SAINTS MARCELLINUS AND PETER, MARTYRS (OPTIONAL MEMORIAL)

Take courage. 

Can you imagine how dangerous Paul’s life must have been? He spent years traveling as a missionary and sacrificed stability and even physical safety to preach the gospel. Everything was uncertain. He didn’t know where he would be called next or whether his audience would be receptive or hostile.

In today’s first reading, Paul is facing more uncertainty. He is under arrest in Jerusalem and is likely wondering what will happen next. Could he have felt some apprehension about his situation? Might he have wondered what the Lord was doing in letting him be arrested? We don’t know. But we do know that Jesus came to him, stood by him, and said, “Take courage” (Acts 23:11).

In just a few words, Jesus made clear to Paul that God hadn’t abandoned him. Paul might not have known the future, but God knew where he was and where he would go—and why. God had a plan for Paul and promised to walk beside him every step of the way. This encounter must have been so reassuring. Paul likely held on to these words when he faced questioning, trial, imprisonment, and eventually martyrdom.

Jesus’ words can echo to us as well, wherever we are. If you are a young person anxiously contemplating your future, Jesus says, “Take courage, I know where you will be.” If you are a parent worried about your child, Jesus says, “Take courage, I am with your child.” If your spouse is confronting a difficult health diagnosis, Jesus tells you, “Take courage, I will not abandon you.” No matter who you are, Jesus says, “I know the future, and I will be with you.”

Jesus’ words may not diminish the gravity of your situation or change your circumstances, but they do carry grace. This grace gives you strength and the reassurance that God’s hand is on your life. It tells you that Someone who loves you with unfathomable love is walking with you through all the uncertainty.

Today, let Jesus speak these words to you. Ask him to fill you with grace, to encourage you, and to strengthen and comfort you. Whatever you are facing, whatever uncertainties lie ahead, take courage. Jesus is your strength. He holds your future in his hands.

“Jesus, help me to have courage to face the uncertainties ahead.”

Psalm 16:1-2, 5, 7-11
John 17:20-26
Acts 22:30; 23:6-11