Shared Sacredness of Tradition: Courage

Zoongide’ewin (Courage)

Bravery is represented by the bear.  The mother bear has the courage and strength to face her fears and challenges while protecting her young. To face life with courage is bravery.The Bear provides many lessons in the way it lives, but courage is the most important teaching it offers. Though gentle by nature, the ferociousness of a mother Bear when one of her cubs is approached is the true definition of courage. To have the mental and moral strength to overcome fears that prevent us from living our true spirit as human beings is a great challenge that must be met with the same vigour and intensity as a mother Bear protecting her cub. Living of the heart and living of the spirit is difficult, but the Bear's example shows us how to face any danger to achieve these goals. Trials, trouble and tribulation in this world are a promise. Jesus tells us this in John’s Gospel, he also offers words of comfort we can take confidence in, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

We can grow in courage as we grow in love and trust of the Lord. We know from Scripture that the Lord has plans for our lives, plans to bless us. As we trust in Him, we will find we stand on a firm foundation with confidence and fortitude to face any challenge that comes our way. The Psalmist writes this of trust and a courageous spirit, “He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.” (Psalm 112:7) and Saint Paul offers this reminder and encourages us by saying, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

The Anishnaabe word for this Teaching of Courage is Zoongide’ewin  To live with a solid, strong heart, to face fear, danger and changes with courage and confidence. Through faith and trust in God our Creator, we can grow in this gift of courage.

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A prayer for an increase in Courage so we may face fears and challenges with strong hearts,

Creator God, thank you, for the examples of holy men and women of faith, who have been given courage to carry out the duties that You called them to do. We know that without You we can do nothing, but believe that we can do all things through Christ Who gives us strength and courage.

We pray you develop in us wisdom and courage to live our Christian life as light in a darkened world, whatever the cost. Give us courage to open our mouths and speak the truth to whomever we may come into contact with. To be peace-makers working toward Reconciliation, Healing and Hope.

God, you have called us to reflect Your light and to share your Love. May we be inspired by Your Holy Spirit to speak out Your Word of truth, in grace and love. May we become a mirror that reflects You so completely in all we say and do, that Christ may be seen in us, to Your praise and glory.

Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, pray for us! Servant of God Nicholas Black Elk, pray for us!