Jesus did not simply ask us to pray, be good, follow the commandments, and serve others. He asked us to make disciples of all nations. To evangelize and help the world repent and embrace the good news that Jesus is Lord and has defeated sin and death through his death and resurrection. We want to help as may people as possible be saved and have eternal life and we want to bring the kingdom of God right here and right now. We need to live and teach all that Jesus taught us. “…teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Mt 28:20) This can be scary and we may second guess our abilities. I find this quote from St Joan of Arc inspiring in light of our mission and challenges:

I am not afraid, for God is with me. I was born for this!

Her actual quote was longer: “I do not fear the soldiers, for my road is made open to me; and if the soldiers come, I have God, my Lord, who will know how to clear the route that leads to messire the Dauphin. It was for this that I was born!"

We can’t be afraid if we surrender to God’s will, as he will give us the graces that we need to fulfill his mission for us. Yes, it’s at times challenging and scary, but we were born for this!