Courage is hard to define because it means so many things to everyone. Merriam-Webster defines courage as the mental or moral strength to venture, preserve, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. I often think about the events that led to the crucifixion of Jesus and the lack of courage Peter displayed when denying that he was a disciple of Christ.
How often have I denied people what they asked for and turned away? How often have I betrayed a friend or ignored a cry for help or a call for justice? How many times have I judged without inquiry? How many times have I felt paralyzed about what to do? Like Peter, those circumstances leave me feeling guilty, ashamed, hopeless, and less deserving of grace.
Congressman and Social Activist John Lewis said, “Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime”. In his books and social media, he implored citizens to never be afraid to make some noise, get in good trouble, and take heed of our moral obligation to say something that is not right, not just, and not fair.
Lent is a time of self-reflection to consider how our shortcomings hurt others. May we all build our courage to make some noise and get in good trouble, so we allow our hearts to be awakened to others.
from Maureen Drummond