Again, Jesus says, “Do not be afraid.” This time, Jesus specifies, “Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” Jesus calls us to trust and confidence, even though we may be facing much difficulty and suffering. We are to fear that which kills the wholeness of who we are, rather than the trials of life.
God is in charge, and there is, therefore, no need to fear for our lives when we are trying to do God’s will. God does not promise immunity from the challenges of life. These we will have to bear and live through. However, not on our own–Jesus walks alongside bringing strength. We know there is greater meaning in life than the visible and obvious in front of us, the superficial. Jesus calls us to make conscious choices and to value the deeper meaning and purpose of life:
love.
Jesus assures us that God knows even the sparrows individually, and we have no need to fear. God is always aware of what is going on, and cries, laments and mourns with us in our pain and fear; and rejoices with us in our joys. God cares passionately about what happens to each of us. God transcends all that can happen to anyone in this world, and, in divine love, raises and holds those who trust in that love above all
that can be done by the unscrupulous and powerful. It does not make it easy, but it makes it possible to live through it. God has ‘got our backs’ for that which is most important, the wholeness of our lives.
What is it that I fear at this time? Will I share the depth and intricacies of that story with God now? How does this feel?
During difficult times in my life, do I tend to
wag my finger at God? Or lean into God for the strength, comfort, love and companionship which God brings?
Do I know how much God values me and my individual life journey?
