“You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples.” — Psalm 77:14
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While poking through the internet one afternoon, I came across a 2017 video that showcased the New Zealand national rugby team performing a haka — a ceremonial Maori chant/dance, traditionally performed by men before going to war — after a game. It was meant to thank the fans for their support and to honor certain team members for their performances. Hakas have also been used before games to rile the teams up and get them primed for the game. It is certainly intimidating, fearsome and inspiring all at the same time.
The chant is meant to shore up confidence, provide energy for the road in front of the team, and to give honor and glory to the victors after the game. What if we all went into life fearless, meeting our challenges and challengers head-on, essentially shouting, “Get out of our way!”? Just as in sports, where you are expected to back up your talk with action, the faith walk is similar: “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power” (1 Corinthians 4:20).
As we take steps of faith and act in ways that glorify God, let us not forget that we do have Heavenly support as “we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1) and the assurance that God is fighting for us: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31).
The first line of a particular New Zealand haka says, “Let it be known!” So let us start and end our days by praising God and declaring, “You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples” (Psalm 77:14). Let it be known that you serve the Almighty God!
— Mary Nuckols
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