Courage
On this Memorial Day Weekend 2024, we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives so that we may live ours in freedom. Many of our brothers and sisters fight even today in faraway lands, and many right here at home, to keep us free.
Courage is not the absence of fear in the face of danger for fear is always present. Courage is doing what must be done despite sometimes crippling fear. Courage is what makes one fight for those at home with the full realization that they may never return to see, hug, or hold them again. Courage is what makes someone run to the fight instead of running from it.
The time is coming when we may be called on to summon our God–given courage right here at home. We may be called upon to defend our homes and families against enemies, both foreign and domestic. I pray you find that courage and stand in the face of mortal danger if the time ever comes.
Many of us will be gathering with friends and family to celebrate this holiday and enjoy the freedom so costly won. I would simply ask that you take a minute for everyone, young and old, to reflect on what this holiday means.
I am fully aware that many in our audience are veterans and you know full well the true meaning of courage. On this special day, don’t shrink back from sharing the meaning of courage, especially with our younger generation.
If your family is a Gold Star Family, we wish to thank you for the sacrifices you’ve made. Remember that wherever you go, there you are.
Here is my inspiration for this message.
(Josh 1:9 [MSG]) Haven't I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don't be timid; don't get discouraged. GOD, your God, is with you every step you take."
(Ps 18:39–41 [MSG]) You armed me well for this fight, you smashed the upstarts.
You made my enemies turn tail, and I wiped out the haters. They cried "uncle" but Uncle didn't come; They yelled for GOD and got no for an answer.
(Rom 8:31 [NIV2]) What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
For those now serving, Psalms 91 is known as the “Soldiers Prayer”. It is very short at only 16 verses. I would encourage you to read it for yourself.
