I spoke last evening of the courage it takes to follow Jesus. It was in the context of a "Vocationally Directed Life." Living out our baptismal covenant requires us to have the courage that doing what Jesus did (what Jesus would do) will prove to be the way.
Living as Jesus lived takes a lot of courage. It takes more courage than most of us can muster.
Living without that courage brings on a tremendous fear. More fear than any of us should be asked to bear.
It is not insignificant that on the 9/11 anniversary we are again embroiled in a debate about what to do to protect the innocent and bring an end to tyranny. Thirteen years ago we were uninformed of the brewing storm which finally broke over the skies of New York, Washington, D.C., and the fields of Pennsylvania.
Those who rattle their sabers are too often seen as those who are courageous. But such courage achieves its end when it leads to fear in the other. The courage of Jesus did not create fear in his enemies, rather it brought an awareness of genuine strength.
I don't want to be afraid. And I don't want to live in world where fear is the weapon I use (or is used on my behalf) in order to accomplish justice and peace. I have thrown my lot with Jesus. And while I don't know the particular steps that this will mean, I know it begins with prayers for those who oppose me and it means refusing to allow their actions to detract me from the vision God has given me of His Kingdom.
It takes a lot of courage to follow Jesus. More courage than too many among us can muster. But let encourage one another to be courageous and to follow where Jesus has lead.
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