Cinco de Mayo commemorates an unlikely victory in the small Mexican town of Puebla in 1862. At the time, Mexico owed Great Britain, Spain and France money they were unable to pay. A civil war had drained their resources. So, military forces from all three countries arrived in January to get their payment. Mexico's president, Benito Juarez, convinced Great Britain and Spain it wouldn't be wise to start a war. France, though, insisted on payment and began capturing cities on their way to Mexico City.
But they did not anticipate the resolve of the people in Puebla. The outnumbered and outmatched forces there defeated the French army.
Now, this battle proved to be a moral victory than anything else. France would, eventually, take Mexico City. But the efforts and victory of the people would inspire others for generations to come. It was a spark and a symbol. Today's holiday isn't a big deal in Mexico. Here in the U.S., though, many Mexican Americans have long taken pride in celebrating Cinco de Mayo. When the Chicano Movement rose up to fight for the dignity and equal rights of Hispanics, the holiday became a rallying cry. On this day, there is an identity, a hope and a history to acknowledge and celebrate.
We don't usually connect Cinco de Mayo to Psalm 121. But those favorite words of scripture are more than poetry. They are a fuel for a spiritual burning within us. A spark of hope for those facing battles today. You're overwhelmed. Under-resourced. Maybe you even feel outnumbered, so to speak. But you are not out of God's sight. You are not beyond God's reach.
Psalm 121 is a song of ascent worshipers sang as they made their way to Jerusalem. Just as those pilgrims trusted God to keep them, you can trust God is keeping you on your journey. Of course, hope doesn't come from winning every battle. It comes from knowing the God who promises to walk with you and keep you.
Stay blessed...john | 
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