The courage of love

Against the dark background of much despair, the message of Easter, of the resurrection brings to us a bright light of hope. It is a message about the courage of love that sets the Christian faith apart from all other beliefs. It is about a loving God who relentlessly pursues us (Ezekiel 34:12) despite the sin in our lives.

During our reflection time at work this week – I was led to read the following scripture: Jesus said to [Martha] “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die" (John 11:25-16). Sometimes we don’t think much about the daily acts of courage as we live out our Christian values. It takes courage to speak God's Word in places where you know there are unbelievers who are resistant to the message of he Gospel. I believe this is no time to be satisfied with the status quo in our lives. We should take every opportunity that come and turn them into times of sharing the good news of the gospel. There are risks we take and challenges do come. But these are extraordinary times that stand out when courage enable us to speak or act. Unfortunately for some Christians, one of the biggest fears we have is of being rejected.

Jesus is our perfect example of courage. He was rejected by those who claimed to have the greatest understanding of God. When we read through the gospel of Mathew chapters 8 and 9, he was so courageous in the face of so much opposition, and he never wavered!

God’s offer of the free gift of salvation still stands. "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). God is patient (Psalm 103:8) but His wrath will be released on those who reject the message of salvation (1 Thessalonians 5:9). 

David says in Psalm 34:8 “Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him." I remember the early days as a born again Christian. Attending a spirit filled church, I was filled with a desire to tell people about Jesus. My lunch times became times of witnessing, sharing my faith with friends and unbelievers. It seemed the more I shared, the more hungry I was to know more about God. How I appreciate those early times, looking back through my journey as a Christian!

Will you pray this prayer with me:

"Heavenly Father, you have commanded us (Joshua 1:9) to be strong and of a good courage; not to be afraid neither be dismayed for you the Lord God is with us wherever we go, In Jesus Name, Amen."  

God bless you this Easter time!