What would you identify as an example of courage and fearlessness? I can think of several right away. It could be a law enforcement officer or fire fighter running towards danger while others flee. Or perhaps a military paratrooper jumping out of a perfectly good airplane behind enemy lines. I also think of the cliff divers on the old Wide World of Sports shows – that always seemed terrifying to me. What about me you ask? Have I ever done anything courageous? Well, it would have to be that time I was forced to teach preschool for an hour at my old school when a teacher had to leave due to an emergency. Those little people are scary right???
I’ve been thinking about courage and fearlessness in the context of our theme for this school year “No Fear” based on Isaiah 12:2: “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.” Tomorrow is Good Friday, one of the most important days of the year for us as Christians. And for me what Jesus did that day is the ultimate example of courage and fearlessness. He sacrificed himself on the cross willingly for you and me so we could be forgiven of our sins and inherit a place with Him in heaven. He was ridiculed, persecuted, jeered at, spit on, and hung on a cross. And He endured all of it without complaining, seeking revenge, or trying to escape. Perhaps even more amazingly, Jesus’ courage and lack of fear was paired with genuine humility. In our current cultural people want to flaunt their strength, courage, wealth, influence, power, and lack of fear. Not Jesus – He quietly endured suffering and death seeking only what was necessary and best for the people He loved – you and me. As a result, we can celebrate this Easter Sunday with great joy and remember the words of John 12:15: “Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt!” A blessed Easter to you all!