From Justin Simpson, home church in Heathmont, Vic
‘The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus.’ (Acts 4.13)
Last year, Brendan Keilar and Paul De Waard intervened to protect a young woman who was being assaulted and dragged into a car by her ex-boyfriend. The man pulled a hand gun and shot all 3 of them. Brendan died and Paul was critically wounded. These men demonstrated powerful courage and conviction. What would I have done in the same situation? Would I have physically intervened and put myself in harm’s way? I know what Jesus would have done.As followers of Jesus, we face times of reckoning, which require a courageous response. These reckonings may be prolonged experiences in which we have time to work out our response and build our courage. Or they may be unexpected moments in which we have to act instinctively. Presenting Jesus’ love with a friend or stranger requires courage. Defending a vulnerable person - physically or socially - requires courage. Being a peace-maker, rather than conflict-avoider, requires courage. Standing up for an ethical action in your organization requires courage. Forgiving someone who has hurt you requires courage. Stepping out in the dream God has given you, even though it costs you your security, requires courage.
We need to cultivate our courage now, so that in our times of reckoning, we can demonstrate courage like Brendan and Paul De Waard, or Peter and John.
How do we cultivate courage? Here’s three ideas. First, trust God’s providence. We need to consistently remind ourselves that God is working in all our circumstances for our good (Rom 8.28), that he directs our steps (Ps 37.23) and that he knows and will provide for our needs (Matt 6.32). He knows what situations we face and the courage we need - or soon will. He will lead us by his Spirit, so we can fulfill his purposes and overcome our fears. Remember Jesus is with us, and he said, ‘Don’t be afraid. Take courage! I am here!’ (Mark 6.50)
Second, identify any fear that holds you back from fulfilling God’s purposes for you. Gradually take risks and try activities which help you overcome your fear. You may find that your feelings and actions are dictated less and less by your fear. For example, if you fear speaking in public, practice public speaking in front of your mirror, then in a group of 2 or 3, then go to public speaking classes. (In psychology, they call it ’systematic desensitization’.) And third, find a couple of friends who en-courage you. Ask them to pray for you as you try stuff to grow courage. Do activities together in which you take these little risks and overcome your fear.
‘Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.’ (1 Cor 16.13)
A prayer.
‘God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.’ Please prepare me for my moments of reckoning. I know my life is in your hands. Amen.
Jus