The battle is raging, and I find myself turning and looking around. Where are the men? Where are the fighters? Have they abandoned their posts?

Our city is under attack! Our families are being separated out and isolated! Our children are exposed and vulnerable! Our neighbors–in the very houses next to us– are suffering! The poor, the broken, the weak, the wounded, the widows and orphans, are crying out for help!

Where are the men?

I see a few emerging from the smoky haze. There are some already going among the ranks. They are quiet but selfless. They are helping the wounded. Repairing the walls. Shoring up the foundations and securing the defenses. Several are going out and scouting out the enemy’s positions. Yes–there are some! Fighting with great strength!!

But they are few. Where are the rest?

They are behind. Overwhelmed. Incapacitated. Just trying to survive. In the thick of their own battles, fighting desperately with all they have. Exhausted, trying to hold secure the defenses of their homes and save themselves and their families.

Some are being overwhelmed. They’re fighting but they are weak–they need relief.

Some are down–lying wounded. Bleeding. In pain.

Some are dead–their battle is over.

And many are…wait, what?! Is that what I think I see?! They’re sitting down. Surrounded by food and drink. Laughing and enjoying themselves. Eating their fill. Oblivious to a battle around them. Their weapons have been dropped and abandoned. Their posts are empty. Their families and neighbors are being taken away! Their houses are being plundered! Everything of value is being stripped from them–and they are oblivious–lost in their own selves and enjoying the gluttony of comfort!

Step up, boys! Be men! Pick up your weapons! Stand your ground! Fight! You are giving away all that you have and all that you are. Be men!

We need you.