James was Persian and a favorite of the king. When the king began to persecute Christians, James did not have the courage to profess his faith for fear of losing his friendship with the king. His family was devastated, and when the king died, they sent James a long letter encouraging him to change his attitude. St. James repented for having abandoned his faith and removed himself from the court, much to the dismay of the new king, who had him tortured and executed. We all make mistakes and sometimes are afraid to profess our faith.

Where do you find the courage to do so without letting yourself be influenced by adulations and threats?