The year was 1988. My denomination (The United Church of Canada) had taken a difficult social justice position. Some had left the church in protest. Others had loudly complained—still others had celebrated the church’s courage. As the church leadership met that fall in a regional meeting, rather somberly (perhaps feeling some self pity), the president of our conference offered a comment I have never forgotten. He said, “We are not used to standing this close to the cross.”
Being a leader can be exciting. We may enjoy taking bold stands and being part of a progressive moment. Civil rights protesters must have found those heady days of the 1960s exciting too. We all lead in some way or other. We all find ourselves invited to take bold positions—on climate, race, peace, and a host of other issues.
But sometimes these stands and this “speaking out” can be hurtful. Moses, in our Exodus reading, discovers that his people do not appreciate his bold leadership. He has led them as God has instructed, but they snap at his heels in protest. What a painfully wrenching time for Moses!
We too need to be ready for those times when being a Christian is not easy. We may slide into thinking, People will always appreciate my leadership. I should be thanked and respected. If we have made significant sacrifices or gifts, we desire honor.
In those painful times, we remember that we too are called to stand “close to the cross.” We are challenged to speak boldly, even if unappreciated. We are to stand for right and truth, even if untruth seems more fashionable. For such days we will need to remember the saints and prophets of the past. Their stories of courage and stubborn faithfulness can help us continue fearlessly in our own journey of faithful living.