Christ promises courage for us as we share the good news of our Savior even in the face of pain or persecution. The Prayer of the Day is one of themost ancient in the Church’s use. It seems to have been suggested by the disasters of the dying Western Empire. As Rome crumbled, the Church prayed for God’s governance that she might worship in peace and joy. Today Christ reminds us that even when that peace and joy are absent, he will give us the courage tocontinue to testify in his name.