Take Courage!

by Fr. Jess Ty  |  08/09/2026  |  Weekly Reflection

Dear Family of God,

What is courage? How do we acquire this virtue?

Courage or Fortitude is one of the Cardinal Virtues, CCC 1808 defines it as “the Moral Virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good.” We all need courage in order to live uprightly and with dignity especially as followers of Jesus. Only in faith with Jesus Christ that we can live our faith with courage and perseverance, not with fear and retreat.

The main message of our readings this weekend is the words of Jesus to the disciples and to us, “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid.” Jesus is with us, he will not abandon us, and he is always with us especially when we are suffering. The basis of our courage, whether against our natural fear or in support of our firm pursuit of good, is the person of Jesus Christ. His statement, “IT IS I,” alludes to God’s revelation of his name to Moses, “I AM.” To be in the presence of God is all we need to face the turbulent storms of life.

Like Elijah and the disciples let us focus on God, let us focus on Jesus and not the storm. Let us strive to always walk with Jesus for He alone has conquered for us all the storms in life. Let us listen to the tiny whispering voice of the Holy Spirit so that God’s wisdom will nourish, guide and strengthen us and not the lies of the enemy which paralyses us.

May The Mother God and St. Joseph, terror of demons, intercede for us all.

Yours in Christ through Mary Immaculate.