Making a courageous stand for the Lord is beyond “worth it.” It makes Him smile and it makes a difference - Daily Bible Reflections January 7,2015

COURAGE!

 

“Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!” – Mark 6:50

 

       Wikipedia defines “courage” as the ability and willingness to confront fear, pain, danger, uncertainty or intimidation. Reading further down, it says, “Moral courage is the willingness to stand up when others want you to sit down.”

         When I first got involved in the Charismatic Renewal movement, one of the first things I learned was to “stand up for Jesus!” As a committed follower of Christ, I learned to do or not to do certain things for Him. Pray before meals. Bring my Bible and read it during the break. Go to Mass daily. Nicely refuse to work overtime on Sundays to serve Him. Refuse to lie even when superiors asked me to.

       I chose to do these because I wanted to grow in my relationship with God. Was it hard? Absolutely! Was there rejection?  Definitely! There were people who ridiculed me and made fun of me. They called me “Father” or “Monsignor” in the office. At home, I experienced disapproval in painful ways. People couldn’t understand why I had to do such things.

       But I needed to make space for God in my life. Those times molded me to face life. It also allowed me to experience His love in a special, deeper way. Ariel Driz (adriz77@yahoo.com)

 

Reflection: Making a courageous stand for the Lord is beyond “worth it.” It makes Him smile and it makes a difference.

 

Lord Jesus, continue to grant me the courage to be Your witness in whatever situation I face. Amen.

 

St. Raymund of Penyafort, priest, pray for us.