Monday, March 12, 2012

Fear not, only believe.


From today's reading: But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the leader of the synagogue, "Do not fear, only believe." Mark 5: 36

Do not fear, fear not, be not afraid. . . The most often spoken words by angels and by Jesus. Another is "trust in the Lord." So why is it that we are so often afraid? Fear is often the result of being out of control - of knowing that we have no control over a situation. Our imaginations can run wild in those situations. Human beings have a way of imagining the worst case scenario in any event. And we worry, and it eats us up from the inside out - causing ulcers and other stomach disorders as well as a lot of other things.

Worry really doesn't help anything because its passive. Prayer on the other hand is active. It allows you to express your fears in a place that is safe. It allows you to envision an outcome that is desirable. It allows you to place your fears, your hopes, and your future into the hands of one who mightier than you are - one who does have control - one who cares for you more than you can imagine.

You've heard it said that when God closes a door, he will open a window. Our Old Testament readings have been tracing the journey of Joseph from the coat of many colors and being sold into slavery to becoming the second in command in Egypt. Sometimes, in cases like Joseph, it may take a while, but trust that God is preparing an answer for you. Like Joseph, we must make the most of each situation until he brings us to that place he has prepared us for. Come quickly, Lord, when I am afraid, to vindicate me and to rescue me from the depths of my fears. Amen.

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