Fearless Faith

June 28

(Luke 13:31-35 NIV) ““At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, "Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you." {32} He replied, "Go tell that fox, 'I will drive out demons and heal people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.' {33} In any case, I must keep going today and tomorrow and the next day--for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem!”

(Luke 9:51 NIV) “As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.”

(Psalms 56:2-4 NIV) “My slanderers pursue me all day long; many are attacking me in their pride. {3} When I am afraid, I will trust in you. {4} In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?”

Jesus lived His last days in conflict with government authorities and the religious establishment. Both groups were afraid of His growing power and influence, and tried to silence Him by threatening His life. But Jesus would not be intimidated. He knew His destiny. God had spoken. He was aware of the Father’s plan for Him to die in Jerusalem and had resolutely set out to fulfill the Scriptures. Nothing could stop Him. Death threats cannot alter the course of those who are willing to lay down their lives. Knowing and accepting God’s plan brings amazing boldness. When we have truly died to ourselves and submitted to God’s will, fear no longer inhibits our mission. Have you arrived at that point yet? Are you willing to move toward your Jerusalem, even if it means personal loss -- perhaps even death? Will you live your last days in courage, or turn back in fear? -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day