Courage and conviction

Mark 6 : 14 - 29

Those who speak up against authoritarian powers are in for trouble. John the Baptist spoke up on a moral issue directly confronting a ruler. His courage and conviction cost him his life. Even as that fact is received into our consciousness, we realize it is beyond our own ordinary ability, to act with such courage and conviction.

We pause and give thought about the violent death of John the Baptist. We pause because we find his courage and conviction truly God given; beyond humanly chosen actions. His hopes and desires were focused on One Person alone. It is always a grace to be so centered and courageous. We might more often find ourselves scattered in thought and deed. Therein lies our restlessness - while the centered ones have found their path.

In the centuries that have followed there have been many more men and women who have walked the path of martyrdom. Even today, in places far beyond our shores, people of God suffer for their faith and convictions. Some are even "ordinary", with no particular religious callings, yet are willing to give up their lives for their faith.

We know we cannot aspire to be "martyrs" - we know our weaknesses only too well. If we would only go to Jesus, honestly and truthfully admitting our weakness and need - we might perhaps find the strength we truly need. "When I am weak .....then I am strong".