Courage calls for faith
When fear lures and dares our belief
Courage calls for responsibility
When appetite defies duty
Courage calls for overcoming strength
When passion trumps bravery
Courage calls not the smart or strong
Courage calls the willing and obedient
Made ready to look past
What is, to what can become.

If our generation ever needed courage, now is the time! All the elements that demand courage are all around us; fear-inspiring-events such as packing up to travel and not sure you will return, not because the sea, air or roads are more dangerous but because man has become his own worst enemy. Terrorism has changed the face of the times we live in, fueling fear, division and hatred. Yet, it is when fear lures us to hide and to hate that courage arises to take a stand for what is true and just.

Danger is not the only factor compelling adults to shirk their responsibilities and abandon duty posts. Self-centeredness and unquenchable thirst for more has denied children the love and protection of parents and family, leaving the vulnerable prey to hunters with unlimited appetite for evil. These two have robbed not only families and communities but also nations of care and fostered exploitation of the weak by the strong. For want of what we want, our ways, our conveniences, many have been sacrificed. Precious lives are wasted as those who could have changed the course of events elected to turn the other way; the weak consumed by the mean because the brave chose to look the other way.

Bringing it closer home, the majority have chosen status quo than to challenge what now claims the norm. We have resigned to what could have changed because we are too afraid to stand up, too afraid to walk, and too afraid to speak up. We have retired to what is because we are too afraid to jump into what can become lest we lose the esteemed bird at hand; lest we scrape delicate skin and pockets. Consequently, life is turning into rut and we feel helpless in the face of what could have been transformed if only we could have dared.

Yet, it is in times like this that God Word calls us to wakefulness and to responsibility;

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deut 31: 6, 8.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Josh 1:9.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10.

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Cor 16:13.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Tim 1:7.

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Cor 15:58.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. Eph 6:10-11.

Be encouraged, be courageous, you are blessed.

Glory!