"They were
astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the
scribes."
What courage it must have taken for Christ to begin his ministry! It
must have been difficult for him to leave the life he knew and begin a new life of
teaching. Yet, despite the opposition he encountered at every turn, he knew his mission,
and he was able to find the strength to touch people in new ways.
We are called to reflect that confidence of Christ in our teaching and
in all our daily work. We are called to speak boldly, as he did. It may not always be
comfortable for us, but our faith in him gives us a point of constancy in this world of
uncertainties. Clinging to the courage of Christ and trying to incorporate the lessons of
his ministry into our daily lives can help us to become more secure in our faith and to
overcome all challenges.
Prayer: Dear Lord, give us the courage of our convictions. Keep the
example of Jesus ever before us, as a guide for life. Let us not falter or fail, but give
us strength to speak boldly in his holy name. It is for his sake we pray. Amen.
