Friday; April 26

I cannot imagine what it must have been like to be Nelson Mandela.  Our nation continues to deal with challenges of the unity of diverse populations, but we are not alone.  Most nations have some sort of inequality including South Africa.  Through the years Mandela has been everything from a political prisoner to a national hero.  During that time, I am sure that Mandela learned a lot of life-lessons, including this one, “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”.  I can only imagine the fear that Mandela experienced, but because of his courage he endured.
As I read that quote, I got to thinking about King David who noted, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4).  I don’t know enough about what kept Nelson Mandela going during his challenging times, but I know that David found his comfort in his relationship with God.
Let’s not be afraid of being afraid – but let’s not allow it to derail our mission.  Remember courage isn’t not being afraid, it is doing what needs to be done anyway!
          Think About It!

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