Theologians talk about a prevenient grace that precedes grace itself and allows us to accept it. I think there must also be a prevenient courage that allows us to be brave - that is, to acknowledge that there is more beauty than our eyes can bear, that precious things have been put into our hands and to do nothing to honor them is to do great harm. And therefore, this courage allows us, as the old men said, to make ourselves useful. It allows us to be generous, which is another way of saying exactly the same thing.
In her novel "Gilead," Marilynne Robinson reflects on the concept of prevenient grace, which is believed to enable individuals to accept divine grace. She extends this idea to propose the existence of a prevenient courage, suggesting that this courage is necessary for us to recognize and appreciate the beauty and preciousness in our lives. This acknowledgment requires us to act meaningfully in response to the gifts we are given.
Robinson's notion of prevenient courage emphasizes that it empowers us to honor what is valuable around us. By embracing this courage, we can contribute positively to the world, embodying generosity in our actions. Ultimately, recognizing beauty and acting upon it enriches both our lives and the lives of others, allowing us to be of service in meaningful ways.