike fabric flags, ancient banners were usually made from wood or metal and shaped into various emblems depicting birds, animals or gods. They often glistened in the sun thereby being visible from a distance. Because banners embodied the ideals and aspirations of whoever carried them they aroused a great sense of devotion to a nation, a cause or a leader. When Moses held up his staff in the battle against Amalek, it was like a standard appealing to God’s power. In Exodus 17, it is recorded that after the victory Moses built an altar saying “Yahweh – Nissi,” the Lord is my banner. The altar served as a powerful memorial of God’s protection and care for His people during times of conflict and challenge. As members of God’s people we also face times of conflict and challenge intent on destroying God’s plans and purpose for our lives. Even now you can call upon Yahweh – Nissi to be your standard, your identification, your banner in your own trying circumstance. Yahweh – Nissi says to us “Call unto me and I will show you mighty things that you knew not.” Jer. 33:3 Today if you hear HIS voice, harden not your heart. May the blessings of the LORD rest and abide with you.