Martin Luther’s famous quote, “Here I stand, I can do no other,” stirs up in me a deep passion, while pointing out my reluctance and failure to express the courage of my convictions. In Luther’s stance, I see the courage of Peter and the apostles standing before the high priest. Speaking truth to power can be risky business.
Certainly, we are not all called in the same way as Peter and the apostles or Luther. Yet the Holy Spirit is with those who witness to Christ.
I was reminded of this by a story shared by an acquaintance. This person is quiet and cautious, not someone who makes waves. They shared an experience where they felt compelled to stand up, speak out and in so doing stop an injustice. They confessed they were shocked by their response, “It was so unlike me, but I couldn’t stop myself.”
Where does the courage to do this arise? Peter states it clearly, the Holy Spirit is with those who witness to Christ.
The Holy Spirit can surprise us. The Holy Spirit strengthens us. Come, Holy Spirit!
We give you thanks, almighty God, for the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Give us courage to obey you, to speak truth to power, and to live as Jesus taught. Amen. —