Be a Good Example

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I was reading an unfamiliar passage from the Second Book of Maccabees yesterday (Chapter 6, Verse 31). The story, simply put, was about someone (Eleazar) who was given the choice of pretending to eat something he shouldn't, so he could live, or die refusing it.

He chose the latter. In the last verse of this chapter, it says, he left "a model of courage and an unforgettable example of virtue not only for the young but for the whole nation."

When we lean into those, like scripture says, we set an example for others.

In what way is God calling you to be courageous?

How do you practice virtue?

According to the "Catechism of the Catholic Church (¶1803)":

"A virtue is an habitual and firm disposition to do the good. It allows the person not only to perform good acts, but to give the best of himself."

Courage is a moral virtue, which helps us to be strong when faced with difficulties as we pursue good.

Like Eleazar, we may need to take the hard road, which is the path on which all virtues (including courage) are formed. Let us pray that we can be a good example of both for others.

Janet Cassidy
janetcassidy.com
Follow me on Facebook at:   https://www.facebook.com/reflectionsinfaith

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