Daring to be a Daniel: Going against the flow in Ireland

We just finished up an in-depth study of the book of Daniel and also spent time with our student leaders planning for the upcoming semester. We are now about to step foot on campus to welcome new “freshers” on universities throughout Dublin.

Daniel is a fascinating book that’s well known for its prophecies. It’s also a remarkable story of how a few exiles from Israel continued both a private devotion to God and maintained a high-profile public witness in a pluralistic society that became increasingly antagonistic to their faith. In addition, with the November election right around the corner, Daniel also gives us insight into the reality that God is involved and sovereign over human history.

One thing I appreciated most during my study was seeing how Daniel’s prayers had influence over the cosmos to the degree that certain angelic beings even refer to Daniel’s prayers as the reason they came to him.

“…your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words.” Daniel 10:12

It also pulls back the curtain on the spiritual battle that goes on in both the heavens and on earth.

“The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me 21 days, but Michael, one of the chief princess, came to help me, for I was left there with the kings of Persia”.  Daniel 10:13 

In light of this, we covet your prayers as we step onto the front lines this week. We’ll be pioneering at the University of Limerick on Friday and then kicking things off in Dublin a week from today.