Violent defeat seems like an odd thing to celebrate... but I'm reminded of Paul, who likewise celebrated his own weakness.
And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
(2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
Acknowledging our own weakness is not willingness to give into our temptations or shortcomings. Rather, we celebrate the opportunity to let God take over and provide His strength in our personal failings.
The Boston colonists of 1775 may have lost the Battle of Bunker Hill -- but it stands as a reminder of what they overcame, by the grace of God, to found this Nation. It is also an example of a Pyrrhic victory. That is, while the British won the battle, it was ultimately not worth the cost in lives. Likewise, our own weakness reminds us of the person we are leaving behind, as Christ guides us to become more like Him. We learn to lean not on our own strength, but on His. And our small failings remind us, too, of the greater Victories we have in Him.
And yes. That is worth celebrating.
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