Be Not Afraid 

   “Do not let your heart be troubled or afraid.” (John 14: 27) 

   Throughout the gospels Jesus often tells others not to be afraid.  He uses many ways of saying it, but they all mean one thing; if we trust in Him there is no need to fear.

   Those who follow Christ see the immorality of our society growing stronger and stronger in so many ways.  There has always been decadence and sinfulness in society, and sadly, we have often ignored it.  Now, however we are expected to approve and support the immorality.  If not, we are subject to ridicule, our churches desecrated and attacked.

   Today, it’s more important than ever to understand that those who believe in Christ are seen as a threat to the ways of the world.  We stand against much of what society teaches and promotes, drawing the ire of many.  St. John told of this fact in his gospel, “And this is the verdict, that the light came into the world, but people preferred the darkness to the light because their works were evil.”  (John 3: 19).  It was true in the time of Christ, and it is true today.

   We cannot allow ourselves to remain silent, allowing evil to go uncontested.  We must be willing to stand up and witness to our faith.  We must remember and reflect upon the many times our Lord told His followers not to fear.  If we do not, we are ignoring His word and His promises. 

   “In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”  (John 16: 33).