Did you ever think of Peter as a conscientious objector? Well, when he objected to following the Sanhedrin’s orders, that’s exactly what he was. Reminded of the leaders’ command to stop teaching in Jesus’ name, he told them: “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29)
What do you think you would say in this situation? Granted, it’s not every day that we are asked to make such a clear-cut choice.
Still, there will be times when we are tested—times when we need to be bold for the Lord and go against common expectations.
There are many examples today of those whose faith has caused them to stand up and take risks. Soldiers and military interrogators have
refused to engage in torture, risking their careers. Nurses have been disciplined or even fired when they
objected to their hospital’s decision to provide abortions. Pharmacists have left their jobs because they were expected to
dispense contraceptive pills that they believe destroy human life.
Jesus didn’t hesitate to tell us that there would be a cost to following him.
Since the time of the first Christians, disciples have paid that price—sometimes with their very lives.
Their witness convinces us that when we hear voices telling us to act in opposition to the gospel,
we can trust the voice of the Spirit within us instead.
And in those times when we are
not sure how to act, we can always look to the wisdom of Scripture and church teachings, as well as the advice of trusted brothers and sisters.
- We may not face tough moral choices every day, but we can make small, daily decisions that will help strengthen our faith and our resolve.
- We can choose to pray and meditate on Scripture when we’d rather take it easy.
- We can choose to forgive when our flesh tells us to be angry.
- We can refuse to indulge in offensive entertainment, even if we disappoint others by doing so.
- If we are faithful in small matters, chances are we will hold the line when those big tests do come our way.
“Lord, pour out a special blessing on everyone
who must make difficult choices today.
May all Christians seek what is right
and find the grace to choose for you alone!”
