If I were ever to get a tattoo, it would be the words from Joshua 1:9: Be brave and steadfast, also translated as Be strong and courageous. In Deuteronomy 31:7-8, God speaks these exact words through Moses, commissioning Joshua to lead Israel after Moses’ passing. From the old to the new: new leadership for a new land, rekindling the hope that Israel will remain faithful as they enter the land of milk and honey—Canaan.

Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel: ‘Be brave and steadfast, for you must bring this people into the land which the LORD swore to their ancestors he would give them; you must put them in possession of their heritage. It is the LORD who goes before you; he will be with you and will never fail you or forsake you. So do not fear or be dismayed.’ (Deuteronomy 31:7–8)

Do not fear nor be dismayed! This remains our call today—to live trusting in the Lord. In the Eucharistic banquet and the fullness of the Church, we are, for a moment, invited to cross into the land prepared for us.

Where we live now is not the Promised Land, just as Canaan was not heaven. The land flowing with milk and honey ultimately points beyond itself, to our heritage in the eternal homeland of Heaven. Yet, for now, while still here on Earth, let us support one another in living the Eucharistic life we are called to lead. Here and now, in that communion with Christ and our brothers and sisters, we truly glimpse heaven made present in our daily lives, sustaining us until the day we are called home, as Moses was.

Until then, let us trust, and be strong and courageous—for the Lord, our God, truly goes before us.

Let us pray:

Lord, help us to become your faithful people. Allow us a glimpse of heaven in our daily lives, in the love of our brethren, and the care of your Church. Help us to be strong and courageous, brave and steadfast, that we may persist on the road to heaven. Amen