The Gift of Courage

“But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.” (Luke 1:30 N.I.V)

The Lord calls each of us by our names; He is El Roi, the Strong one who sees. He saw Mary’s faith and righteousness and chose her to be our Lord’s mother. She had to have a lot of courage for the task ahead of her. Many including her fiancee would doubt her purity which was a potentially dangerous situation for her. She risked stoning, divorce, and loss of her good name. The angel bid her not to be afraid because she had found favor with the Lord. The Lord was with her and therefore no harm would befall her. She just had to keep on with her Faith confident that the Lord would protect her.

What are your fears and needs today? During this special time of the Lord’s birth, lay down all negative thoughts and misgivings that burden you,  forgive others of actions that have hurt you and make room for the Lord’s occupancy in your heart. Stride ahead with whatever God has called you to, in confidence, strength and courage from the Lord.

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Have no fear of moving into the unknown. Simply step out fearlessly knowing that I am with you, therefore no harm can befall you; all is very, very well. Do this in complete faith and confidence. Pope John Paul II

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