Joshua 1:1-9

Joshua 1:1-9 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  Movies are often made about what great people do.  The other day, I watched Won't You Be My Neighbor?, the biopic about Mr. Rogers.  He doesn't get as much credit as he deserves -- he was truly a visionary.  He saw the potential in television, and he was willing to take a chance to communicate directly to them, to treat children as though they matter, and their feelings matter, as much as adults.  He resisted the urge to do something easy, something marketable, and as a result he developed something that took them and their problems seriously.  It was a remarkable effort that shaped my childhood.
  When we talk about being strong and courageous, so often we think about things that people do.  What's equally important is what people don't do.  Mr. Rogers didn't turn aside from his main task, and Joshua didn't turn aside, either -- he stayed committed to the Law, even when it was easier to do otherwise. 
  When you and I go out into the world, there are a thousand temptations to take the easy route.  Be strong and courageous, and resist the temptation to throw in the towel when the Lord calls you to something challenging. Be strong and courageous, and know that God is going with you -- waking up every day and continuing to wade forward is the faithful move.  Endurance isn't often praised the way it should be in the church, but we should celebrate the saints of the church who continue, year in and year out, to resist the call to take an easier way and instead take up their cross daily to follow Christ wherever God may lead.