“Do not be afraid…” 

            The readings from the Ascension, Pentecost and Trinity Sundays remind us that we are never alone, “I am with you always…” and have an emphasis on the love God demonstrates and indeed, has for each of us. 

            This week however, the readings suggest that whilst we should feel secure in what we have heard previously, we need to be aware that we may be faced with what could be regarded as our own human roadblocks or limitations. We can also be confronted by challenges thrown up by issues surrounding us- media attention, societal pressures, social media to name a few. It would seem that some people in Old Testament times faced challenging issues too. 

            This is evident in the reading from Jeremiah whose frustration/ anguish is strongly reflected as he states he is aware of and feels “disparaged” in his quest of spreading the “faithfulness” of God. 

            In his letter to the Romans, Paul establishes a link between Adam and Jesus. He talks about one man (Adam) being the conduit between sin and one man (Jesus) saving/rescuing us even though we are sinners. Another reminder that we are loved and also a reminder of the faithfulness of God. 

            “Do not be afraid,” the opening statement of the Gospel should be a reminder to us that Jesus looks at our humanity through His eyes and sees our worries, fears and uncertainties.  That same phrase is repeated. It is as though we are reminded again to “ fear no one”, as we are loved and cared for by God. We are to trust in God’s faithfulness as we endeavour to be disciples. 

            In being Gospel messengers we may encounter opposition, and experience fear. We are encouraged to persevere, be steadfast and trust. Knowing that fear can be / is a powerful motivator we need to be strong and understand that the words and actions of others should not control our choices. God is with us in difficult times. We sometimes forget to look for and/or seek God. 

            Do I sometimes do nothing for fear of criticism or rejection?

            Am I afraid to stand up and be counted? 

            Rather than seeing the readings as only being relevant to “ back then and there” can we recognise them as being relevant to the hear and now - the future of the Church or indeed the world? None of us can do it all but we each can do something. 

            Joyce Rupp in her book, Inviting God In leaves us with the following: 

                       “ Kind and loving God

                          fill me with the courage and inspiration

                          to let go of my insecurities

                          when they keep me from following You.

                          May I become more trusting of your care for me.”

                                                                                                                              Ken and Carolyn Evenden