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Themes: "Leadership, Inspiration KB It wasn't easy being king, especially when it came to leading such a small country like Scotland against a giant like England. But this was King Robert Bruce's task. It was early in the 14th century and Scotland was in a fierce battle with England fighting for their freedom. King Robert had been valiantly leading his people in battle against the much more powerful enemy. Never had Scotland accomplished so much under the direction of a man so young. For years Scotland had been under the rule of England but now King Robert had promised his countrymen that with their help he would defeat England and return to them the castles and land that was rightfully theirs. One by one loyal Scots had come to join him in this battle for freedom.
As the armies camped and waited for further instruction, word had circulated amongst the men that the king was very sick. Now on this bitterly cold winter day many of the troops began to wonder if they would ever see their gallant leader again.
Nearby, in a small cottage, King Bruce tossed and turned under a pile of furs as his body burned with fever. Suddenly the king sat up and called for his servant. As he pushed some of the furs off of the bed his servant Douglas came into the room surprised to see his master sitting up. "Bring me my sword and armor," the king commanded his servant. Douglas pleaded with the king telling him he was too sick to fight any battles but King Bruce would not listen. Finally, the king was dressed and with the help of some of his men outside the cottage, he was boosted on to his horse.
The call to arms was sounded and the army scurried to gather together to see what was all the commotion. They shouted with joy when they saw their king. The king said that very soon he would ride again. But for this once, his brother, Sir Edward, would lead them into battle. "For each blow you strike, strike another for me, so we shall show our enemies that I still live," the king shouted.
The men roared their approval, the sun flashed brightly on their raised swords. And the king swaying a little, raised his hand in a salute as the men turned to follow his brother.
News came the next morning that the enemy had fled before the inspired soldiers. The Scots went on to victory after victory. Finally, with Robert back as their leader they were able to defeat the English and drive them from their land.
Just as King Saul inspired his troops to victory so also did King Bruce of Scotland. Saul prospered as long as he feared God. But when he forgot God, disaster followed. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness."
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Peter Orasuk
