Are we in accord?

Inside an ocean cave in the Caribbean.  The ocean swell rushes and surges rhythmically.  In complete opposition of the flow is the swishing sucking as the ocean rushes out in retreat, revealing a breathtaking sight.  The cave is littered with sparkling and precious treasure of all kinds.  Jewels.  Gold.  But also pirates.

There stands Captain Jack Sparrow.  Okay.  Captain-ish.  Glaring at his archrival and nemesis Captain Barbossa.  Swords drawn.  Each with eyes afire with lust for the unfathomable riches.  Each knowing one will become extraordinarily wealthy.  The other will die.  Neither want the second option.

As with pirates of honour, negotiations commence.  Not unlike a well-played game of chess, the cheeky, mischievous Jack Sparrow jousts with words rather than his sword.  Barbossa plays the same game.  Eventually agreement.  In classic pirate language, “Do we have an accord?”  “Aye. We have an accord.”  We agree.  We choose to live according to the agreement.  Our lives are now in accordance with this.

Of course, pirates are pirates and such agreements are extraordinarily fragile.  Imagine a less fragile agreement.  That we are strengthened with all power according to God’s glorious might so that we may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to God, who has given us a share in the inheritance of his kingdom (Colossians 1:11-12).  Strength.  Power.  Endurance.  Patience.  Joy.  According to God’s might.  In accordance with God’s might.  In accord with God’s might.  In agreement.

No swords.  No greedy lust for wealth.  A simple agreement to keep in step with the Spirit of God (Galatians 5:25).  To live our lives in accord with Jesus.