A few years ago, I received a cryptic text from my younger brother.  The text simply stated “Sans Peur”.  Silently in my mind I stated, “Okay I’ll bite”.  So, with a little research, I came across a Scottish crest that I thought would be what he was referencing.  It was not. After a little text banter back and forth I gave my brother a call and found out the motto was used on my departed father’s Navy ship.  Those of you who are too curious or have a little ADD have already researched and found that the motto means, “Without Fear”.  Truly a great motto for our Navy and U.S. military in general, right?  I believe my father lived out this attitude most of his life and especially after he accepted Christ as his Savior.   I am truly grateful for the example he set for my brother and me.  Today I desire to mirror this same attitude to my children and to any who are my circle of influence.  It is a daily effort to grow in God’s strength to be courageous and live in a holy boldness that pleases Christ.  We have no shortage of inspiration in locating men and women of courage in the Bible.  There’s a good list is in Hebrews 11.  The closing verses state, “And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets– who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, …” Hebrews 11:32-40

We may not be on a Navy ship that has the motto “Without Fear”, but every Christian is called to live a courageous life.  God’s further encouragement for us is stated in 1 John 5, “For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—even our faith.” 1John 5:4.  Brothers and Sisters in Christ, our Savior has set the example and requires us to live each day in Godly faith and courage!

Let’s be Sans Peur! – Pastor Larry