In Matthew 26:31–32, Jesus forewarned his disciples about the terrifying predicament they would soon find themselves in. He had led them and cared for them up until that moment. But now everything would change. They would be scattered, and he would be captured and struck down. The implications of his negative message were clear and frightening. But Jesus also had a positive word to share, imparting hope and comfort—the proverbial “light at the end of the tunnel.” “But after I have risen,” Jesus declared, “I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” They would survive, he indicated, and so would he. In fact, he would continue to lead them, going ahead of them back to the same area where they had come to know each other so well. Serving leaders define reality, regardless how negative the outlook. But they also have a plan, a way forward that inspires courage and expresses confidence in those struggling to believe.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

Click here for AUDIO version.

KEY QUESTIONS: How easy is it for me to define reality when the “negative” is a large part of it? Why can every reality — no matter how bleak —have courage and hope tied to it? What’s the difference between courage and hope?