Written by Jonathan Melton
John 12:42-43 (NRSV) Nevertheless many, even of the authorities, believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they did not confess it, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved human glory more than the glory that comes from God.
We have all experienced times when we’re waiting for someone to step up, to say with courage what the entire group has been thinking. When the one person says “it” (whatever “it” is), the rest of the group finds permission to say, “Yes! Me, too.” Speaking a truth gives our friends permission to speak. Living fearlessly gives others permission to live fearlessly. Loving generously can change our lives and the world.
Each of us, by the words we speak and the steps we take, shape the tenor and courage of the people with whom we speak and walk. Are there conversations of the gospel kind in which you long for more? Would you risk breaking the ice to fill that longing? Your first words might be the nudge others need in order to confess what we believe.
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