Mt. 6, 45-52
... they thought it was a ghost and cried out. They had all seen him and were terrified. But at once he spoke with them, "Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid."
Fear is part of human experience. We fear because of a perceived harm that may come our way. We fear for the things that we cannot understand. We fear when we feel helpless. We fear for the things that we cannot control. These may harm us and hurt us!
Fear is removed when we are able to find courage. Courage comes when we are able to find support -- from within and outside of us.
As children we were afraid of "ghosts". Spirits which lurk in the dark corners, ready to pounce us! When we became terrified over these things, we ran to our mothers. And the protective embrace and the soothing words of our dear mothers would give us courage. And we fear not anymore.
"It is I, do not be afraid". Words of our Lord Jesus. Words to comfort us. To give us courage.
Truly we fear. But let us have courage in the presence of Jesus in us, and in our midst. Let us trust in Him. Let us take courage in this: that our Lord is greater than all our fears. His mercy will protect us. His will is always for our good.
When we fear, let us take courage in our God. In Him we find our strength. Trust in God's mercy!
