Living Courageously
It is natural to be inspired by the bravery of others. There are times when I reflect upon the sacrifice of my grandparents and all that was required of their generation to overcome the threats of a second world war. These moments of reflection are both humbling and inspiring. I have similar emotions when I hear about the bravery of first responders who are often running into danger rather than away from it. Or even when I think about the examples of courage that are hidden from the public eye. It’s the strength of a loved one facing cancer, or a friend who endures hardship after hardship. We are served well when we consider these examples of bravery that are all around us because courage inspires courage.
Over the past two weeks we’ve introduced our theme for the year: courageous. The idea we’ve presented is that when we fix our eyes on Jesus and allow the Holy Spirit to renew us, it should result in courageous people. We also know that our focus on courage will be aided when we consider the bravery of others. I can think of no better example on a day like today but to turn our attention to the courage of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The courageous life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is well documented and is without question, a life worth celebrating. Our society was equally blessed by the fact that this courageous man was also one of the better orators of his time. Our history books are blessed with numerous quotes that capture the spirit of courage and can inspire future generations. Let me suggest one specific quote as you reflect on his life today.
In The Strength of Love, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr says, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” This quote so eloquently captures the spirit of a courageous life. Courage is not about how we handle those moments of comfort and convenience but challenge and controversy. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s willingness to face the challenge and controversy surrounding racism and equal rights demonstrated his unquestionable courage. I hope you consider this quote as you reflect on his life today and how it might further inspire you to approach this year courageously.
The last few weeks we’ve looked at the life of Joshua, who also demonstrates how to respond to moments of challenge and controversy. He overcame the fear of pain and discomfort and operated with strength and courage. What Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Joshua share in common is an unwavering faith in the presence of God. They knew that our strength does not come from our own abilities but in the one who saves. As we approach 2023, may we consider the lives of these men and the others we know who demonstrate such strength. May their courage inspire our own. Let us live courageously because we know God is with us.