Courage is an aspect of hope we don’t often dwell on. We think of the possibilities of hope, the desired outcome of hope, even the distractions of hope that are often a diversion in the midst of difficult moments. Courage, however, is vital to hope, for it sustains the dream when all else fails and empowers meaningful action when settling for so much less would be much easier.
A young maiden named Mary is visited by an angel of the Lord, calling her to a task so amazing, she questions how it can be. The angel assures her that God is indeed capable of bringing to pass what has been promised. “Do not be afraid, Mary,” he tells her, and it seems that she is not.
In the wonder of this story we may lose sight of the fact that Mary has been called to a task that will be very difficult. As she reminds the angel, “How can this be…I am a virgin.” Not only were there physiological principles challenged here, but in the context of her social and familial circles, what would everybody think?!? To a young teen-aged girl, this must have seemed overwhelming…perhaps even too much to ask. And yet, after her initial question, Mary’s response to the angel and the call of the Lord is one of obedience. She trusts that God will do what God has promised…she steps forward in courage, and as Eugene Peterson translates in The Message, she responds, “I'm the Lord's maid, ready to serve.”
It takes courage to say yes to God. Certainly that choice is empowered by the presence and promise of God, yet, much is at stake…much is required. As a friend of mine said many years ago when faced with one of life’s greatest challenges, “Hope is a choice.” My dear friends, with courage, let us choose hope today!
Prayer: Gracious God, your call comes to us every day to walk in the way of Christ. May we courageously choose hope, and with Mary say, “I am the Lord’s…ready to serve.”
Jim Abernathy
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