First Baptist Church of Herndon

A Brave New Year

Linda Soller | Jan 01, 2024

Happy New Year! Easy to say, fun to shout, but for some a new year can be scary. That is why I want to talk about a brave new year. Having just come out of Christmas it dawned on me that we saw multiple examples of bravery in the Christmas story. 

Mary was a brave girl. She was just a girl. The responsibility she took on willingly would put her at odds with the norms of society and potentially in danger. It was her faith that gave her the strength to be brave. Joseph was brave to do the right thing and not the expected thing. The peer pressure would be great. Joseph’s faith allowed him to be brave and true.  The shepherds were routinely brave. Their job could be dangerous and was very demanding. They weren’t always popular in the towns. Yet their faith lifted them to herald the joyous news. Their bravery was rewarded with a firsthand experience of Angels singing and put them first as visitors to the Christ child. The three wise men knew a lot of stuff! They had studied and watched the sky for a sign. When it came, their faith pushed them toward the unknown. Yes, there was a great star, but would they really be able to reach their destination in time? It would be a long and arduous journey. They needed to be brave.

So much bravery in so many people gave us the wonderful story of Jesus’ birth. What challenges do you face? Are you on your own? Are you having health issues? Maybe you are starting a new job, moving away from family, or struggling to survive. When compared to the story of Christmas you may feel your story is not such a big deal. You are wrong because your story is part of God’s great plan. It will require a bit of bravery from time to time. It may require a great deal of bravery. Your faith will be there.

When you combine our many stories of bravery, we may not end up with just one easily connected story like the story of Jesus being born, but each story will be important and will impact those around you. I wish for you a Brave New Year!

Be kind, be brave, have faith!  : )   Linda