Be Bold

4/2/2016

Step #1: Lectio / read

Observing the boldness of Peter and John
and perceiving them to be uneducated, ordinary men,
the leaders, elders, and scribes were amazed,
and they recognized them as the companions of Jesus.
Then when they saw the man who had been cured standing there with them,
they could say nothing in reply.
So they ordered them to leave the Sanhedrin,
and conferred with one another, saying,
“What are we to do with these men?
Everyone living in Jerusalem knows that a remarkable sign
was done through them, and we cannot deny it.
But so that it may not be spread any further among the people,
let us give them a stern warning
never again to speak to anyone in this name.”

So they called them back
and ordered them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus.
Peter and John, however, said to them in reply,
“Whether it is right in the sight of God
for us to obey you rather than God, you be the judges.
It is impossible for us not to speak about what we have seen and heard.”
After threatening them further,
they released them,
finding no way to punish them,
on account of the people who were all praising God
for what had happened.

Acts 4:13-21

Step #2: meditatio / meditate

After Peter and John saw Jesus heal the cripple, they couldn’t keep it to themselves. “It is impossible for us not to speak about what we have seen and heard,” they proclaimed.

How often do we share the miracles that we see God work? How often do we share the way we experienced his love and the ways we have been changed?

The leaders, elders, and scribes “observed the boldness of Peter,” in his words in actions. We, too, are called to be bold.

The definition of bold is “showing an ability to take risks; confident and courageous.” Actually being bold means many things. And we are each called to be bold in our own unique way. But, to be bold means to be like the most radical man that has ever lived. That man is Jesus. Being bold means being Jesus’ hands, his feet, his smile, his generosity, his gentleness. It means keeping our peace on that crowded 5 p.m. train. It means not dodging the question when asked what we did on Sunday morning. It means smiling and shaking the hand of the homeless man on the corner, even if we can’t give him money.

Jesus and the apostles didn’t stay in the circles of those who were like them. They courageously went out to the fringes of society. Why are we staying in our settled-in comfort zones? Are we preaching to the choir, or boldly and lovingly sharing the news of the Gospel?

When we fall in love, we can’t help but share the news. When something wonderful happens in our lives, we want others to know. We shouldn’t share in a constant, off-putting way. But we should tell in a way that invites others to share in our joy. A way that allows others to experience that joy for themselves. Our love for Jesus shouldn’t be any different. Our lives have been changed, we will never be the same. It should be “impossible” to not “speak about what we have seen and heard.”

The world won’t change if we stay in our comfort zones. How will the world know Jesus if we won’t talk about him?

So, as this reading challenges us, be bold. Couragio.

Step #3: Oratio / pray

"It is impossible for us not to speak about what we have seen and heard.”

In what ways are you bold for your faith?
In what ways are you cowardly?
What ways is the Lord calling you to be bold?
How is He calling you to share what He’s done in your life?
What are five ways you can be more bold this month?

Step #4: contemplation / contemplate

Observing the boldness of Peter

It is impossible for us not to speak about what we have seen and heard.

Lord, help me be bold.

For the rest of your day...

Be bold, step out and have courage in your faith.

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Today's prayer was prepared by Andrea Scott.

CARPE VERBUM