A Note from the Pastor…
As we think about Joseph of Arimathea from our message this week – one word kept coming to mind – courage. No doubt, there was “cost” for Joseph – no doubt there was a “calling” involved for Joseph – but surely it took “courage” to come forward for Jesus. I came across a blog post this week about “courage” that really seemed to define how difficult it can be to act courageously – but it also serves to help us better understand how we can truly be courageous in the Lord.
Jesse Wisnewski, (his positions and experiences are too numerous to name) writes, “I’m not naturally a courageous person. When conflict came, I used to shrink back. Hard conversations? I’d second-guess every word. Even when I knew what was right, fear would hold me back. But I’ve learned something: courage isn’t reserved for the bold or the brave. It’s not a personality trait. It’s not about hype or heroics. And it’s not something you’re either born with or doomed to live without.
In the gospel, courage is something that can be cultivated. Real courage—biblical courage—doesn’t come from inside you – it comes from outside you. It’s rooted in God’s character, formed by His Word, fueled by His promises, and strengthened by His Spirit. It’s not about pushing down fear or pretending it doesn’t exist. It’s about acting faithfully in the presence of fear because you trust the One who stands with you.
In a world that idolizes comfort and self-preservation, courage looks strange. But for the Christian, it’s essential. Courage is how we endure. How we speak the truth. How we stay faithful. Yet, we do not have to fake bravery. We just need to walk by faith! Courage is not the absence of fear – it is the presence of trust. And that trust isn’t in your strength – it is in God’s!” (Some editing for clarity and brevity).
Pastor Chris
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