Jesus has spoken to the crowds in the Sermon on the Mount and now turns to the apostles, giving them private instructions. It will later on be their duty to hand on Jesus’ message and teaching of love, which, we too, have received. We are called to share and deepen it with each other now. We are saved together; we need each other.
Jesus says, “Do not be afraid.” There is so much fear in the world. It plays an important role in our decision-making and behaviour. Fear may be of really listening to the other in case their different views ‘contaminate’ yours; of trying something new because it feels too difficult to step out of your comfort zone; of speaking up in case you meet disapproval or embarrassment. Fear makes us risk-averse. Moving forward, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually,
may require a willingness to change our attitude or approach toward those who look different or hold a different viewpoint. With curiosity about who they are and what they believe, I may be able to move towards ‘holy listening’.
God is mystery and cannot ever be fully understood. There is, therefore, much to be uncovered, much which feels hidden. Clarity comes bit by bit as we let go of our fears, even of God. Perhaps we can
choose to love the questions as we walk our journey on earth? The journey is one of coming to know our God of love, who already loves each of us and all creation, with an infinite love and longs for us to return that love. Just as in any special relationship, we never know the other fully, so it is with God. Where there is honest seeking, openness, and listening, the depth of our knowledge and love of God expands! God’s love is so abundant that we discover we have an overflow to reach out to all
God’s beloved, overflowing into all creation to bring all back to Christ.
What are the fears that limit my acceptance of myself? Others? God?
Where have I overcome fear and found that I have made discoveries of connection and understanding where I previously had disconnect, exclusion or bias?
How has seeking Mystery brought me to
greater love, depth and acceptance of myself, others and all the world?
